The Democratic Progress Party (DPP) has reiterated its position against the increase in the number of constituencies from 193 to 229.

The party, through its spokesperson Shadric Namalomba, has issued a statement arguing that Malawi, which is classified by the World Bank as among least developed countries, with a GDP of US$12 billion, can not afford 229 constituencies.

Namalomba also claims at the current remuneration for Members of Parliament, the additional constituencies will cost MK16.8 billion in salaries over five years.

Parliament recently confirmed the electoral commission’s recommendation to increase the number of constituencies, meaning there will be 229 constituencies in the 2025 general elections.