March 30 by-elections barometer for political parties popularity — Analyst

A political commentator says politicians have invested a lot in the March 30 by-elections because they are a barometer of the popularity of their political parties.

Chancellor College-based political science associate professor Mustapha Hussein said  the outcome of the by-elections “will give a picture of the popularity of competing parties on the ground.”

Political parties have intensified their campaign as they are running against time prior to Monday’s polls.

The Malawi Electoral Commission  (MEC) is expected to officially close the campaign period on Sunday morning.

These polls will be held in  seven constituencies and two wards, following the death of office bearers and to fulfill a court order after nullification of 2019 results.

Stiff competition is expected to be between the governing Malawi Congress Party  (MCP) and the former governing Democratic progressive Party (DPP).

Hussein said that all major political parties should strive to register victory as this would measure their strength in the current political landscape.