By Jones Gadama
Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has confirmed the winners of its primary elections in several constituencies in Dedza.
Patrick Chilondola, the party’s Regional Chairperson for the Centre, emerged victorious in the Dedza Mayani Constituency, garnering 1,502 votes against his challenger Chrispine Malunga, who received 56 votes.
Chilondola attributed his win to the delegates’ will, pledging to strengthen the party in the constituency and region.
MCP Deputy Director of Youth Ramsey Khani, who oversaw the polls, commended supporters for conducting the election peacefully.

Other confirmed primary winners include Moses Kunkuyu (Dedza Mlunduni), Clement Mlombwa (Dedza Mphunzi), Anxious Chidovu (Dedza Chikoma), and Joshua Malango (Dedza Kasina).
However, results for Dedza Dzalanyama have been withheld due to misunderstandings, while primaries for Dedza Mtakataka are scheduled for May 9.
The MCP’s primary elections come as other major parties, such as the DPP, UTM, and UDF, have yet to conduct theirs in Dedza.
The party’s ability to hold peaceful and transparent primaries could set a positive example for other parties.
Chilondola’s victory reflects the party’s efforts to engage with its members and the community.
His pledge to strengthen the party in the constituency and region demonstrates his commitment to building a robust party structure.
The withheld results for Dedza Dzalanyama due to misunderstandings highlight the challenges parties face in ensuring smooth electoral processes.
The upcoming primaries for Dedza Mtakataka on May 9 will be crucial in determining the party’s candidates for the constituencies.
As the MCP moves forward with its primaries, other parties are expected to follow suit.
The conduct of these primaries will be closely watched, as they can impact the parties’ chances in future elections.
The peaceful conduct of the MCP primaries is a positive sign, demonstrating the party’s ability to manage its internal elections.
This could contribute to a more stable political environment, where parties focus on competing through policies and ideas rather than conflicts.
The MCP’s primary elections in Dedza mark an important step in the party’s preparations for future elections.
The confirmed winners will likely play a significant role in shaping the party’s direction and representation in the region.