Musician Skeffa Chimoto will represent Malawi Congress Party-MCP in the forthcoming September 16 General Elections after winning Primary Elections in Nkhotakota Mkhula Constituency, Nkhotakota district.
Skeffa
In the Primary elections that took place at Kusangadzi Primary School on Saturday afternoon, Chimoto beat two other candidates Gerald Makokola and Osman Mkanyila Saidi.
Chimoto won the election with 934 followed by Makokola who came second with 403 votes while Saidi got 10 votes.
Chimoto is one of the well known celebrities who have shown interest to contest in this year’s elections.
Blessings Malilino scored against his former club as Mighty Wanderers beat Karonga United 1-0 in an Airtel Top 8 match played at Kamuzu Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Malilino put the Nomads in front in the 51st minute with a cool finish raising protests from Karonga United players who claimed that their former teammate scored from an offside position.
The Nomads were the first to knock on the visitors door just five minutes from kick-off through Wisdom Mpinganjira who received a pass from Mwalilino but his shot was beautifully saved by Karonga United goalkeeper MacLean Mwale.
Three minutes later the visitors had a similar opportunity through Patrick Phiri but his shot was brilliantly saved by Nomads goalkeeper Chancy Mtete.
Karonga looked a better side than the Nomads in the first half as they created a number of scoring opportunities but were not clinical in front of goal with Alfred Chizinga among the culprits.
Malilino
The second half saw the Nomads being a changed side as they tried so hard to get the much needed goal and when they got the lead, they managed to defend it until the last whistle.
After the match Wanderers coach Bob Mpinganjira described the game as a very tough one but thanked his boys for the victory.
On the other hand, Karonga United Team Manager, Benard Mwahimba accepted defeat but was quick to say that his side will do everything possible to turn the tables in the second leg.
The two sides will meet again for the second leg of the competition at Karonga Stadium in Karonga.
Abel Kayembe has emerged victorious in the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) primary elections held in the Mndolera area of Dowa District.
His closest contender, Allan Katsabola Tsoka, secured a total of 117 votes.
Another contestant, Judith Lewa, managed to collect 56 votes.
In the elections for ward councillors, Sam Kanyimphula emerged victorious in the eastern part of Mndolera constituency, where he amassed 427 votes.
Kayembe
Meanwhile, Connex Kamphinda won in the western part of Mndolera with 346 votes.
There were 12 votes that were declared invalid due to errors during the voting process.
A total of more than 1,440 people from 150 different areas participated in the elections.
The elections were conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner, with no reports of violence or irregularities.
The results are a strong indication of the democratic process within the MCP, which continues to solidify its internal structures through competitive and transparent primaries.
Abel Kayembe’s victory sets the stage for his candidacy under the MCP banner in the upcoming general elections, where he will represent the party in Mndolera Constituency.
His supporters have expressed excitement and confidence in his ability to bring development to the area, citing his past leadership experience and close ties to the local communities.
The party’s ability to attract a high voter turnout, even during internal elections, underscores the level of political engagement and enthusiasm among MCP members in the region.
Observers from the party and civil society organizations praised the electoral process for being well-coordinated and reflective of the party’s commitment to democratic principles.
The peaceful environment throughout the election also demonstrated the maturity and discipline of both voters and candidates, as well as the professionalism of the electoral officials.
With the primaries concluded, the MCP in Mndolera will now shift focus to preparing for the national campaign, where party unity and grassroots mobilization will be crucial.
Abel Kayembe’s nomination is expected to boost the MCP’s presence in Dowa, a district regarded as one of the party’s strongholds in central Malawi.
Political analysts view the outcome as a strategic win for the MCP, especially as it positions itself to consolidate support ahead of the national elections.
The successful completion of the primaries without any disputes or violence is likely to serve as a model for other constituencies as the party continues to conduct its internal elections.
For the people of Mndolera, the election was not just about selecting a candidate, but also a reaffirmation of their voice in shaping the leadership that will represent their interests.
As Abel Kayembe celebrates his primary victory, the real campaign begins, with expectations high for his vision, plans, and ability to deliver tangible development outcomes for Mndolera Constituency.
“Awawa anakhalapo nduna zaka 10 zapitazo – mwina ena mwa inu mungawakumbukire?” This rhetorical question triggers a wave of reflection on one of Malawi’s most enigmatic and intellectually gifted public figures — none other than Honourable Ken Lipenga.
Ten years may seem like a short time in the course of a nation’s history, but in politics, it is often long enough for the public to forget even the most influential of personalities. Yet, for those who followed Malawi’s governance closely in the late 2000s and early 2010s, Ken Lipenga was a name that commanded respect — not because he shouted the loudest, but because his intellect and composed leadership spoke volumes.
Ken Lipenga, a trained academic, accomplished writer, and journalist, was not your ordinary politician. Unlike many who enter the political space seeking power for prestige or privilege, Lipenga brought into government a rare blend of literary sophistication, policy understanding, and strategic communication. Before becoming a cabinet minister, he had already carved a name as a prolific writer and journalist, contributing significantly to Malawian literature and civic dialogue.
His ministerial journey began under President Bingu wa Mutharika’s administration, where he served in various capacities, including Minister of Information, Minister of Economic Planning and Development, and most notably, Minister of Finance. It was in this latter role that his strengths — and eventual challenges — came into sharp focus.
Lipenga became Minister of Finance during one of Malawi’s most volatile economic periods. The country was grappling with acute fuel shortages, foreign exchange crises, donor withdrawal, and a general atmosphere of uncertainty. He inherited a treasury that was under scrutiny from international partners and a public growing more agitated over inflation and rising costs of living.
What many observers admired about Lipenga during this time was his ability to remain calm, articulate, and measured in his communication. He explained complex economic reforms with a clarity that few politicians could match. His speeches in Parliament, often laced with historical and literary references, brought a touch of intellectualism that many appreciated.
However, his tenure was not without controversy. During the infamous “Cashgate” era, although Lipenga himself was never formally charged, his ministry was indirectly linked to the broader systemic issues of accountability and poor financial oversight. Critics questioned whether he should have done more to detect and prevent the abuses, while supporters argued that he was a victim of political circumstances and bureaucratic sabotage.
Despite the political turbulence, Lipenga maintained a dignified silence even after leaving office — a trait that further distinguishes him from many of his peers. He did not attempt to reinvent himself as a political pundit, nor did he launch attacks on successors or predecessors. Instead, he returned quietly to his intellectual pursuits, perhaps seeking solace in the world of words where integrity is judged differently.
For those who remember him, Lipenga represented a rare breed: a scholar in politics, a thinker in a landscape often driven by slogans, and a man who valued discourse over drama. His legacy may not be celebrated on the billboards of history, but it lingers in the minds of those who value substance over noise.
In the context of today’s politics — often characterized by populism, confrontations, and shifting loyalties — Ken Lipenga’s style of leadership feels almost out of place. Yet, it is precisely this contrast that makes his contribution worth revisiting. Malawi needs more leaders who think deeply, speak thoughtfully, and act with a sense of long-term national purpose.
Ten years after his time as a cabinet minister, Ken Lipenga may not be on the front pages of our newspapers, but his mark remains — subtle, dignified, and quietly powerful.
Perhaps, in a future Malawi that values wisdom over theatrics, such men will be remembered not merely as former ministers, but as true servants of the Republic.
In a powerful display of compassion and mercy, President Lazarus Chakwera has pardoned 21 inmates from various prisons across Malawi as part of the country’s Easter celebrations.
This act of clemency, endorsed by Secretary for Homeland Security Professor Steven Kayuni, reflects the President’s commitment to upholding values of human dignity, especially during religious observances that emphasize mercy and transformation.
The decision to pardon the inmates was made in accordance with existing legal frameworks and correctional policies, ensuring that the selection process was transparent and fair.
Chakwera
According to the Ministry of Homeland Security, the beneficiaries of the presidential pardon are individuals who have served at least half of their prison sentences or are critically ill and pose humanitarian concerns.
This move has been welcomed by human rights activists, who view it as a step toward creating a more humane and rehabilitative criminal justice system in Malawi.
Many see the pardoning of prisoners during Easter as a symbolic gesture that resonates with the core Christian message of redemption and second chances.
President Chakwera’s act of leniency is in line with his administration’s broader agenda of promoting restorative justice and reforming the country’s correctional system.
By pardoning these inmates, the President is demonstrating his sensitivity to the spiritual and emotional significance of the Easter season for many Malawians.
The Ministry of Homeland Security has emphasized that this move does not compromise national security or the rule of law, as all legal and procedural requirements were followed.
As the released inmates rejoin their communities, authorities have called on families and society at large to support their reintegration and offer them opportunities for a fresh start.
This gesture by President Chakwera is a continuation of a longstanding presidential tradition in Malawi, where national and religious holidays often prompt gestures of mercy from the head of state.
This year’s decision has drawn particular praise for its targeted focus on those who are either physically unwell or have served significant portions of their sentences.
Easter, celebrated by millions of Christians in Malawi, commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is often a time for reflection, spiritual renewal, and acts of grace.
Through this pardon, President Chakwera has given a practical expression to those Easter values, reinforcing the idea that justice can be tempered with mercy.
The release of these 21 inmates is not just a legal or administrative action, but a deeply symbolic act that touches on faith, humanity, and the hope for transformation.
As Easter continues to be observed across the nation, the President’s gesture is likely to be remembered as one of compassion and thoughtful leadership.
President Chakwera’s decision to pardon these inmates is a testament to his commitment to promoting restorative justice and reforming the country’s correctional system.
By showing mercy and compassion to those who have served significant portions of their sentences or are critically ill, the President is demonstrating his sensitivity to the needs of vulnerable and marginalized individuals in society.
As the released inmates begin their journey towards rehabilitation and reintegration into society, it is essential that they receive the support and care they need to rebuild their lives.
The government and society at large must work together to provide opportunities for these individuals to start anew and become productive members of their communities.
President Chakwera’s pardon of 21 inmates is a powerful display of compassion and mercy, reflecting the values of Easter and the President’s commitment to promoting restorative justice and reforming the country’s correctional system.
As the nation continues to observe Easter, this gesture will likely be remembered as a symbol of hope and transformation for the released inmates and their families.
