By Vinjeru Ngwira
A survey conducted by the Platform for People’s Welfare indicates that Bennex Mwamulima, the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) shadow Member of Parliament for Mzuzu City South East Constituency, is currently leading the race in the area. The results were unveiled at a press briefing held in Mzuzu.
Melvin Nxumayo, chairperson of the Young Human Rights Defenders Network, which released the findings, said Mwamulima is leading with 34 percent support. Independent candidate William Kaweche follows with 23 percent, while Catherine Nyangulu of the United Transformation Movement (UTM) has 14 percent, and Faisal Imtiyaz of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) stands at 6 percent.
“We are non-partisan, which is why the Platform for People’s Welfare entrusted us to release these results. We also verified the survey tools and found them reliable and effective,” Nxumayo explained.
Responding to the survey, Mwamulima said he believes the results reflect the sentiments of people in the constituency. He highlighted past development achievements, including roads, school blocks, clinics, bridges, and the rehabilitation of the local airport. He also shared plans for future projects, such as a new international airport, an international-standard stadium, and dual carriageways within the city.
“The current airport is being rehabilitated, but what the area truly needs is a fully operational international airport. I will also push for the construction of an international stadium to ensure that people in the North can enjoy both local and international matches,” Mwamulima said.
The survey suggests that Mwamulima’s visibility and track record on development have contributed significantly to his popularity.
The research was carried out between 3 and 5 September 2025, covering 100 respondents in each area. The sample included 70 women aged 18–35 and 30 men aged 36 and above, across locations such as Geisha, Msongwe, Chiputula, Chibanja, Hilltop, and Masasa.
A total of nine shadow MPs are contesting in Mzuzu City South East Constituency. These include Bennex Mwamulima (MCP), William Kaweche (Independent), Catherine Nyangulu (UTM), Willard Likwemba (UDF), Faisal Imtiyaz (DPP), and Denis Mhone (Aford), among others.