BLANTYRE--Unofficial results emanating from Mzimba district indicate that independent and ruling Peoples Party (PP) candidates are leading in the by-elections held Tuesday in the district. 

Meanwhile, Malawians are patiently waiting for the official results which are likely to be announced Wednesday afternoon. 

Counting of votes begun Tuesday night and observers will have to substantiate the results before the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) commissioners who are in the district make the official announcement. 

In Mzimba South West constituency, PP’s Raymond Nkhata is unofficially leading with 9 822 votes, seconded by independent James Nthara who has so far amassed 4 641 votes whereas Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Ronald Chavula is trailing on third position with 3 212 votes. 

Tense competition appears to be in Mzimba Central constituency where independent Mabvuto Kachali has amassed 9 759 while Aram Beza of PP is trailing with 8 175 votes with DPP’s Owen Mkandawire collecting 2 234 votes. 

The by-elections were free and fair despite low voter turn out in the afternoon of Tuesday, according to MEC and the district commissioner, who was the presiding officer.
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(c) The Maravi Post 2012. Reproduction without acknowledgement prohibited

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