By Suleman Chitera
Former Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) Commissioner and seasoned politician Francis Kasaira is set to officially return to frontline politics as he submits his nomination papers tomorrow to contest as Member of Parliament for Nsanje Central Constituency.
The submission will take place at Mpatsa Community Day Secondary School — the designated nomination center for both parliamentary and local government candidates in the area.
Kasaira, representing the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), is no stranger to the constituency, having previously served as its MP for over a decade. His return marks a potential political comeback, aiming to reclaim the seat he once held before serving at MEC.
He joins an increasingly crowded and competitive field. Already in the race are Irene Bisent of the People’s Party (PP) and independent candidate Maria Chisaka Maulidi, both of whom have submitted their nomination papers.
The final ballot is expected to feature six contenders:
- Francis Kasaira (DPP)
- Kafandikhale Mandevana (MCP)
- Hastings Mapundi (UTM)
- Irene Bisent (PP)
- Antony Malunga (Independent)
- Maria Chisaka Maulidi (Independent)
With party heavyweights and independents all eyeing the seat, Nsanje Central is shaping up to be one of the most hotly contested constituencies in the upcoming elections. Political observers say Kasaira’s re-entry adds weight and experience to the race, but he’ll need more than legacy to outshine the fresh energy and diversity of the other candidates.
As the race heats up, all eyes will be on Mpatsa tomorrow. Will Kasaira’s comeback bid reignite the DPP’s fortunes in Nsanje? Only time — and voters — will tell.
