Mtumbuka, Other By-Election Winners Sworn In as MPs

By Dean Chisambo……..

Deputy Chief Justice on Wednesday morning swore in four newly elected Members of Parliament, officially confirming them as legislators following their victory in the March 17, 2026 by-elections.

The new MPs are of the (UTM) for Rumphi Central Constituency; of the (DPP) for Nkhotakota Liwaladzi Constituency; of the (MCP) for Dedza Mtakataka Constituency; and independent legislator for Blantyre West Constituency.

Speaking after taking the oath, Mtumbuka pledged to scale up development initiatives in his constituency, citing his long-standing involvement in community projects.

“I have been involved in development since 2010, even before joining politics, and I understand the responsibilities of Parliament,” he said.

He added that his previous work—such as rehabilitating bridges, roads and boreholes—has equipped him to work closely with councillors and Area Development Committees (ADCs) to ensure effective use of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Mtumbuka also attributed his victory to consistency and a stronger focus on grassroots engagement, a lesson he says he learned after losing the 2019 elections.

“I focused more on the grassroots, and it paid off,” he said.

Meanwhile, Runji assured constituents of meaningful development, stressing the importance of collaboration with local leadership structures.

“My intention is to work with chiefs, Village Development Committees (VDCs), the youth and the wider community to identify their needs and present them in the August House,” she said.

The by-elections were conducted by the following electoral disputes in the affected constituencies.