By Draxon Maloya

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) will today, Saturday, 21st February 2026, receive nomination papers from candidates contesting the parliamentary seat in Rumphi Central Constituency. 

According to the official programme, the first candidate to submit his papers will be Yereniah Chihana at 8:30 a.m., followed by Aaron Chidumba Mkandawire and Mathews Chinombo Mtumbuka. 

Around midday, Licy Nkosi Kamwendo is scheduled to present her papers, after which the AFORD candidate Paul Nthambazale Nyirenda will file his nomination at 1:00 p.m. The process will conclude later in the afternoon with Walita Moir Mkandawire. 

The Rumphi Central parliamentary seat fell vacant after Enoch Kamzingeni Chihana, who won the constituency in the 16th September 2025 general election, was appointed as the country’s Second Vice President. 

Upon relinquishing the seat the President Chihana expressed confidence in Paul Nthambazale Nyirenda, endorsing him as the right candidate to represent the people of Rumphi Central in his absence.