Christopher Jana of Mpira Ward from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has been re-elected Mayor of Zomba City after securing seven votes in a tightly contested poll held on Friday.

Jana defeated fellow DPP councillor Harry Manda of Chinamwali Ward, who received two votes.

In the deputy mayoral race, Anthony Gonani of Masongola Ward, also from the DPP, emerged victorious with seven votes.

He faced competition from Munira Bakali of Likangala Ward, who collected one vote, and Juliana Fokolani, who also amassed a single vote.

The elections were conducted during a full council meeting, where newly elected ward councillors were sworn into office.

In his acceptance speech, Jana urged the city council management and all councillors to work collaboratively to accelerate development in Zomba City.