LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Barely hours after an explosive report by Maravipost revealed a clandestine Malawi Congress Party (MCP) meeting aimed at sidelining Vice President Michael Bizwick Usi, President Lazarus Chakwera has made a decisive move that confirms the political rift.
Sources close to State House have confirmed that the president has withdrawn all delegation duties previously assigned to his vice president and instead entrusted Minister of Trade and Industry Vitumbiko Mumba with leading Malawi’s delegation to the upcoming 45th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit in Antananarivo, Madagascar, scheduled for August 17, 2025.
This development marks a significant shift in Malawi’s political landscape.
The Maravipost exposé, which revealed efforts within the MCP to exclude Dr. Usi from key state functions and decision-making processes, appears to have influenced President Chakwera’s delegation decisions. Where previously Dr. Usi was a regular figure in representing Malawi at regional and international forums, this time the president has opted for his running mate, Vitumbiko Mumba, as leader of the delegation.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Public Relations Officer Charles Nkhalamba confirmed the change in an exclusive interview with Maravipost , stating, “Honourable Vitumbiko Mumba, Minister of Trade and Industry, will lead Malawi’s delegation at the 45th SADC Summit, representing the Head of State.”
Nkhalamba also indicated that Malawi has remained actively engaged in preparatory meetings, with Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole, Secretary for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, leading at the Senior Officials level, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Nancy Tembo heading the delegation at the Council of Ministers level.
The 45th SADC Summit, themed “Advancing Industrialisation, Agricultural Transformation and Energy,” will address critical regional issues such as deepening integration, strengthening peace and security, and fostering inclusive economic growth.
SADC Executive Secretary Elias Mpedi Magosi underscored the importance of enhancing intra-regional trade and reducing dependence on external support during the recent Council of Ministers meeting in Madagascar.
President Chakwera’s decision to delegate Mumba instead of his vice president signals a potential recalibration of political alliances within the ruling party.
It also raises questions about the future role of Dr. Usi in Malawi’s governance and regional engagements.
Malawi, a founding member of SADC since 1980, continues to play an active role in regional development efforts.
The summit provides a vital platform for Malawi and its neighbors to chart a collective path toward sustainable growth and integration.
As the region looks forward to the summit’s outcomes, all eyes will be on Vitumbiko Mumba to deliver Malawi’s agenda and on the dynamics unfolding within Malawi’s political leadership.
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