By Jones Gadama
In recent days, an article has circulated portraying the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Vice President for the Centre, Alfred Gangata, as a threat to top professionals in the cabinet, particularly singling out Dr. George Partridge, Minister of Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism.
This narrative, however, is a gross misrepresentation of Gangata’s true position and intentions.
It is critical to set the record straight and expose the distortions that aim to divide the DPP and undermine the party’s commitment to national progress and good governance.
Alfred Gangata’s remarks at a recent rally have been twisted to suggest he is targeting professionals like Dr. Partridge simply because they are technocrats and not political loyalists.
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The writer insinuates that Gangata and his faction want to forcibly remove these officials, painting a picture of internal party conflict rooted in hostility against competence. This is far from the truth.
Gangata’s message, which resonates with many peace-loving Malawians, was not an attack on technocrats or qualified professionals.
Instead, it was a candid condemnation of what he aptly describes as the “prostitute politicians”—those who opportunistically switch allegiances to the ruling party, not out of genuine commitment to serving the nation, but to enrich themselves.
This is a crucial distinction that the article conveniently ignores.
The Vice President’s pointed question—“Where were those people during campaign time when everyone on the DPP was busy campaigning?”—is a fair and valid one.
It challenges the integrity of individuals who absent themselves during the hard yards of political struggle but appear suddenly when positions and perks become available.
Gangata is calling out this culture of political convenience and greed, which undermines the party’s values and the country’s progress.
It is important to understand that Gangata’s stance is aligned with the vision of President Peter Mutharika, who has been clear about correcting the economic and governance mess left by the previous Malawi Congress Party (MCP) administration led by Lazarus Chakwera.
The appointment of technocrats into the cabinet is not a political ploy but a deliberate strategy to restore economic stability and rebuild national institutions.
These appointments are based on merit and expertise, essential for implementing the reforms that Malawi desperately needs.
The article’s attempt to single out Dr. George Partridge as a victim of Gangata’s supposed vendetta is misleading. Dr. Partridge, with his strong background as Group Chief Executive of Press Corporation Limited and expertise in finance and business management, is a vital asset in the government’s efforts to revitalize the economy.
There has been no credible evidence or statement from Gangata that directly targets Partridge or any technocrat.
Instead, what is being attacked is the phenomenon of political opportunism and entitlement within the party ranks.
Moreover, the narrative that Gangata threatens to mobilize youth to “storm offices and physically remove technocrats” is an outright fabrication.
Such inflammatory language only serves to stir unnecessary fear and division. Gangata’s call is for accountability and loyalty to the party’s principles, not violence or lawlessness.
The DPP remains committed to peaceful democratic processes and respects the rule of law.
It is also worth noting that the spread of this false narrative appears to be orchestrated by the MCP, which has a vested interest in destabilizing the DPP and discrediting its leadership.
The MCP’s desperation to cling to power has led to a campaign of misinformation, aiming to create fractures within the ruling party and dissuade qualified professionals from joining or remaining in government service.
In reality, the DPP’s strength lies in its ability to unite both seasoned politicians and technocrats in pursuit of Malawi’s development.
The party recognizes that political loyalty should not be the sole criterion for public service appointments, but neither should opportunistic behavior be tolerated.
There must be a balance where commitment to the party’s cause and competence go hand in hand.
Gangata’s forthrightness should be welcomed as a healthy call for integrity within the party and the government.
Malawi cannot afford to have individuals occupying positions of influence merely for personal gain or political convenience.
The country needs dedicated leaders and experts who will work tirelessly to implement policies that benefit all Malawians.
This episode also highlights the importance of responsible journalism.
Media and commentators have a duty to report facts accurately and avoid sensationalism that can inflame tensions and distort public perception.
The article in question fails this basic journalistic standard by misrepresenting Gangata’s intentions and undermining the very efforts that are aimed at national recovery.
Alfred Gangata’s remarks should be seen in their proper context: a call for discipline, loyalty, and genuine service within the DPP, and a rejection of self-serving political behavior that has no place in the party or government.
The DPP government, under President Mutharika’s leadership, is on the right path by embracing technocrats to restore Malawi’s economy and institutions.
Attempts by the opposition to twist this anarrative are transparent and will not succeed in dividing the party or derailing its mission.
Malawians deserve truth and clarity, not manipulative spin. It is time to reject the falsehoods and recognize the integrity of leaders like Alfred Gangata, who prioritize the nation’s welfare above personal or factional interests.
The future of Malawi depends on unity, competence, and unwavering dedication to service—values that the DPP continues to uphold.
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