The former Malawi vice-president Khumbo Kachali over the weekend accused President Peter Mutharika of shunning major Ngoni cultural events in Mzimba.
Kachali made the accusation at the unveiling of a mausoleum of the late Inkosi ya Makosi M’mbelwa IV where President Mutharika delegated Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development Goodall Gondwe to represent him.
Leader of opposition and Malawi Congress Party (MCP) president Lazarus Chakwera, Speaker of Parliament Richard Msowoya, legislator Joseph Chidanti Malunga of the Chilima Movement and Aford’s Frank Mwenifumbo attended event at Edingeni Royal Headquarters.
The former VP Kachali observed that the incumbent Mutharika has never visited the headquarters saying unlike former presidents – Ngwazi Kamuzu Banda, Bakili Muluzi, Bingu wa Mutharika and Joyce Banda used to attend the events.
Kachali, who is member of Parliament for Mzimba South West, said Mutharika should set his foot at Edingeni.
“All President, starting with Kamuzu Banda have visited us here at Edingeni, except the incumbent. Those of you close to the President need to remind him to be with people,” said Kachali.
But Gondwe in response said Mutharika is still in power and will visit Edingeni as Head of State “tomorrow or in three year’s time”.
Gondwe’s response attracted boos from the audience who opined that Mutharika may not be in power for a long as the Minister stated.
Minister Gondwe therefore promise to deliver the message to Mutharika.
Speaking on behalf of the chiefs and the M’mbelwa family, Senior Chief Mtwalo, said Ngoni chiefs in Mzimba will not be manipulated by the President to be paraded as political stooges of the ruling party as other chiefs elsewhere.
Mkhosi Jere, first born son of the late M’mbelwa the fourth, ascended to the throne as M’mbelwa V .
The 33-year Old was hailed for setting an example of how Malawians need to respect departed leaders.
What nonsense! You want the whole president to attend tombstone unveiling? Are you serious? JB was right to snub this dunderhead for running mate position.