By Jones Gadama

The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) disciplinary committee has summoned Minister of Trade and Industry, Vitumbiko Mumba, to a hearing scheduled for Saturday in Lilongwe.

According to a reliable source, Mumba’s remarks during an exclusive interview with Zodiak Broadcasting Station hosted by Leah Malekano, sparked anger among MCP National Executive Committee (NEC) members.

During the interview, Mumba allegedly stated that there are senior MCP members who do not wish him well.

The NEC members took issue with Mumba’s decision to air his concerns publicly, particularly at a time when Malawi is gearing up for elections.

The source emphasized that such statements can have negative implications and repercussions on the electorate, who are known to easily switch allegiances.

The MCP wants Mumba to address his concerns through the party’s established structures, rather than resorting to public statements. However, when contacted for comment, Mumba did not respond.

A close source to Mumba assured that the minister had not received any letter summoning him to a disciplinary committee hearing from the MCP NEC.

The MCP disciplinary committee’s decision to summon Mumba raises questions about the party’s internal dynamics and its ability to manage conflicts ahead of the elections.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Mumba will respond to the summons and what implications this will have for his role within the party.

The MCP has not officially commented on the matter, and it is unclear what specific charges Mumba will face during the disciplinary hearing.

However, the development has already sparked interest and speculation among political observers, who are watching the situation closely.

As Malawi prepares for elections, the MCP’s internal conflicts and the disciplinary committee’s actions will likely be closely scrutinized.

The outcome of the hearing and Mumba’s subsequent actions will have significant implications for the party’s prospects in the upcoming polls.

Mumba seeks royal blessings for Chakwera’s re-election bid

By Jones Gadama

In a historic move, Minister of Trade and Industry, Vitumbiko Mumba, sought the blessings of Paramount Chief of the Tumbuka Kingdom, Themba la Mathemba Chikulamayembe, for his upcoming rallies and Whistlestop Tours in support of President Lazarus Chakwera.

This meeting, which took place at Rumphi District Council, marked a significant moment in Malawian politics, as it was revealed that Mumba is the first politician from the northern region to seek the Chief’s blessings since Chakufwa Chihana.

Mumba, who was appointed as the Minister of Trade and Industry in February 2025, replacing Sosten Gwengwe, has been a key figure in Chakwera’s administration.

His decision to seek the Chief’s blessings is seen as a strategic move to garner support for Chakwera’s re-election bid.

The meeting between Mumba and Chief Chikulamayembe was described as “refreshing” and “historic.”

The Chief, who is revered for his wisdom and leadership, expressed his appreciation for Mumba’s gesture, stating that it was a first for a politician from the northern region to seek his blessings since Chakufwa Chihana.

Mumba’s move is seen as a clever tactic to win over the hearts and minds of the people in the northern region.

By seeking the Chief’s blessings, Mumba is able to tap into the cultural and traditional significance of the Tumbuka Kingdom, which is revered throughout Malawi.

The upcoming rallies and Whistlestop Tours, which Mumba will embark on, are aimed at drumming up support for Chakwera’s re-election bid.

With the campaign season heating up, Mumba’s move is seen as a strategic attempt to give Chakwera’s campaign a much-needed boost.

As the country gears up for the elections, Mumba’s decision to seek the Chief’s blessings has sent a strong message about the importance of cultural and traditional leadership in Malawian politics.

It remains to be seen how this move will play out in the coming weeks and months, but one thing is certain – Mumba’s gesture has marked a significant moment in Malawian politics.

In related news, Mumba’s appointment as the Minister of Trade and Industry has been hailed as a positive move by many Malawians.

His background as a professional civil engineer and his experience working in Botswana have been cited as key factors in his ability to drive economic growth and development in Malawi.

As the country looks to the future, Mumba’s leadership and commitment to serving the people of Malawi will be closely watched.

His decision to seek the Chief’s blessings is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable campaign season.