Tag Archives: Democratic progressive Party – DPP

Politics

Road to 2025: Mutharika snubs Mtambo’s desperate attempts to mend ties with DPP

MaraviPost

MZUZU-(MaraviPost)-In a high-stakes political drama unfolding in Malawi, the embattled Timothy Pagonachi Mtambo, the newly-minted Vice President of the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) party, has found himself in a precarious position after his attempts to reconcile with former President Arthur Peter Mutharika (APM) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) were publicly rejected.

According to a statement released by the DPP, the party is “deeply concerned and appalled” by the “false and baseless” rumors of a meeting and apology between Mtambo and APM.

The DPP’s Presidential Spokesperson, Shadric Namalomba, categorically denied that any such encounter took place, stating, “there was no meeting between the two, and therefore, no apology was given.”

The rejection by the DPP leadership highlights the deep-seated enmity that exists between the party and Mtambo, who was once a formidable critic of the former administration as the leader of the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC).

Mtambo’s vocal opposition to the DPP government during his time at HRDC has seemingly made him a persona non grata within the party’s inner circles.

Informed sources suggest that Mtambo’s desperate attempts to mend ties with APM and the DPP were driven by pressure from the AFORD President, Enock Chihana, who is keen on forging a coalition between AFORD and the DPP ahead of the 2025 elections.

However, Mutharika’s handlers reportedly kept Mtambo at arm’s length, leaving the AFORD Vice President with a “sad face” as he posed for a photograph in a cap branded with APM’s initials, a futile effort to demonstrate his reconciliatory gesture.

The failed overtures have now placed Mtambo in a precarious position within AFORD, as the party’s president, Chihana, is reportedly willing to sacrifice Mtambo’s position to accommodate the DPP’s demands and secure a potential coalition.

This move could further isolate Mtambo, potentially leading to his ouster from AFORD if the party decides to prioritize its alliance with the DPP over maintaining Mtambo’s presence in the party’s leadership.

Opinion, Politics

Road to 2025: Mutharika needs some psychotherapy

Maravi Post Author

By Leonard Kavwenje, Lilongwe

Good Malawians, sometimes as a country we must respect and feel sorry for some of our political game players on moral grounds.

A good example is Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leader Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika. He is being forced on a pathetic political journey without mercy.

To begin with, Mutharika is an octogenarian. He is too old. It is injustice of highest order to be forcing him to stand as a candidate in the next year’s presidential election just to quench harmful desires of some DPP gurus.

I know there are some selfish men and women in DPP whose plans are to be directing APM in the long run – benefitting themselves.

DPP must learn to embrace the African culture of respecting the elderly. The philosophy of Ubuntu must run through the blue camp if sane Malawians are to bestow respect for the party.

The undeniable fact is, Mutharika did his good part from May 2014 to June 2020. There is no any reasonable need to be squeezing our beloved law professor into further politics just to enrich yourselves in a sudden aftermath.

I understand Mutharika instituted advisors. However, the pressure exerted on him is a naked indication that his advisory committee is another bunch of useless minds whose sole objective is to be manipulating the former Harvard University law professor!

Siyani nkhaza kwa achikulire. Mumangidwa nazo ulele izi.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the article are those of the author not necessarily of The Maravi Post or Editor

Politics

DPP disputes reports of Timothy Mtambo meeting Mutharika for apology

Burnett Munthali

By Burnett Munthali

Recent rumors have circulated regarding a purported meeting between Timothy Mtambo, a prominent activist and former Minister of Civic Education, and former President Arthur Peter Mutharika (APM).

Allegations suggested that Mtambo had apologized to Mutharika, an assertion that has generated significant discussion across various media platforms.

However, Shadric Namalomba, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential spokesperson and national publicity secretary, has emphatically denied these claims.

According to Namalomba, “It’s not true that APM met Mtambo and that Mtambo apologized.”

This statement aims to clarify the situation and dispel the misinformation that has taken root in the public domain.

The alleged meeting and apology appear to be part of a broader narrative, often used in political discourse to influence perceptions of reconciliation or political strategy.

In the heated landscape of Malawian politics, such claims can have significant implications, especially when they concern high-profile figures like APM and Mtambo, who represent opposing sides of the political spectrum.

Mtambo, known for his outspoken criticism of Mutharika’s administration, has played a crucial role in advocating for accountability and democratic governance in Malawi.

His activism has often positioned him at odds with the DPP, making any supposed reconciliation a matter of intense scrutiny and speculation.

The DPP’s clarification underscores the importance of verifying information before drawing conclusions. As political narratives continue to evolve, it is essential for the public to rely on credible sources and official statements. The spread of misinformation can undermine the political discourse, leading to confusion and potentially misguided public sentiment.

In conclusion, the denial from Namalomba reinforces that the alleged apology and meeting did not occur.

As Malawi navigates its complex political landscape, clarity and truthfulness in communication will be vital in shaping the country’s democratic processes and fostering trust among its citizens.

Opinion, Politics

DPP’s leadership crisis, dilemma: The Perils of imposing candidates on electorates

Maravi Post Author

By Twink Jones Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-In a shocking display of disregard for democratic principles, Secretary General of the opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), Dr. Clement Mwale, recently declared that the party will not allow shadow Members of Parliament (MPs) to challenge incumbent members of parliament in all constituencies.

This authoritarian dictate has sparked widespread outrage, with many labeling it a dangerous attempt to impose candidates on the people.

The dangers of Dr. Mwale’s sentiments cannot be overstated. By suppressing internal democracy and stifling competition, the DPP is risking a catastrophic erosion of trust among its supporters and the wider electorate. Here are a few of the perils that this approach poses for the DPP:

Undermining internal democracy:

By not allowing shadow MPs to contest, the DPP is essentially killing internal democracy. This will lead to a lack of representation for diverse voices and ideas, ultimately transforming the party into a dictatorship.

Imposing unpopular candidates:

Forcing incumbent MPs on constituencies without competition will lead to the imposition of unpopular candidates. This will result in voter disillusionment, apathy, and ultimately, electoral defeat.

Stifling innovation and fresh ideas:

By not allowing new faces to contest, the DPP is stifling innovation and fresh ideas. This will lead to stagnation and a lack of progress in the party’s policy and political approach.

Creating division and frustration:

Dr. Mwale’s sentiments will create division and frustration among party members, leading to a loss of morale and defections. This will weaken the party’s overall strength and cohesion.

Damaging the party’s image:

The DPP’s authoritarian approach will damage its image and reputation, making it appear undemocratic and out of touch with the people’s needs.

This will harm the party’s electoral prospects and erode public trust.

In conclusion, Dr. Mwale’s sentiments are a dangerous affront to democracy and pose significant risks to the DPP’s future.

By suppressing internal democracy and imposing candidates on the people, the party is jeopardizing its very existence.

The DPP must reconsider its approach and embrace democratic principles to remain relevant and competitive in Malawi’s political landscape.

Politics

“Bring evidence that I defected to MCP”-Mwanza West legislator Chitsulo dares DPP

MaraviPost

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Mwanza West legislator Joyce Chitsulo has challenged Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to bring evidence that shows her joining Malawi Congress Party (MCP) warranting seat declared vacant.

Chitsulo is reacting to DPP’s letter asking Speaker Catherine Gotani Hara to declare seat vacant for its four lawmaker who are allegedly working with Malawi Congress Party (MCP).

DPP alleges that legislators Chitsulo, Binton Kuntsayira, Owen Chomanika, Benedicto Chambo and Esther Majaza violated Section 65 of Malawi Constitution by aligning with MCP.

But Chitsulo told The Maravi Post that DPP has other issues with her nothing to do with Section 65 violation.

She therefore vowed to serve her constituency regardless of which party is in power.

“DPP is referring to the development rally which local government minister Richard Chimwendo Banda conducted in my constituency.

“They invited me to attend the rally as legislator for the area. This is a government function not MCP. Is attending government function a crime? qurried Chitsulo.

“DPP must bring evidence that I joined MCP and also details of amount of money claims to have sponsored me to attain Mwanza West seat,” dared

The opposition DPP has been in leadership crisis since losing 2020 presidential elections.

Malawi, Politics

“I will fix Malawi’s ailing economy within 2 years”- Mutharika

Maravi Post Reporter

…..confirms 2025 presidential bid

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Former President Peter Mutharika on Sunday, May 12, 2024 vowed to rebuild and make Malawi better again within two years if elected in next year’s presidential elections.

Mutharika, who is also Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leader, was addressing a massive rally at Njamba Freedom Park in Blantyre.

He however criticized his successor, Lazarus Chakwera of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), for failing to effectively govern the country.

Mutharika asserted that he has the capability to restore Malawi to its former glory, citing the high cost of living, rampant corruption and other issues as clear evidence that Chakwera has lost direction and that Malawians are suffering.

Thousands of people from Blantyre and surrounding districts attended the rally, where Mutharika pledged to address these pressing concerns and revitalize the nation’s economy.

Many Malawians have expressed frustration and disillusionment with Chakwera’s leadership, citing unfulfilled campaign promises, economic stagnation and a perceived lack of accountability and transparency in government.

The country has experienced frequent power outages, fuel shortages, and rising food prices, further exacerbating the discontent.

Opinion, Politics

Road to 2025: Is Kondwani Nankhumwa’s party, opposition DPP’ shadow?

Maravi Post Author


By Cedric Chithenga Nyoni

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-As the political arena heats up as we draw closer to next year’s Tripartite elections, Kondwani Nankhumwa’s newly launched People’s Development Party (PDP) is one of many parties that have recently been formed.

Recently We have seen Prophet David Mbewe launching his Liberation for Economic Freedom while Frank Mwenefumbo is linked with the formation of the National Democratic Party (NDP).

In regard to PDP, it is obviously seen that the new party has inherited some DPP traits.

There has been a social media video clip that has been circulating shows a Pro-Nankhumwa branded golfshirt with a DPP logo being rebranded with a PDP sticker.

The use of pro-Nankhumwa DPP shirts on PDP functions by simply hiding the DPP logo with a sticker speaks volumes.

Some analysts speculate that this mirroring could be a strategic ploy to sow confusion on voters on polling day.

But beyond the surface, the true test for PDP lies ahead.

Will Nankhumwa win the support of many people like the way Saulosi Chilima did in 2019?, or will it follow the path of many parties before that died a natural death or went into oblivion?

History has its share of similar tales:

Brown Mpinganjira’s NDA emerged from the UDF’s shadow prior to 2004 elections only to die a natural death after NDa miserably lost the 2004 elections.

Dr. Hethewick Ntaba’s NCD, was formed after Dr. Ntaba was expelled from the MCP, it also failed to leave a lasting mark.

Ntaba even tried to make the name of his party have a homophone sound that was similar to MCP… It was called NCD.

Then there was a splinter Aford group that disagreed with the then party Leader Chakufwa Chihana… They called their new party Genuine-Aford (Gaford) .

Eventually Gaford which later changed its name to Mgode died another natural drath.

Uladi Mussa’s Maravi People Movement and Joyce Banda’s People’s Party, both offshoots of DPP, struggled to sustain their political relevance.

Contrastingly, Saulosi Chilima’s UTM broke the mold, offering a distinct alternative to DPP’s narrative.

Despite Chilima’s popularity, UTM as a party miserably faild as it only won 4 seats out otlf the 193 member Parliament.

In reflection, one might argue that Nankhumwa’s PDP could have benefitted from from bieng seen as independent of DPP system, much like the UTM did after breaking away from DPP than being seen as DPP team-B.

One could still wonder the seriousness of PDP it the whole party could think of using the same T-shirts that Nankhumwa’s supporters wore in DPP and simply hiding the DPP logo with a new PDP sticker.

The question still remain.. Will PDP going to have its own identity?, or will it be seen as DPP- Team B?

As Malawi marches towards the polls next year, the electorate’s verdict on PDP’s fate remains to be seen.

Law and order, Malawi

Court dismisses Nankhumwa’s application against DPP on LoP injunction hearing

Ufulu

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The High Court has dismissed embattled Leader of Opposition in Parliament Kondwani Nankhumwa’s preliminary application for the court not to hear Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)’s application to vacate an injunction which restrained the party from removing him from the position.

In his ruling, High Court Judge Simeon Mdeza has stated that he has problems to appreciate Nankhumwa’s arguments made in his preliminary application.

“If anything, perhaps, those arguments should be reserved for the hearing of the defendants [DPP] application to have the order of the injunction discharged,” reads part of the ruling.

The ruling means the court will now proceed to hear the DPP’s application to vacate the injunction which Nankhumwa obtained challenging his removal as Leader of Opposition in Parliament.

In his preliminary application, Nankhumwa through his lawyers argued that the High Court already heard the DPP when it tried to challenge the injunction in 2022 and the court sustained it after hearing both parties.

But the DPP objected to the Mulanje Central lawmaker’s preliminary application, arguing that the judge has powers to revisit the injunction upon change of circumstances.

DPP appointed Merry Navicha as Leader of Opposition in Parliament replacing Nankhumwa whom was fired alongside with other members.

Opinion, Politics

Road to 2025: Restored peace in DPP as MCP braces for internal power fights

Maravi Post Author

By Twink Jones Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-In a surprising turn of events, the opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has found itself in a position of unity and strength following the expulsion of key figures including Kondwani Nankhumwa, Grelzder Jeffrey, Nicholas Dausi, Mark Botoman and others.

The once divided party has now reorganized itself, leaving the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) in a state of panic as the Tambala camp is geared up for upcoming convention.

With the expulsion of Nankhumwa and his accomplices, DPP has eradicated any lingering factions within its ranks, allowing for a sense of peace and solidarity to prevail.

The party is now more united than ever, ready to face the challenges ahead, including the upcoming elections.

DPP members are set to compete freely at the convention, which is scheduled to take place later this year.

The removal of the “bad apples” from the party has brought about a sense of sanity and cohesiveness that was previously lacking.

This newfound unity bodes well for DPP as they prepare for the political battles on the horizon.

However, despite their internal reorganization, DPP is still facing challenges from the court regarding the injunction that is yet to be vacated restricting Nankhumwa from holding a leadership position in parliament.

The court’s delay in giving a ruling on the vacation of the injunction has caused frustration among DPP members, who are eager to move forward with their renewed sense of unity.

The judiciary’s perceived lack of urgency in addressing this matter has also sparked concerns about the overall integrity of the Malawian courts.

Many believe that the courts are compromised and corrupt, leading to a breakdown of trust in the judicial system.

There is a growing call for a new generation of judges to be appointed to the high court, who will prioritize speedy justice and uphold the rule of law without compromise.

The DPP applied for the vacation of the injunction, but the court’s delay in providing a ruling on the matter has left many questioning the motives behind the decision.

The importance of this ruling cannot be understated, as it directly impacts the future of the leader of opposition in parliament and its ability to move forward in a unified manner.

As DPP solidifies its position and prepares for the road ahead, MCP is bracing itself for internal struggles as they approach their own convention.

The party is now facing the reality of potential divisions within its ranks, a stark contrast to the newfound unity seen in their political rival.

With political tensions on the rise and uncertainty surrounding the court’s decisions, the future of Malawi’s political landscape remains uncertain.

However, one thing is clear – DPP has emerged stronger and more united than ever, ready to face whatever challenges come their way.

As the country navigates this period of transition, the actions of both parties will undoubtedly shape the future of Malawian politics for years to come.

Disclaimer: The views expected in the article are those of the author not necessarily of The Maravi Post or Editor

Opinion, Politics

Is Peter Mutharika nieve politically?

Maravi Post Author

By Twink Jones Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Former President of Malawi and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leader, Peter Mutharika, has been notably silent in recent months, leading many to question his leadership and political acumen.

However, despite his perceived absence from the public eye, it would be unfair and inaccurate to label him as foolish.

Mutharika, a seasoned politician and lawyer, has demonstrated time and time again his unwavering dedication to the people of Malawi.

His love for the country is evident in his actions and decisions as President, even if not always immediately apparent to the public.

One prime example of Mutharika’s commitment to Malawi is his handling of the constitutional crisis following the controversial 2019 presidential elections.

Despite facing intense pressure from the opposition and civil society to resign, Mutharika chose to follow the legal process and let the courts adjudicate the matter.

This decision, while unpopular with many at the time, demonstrated Mutharika’s respect for the rule of law and the constitution, putting the interests of the nation above his own.

Many Malawians see Mutharika as a true democrat who respects the institutions and processes of democracy.

His adherence to the rule of law, even in the face of personal political risk, has earned him the respect and admiration of many in the country.

As Malawi gears up for the 2025 presidential elections, Mutharika’s silence has raised questions about his intentions and plans for the future.

However, those who know him best believe that he is quietly strategizing and planning for a comeback.

Despite recent setbacks, including the loss of power in the 2020 elections, Mutharika’s popularity and support base remain strong.

Many believe that he will make a strong bid for the presidency in the upcoming elections and are confident that he will secure a landslide victory.

Mutharika’s track record as President speaks for itself.

During his time in office, he oversaw significant economic growth and development in Malawi, improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

His policies, such as the Farm Input Subsidy Program and the Community Colleges initiative still have impact on Malawians.