LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-In a significant political shift, three influential members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Imlan Mtenje, Grezelder Jeffrey, and Dr. Heatherwick Ntaba on Sunday, September 15, 2025, joined the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
The trio appeared at the MCP Mega rally held at Area 24 in the capital Lilongwe.
President Lazarus Chakwera welcomed the trio into the party.
Having been a key member of the DPP for over a decade, Ntaba played a vital role in shaping the party’s direction.
A well-known Malawian medical doctor and politician, Ntaba previously served as the DPP’s Publicity Secretary.
His extensive political career includes serving as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1993 to 1994, followed by his role as the Secretary-General of the DPP.
Jeffrey was key in DPP as a former SG who worked tirelessly for the party while Mtenje was vital in the eastern region.
The defections of these notable figures have sparked discussions about the future of the opposition party and the potential impact on the political landscape in Malawi.
It is sometimes easy to disrespect a leader for good reasons or no good reasons at all, sometimes due to the influence of others but the consequences that come as a result of insubordination are always hard and difficult. There is definitely a price for insubordination.
Silence of a leader can sometimes be miscalculated. I am reminded of a drunken master in a movie where the challenger thought he could easily beat the master because he was drunk. The challenger realized extremely late that he was being beaten at the very end of the movie and that the master was actually not drunk. So, the challenger lost the fight in this movie because of wrong judgement. Sometimes we lose certain battles in life because of miscalculations but one thing is that we must always learn something.
DPP Secretary-General Gridezer Jeffrey wa Jeffrey,
Who would want to be disrespected when in charge of any political party? Obviously, not even Grezelder Jeffrey would want to be undermined when in authority because leadership is about leaving others, giving directives, decisions, receiving respect, getting different opinion from team members but in a more respectful and peaceful manner.
There is a purpose for every fight and the main aim is surely to win that particular fight. However, The first thing Grezelder Jeffrey would have asked herself was whether she was going to win the fight or not. If she knew that she was likely to lose the fight it was wise not to start this battle. The second question was to ask herself whether it was necessary to wage that legal fight or not. Did Grezelder Jeffrey think she was going to win this battle in the first place against the DPP?
Lessons from every loss are many. Some of the lessons require one to stop and reflect on your conduct, move forward to the next level or retreat. It is imperative for Grezelder Jeffrey to think quickly and act now because time is not on her side. If she really is a bonafide member of the DPP she must go for a hearing now and not later. If not, then she must stay away and move on with no regrets later. One of the greatest lessons in life is never to accept being used by others because you look stupid when you fail to defend your own actions that you make in life.
Failing to appear before any disciplinary hearing without any excuse is indiscipline of its own kind. But I know that Grezelder Jeffrey is such a coward. She brags and talks sarcastically when time for interviews avails itself. In reality, Jeffrey lacks courage to talk about issues face to face, which is why she failed to appear before the disciplinary hearing. Do you remember what she did in court when she was sued for defamation by Ulemu Msungama in 2020? She simply cried in court and went down on her knees begging for mercy. That is how scared Grezelder Jeffrey is, she cannot face the committee at all.
Options are fundamental in life, and everyone experiences options once in a while in life which must be made at a certain time. Grezelder Jeffrey is at the crossroads of choosing from two options as the situation stands today. It is either she attends the disciplinary hearing and says something to defend herself or simply apologize during the session. The second option for Grezelder is to continue being arrogant, stay away from the disciplinary hearing, do not apologize, and take her new path, forge ahead and never look back. However, it will be exceedingly difficult for Jeffrey to remain in the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) with all the rudeness without appearing before the disciplinary hearing and expecting things to improve on their own, it will not just work for her that way.
In concussion, opinions are not by force, they must be expressed and given freely. Similarly, leadership is not by force, it is of the people, given by the people for the people. Let the best candidate win at the convention not at the High Court nor Supreme Court. Even the courts become fed up with injunctions after injunctions.
In a significant legal setback for three prominent members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), a High Court judge delivered a ruling dismissing their application for an interlocutory injunction.
The former DPP Vice President for the southern region of Malawi, Kondwani Nankhumwa, alongside Grezelda Jeffrey, former secretary-general, and Cecelia Chazama, former director of women, had challenged their reassignments within the party by the DPP’s President, Peter Mutharika.
The court presided over by Judge Howard Pemba, concluded that the claimants failed to substantiate their argument regarding a violated political right.
Judge Pemba emphasized that no evidence was presented to suggest any substantial loss suffered by the claimants due to the defendant’s decisions.
Consequently, he determined that the balance of justice and convenience did not support granting the requested injunction.
This ruling comes as a blow to Nankhumwa, Jeffrey, and Chazama, who had sought legal recourse to contest their reassignments within the DPP.
Their claims were based on the belief that their rights had been infringed upon by the decisions made by the party’s president.
However, the court found no merit in their case, leading to the dismissal of their application.
Although this decision marks a victory for the DPP’s president, it highlights the internal tensions within the party.
The fallout between the officials mentioned above and the party leadership has been widely discussed within political circles.
With the court ruling against them, these former DPP stalwarts face significant challenges in their quest to reclaim their previous positions.
As the dust settles on this legal battle, political observers eagerly await any potential ramifications on the DPP’s internal dynamics.
The dismissed application has underscored the power dynamics at play within the party, leaving Nankhumwa, Jeffrey, and Chazama to reassess their future roles and political aspirations.
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The High Court Judge Simeon Mdeza on Monday, December 18, 2023, allowed the opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to extend dates for holding an elective convention beyond 90 days of the September 29 ruling.
This follows the DPP lawyer Charles Mhango’s application made against Kondwani Nankhumwa and Grezelder Jeffrey who went to court asking to hold a convention before the end of this year arguing that party positions holders’ term of office expired.
The High Court according to the ruling has the jurisdiction to depart from its judgment or determination.
It means that DPP can extend the days of holding its elective conference.
“UPON HEARING Counsel for the Defendant and UPON READING the Sworn Statement of COUNSEL CHARLES CHIGONDONGO MHANGO filed in support of the Application for an Order to extend the time within which the Defendant was to hold a properly constituted meeting of the National Governing Council (NGC) and an elective National Political Conference as ordered and directed by the Court in the Judgment issued on 29th September 2023 herein,” reads part of Mdeza ruling.
Justice Mdeza’s verdict adds, “IT IS HEREBY ORDERED AND DIRECTED that the period of Ninety (90) days within which the Defendant was directed to hold a properly constituted meeting of the National Governing Council (NGC) and an elective National Political Conference is hereby extended until further order of this Court”.
DPP National Governing Counsel (NGC) proposed December 26, 2023, as the date for the elective convention following the September 29 ruling that the party should not the indaba within 90 days.
DPP has been in a leadership crisis after losing the 2020 Presidential elections.
There’s an ongoing debate regarding who is in control of the party to decide a National Governing Council (NGC) meeting which the embattled opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Secretary General Grezelder Jeffrey called recently at Golden Peacock in Lilongwe.
Some people argue that the Secretary General has powers to call for the meeting at the party is getting ready for a convention anytime soon.
Others think the Secretary General erred to call for the meeting without the blessing of party President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika because he is her superior and that she also by passed a Central Executive Committee.
Some are completely lost in this debate and have nothing to contribute. This article endeavors to answer this very important question.
The structure and hierarchy of political parties can vary. However, generally speaking, both the President and the Secretary General play important roles within a political party, but their responsibilities and areas of authority differ.
The President of a political party is typically considered the leader and the public face of the party. The President often takes center stage during public appearances, rallies, and campaigns, where they articulate the party’s vision and engage with the public. They are also responsible for making strategic decisions, such alliances, and the party’s overall messaging. Moreover, the President usually has the power to appoint individuals to key positions within the party’s organizational structure.
On the other hand, the Secretary General holds a crucial administrative role within the party. They are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations, coordinating internal party affairs, and ensuring efficient communication within the party.
The Secretary General’s tasks may include organizing party meetings, maintaining membership records, managing party finances, and overseeing the selection and training of party officials.
Additionally, the Secretary General often acts as a liaison between the party’s various structures and different levels of leadership. They play a vital role in coordinating election campaigns and ensuring smooth coordination between different party members and groups.
The SG does this in consultation with the President.
It is important to note that the power dynamics between the President and the Secretary General can vary depending on the party and its internal rules.
In some cases, the President may have more authority and decision-making power, while in others, the Secretary General may have a more significant influence.
Furthermore, the relationship between the President and Secretary General can greatly impact the functioning and unity of the party. When both roles work in harmony, it can lead to a more efficient and cohesive party structure.
Feedback: Jonesgadama@gmail.com and bonnetmunthali2101@gmail.com
Disclaimer: The views expressed in the article are those of the authors not necessarily of The Maravi Post or Editor
When you start a fight you must be ready to fight on and finish that fight to the end. Often times when you provoke a fight you must be prepared to get bruised as well, and face all the consequences that come with it.
The front page of Malawi News on Sunday, December 9, 2023 has carried an interesting headline in which the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has ordered Grezelder Jeffrey to declare party funds. This battle is getting interesting, serious and has gone to another level. Another gear has been engaged.
Fast backwards, You may remember very well that at some point, Grezelder Jeffrey was given DPP party materials to distribute during the 2019 campaign and presidential election. Among those materials to be distributed were okay regalia and bicycles. As the campaign has come to a close, something sinister happened at the backyard house where the Secretary General Grezelder was holding an indoor meeting. You must remember that this was at a time when campaign had been closed and we were about to vote.
Some people mobilized themselves and stormed where Grezelder Jeffrey and other DPP members were meeting to discuss whatever it was that they were brainstorming. The people who mobilized themselves were suspicious that perhaps DPP was planning to rig elections.
When the suspicious angry mob of people broke into her backyard fence, Grezelder and other DPP members escaped to save their lives. What came out as a surprise on that day is that the backyard was full of DPP bicycles which had not been distributed to the intended party members. So you can see the short sightedness of Grezelder, she kept things which were not hers but meant for distribution.
Therefore, the order that has come out today that Grezelder must declare party funds is not a surprise to me. It appears to me that apart from being rude to her party President, she is also not financially disciplined. If she was financially disciplined, how come she kept hundreds of bicycles at the backyard of her house in 2019? That is reason enough for me to connect that she has not been loyal and honest to her own party for quite long but the party leadership ignored this with the hope that she would change and improve her character.
The present situation is dangerous for the Secretary General and could mark the end of grey political career. The battle line has finally been drawn and it’s time to see casualties in this fracas. It is unfortunate that Grezelder Jeffrey has drawn herself into all this mess today just because of some men with big tummies because her downfall is now certain. The direction in which this battle is taking reminds me of Israel versus Hamas in Gaza.
The future political career of the troubled Secretary General Grezelder Jeffrey is bleak and in big trouble as she’s likely to lose this battle.
The outbursts against her party President won’t help her in any way but defeat and trouble is prominent and forth coming. However, the DPP must move forward and start organizing itself, so it will not allow to be dragged by few individuals who are always arguing or getting court orders restraining the party leadership from making decisions.
In conclusion, a battle is never won by the two fighting sides but one must come out victorious but the price in every fight must always be paid. You don’t win fights by accident but you must take irritate yourself very well for it.
However, There’s this saying: “a student cannot be better than his teacher” and will never be. The moment you choose to display your defiance and arrogance to your own master, it be at school or karate class, just know that you have invited tough times for yourself. Don’t cross the bridge until you get there.
Indeed, Grezelder Jeffrey has landed herself into bigger trouble than she thought. This fight is getting hotter than what Grezelder thought when she started all this.
My only advice to the Secretary General is “Stand up to the end of this battle but get ready to be bruised”.
Malawi’s former DPP secretary general, Grezelder Jeffrey, is currently in a precarious political position that could potentially lead to her downfall. In the world of politics, reputation is everything, and any misstep or controversial action can seal one’s fate. Jeffrey is not fully aware of this fact as she continues to dig her own political grave, alienating herself from both the party and the public.
One significant factor contributing to Grezelder Jeffrey’s self-destruction is her consistent disregard for party loyalty and unity. A successful politician understands the importance of standing by their party and supporting its objectives.
However, Jeffrey has repeatedly shown a lack of commitment to the ideals and goals of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which she once served as the secretary general.
Instead of working towards uniting the party and promoting its agenda, she has engaged in actions that have undermined its integrity.
One example of her undermining the party’s interests was her public criticism of the party leadership. Instead of addressing internal concerns privately, she openly voiced her dissatisfaction with the party’s decisions and strategies. This kind of public betrayal not only divides the party but also erodes trust and confidence in her leadership abilities. By failing to demonstrate loyalty and unity, Grezelder Jeffrey has isolated herself and positioned herself as a potential threat to the party’s stability.
Furthermore, Jeffrey’s decision to align herself with controversial figures has significantly damaged her reputation and political standing. A successful politician carefully chooses the company they keep, ensuring that their associations reflect positively on their own character and values.
In a misguided attempt to boost her own political influence, Jeffrey has associated herself with individuals who questionable qualifications and have not come in the open to clear themselves from such serious allegations. This association raises doubts about her own ethical stance and judgment, tarnishing her political image.
Moreover, Jeffrey’s communication approach has been highly detrimental to her political career. A successful politician knows the power of effective and strategic communication and understands the importance of choosing words carefully.
However, Jeffrey has repeatedly exhibited a lack of tact and diplomacy when expressing her opinions and addressing sensitive matters. Her abrasive and confrontational style has repeatedly alienated supporters and potential allies, leaving her isolated and devoid of crucial political support.
An example of her damaging communication style was her recent social media outburst, where she used derogatory language towards fellow party members who disagreed with her. This kind of public display of aggression not only harms personal relationships but also erodes public trust and confidence in her ability to hold a leadership position. It also highlights her inability to manage conflicts and differences of opinion in a mature and constructive manner, further isolating her from potential allies and coalition partners.
Additionally, Jeffrey’s inconsistent and opportunistic approach to policymaking has further weakened her political standing. A stateswoman should be guided by a set of values and clear policy stances, which citizens can rely on when making decisions on leadership. However, Jeffrey has displayed a tendency to flip-flop on critical issues, aligning herself with whichever stance serves her own self-interest now. This lack of consistency not only erodes trust but also raises questions about her sincerity and commitment to public service.
Furthermore, Jeffrey’s failed leadership during her tenure as the DPP secretary general has not gone unnoticed. A successful politician is expected to demonstrate strong leadership skills, inspire confidence, and achieve tangible results. Unfortunately, Jeffrey’s history is less than impressive.
Under her leadership, the party faced internal divisions, struggled to effectively communicate with the public, and failed to deliver on key promises.
These failures have weakened the parties undeniably led to her current state of political self-destruction. Her disregard for party loyalty and unity, questionable associations, damaging communication style, inconsistent policymaking, and failed leadership have all contributed to her alienation from both the party and the public.
Unless she recognizes the consequences of her actions and takes corrective measures, her political grave will continue requires a delicate balance of loyalty, integrity, effective communication, and strong leadership. One misstep can be all it takes to undermine years of challenging work and destroy a political career.
Feedback: jonesgama@gmil.com
Disclaimer: The views expressed in the article are those of the author not necessarily of The Maravi Post or Editor
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)- Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leader Peter Mutharika has removed revolting Grezelder Jeffrey from the position of Secretary General (SG) and moved her to the position of vice president for the Central Region.
Instead, Mutharika has appointed Dr. Clement Mwake as the new DPP SG.
In a statement released on Thursday, December 7, 2023, Mutharika argues that he has such powers as president in the DPP constitution to assign any National Governing Council member to any position.
Peter Mutharika
Mutharika in a statement says he has made the changes in the exercise of his powers as read in Article 10 (8) of the DPP constitution.
“I am hereby assigning Honourable Greselder Jeffrey to the position of vice-president Central Region and Honourable Dr Clement Mwale to the position of secretary general with immediate effect,” says Mutharika in the statement.
But writing on her Facebook page wall, Jeffrey has declined the post arguing that it is only the elective convention that can remove her from SG position.
Jeffrey hinted that if anyone wants to remove her must compete at the party convention.
The development comes barely two days after Jeffrey organized DPP’s National Governing Counsel (NGC) with only 23 members out of 71 preparing for the party’s elective convention.
Jeffrey is leading the DPP camp of Kondwani Nankhumwa, Mark Bottoman, Joyce Chitsulo, Ken Msonda, Billy Malata, Ralph Juma, Uladi Mussa, Nicholas Dausi and others.
On Its Facebook page the DPP writes
“Our party President His Excellency Professor Peter Mutharika with power vested in him through the constitution has deployed Honourable Grezelder Jeffrey from the position of Secretary General and switched her to the position of vice president for the Central Region.
Meanwhile, the loved Professor Mutharika has appointed Dr. Clement Mwale to be the new Secretary General for the party.
This is not the first time for APM to restructure the positions within the party as recently Honourable Jappie Mhango who was serving as Treasurer General for the party was appointed as Vice president for the North.
Following his appointment, Honourable Mhango was not against the appointment because he knew that the decision was within the party’s restructuring process and also acted within the law.
Surprisingly today, as APM has deployed Honourable Jeffrey, MCP gurus have learnt with shock, and they are trying everything possible to go against this latest noble decision.
Nevertheless, for the sustainability of the Mighty Democratic Progressive Party, its leadership through APM will not relent to allow MCP cadets to continue frustrating DPP’s moves towards 2025 victory.
Once again congratulations Honourable Jeffrey for the new position.”
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The disputed opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) National Governing Council (NGC) meeting will go on today, December 6, 2023, as High Court Judge Simeon Mdeza rejected a plea by some DPP members to stop the meeting.
The members, who include Shadric Namalomba, Chipiliro Mpinganjira, Jean Mathanga, and others, had moved the court to stop the meeting which is slated for tomorrow as they are challenging their absence on the NGC members list.
Judge Mdeza on Tuesday however set January 12, 2024, as a day to have the matter heard but has declined to have the NGC meeting stopped.
DPP’s Secretary General Grezelder Jeffrey announced last week that the party will hold an NGC meeting tomorrow but the party’s vice president for eastern region Bright Msaka, who was sent by the party president Peter Mutharika on Monday argued that the meeting has not been sanctioned by the party leader and should not be held.
In an interview with one of the Muntharika camp members, Chipiliro Mpinganjira said regardless of the court order his camp will not attend the NGC meeting.
Mpinganjira said the SG illegally called for the meeting without the party’s blessings.
Jeffrey’s DPP NGC meeting is expected to take place at the Golden Peacock Hotel in the capital Lilongwe.
The announcement of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) National Governing Council (NGC) meeting by the Secretary General Grezelder Jeffrey which has led to her firing, followed by a press conference by the DPP leadership, has obliged me to comment and bring this discussion. Different opinions have equally emerged over the same issue. This article attempts to highlight the role of the Secretary General in any political party.
Facts
The Secretary General is the lead trustee in the day to day running of the party and provides essential strategic oversight for the party’s committees, domains and task forces.
There’s a difference between secretary General and secretary. If the position occupant doesn’t have or report to any other superior personnel, then he is a Secretary General. If he does have a superior, like an executive Chairman or party President, then he/she is a General Secretary. Both positions are however administrative by design.
In politics, a party secretary is a senior official within a political party with responsibility for the organizational and daily political work. In most parties, the party secretary is second in rank to the party leader (or party chairman).
In other words, the SG is CEO of the party. Similarly, in a company, The CEO is the person who is ultimately accountable for a company’s business decisions, including those in operations, marketing, business development, finance, human resources, etc. The use of the CEO title is not necessarily limited to describing the owner or the head of a company.
Now, basing on the above facts, you will notice that Grezelder Jeffrey is not the overall chief executive of DPP, she’s not the final decision maker to call for an NGC meeting at all. She has Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika above her in authority whom she must consult and take orders from. This hierarchy must be understood and used to work collaboratively.
History
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is a political party in Malawi. The party was formed in February 2005 by Malawian President Bingu wa Mutharika after a dispute with the United Democratic Front (UDF), which was led by his predecessor, Bakili Muluzi.
The Challenge
The former ruling Democratic Progress Party (DPP) continues to fight and be divided especially by people who are not submissive to their President even when they have no leadership skills and are so arrogant that they think they own the party. Tonse Alliance Government is busy stealing and not performing either.
It is this behaviour that is worrying millions of Malawians throughout the country as we approach 2025 elections.
And, with the wrangles that have stricken the party for three years since it lost government, DPP is proving it is not ready yet for peace. Some people have, unfortunately called it a DPP festival of squabbles. Others argue that with these continued squabbles, DPP is not fit to govern this country again.
My opinion
Specific consequences of insubordination often differ depending on the severity of the offense, party policies and applicable political constitutions. Potential consequences may include verbal or written warnings, suspension, demotion, loss of privileges, termination of membership or legal actions in some more extreme cases.
In politics, a party chair (often party chairperson /-man/-woman or party president) is the presiding officer of a political party. The nature and importance of the position differs from country to country, and also between political parties.
Solutions
To Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika and the DPP, now is the to time to act and fire those members who are destabilizing the party once and for all. Make the arrogant members pack and go because they are not helping the party at all. They are also disappointing members at the grassroots, which is not good at all.
Finally, strategies for peace in the Democratic Progressive Party should focus on supporting effective decision making throughout all stages and processes. Make sure that there is adequate public consultation, accountability and inclusion to bolster prospects for a lasting peace resolution.
The Democratic Progressive Party should consider appointing someone in the near future who has some knowledge of law and constitutional studies in order to understand the duties of General Secretary. Politicians with Police background would be better than picking people with just a Form 2 certificate and cannot even think nor express themselves. Their actions will always be wild while discharging their duties and won’t help the party at all.
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