Exclusive Part1: How party loyalism, nepotism undermine government progress

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Peter Mutharika vs Lazarus Chakwera
Is Malawi’s future in capable hands with Chakwera or Mutharika

Airtel Malawi

…The Maravi Post’ Exclusive Investigation-Part 1…

As the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government under President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika takes the helm, it inherits a complex and troubling legacy left by the preceding Malawi Congress Party (MCP) administration led by Lazarus Chakwera.

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What initially appeared as routine transitions between governments has, upon closer scrutiny, revealed a systemic entrenchment of party loyalty, nepotism, and outright disregard for meritocracy within key ministries.

This investigative report exposes how the MCP’s cultivation of partisan “bad apples” in critical public relations roles across ministries threatens to sabotage the new government’s agenda and compromise national development.

The Maravi Post’s extensive investigations have uncovered a pattern of appointments made not on professional qualifications or competence but purely on party allegiance and family connections.

These strategically placed individuals, especially Public Relations Officers (PROs), serve as gatekeepers of information and wield significant influence over how government activities and policies are communicated to the public.

The presence of MCP loyalists in these roles under the DPP government poses major risks of conflict of interest and potential subversion of the government’s efforts to steer Malawi towards stability and progress.

A glaring example is in the Ministry of Health, where former Minister Khumbize Chaponda backed the appointment of Adrian Chikumbe, a staunch MCP supporter from Lilongwe Mitundu, as PRO though didn’t have professional communication skills.

Chikumbe replaced Joshua Malango, himself an MCP diehard who has since become an MCP legislator for Dedza.

This appointment was evidently driven by party loyalty rather than merit, undermining the professionalism expected in such a crucial ministry, especially one managing public health communications.

Similarly, in the Ministry of Mining, Tionge Kampondeni, sister-in-law to Sean Kampondeni—a prominent MCP figure and former Director of Communications at State House—is serving as the PRO.

Sean Kampondeni, who also held the roles of the President’s Executive Assistant and Speechwriter under Chakwera, was only removed from his Director of Communications position in March 2023, replaced by Kent Mphepo.

Despite this shift, Kampondeni remained influential within the presidency’s inner circle.

Tionge’s appointment appears to be another example of nepotistic placement within government structures, solidifying MCP’s hold on key communication channels.

The Ministry of Education also reflects this troubling trend. Christopher Kapachika, a secondary school teacher by profession and a long-serving member of the MCP media team, was appointed PRO despite lacking the requisite qualifications for the role.

His appointment was widely seen as a “token of appreciation” for his loyalty to the MCP rather than an endorsement of his capabilities.

Similarly, MCP’s Jessie Kabwira positioned Gift Chiponde, who rose from intern to PRO, reinforcing the party’s strategy of rewarding allegiance over aptitude.

This pattern of partisan appointments extends to the Ministry of Gender, where the public relations portfolio is held by Pauline Kaude from Lilongwe Chiwamba.

Kaude’s placement was reportedly influenced by Dr. Nether Semphere Mgala, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry and a known MCP supporter.

Both hail from Lilongwe chiwamba, the same village and traditional authority, highlighting how local allegiances and party ties continue to shape government appointments.

These revelations expose just the tip of the iceberg. Numerous other ministries remain plagued by similar rot, with MCP loyalists entrenched in roles critical to shaping public perception and controlling information flow.

Even more concerning is the DPP’s apparent hesitance or inability to remove these “bad apples.”

In some cases, PROs perceived as loyal to DPP were reassigned to other ministries where their influence would be minimal.

Our investigations reveal that officers perceived DPP sympathers often suffered under the oppressive hand of MCP.

Political and social commentator Mathews Namukhoyo weighed in on this precarious situation, stating in an exclusive interview that the DPP’s national agenda risks being derailed if it continues to tolerate the presence of partisan operatives within ministries.

“Those appointed based on party connections rather than competence cannot be trusted to serve the country’s interests without bias or sabotage,” Namukhoyo emphasized.

Human rights activist Robert Mkwezalamba echoed these concerns, urging the government to transcend party loyalties in appointments.

“The government must prioritize professionalism and integrity over partisan favoritism to ensure that ministries function effectively and serve all Malawians equally,” he stated.

From the perspective of ordinary citizens, Bettie Tsekani, a Blantyre resident, did not mince words in blaming the MCP under Chakwera for widespread nepotism and favoritism.

“It is no surprise that MCP fell from grace. The ruling party must conduct a thorough audit of all ministries to root out these entrenched networks of partisan patronage,” she demanded.

Attempts to seek comment from key MCP figures were unsuccessful.

Moses Kunkuyu did not respond to our calls, while Jessie Kabwira’s phone went unanswered despite repeated attempts.

Former Health Minister Khumbize Chaponda’s phone was unreachable at the time of this report.

The implications of these findings are profound.

Ministries are not merely administrative units; they are the lifeblood of government policies and public service delivery.

When communications officers are compromised by party allegiances, transparency is sacrificed, and public trust erodes.

The risk of misinformation, selective reporting, and even covert obstructionism rises sharply.

For the DPP government, the path forward requires decisive action. A rigorous, independent audit of all ministries and departments is essential to identify and remove those whose loyalty to party supersedes commitment to national service.

Transparent recruitment processes must be reinstated, with meritocracy as the guiding principle.

Without such reforms, the government’s ability to implement its agenda and deliver on promises to Malawians will remain severely undermined.

This investigative exposé underscores a critical challenge confronting Malawi’s governance: the corrosive effects of partisan patronage within public service.

The MCP’s legacy of embedding loyalists in key communication roles has left a toxic imprint that threatens to stymie the DPP’s vision for progress.

The time for introspection, accountability, and reform is now.

Only by uprooting the entrenched rot can Malawi hope to build a government that truly serves its people, free from the shackles of nepotism and political sabotage.

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Email: Jonesgadama@gmail.com

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Catherine Gotani Hara’s fear of facing the music: A lesson in accountability

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The ascension of Sameer Suleman and Victor Musowa to the positions of Speaker and First Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, respectively, has sent ripples through the corridors of power in Malawi.

One notable figure who appears to be losing sleep over this development is none other than former Speaker Catherine Gotani Hara.

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According to sources close to the matter, Hara is said to be wary of the new leadership, fearing that she will be held accountable for her actions during her tenure as Speaker.

It’s no secret that Hara’s tenure was marked by controversy and allegations of bias.

Her propensity for suspending opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) without valid reasons sparked widespread criticism, with many accusing her of undermining the democratic process.

The opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) was particularly vocal about her perceived bias, alleging that she was more interested in serving the interests of the then-ruling party than in upholding the rules of Parliament.

Given her track record, it’s hardly surprising that Hara would be anxious about the new leadership.

Sameer Suleman, the new Speaker, has already put the cat among the pigeons with his assertion that “let bygones be bygones.” While this might be seen as a gesture of goodwill, it’s clear that Hara is not convinced.

She’s reportedly fearful that she will face the music for her actions, and rightly so.

In an interview with this reporter, Suleman emphasized his commitment to professionalism and fairness in the discharge of his duties.

“We will serve the MPs with professionalism guided by house rules and standing orders, not personal wishes,” he said.

Victor Musowa echoed these sentiments, stating that they have no plans to punish Hara but will instead focus on executing their duties with utmost diligence.

This commitment to professionalism is precisely what Malawi’s Parliament needs. For too long, the House has been plagued by partisan bickering and accusations of bias.

The new leadership has a golden opportunity to restore the dignity of the institution and ensure that it serves the people of Malawi, rather than the interests of a particular party or individual.

It’s worth noting that Hara’s fears are not entirely unfounded. During her tenure, she consistently demonstrated a disregard for the rules and conventions of Parliament.

Her actions were often seen as arbitrary and capricious, and her treatment of opposition MPs was particularly harsh.

It’s hard to imagine that she would be concerned about facing accountability for her actions when she’s been given a free pass for so long.

In light of this, it’s commendable that Suleman and Musowa are taking a different approach.

By committing to professionalism and fairness, they’re sending a strong signal that things will be done differently under their watch.

This is a welcome development, and one that should be applauded by all those who believe in the importance of accountability and transparency in government.

As the new leadership settles into their roles, it’s essential that they remain committed to their stated principles.

The people of Malawi are watching, and they expect nothing but the best from their elected representatives.

The days of partisan bickering and bias should be behind us. It’s time for a new era of professionalism and accountability in Parliament.

Catherine Gotani Hara would do well to take a leaf from the new leadership’s book.

Rather than fearing accountability, she should take this opportunity to reflect on her actions and ensure that she never again conducts herself in a manner that undermines the integrity of Parliament.

The people of Malawi deserve better, and it’s time that their elected representatives started acting like it.

The ascension of Sameer Suleman and Victor Musowa to the leadership of the National Assembly is a welcome development.

Their commitment to professionalism and fairness is a breath of fresh air, and it’s something that should be commended.

As they settle into their roles, it’s essential that they remain true to their word and ensure that Parliament serves the people of Malawi, rather than the interests of a particular party or individual.

The days of partisan bickering and bias should be behind us, and it’s time for a new era of accountability and transparency in government.

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The defeated MCP Peter Dimba, didn’t he study the parliamentary numbers?

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Peter Dimba was the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) candidate for the position of Speaker and he is a graduate from the then Malawi Polytechnic.

From the member of parliament who moved the motion for his speakership, Dimba holds a master’s degree in accounting from a reputable academic institution.

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Additionally , Dimba has been the chair of Legal Affairs Committee of Parliament for three parliamentary cohorts before he was appointed to the position of a cabinet minister.

Interestingly, Dimba is unanimously known to be level headed, calm, composed, mature, thoughtful and calculative.

On the other hand, the current speaker of the National Assembly, Sameer Suleman was allegedly kicked out of Football Association of Malawi because he did not have a Malawi School Certificate of Education.

Moreover, critics surmise that he has questionable and unpredictable character and behaviour.

It still remains unearthed if this unpredictability of his behavior contributed to the victory of his speakership.

In a dramatic lane of events, Suleman was usually suspended from parliament because of his unbecoming behavior, which includes fighting with other legislators in the Chamber in front of cameras.

It is exciting that today marks a historic event when the former speaker of the National Assembly, Gotani Hara, had a cordial handshake with Sameer signifying a commute of congratulatory message.

The truth of the matter is that numbers matter a lot in the National Assembly.

Being all elected as members of parliamentary, strategising separated Suleiman from Dimba.

On the other front, it is being debated that DPP is a system as it featured 3 DPP candidates for the position of a speaker with Suleiman emerging as a victor and others getting a zero vote.

It is against this background that Kondwani Nankhumwa was disqualified from the race because he had submitted nomination papers late and contrary to parliamentary orders, his submission indicated that he was the fifth in terms of chronogical time.

It must be emphasised that parliamentary orders demand that there should be a maximum of 4 contestants for the position of a speaker.

Will Suleiman be an impartial and progressive speaker? Only time will tell.

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Peter Dimba’s Bid for Speaker Exposes MCP’s Crisis of Credibility

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Peter Dimba
Peter Dimba

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With Malawi reeling from corruption, poor governance, and lost public trust, Peter Dimba’s candidacy for Speaker of Parliament symbolizes everything wrong with the current political order.

By Burnett Munthali

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The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has reached a point where its moral authority to lead is in question.

Years of poor governance, corruption, and a blatant disregard for the rule of law have stripped the party of the trust and goodwill it once enjoyed from Malawians.

At the center of this decline stands the party’s decision to front Peter Dimba for the position of Speaker of Parliament — a move that perfectly captures MCP’s tone-deafness to public sentiment.

Dimba’s candidacy does not represent reform, integrity, or renewal.

Instead, it reflects a desperate attempt by a crumbling administration to tighten its grip on the very institution meant to keep it in check.

The position of Speaker is one of immense national importance, requiring impartiality, dignity, and a deep sense of justice.

Dimba, however, has shown none of these qualities in his political career.

As a senior figure within the MCP, he has often acted more like a political enforcer than a guardian of parliamentary independence.

He has repeatedly defended questionable government actions, protected party interests, and silenced legitimate criticism from opposition members and civil society.

His record on accountability is dismal — marked by selective oversight, partisan bias, and an unwillingness to challenge executive abuse.

Allowing Peter Dimba to become Speaker would mean handing Parliament — the people’s house — to the same political forces that have undermined governance and institutional integrity in Malawi.

The MCP government’s failures are well-documented.

From corruption scandals and misuse of public funds to the collapse of key social services, the party has presided over a period of unprecedented national frustration.

Public confidence in leadership has been eroded, not by external forces, but by the arrogance and self-interest of those entrusted with power.

Peter Dimba’s rise to the Speakership would only deepen that disillusionment.

It would signal that loyalty to a failing regime is valued more than competence, fairness, or moral courage.

Malawi cannot afford a Speaker who serves the party first and the people last.

The role demands a leader who can rise above politics — someone who respects all voices, enforces parliamentary order, and upholds the constitution without fear or favor.

Dimba’s track record suggests the opposite.

His close ties to the MCP leadership make it impossible to imagine him presiding over Parliament without bias or interference.

If elected, Dimba would not unify Parliament; he would divide it further, turning every debate into a partisan battlefield.

This is not the leadership that Malawi’s fragile democracy needs at this critical hour.

Members of Parliament must remember that the Speakership is not a reward for loyalty — it is a sacred trust.

Voting for Peter Dimba would be a betrayal of that trust and a clear sign that lessons from the past five years of failure have not been learned.

Malawi deserves a Speaker who will restore confidence in Parliament, not one who will drag it deeper into the shadows of partisanship and corruption.

Peter Dimba is not that leader — and his candidacy is an insult to the principles of accountability, justice, and service that Parliament was meant to uphold.

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Tanzania’s sham election: A coup d’état in plain sight

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The elections in Tanzania are nothing more than a symbolic exercise in futility, a desperate attempt by President Samia Suluhu Hassan to legitimize her stranglehold on power.

The deck has been stacked against the opposition from the beginning, with the ruling party using every trick in the book to crush dissent and deny the people their right to choose their leaders.

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The arrest and prosecution of CHADEMA leader Tundu Lissu on trumped-up treason charges is a stark reminder of the lengths to which Suluhu will go to maintain her grip on power.

Lissu’s popularity and potential to win the presidency posed a significant threat to Suluhu’s rule, and the charges against him are clearly designed to eliminate him from the race.

The timing of the charges, just as Tanzanians were about to go to the polls, is a brazen attempt to intimidate and silence the opposition.

It’s a move that has been widely condemned by human rights organizations and observers, who see it for what it is – a blatant attempt to rig the outcome of the election.

But Lissu’s persecution is just the tip of the iceberg.

Suluhu’s regime has been marked by a series of high-profile killings, including bishops who have dared to speak out against her undemocratic tendencies.

The message is clear: anyone who opposes Suluhu will be silenced, one way or another.

The African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) must urgently step in to address the escalating crisis in Tanzania.

Their role as regional bodies dedicated to promoting democracy, human rights, and political stability in Africa compels them to act decisively against the blatant erosion of democratic norms witnessed in these elections.

Failure to intervene risks not only the further entrenchment of authoritarianism in Tanzania but also sets a dangerous precedent for other nations in the region.

The international community should demand transparency, the release of political prisoners like Tundu Lissu, and the establishment of an independent electoral commission to ensure free and fair elections.

Moreover, there should be increased monitoring and observation missions during election periods and swift consequences for any violations of democratic principles.

Civil society within Tanzania also needs support and protection to continue their vital work in holding the government accountable.

Ultimately, without robust regional and international pressure, Tanzania’s democratic institutions will continue to weaken, undermining the will of its people and the future stability of the nation.

The time for complacency has passed; urgent, coordinated action is required to safeguard democracy in Tanzania.

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A bold stand for Malawi: President Mutharika’s unwavering commitment amidst unprecedented vandalism

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By Jones Gadama

In a nation where leadership often grapples with the challenges of governance, President Peter Mutharika’s recent decision to conduct government business from his private residence at Page House in Mangochi is both remarkable and revealing.

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This extraordinary move follows the shocking revelation that Kamuzu Palace—the official seat of the Malawian presidency—has been left in a deplorable state, rendered uninhabitable by the wanton destruction, looting, and appalling acts committed by supporters of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) following the loss in presidential by former President Lazarus Chakwera.

The gravity of this situation cannot be overstated.

The presidential palace, a symbol of national unity and authority, was subjected to unprecedented vandalism and desecration.

Reports detail that MCP operatives, who occupied the palace during Chakwera’s presidency, not only looted valuable state property but also defiled the very walls with human excrement—a grotesque act that speaks volumes about the disregard for national dignity and decorum.

Such actions are not merely acts of vandalism; they represent a deep betrayal of the trust bestowed upon public servants to safeguard the nation’s heritage and institutions.

It is profoundly disheartening that President Chakwera has remained silent in the face of these atrocities.

His failure to publicly condemn the actions of his party’s supporters suggests a troubling denial of the reality and magnitude of the damage inflicted.

This silence raises uncomfortable questions about his leadership and accountability.

When a leader fails to denounce such egregious misconduct, it inadvertently signals complicity or at least tacit approval.

Malawi deserves leaders who uphold justice and take unequivocal stands against wrongdoing, regardless of political affiliations.

Against this backdrop of destruction and neglect, President Mutharika’s response stands out as a testament to his unwavering dedication to the Malawian people.

By choosing to operate from his private home, the President has demonstrated selflessness and a remarkable commitment to ensuring that governance continues uninterrupted—despite the personal inconvenience this entails.

A private family residence is meant to be a sanctuary for one’s loved ones, not a makeshift government office.

That President Mutharika willingly embraces this sacrifice underscores his prioritization of national interest over personal comfort.

The situation creates multiple layers of inconvenience and challenges.

Running government operations from a private residence does not provide the same level of security, infrastructure, or administrative efficiency that an official state house offers.

Yet, President Mutharika has taken this step to maintain continuity in leadership and service delivery.

This decision reflects a leader deeply connected to his responsibilities and mindful of the welfare of Malawians who expect stability and effective governance.

Moreover, the damage inflicted by MCP supporters is not just physical but symbolic.

It is an assault on Malawi’s collective spirit and institutional integrity. Such behavior undermines public confidence in political actors and threatens to erode the democratic norms that are vital for national progress.

The looting and desecration of Kamuzu Palace cannot be allowed to go unpunished. Justice must prevail.

The Mutharika administration has a solemn duty to ensure that all individuals implicated in this criminal behavior are thoroughly investigated, arrested, and prosecuted according to the law.

Only through accountability can Malawi begin to heal from these wounds and restore respect for its cherished institutions.

In condemning these acts, it is also imperative to recognize the courage and resilience of President Mutharika.

His leadership during this difficult period sends a powerful message that the presidency transcends bricks and mortar; it is about serving the people with integrity and dedication, regardless of the circumstances.

His heart for Malawians shines through this adversity, and for that, he deserves commendation.

The political landscape in Malawi is often fraught with tensions and challenges, but the recent events surrounding the presidential palace should prompt all stakeholders to reflect on the importance of respect, accountability, and unity.

Political rivalry should never devolve into destruction of national property or acts that degrade the dignity of the state.

Malawi’s future depends on leaders who champion the rule of law and foster an environment where governance is conducted with honor and respect for the nation’s heritage.

The current situation is a stark reminder that political power must be wielded responsibly.

The actions of Chakwera’s cronies have not only inconvenienced the President but also disrespected the Malawian people.

The damage to Kamuzu Palace is a blow to national pride, and it is incumbent upon all citizens and leaders to reject such behavior unequivocally.

President Peter Mutharika’s decision to run government affairs from his personal residence is a courageous and commendable act of leadership.

It highlights his commitment to the people of Malawi, even when faced with personal discomfort caused by the reckless and condemnable actions of political opponents.

The Mutharika government must move swiftly to hold those responsible for the desecration of Kamuzu Palace accountable, ensuring that justice is served and that such violations never happen again.

As Malawi navigates this challenging chapter, it is clear that true leadership is measured not by comfort or convenience but by the willingness to prioritize the nation’s welfare above all else.

President Mutharika has shown this leadership in abundance.

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Email: Jonesgadma@gmail.com

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