By Jones Gadama
In a shocking development, Everton Chimulirenji, the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) 2019 running mate, has obtained a court injunction restraining the party from holding another primary election in Ntcheu North West constituency.
The injunction also stops the DPP from nominating any other candidate, other than Chimulirenji, to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) as the party’s candidate for the constituency until a scheduled inter-party hearing on June 18.
The DPP had planned to hold a re-run of the primary election on June 11, after nullifying the April 12 primary election results due to complaints raised by Dr. Jane Ansah, Chimulirenji’s competitor. Dr. Ansah had cited issues such as active interference and intimidation by party officials, unsanctioned changes of voting venue, and voting in darkness at Khomba, which undermined the integrity of the election.
Background of the Controversy
The primary election was held on April 12, 2025, where Chimulirenji contested against Dr. Ansah.
Chimulirenji was declared the winner, but Dr. Ansah raised concerns over the electoral process, leading to the party’s decision to nullify the results.
The DPP’s Director of Elections, Dr. Jean Mathanga, announced the nullification and scheduled a re-run, which has now been put on hold due to Chimulirenji’s injunction.
Implications of the Injunction
The injunction has sparked fresh controversy within the DPP, highlighting deepening fissures within the opposition party.
The party’s leadership faces mounting pressure to demonstrate transparency, fairness, and adherence to democratic norms in candidate selection.
The outcome of the June 18 hearing will determine the fate of Chimulirenji’s candidacy and the party’s prospects in the constituency.
What’s Next?
As the DPP awaits the court hearing, the party’s internal conflicts and power struggles are laid bare. The situation raises questions about the party’s preparedness for the 2025 general elections and its ability to present a united front to the electorate.
Will Chimulirenji’s injunction hold, or will the party succeed in its bid to hold a re-run of the primary election?
