By Durell Namasani
A group of approximately 37 MPs from the Northern Region has voiced its surprise following the Democratic Progressive Party’s decision to nominate a candidate for First Deputy Speaker other than their endorsed choice, Mzimba North MP Catherine Mzumara. The DPP has instead put forward Victor Musowa, the MP for Mulanje Bale, for the position.
Speaking for the bloc, Karonga Central MP Frank Mwenifumbo stated that the DPP had previously committed to supporting a candidate from the North for the First Deputy Speaker role. Despite this unexpected development, Mwenifumbo confirmed the bloc’s continued support for Sameer Suleman for the powerful role of Speaker of the National Assembly.
Catherine Mzumara, who is also the UTM Party’s Vice President for the North, responded to the decision by declaring, “I will fight to the end.”
DPP spokesperson Shadric Namalomba confirmed the party’s official list of candidates, naming Sameer Suleman for Speaker, Victor Musowa for First Deputy Speaker, and Esther Jolobala for Second Deputy Speaker. Namalomba declined to comment on the concerns of the Northern Region bloc, stating he would only speak on the official party decision.
The election for the speakership positions is set for October 29, 2025.
