The Malawi Congress Party is finalizing its primary elections, with plans to conduct the remaining ones this month before the general elections on September 16.
MCP spokesperson Ken Msonda says nearly 90% of the primaries have been completed, despite some challenges.
The party is reviewing concerns raised about the primaries and will rerun elections in areas where issues were deemed valid.
While MCP respects the right of individuals to contest as independent candidates, Msonda emphasized that losing candidates who choose this path won’t receive party support.
Msonda
The success of these primaries will likely influence the party’s performance in the general elections.
With the elections approaching, MCP’s efforts to ensure a credible selection process will be closely watched.
The Malawi government has announced a 40% increase in the minimum wage for various categories of workers.
Minister of Labour Peter Dimba revealed the revision, citing factors such as kwacha devaluation, economic growth, inflation, forex shortages, and bank lending rates that were considered in determining the new rates.
The new minimum wage rates include a general minimum wage of K126,000 per month, up from K90,000. Domestic workers will now earn a minimum of K72,800 per month, up from K52,000. Micro-enterprise workers will see their minimum wage increase to K105,000 per month from K75,000.
Dimba
Truck drivers will also benefit from the wage revision. International truck drivers driving 30 tonnes and above will earn a minimum of K328,300 per month, up from K234,500. Local truck drivers will see their minimum wage rise to K234,500 per month from K167,500, while drivers of trucks below 30 tonnes will earn a minimum of K140,700 per month, up from K100,500.
Additionally, the government has introduced a new category for shop workers in shops with an annual turnover of K500 million or more, with a minimum wage set at K150,000 per month.
The Malawi Congress of Trade Unions had proposed a 100% increment, while the Employers Consultative Association of Malawi had suggested a 30% adjustment.
Lilongwe Police has arrested 11 men suspected of robbing a 17-year-old Chinese national of an iPhone valued at K3.5 million and K250,000 cash at ZZTH Wealth company in Nathenje after a failed money safe robbery on Apri 25, 2025.
According to Lilongwe Police Public Relations Officer Inspector Hestings Chigalu,the suspects have been identified as Daniel Kudzala, 33, Reuben Kankhuni, 32, Ranken Msakambewa, 38, Steven Mpakati, 57, Emmanuel Smart, 37, James Amadu, 38, Robert Kaiwalika, 32, Davie Kalipinde, 40, Emmanuel Phiri, 32, Esau Phiri, 48, and William Lodistala, 32.
On the said date at around 18:00 hours, a total of 16 criminals while armed with panga knives invaded the said quarry stone compound where they attacked a daughter to the company owner, assaulted and handcuffed her before robbing her the iPhone, and the said cash in the cashier’s office.
The criminals who were using a minibus registration number LA 7229 that belonged to the first suspect, targeted a money safe which they believed had accumulated huge sums of cash after a tip-off from the second suspect who is a mechanic at the company.
However, they failed to succeed in the targeted robbery after a mother to the victim who witnessed the incident from her hiding place, fired several gunshots that scared the criminals to run away.
During interrogation, the suspects revealed that Kankhuni approached, and shared his accomplices information that the company had kept in its money safe huge sums of cash following observations that the company had for a considerable period of time, not taken money for banking despite making enough quarry sales.
It is understood that the first suspect (Daniel Kudzala) organized three criminal syndicates from Areas;Â 23, Mgona and Lilongwe town, and planned to invade the quarry stone company.
It has been revealed that prior to the robbery, the criminals held two preparatory meetings at Lilongwe Teachers College football ground, and a third one at Naere ground before spending a night at Nathenje Trading Centre on the eve of the attack.
The suspects will appear in court soon to answer a case of robbery.
Daniel Kudzala hails from Juma Village, Traditional Authority Chiwalo, James Amadu is from Salima Village, T/A Sitola, both in Machinga, Reuben Kankhuni comes from Chidaya Village, T/A Makwangwala, Ntcheu, Ranken Msakambewa is from Nkhuni Village, T/A Mwansambo, Nkhotakota, Steven Mpakati hails from Muluso Village, T/A Mulumbe, Zomba, Davie Kalipinde comes from Kalungwe Village, T/A Likoswe, Chiradzulu Emmanuel Smart comes from Chipojola Village, T/A Malili, Robert Kaiwalika hails from Kuliyani Village, Emmanuel Phiri is from Chisale Village, Esau Phiri comes from Sibande Village all in T/A Chitukula, William Lodistala hails from Nyozwe Village, T/A Kalolo, all in Lilongwe District.
The recent parliamentary primary elections for the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) in the Mzimba Central Constituency have unveiled a significant political shift, marked by the unexpected defeat of Vitumbiko Mumba.
Mumba, who had garnered considerable attention on social media platforms, managed to secure a mere five votes against Adamson Kuseri Mkandawire, a Presidential Advisor, who triumphed with a resounding 262 votes. This outcome raises critical questions about Mumba’s political viability and the effectiveness of his campaign strategies.
Was Mumba’s popularity merely a façade, bolstered by social media presence, or did underlying issues within the MCP contribute to his defeat? Furthermore, did the complaints he raised to the party go unresolved, impacting his standing among the constituents?
Mumba
To understand the dynamics of this electoral defeat, it is essential to consider the broader context of Mumba’s political journey.
Mumba had positioned himself as a progressive voice within the MCP, advocating for change and engaging with the youth through various social media platforms. His online presence suggested a burgeoning popularity, particularly among younger voters who are increasingly turning to digital spaces for political discourse.
However, the stark contrast between his social media following and his actual electoral performance raises questions about the depth of his support within the constituency.
One possible explanation for Mumba’s dismal showing at the polls is the disconnect between online popularity and grassroots support.
While social media can amplify a candidate’s message and create an illusion of widespread backing, it does not always translate into tangible votes. In Mzimba Central, traditional forms of campaigning, such as door-to-door outreach, community engagement, and local endorsements, often hold more weight than online interactions.
Mumba’s reliance on social media may have alienated him from the very constituents he sought to represent, leading to a lack of genuine connection with voters on the ground.
Moreover, the political landscape in Malawi is characterized by deep-rooted loyalties and established networks. Mkandawire, as a Presidential Advisor, likely benefited from the party’s organizational machinery and the support of influential figures within the MCP.
His victory can be attributed not only to his political experience but also to the strategic advantages that come with being closely aligned with the party’s leadership.
In contrast, Mumba’s social media love status may have hindered his ability to mobilize support effectively, particularly in a constituency where established relationships and local knowledge are paramount.
The complaints raised by Mumba to the MCP prior to the primaries also warrant examination. It is not uncommon for candidates to voice grievances regarding the party’s internal processes, candidate selection, and resource allocation.
Mumba’s dissatisfaction with the party’s handling of these issues could have created a perception of disunity within his campaign. If his concerns were not adequately addressed, it may have further alienated him from party loyalists and potential voters who prioritize party cohesion and stability.
The failure to resolve these complaints could have contributed to a lack of confidence in Mumba’s candidacy, leading constituents to rally behind a more established figure like Mkandawire.
Additionally, the timing of Mumba’s complaints may have played a role in shaping voter perceptions. If he raised issues too close to the election date, it could have been perceived as a sign of weakness or desperation, undermining his credibility as a candidate.
Voters often seek candidates who project confidence and a clear vision for the future. Mumba’s public grievances may have inadvertently painted him as a divisive figure, prompting constituents to opt for a candidate who embodies party unity and stability.
Furthermore, the electoral defeat raises questions about the effectiveness of Mumba’s campaign strategy.While social media can be a powerful tool for outreach, it must be complemented by on-the-ground efforts to build relationships and trust with constituents.
Mumba’s campaign may have overemphasized digital engagement at the expense of traditional campaigning methods, resulting in a lack of visibility and connection within the constituency. Engaging with local leaders, attending community events, and actively participating in constituency issues are crucial for any candidate seeking to establish a strong foothold among voters.
The implications of Mumba’s defeat extend beyond his personal political aspirations. It serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring politicians in Malawi and beyond, highlighting the importance of balancing online presence with grassroots engagement.
In an era where social media can create the illusion of popularity, candidates must remain grounded in the realities of their constituencies. Building authentic relationships with voters, understanding their needs, and addressing their concerns are essential components of a successful campaign.
Vitumbiko Mumba’s defeat in the MCP parliamentary primaries for Mzimba Central Constituency raises critical questions about the nature of political support in the digital age.
While his social media presence may have suggested a level of popularity, the stark reality of the electoral outcome reveals a disconnect between online engagement and grassroots support. The unresolved complaints he raised to the MCP may have further complicated his standing among constituents, highlighting the importance of party cohesion and effective communication.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, aspiring candidates must learn from Mumba’s experience, recognizing that true political success is rooted in genuine connections with voters and a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
The question remains: Was Mumba’s popularity merely a social media phenomenon, or did deeper issues within the MCP contribute to his electoral defeat? Only time will tell if he can regroup and redefine his political strategy for future endeavors.
Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi, the Mangochi Police Public Relations Officer, has once again shown her commitment to giving back to the community.
This latest gesture comes just days after Inspector Daudi donated 600 exercise books to 157 pupils, showcasing her ongoing dedication to supporting education and community development in the area.
Fulfilling the promise of the borehole was deeply personal and spiritual for Inspector Daudi. She and her family made a commitment to honor their late mother’s memory by providing clean water to those in need.
“According to Islamic teachings, ongoing charity (sadaqatul Jariyah) is a means of earning rewards in the hereafter, and Inspector Daudi hoped that this project would bring her mother ongoing benefits”. Daudi explained.
The borehole project cost K3 Million to complete, including drilling, installation, and community coordination.
Despite the significant investment, Inspector Daudi believed that every Kwacha was worth it, knowing that it would bring lasting relief to many lives.
The borehole has been installed in Chileka (Mkumba) village, Traditional Authority Mponda in Mangochi.
Clean water will reduce the burden of long walks in search of water, improve sanitation, and prevent waterborne diseases.
Children will have more time for school, and families will experience better health. Inspector Daudi believes that this small change will have a huge impact, bringing mercy and benefits to the community daily. She believes that giving back doesn’t require great wealth, just a heart willing to serve.
