As it is now, Kondwani Nakhumwa, estranged vice president of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for the south, has stolen the Lhomwe political grouping and its leader Arthur Peter Mutharika is chasing him.

It is very clear now that battle lines have been drawn between the Mutharika and Nankhumwa camps. There is erosion of political unity in DPP.
The party is currently embroiled in a bitter internal struggle, with the rift between Nankhumwa and Mutharika taking centre stage.
One notable achievement of Nankhumwa is his ability to counterbalance APM. The former president’s faction is now consistently occupied with responding to the narratives introduced by Nankhumwa and his associates in the public sphere.

Since its birth, the DPP presidency has been perceived as the exclusive domain of the Mutharika family. Nankhumwa is advocating for a shift, asserting that it’s time to regard the party as a national grouping, inclusive to all, and not just limited to the Lhomwe community.
It’s intriguing to observe that the conflicting factions have resorted to legal avenues to resolve their political and ego-driven conflicts. Of course, some view Nankhumwa as a proponent of democratic principles within the political coalition, contrasting with those aligned with APM who seemingly are bent on making him the 2025 presidential candidate without subjecting him to a national convention.

Publicly, APM has declared that those aspiring for the partys presidency should exit the DPP and establish their political entity. Unfortunately, such statements only reinforce apprehensions that the DPP is perceived as exclusively “owned” by the Mutharikas.
The accusation that Nankhumwa has “stolen” the Lhomwe political grouping adds a new layer of complexity to an already tumultuous situation, transforming the once-mighty and progressive party into a retrogressive entity.

The unfolding drama within the DPP resembles a circus, complete with political acrobatics and juggling of alliances. The party, which once held a prominent position in Malawian politics, is now witnessing a disturbing erosion of unity.
The infighting threatens not only the party’s internal cohesion but also its ability to serve as a credible opposition force.

Being in opposition is a challenging position that demands unity, resilience, and a coherent strategy. The Malawi Congress Party (MCP), having experienced 26 years in opposition before returning to government, serves as a poignant example of the perseverance required in such circumstances.
The DPP’s internal strife, however, raises concerns about its ability to effectively fulfill the role of a robust opposition party. The impact of this internal discord extends beyond the party itself, affecting the broader political landscape in Malawi.

A weakened DPP may fail to provide the necessary checks and balances required for a healthy democracy. The country benefits from a strong opposition that can hold the ruling party accountable, ensuring a balanced political environment that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of the citizens.

In navigating these tumultuous waters, the DPP must address its internal conflicts promptly and constructively. Rebuilding trust, fostering open communication, and prioritising the greater good of the party and the nation should be paramount.