By Burnett Munthali

The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has strongly responded to accusations made by Jessie Kabwila, spokesperson for the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), regarding the nomination of Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika as the DPP’s presidential candidate for the 2025 General Elections. In a statement issued on January 22, 2025, DPP Publicity Secretary Shadric Namalomba labeled Kabwila’s claims as baseless and a deliberate distraction from the pressing issues facing Malawians under the MCP-led administration.

The DPP has firmly denied Kabwila’s allegations of coercion in Mutharika’s nomination, emphasizing that his candidacy reflects his commitment to serve Malawians and the overwhelming support he continues to enjoy nationwide. The party described the accusations as an attempt to undermine democratic processes and misrepresent the former president’s intentions.

While refuting Kabwila’s allegations, the DPP shifted focus to what it described as the dire state of governance and human rights under the MCP administration of President Lazarus Chakwera. The statement highlighted several critical challenges currently afflicting Malawi:

Firstly, the DPP pointed out the severe food shortages that have left ADMARC depots empty, depriving millions of Malawians of basic food supplies. This failure, the party argued, underscores the MCP government’s neglect of its duty to ensure food security and combat poverty.

Secondly. Public hospitals are reportedly facing an acute shortage of medicines and essential resources, putting lives at risk. The DPP described this as a gross violation of Malawians’ right to adequate healthcare, forcing vulnerable communities to endure unnecessary suffering.

Thirdly, the ongoing economic crisis was another focus of the statement. The DPP criticized the lack of foreign exchange reserves, which has deterred investments and eroded public confidence in the country’s financial stability.

Fourthly, the DPP accused the MCP government of suppressing fundamental freedoms, including freedom of speech and peaceful assembly. It highlighted reports of harassment against dissenting voices and the violent dispersal of peaceful protests, actions that the DPP described as a betrayal of democratic principles.

Fifthly, the DPP further alleged that MCP cadres have been operating with impunity, wielding weapons and undermining the Malawi Police Service’s effectiveness. This, according to the DPP, has created an atmosphere of intimidation and instability that stifles citizens’ civil liberties.

In its response, the DPP called on the MCP and its leadership to focus on addressing these pressing issues instead of deflecting criticism with baseless accusations. The statement urged the MCP to take responsibility for the hardships faced by Malawians and to prioritize effective governance that restores dignity to the country’s citizens.

The DPP also suggested that the MCP’s leadership should be held accountable for its actions on an international stage. It called for the alleged atrocities and human rights violations under the Chakwera administration to be brought before international criminal and human rights courts for scrutiny and justice.

Concluding its statement, the DPP reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for a prosperous and democratic Malawi. The party promised to champion the rights and freedoms of all Malawians, ensure economic stability, and promote inclusive governance that values the voice of every citizen.

As the nation approaches the 2025 General Elections, the DPP’s response signals its determination to position itself as a credible alternative to the current administration. With Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika at the helm, the party aims to address the socio-economic and political challenges currently facing Malawi, providing hope for a better future.