By Jones Gadama

The race to identify the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) representative for Mzimba Central constituency has taken a dramatic turn, with allegations of remote political manipulation aimed at sidelining aspirant Vitumbiko Mumba.

The controversy surrounds the party’s primary elections, scheduled for April 12, 2025.

Mumba, the Minister of Trade and Industry, has written to MCP Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda, copied to Party President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera and other senior officials, outlining his concerns about the conduct of the regional party office for the north-south region. His nine concerns include unequal invitation notice and selection of primary election areas.

Mumba claims he was invited to a meeting for aspirants only an hour before the start, while his contenders received their invitations a week in advance.

The regional party office allegedly selected areas for use in primaries without consulting Mumba or other aspirants, sparking suspicions of manipulation.

In response to these concerns, Mzimba Central constituency committee members have delivered a petition to the regional party office, disputing the list of delegates they claim are “bogus.” When contacted for comment, Mumba initially sought to know how the information was accessed.

The alleged irregularities have led the petitioners to demand the suspension of the primary elections until all outstanding concerns are addressed.

Mumba faces stiff competition from presidential advisor Adamson Mkandawire, Patricia Singini, and Aram Beza in the primary race.

The MCP primary elections in Mzimba Central have been marred by controversy, with allegations of manipulation and bias.

Some party officials, including Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda and Regional Chair Gotani Hara, are accused of working to undermine Mumba’s candidacy. According to sources, over 90% of delegates support Mumba, making him the clear frontrunner.

This has raised concerns among party officials, who are allegedly trying to delay or manipulate the primary elections to block Mumba’s nomination.

Mzimba Central has a history of rejecting imposed candidates. A notable example is the 2012 by-election following the death of Professor Donton Mkandawire.

The constituency has consistently shown a preference for individual leadership over party politics.

The current controversy surrounding the MCP primary elections has sparked concerns about the party’s commitment to democratic processes and fair representation.

As the elections approach, the fate of Mzimba Central’s representation hangs in the balance.

The MCP’s primary elections are crucial in determining the party’s representation in the constituency.

The allegations of manipulation and bias have raised questions about the legitimacy of the electoral process.

To restore confidence in the party’s democratic processes, the MCP leadership must address the concerns raised by Mumba and other aspirants.

The primary elections are a critical test of the party’s commitment to fair representation and democratic principles.

The outcome will have far-reaching implications for the constituency and the party’s future in the region.

As the elections draw near, all eyes are on the MCP leadership to ensure a free, fair, and transparent process.

The party’s ability to conduct a credible primary election will be crucial in determining its chances of success in the constituency.