By Burnett Munthali

Former President Professor Peter Mutharika has called on members of the Lhomwe community to register in large numbers for the upcoming 2025 elections, emphasizing the critical role of voting in determining their future leadership. His remarks came during the Mulhakho Wa Alhomwe annual festival held in Chonde, Mulanje, where he also reaffirmed his candidacy as the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential nominee.

Mutharika urged attendees, stating, “You must register in the electoral roll to stand a chance of voting for your desired leader.” His appeal underlines the importance of political participation, especially for the Lhomwe people, who he believes have significant challenges to address in the nation.

Addressing the pressing issue of hunger, Mutharika assured the crowd that combating food insecurity would be a top priority of his administration if elected. “I will fight hunger; no one will die of hunger,” he promised, reflecting the urgency of addressing Malawi’s chronic food shortages.

Mutharika also touched on the importance of education, expressing concern over reports of students from the Lhomwe belt who have been absent from school. He encouraged parents and guardians to prioritize education and work harder to ensure that children remain in school and achieve their academic potential.

The festival, which attracted hundreds of attendees, provided a platform for various leaders within the Lhomwe community to voice their concerns. Muchanakwaye Mpuluka, Chairperson of the Mulhakho wa Alhomwe Board, took the opportunity to condemn the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) for what he described as persecution of Lhomwe people.

Mpuluka accused the MCP of attempting to undermine the Mulhakho wa Alhomwe by distributing maize in Lhomwe areas during the festival, a move he perceived as a direct attack on their cultural celebration. “This is a direct attack on our festival, and we will revenge next year,” Mpuluka declared, highlighting the rising tensions between the Lhomwe community and the ruling party.

These developments illustrate the complex ethnic dynamics within Malawi, where communities like the Lhomwe seek greater recognition and protection in the political landscape. As the 2025 elections approach, Mutharika’s call for active participation reflects a broader effort to mobilize support among the Lhomwe people, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs addressed.