Anne Matumbi joins politics
Like many other artists before him, musician Anne Matumbi, real name Chiyanjano Muheziwa, is trading the musical stage for the political arena.
Matumbi has come out in the open to confirm that he intends to contest as member of Parliament (MP) for Lilongwe City South West Constituency on the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) ticket.
The development follows his appearance at a political meeting in Lilongwe recently convened by DPP director of elections Kondwani Nankhumwa where the artist was accorded special recognition among those present.
A picture depicting Matumbi as a shadow MP for the constituency captioned ‘Vote for Anne Matumbi’ has also been appearing on various social media platforms since Tuesday.
In an interview, Matumbi said: “Yes, it is very true that I have joined active politics. It is not even a secret and I will contest during the DPP primaries in Lilongwe City South West Constituency. I feel it is time to serve people in a different capacity now.”
Matumbi said he has joined politics because of his desire to contribute towards uplifting people’s lives.
“I grew up here. I know the challenges that people face. I know the potential that lies in the people who come from this area and I want to play my part in unlocking their doors for a better tomorrow which I am convinced is possible,” he said.
The 38-year-old father of two, who currently works as TV presenter for Luso TV, said his musical career and other artistic indulgencies will not be affected by his involvement in politics.
He said: “Music is a passion, almost like a calling to some of us. So nothing will take the place of a passion that has helped build me as a person and an artist.”
The musician said people from the area have advised him to stick to his musical trademark name of Anne Matumbi on the posters for ease identification.
Matumbi has joined the likes of Lucius Banda, Joseph Tembo, Bernadette Mlaka Maliro, Billy Kaunda and Allan Ngumuya on the long list of musicians who have had a chance to dance on the political stage.
In a related development, after stepping aside from active politics, media reports indicate that Kaunda has received a request from people of Mzimba West to consider coming out of his political retirement to represent them again.
Said Kaunda: “Though I am yet to get the official letter, I do not think I am going back. I am just happy that people are appreciating my work and contribution now. This is a testimony that during my time I delivered.”
Another musician who is reportedly harbouring political ambitions is Malume Bokosi who intends to contest in his home district of Machinga.
