Counting Nankhumwa’s sin,DPP political miscalculations

It is well-known that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), an opposition party in Malawi, maintains a substantial following. After all, it wasn’t long ago that they were the ruling party. However, they were removed from power by an alliance of nine parties led by President Lazarus Chakwera. Despite the defeat, it’s important to acknowledge that the DPP put up a commendable effort.

As the main opposition, DPP is tasked with being the alternate voice in governance issues, offering critical checks and balances and ensuring that those in power respect the rule of law.

However, throughout 2023, the party, once revered for its might, was embroiled in internal strife. There have been evident divisions, forming two distinct factions. This discord was between those supporting the party’s president Peter Mutharika and Nankhumwa.

Here’s my perspective on the situation. Firstly, I believe Nankhumwa is facing the consequences of his open defiance against Mutharika. In Malawian politics, except perhaps for the Malawi Congress Party, most parties are dominated by a family or an individual and the DPP is no exception, with the Mutharikas at its helm.

Nankhumwa’s ambition to take control was misguided. Mutharika’s failure to swiftly resolve the conflict allowed it to fester for over a year, distracting from the party’s crucial role as the main opposition.

This internal conflict consumed the energies of Nankhumwa and Mutharika, neglecting their oversight roles, which in turn allowed the ruling Tonse Alliance to proceed unchecked, making significant errors.

Now, as 2024 begins, it seems there is no end in sight for the squabbles. However, I suspect the party might expell Nankhumwa and others from the party. Thinking that this might restore some order within the party, I doubt Nankhumwa will depart quietly. His exit is likely to fragment the party further, diminishing its electoral prospects.

However, we must also acknowledge Nankhumwa’s political manoeuvres over the past year. When the party sought to oust him as the leader of the opposition in Parliament, he resisted vehemently and managed to retain his position.

Similarly, when the party tried to demote him from vice-president (South) to presidential adviser, he again resisted. However, he should have anticipated that the party leadership would not tolerate his defiance indefinitely.

The future is uncertain: whether Nankhumwa will form his own party or continue his legal battles remains to be seen. But one thing is clear—the ongoing infighting is only further weakening the DPP.

The miscalculations and the uncompromising nature of leaders within the DPP are the root causes of its current state. We’ve watched as what was once a formidable party crumbles, leaving its supporters directionless.

While engaging in these internal party dynamics, it’s crucial to remember the broader implications of our democratic rights and responsibilities.

Members of political groups, regardless of their personal opinions on leadership capabilities, must recognise and respect the authority of those in leadership positions. Whether perceived as weak or strong, leaders hold their positions for a reason, and undermining this structure can lead to disarray and weaken the party’s overall effectiveness.

As members exercise their democratic rights, they should strive to do so constructively, aiming to strengthen rather than destabilise the party’s foundation. This respect for leadership and structure is essential for the success of any political organisation.