Vacuum in DPP’s leadership
With Thursday’s resignantion of vice-president (Centre) Zelia Chakhale, the former governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has leadership vacuum in the Central and Northern regions.
The position in the North fell vacant two month ago following the death of Goodall Gondwe.
In an interview on Thursday, Chakale, who replaced Uladi Mussa, said she will remain a member of the national governing council.
She said: “I respect the party and its leadership, but I have decided to step down to pave the way for others. I do not want to be part of the wrangles anymore.”
“Being a vice-president in the Centre, I was able to handle the challenges well. That is why I was able to serve in the position for three years. But with the way things are now, I cannot continue as a vice-president. Let someone take over and lead because I am tired of exchanging words with people.”
DPP spokesperson Shadric Namalomba decried Chakale’s resignation, saying she should first have discussed her concerns with the party leadership.
“Her resignation in a big blow reducing the number of women in top positions,” he said.
Political and governance analyst Dr George Chaima said the DPP, as a government in waiting, was leaving Malawians in despair.
“The development means Malawi is operating without a leading opposition party,” he said
Cracks in DPP came to light in August 2020 after estranged secretary general Grezelder Jeffrey told The Nation that party leader, former president Peter Mutharika had done his part and that the party
