In a spectacle of political ambition and fervor, the looming convention of the ruling Malawi Congress Party has become a battleground for aspirants vying for various coveted positions, none more fiercely contested than the vacant Deputy President slot left in the wake of the late Strongman Sidik Mia’s passing.
With an astonishing lineup of seven contenders stepping into the arena, the competition for this prestigious position has reached a fever pitch. Among the contenders are political gurus such as Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara, Information Minister Moses Kunkuyu, and Homeland Security Minister Ken Zikhale Ng’oma, alongside engineer Vitumbiko Mumba, seasoned politician Brown Mpinganjira, and party members Dean Lungu and Ahmed Dasu.
While speculation abounds that these aspirants may be eyeing the coveted role of running mate to President Chakwera in the 2025 elections, the selection process remains shrouded in uncertainty. The prerogative of choosing a running mate lies solely with the Presidential Candidate, who retains absolute freedom to select from within the party ranks or beyond.
With the critical threshold of 50% plus one looming over the decision-making process, the likelihood of an internal party candidate clinching the role diminishes significantly.
In addition to the hotly contested Deputy President position, other key positions within the MCP hierarchy are poised for intense battles. Incumbent Secretary General Eisenhower Mkaka faces formidable challengers, including Finance Minister Simplex Chithyola Banda, Chris Chaima Banda, Albert Mbawala, and Alex Major.
The directorship of the party’s youth wing is another arena of tight competition, with incumbent Richard Chimwendo Banda squaring off against a formidable lineup of contenders, including Alfred Jiya, Steven Baba Malondera, Ishmael Onani, Dickson Chaitanya, Emmanuel Thembachako, and Aunesto Chisisito.
Meanwhile, the battle for the treasurer general position promises a clash of titans, as Trade Minister Sosten Gwengwe prepares to go head-to-head with Rhino Chiphiko and Morgan MacPherson Chirombo.
The showdown for the Director of Women role is equally captivating, featuring Health Minister Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda, Gender Minister Jean Sendeza, and former Lilongwe City mayor Juliana Kaduya.
Not to be overlooked is the spirited contest for the position of publicity secretary, where MCP spokesperson Ezekiel Ching’oma faces a formidable challenge from Lilongwe South lawmaker Peter Dimba.
