With posturing positing ascending to the apex ahead of securing party slots for candidacy for the upcoming September elections, tensions have flared within the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) involving Shadow Member of Parliament for South Lunzu Constituency, Alex Chimwala, and the party’s Southern Regional Governor, Charles Mchacha.
Chimwala pulled a controversial attempt to return to the party ahead of the upcoming general election. The incident occurred on Sunday when Chimwala, flanked by a group of supporters, arrived at the South Lunzu Primary School DPP Constituency office, hoping to formally present himself as a candidate for the September 16, 2025 elections. However, his plans quickly unraveled when he discovered the office locked and unwelcoming.
“I followed the procedures as dictated by the DPP constitution and notified the area committees, who acknowledged my intention,” Chimwala stated, visibly frustrated by the unforeseen blockade. “Upon arriving, I was met with a locked door, and inquiries revealed that the governor was acting under orders from above.”
Sources close to the situation have revealed that Mchacha allegedly instructed local officials to obstruct Chimwala’s candidacy, a claim that has exacerbated the ongoing feud. Enraged by the treatment he received, Chimwala attempted to get clarity from Mchacha, but encountered further resistance.
“I even reached out directly to Charles Mchacha, but despite his assurances, nothing was resolved. I’m bewildered by this rejection. I recognize I left the party before, but I have made my return and seek to serve as an MP once again,” he expressed.
Responding to the uproar, Mchacha firmly rejected Chimwala’s claims, asserting that the former party member was never officially rejected but merely failed to adhere to the required protocols. “Chimwala’s narrative doesn’t match reality; all that’s needed is for him to formally present himself to the area,” said Mchacha. “His loyalty must also be questioned given his previous defection.”
Mchacha further drew parallels between Chimwala and other members who had previously abandoned the party, noting that trust is paramount in political alliances. “How can we rely on him? He needs to officially declare his return to the DPP publicly, just like everyone else who has left and entered the party,” he added.
Adding to the tension, DPP’s constituency governess, Caroline Mlenga, accused Chimwala of attempting to ambush her office without prior notice, pointing to a lack of proper communication as the core issue at hand.
As the political feud continues to escalate, it remains unclear how this conflict will influence Chimwala’s aspirations and the DPP’s unity as they prepare for the pivotal 2025 elections.
