DPP poaches MCP loyalists ahead of 2025 race

The opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) over the weekend welcomed prominent Malawi Congress Party (MCP) figure Suzgo Mwalwanda, along with shadow councilor Kettie Gondwe, in what the party has described as a major political shift in Karonga District.

Speaking during a mega rally at Baka Community Ground, DPP Deputy Director of Research Agabas Ingambako Mwang’onda hailed the defections as a clear sign that the people of Karonga have lost confidence in the current government.

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“It’s not easy for a senior politician like Mwalwanda to leave a ruling party and join the opposition. This is a powerful signal,” said Mwang’onda, who is also the DPP’s shadow Member of Parliament for Karonga North Constituency.

Mwang’onda claimed that the people of Karonga still admire former President Arthur Peter Mutharika for the development projects he initiated during his tenure, including the Karonga Water Supply Project and the construction of the Karonga–Songwe Border M1 Road.

He further emphasized that the district is yearning for experienced leadership to revamp the “paralyzed” economy, pointing to Mutharika as the ideal candidate.

“DPP will sweep almost all the seats in this district. I will ensure that Prof. Mutharika garners a massive vote here. What you are witnessing today is just the beginning,” he said.

In his remarks, Mwalwanda — now DPP’s shadow MP for Karonga Town — said his decision to switch parties was driven by community demand and support.

“The people advised me to make this move, and I’m here to serve them under the DPP banner,” he said.

Efforts to get a comment from MCP Karonga District Chairperson Emanuel Nkhoma were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls.