By Vincent Gunde
The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) says it remain open to constructive dialogue and feedback from religious and community leaders clarifying MCPs stance on the matter of the newly adopted policy that only those that have been members of the party for more than 2 years and hold a position in the party, are eligible to contest at the elective conference planned for August, 2024.
The MCP says the decision does not mean that the party is opposed to welcome new members or that their voices and opinions are not valued saying the party is actively encouraging individuals to join and participate in the political process.
The Party says during national conventions, MCP believes it is essential to adhere to a specific set of guidelines to maintain internal stability and unity observing that the MCP has its own internal mechanisms for ensuring the stability, unity and success of the party.
In a statement signed by MCPs National Publicity Secretary Ezekiel Ching’oma, the MCP says one significant aspect for ensuring the stability, unity and success of the party is creating opportunities for existing members from Areas, Constituencies, and Regional committees to progress and take up leadership roles within the party.
“By prioritizing incumbents of different positions in the party, the MCP seeks to reward and acknowledge the dedication and contributions of long-standing members who have worked tirelessly for the party’s ideals and objectives,” reads part of the MCP statement.
The MCP was responding to a statement dated 22nd May, 2024 released by the Young Pastors Network (YPN) calling upon the party to rescind the decision of the newly adopted policy because it is not only undemocratic and unconstitutional but also the manner in which it was adopted leaves a lot to be desired.
In the statement signed by YPN President Pastor Webster Kameme and Secretary General Pastor Tusafye Mbeye, the YPN has asked the MCP Secretary General Eisenhower Mkaka not to abuse his powers and stop dictating who the delegates should be.
The YPN says it finds the newly adopted policy in conflict not only with the MCP’s Constitution but also the Malawi Constitution observing that the MCP Constitution empowers NEC to formulate policies from time to time in order to manage the party effectively.
The Network has argued that there is no provision that empowers NEC to come up with policies that contradict the Constitution saying any changes to the Constitution are done by delegates during a Convention.
 says it remain open to constructive dialogue and feedback from religious and community leaders clarifying MCPs stance on the matter of the…){kind=link}