By Burnett Munthali
On Sunday, January 19, 2025, Honourable Alfred Gangata, Vice President for the Centre of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), held a landmark rally at Chilimampunga Ground in Ntandire, Lilongwe. This rally, his first major political appearance since being released on bail following his controversial arrest by the Malawi Congress Party (MCP)-led administration, attracted throngs of DPP supporters eager to hear his message of hope, unity, and political resilience.
Hon. Gangata began his address by thanking the leadership of the DPP, particularly its President, His Excellency Prof. Arthur Peter Mutharika, for their unwavering support during his legal challenges. He acknowledged the solidarity shown by the Central Executive Committee, National Governing Council, and the party’s grassroots members, emphasizing that their support was a testament to the unity and determination of the DPP family.
A central focus of Hon. Gangata’s speech was the recent shooting of former DPP government official Hon. Bertha Saidk by the police, an incident he condemned as emblematic of the Chakwera administration’s authoritarian tendencies. He described the incident as a blatant violation of democratic principles, asserting that Malawi deserves better than a regime that resorts to silencing dissent through violence and intimidation.
“This is not democracy—it is dictatorship,” Hon. Gangata declared, calling for an end to the oppressive governance under the current administration.
Hon. Gangata’s rally served as a platform to reassure DPP supporters and Malawians at large of the party’s readiness to address the nation’s challenges. He outlined his vision for a better future under the leadership of His Excellency Prof. Arthur Peter Mutharika, highlighting the following key messages:
Firstly, Hon. Gangata urged Malawians to remain hopeful and not be cowed by the MCP’s attempts to silence the opposition through arrests and harassment. He emphasized that such tactics are unsustainable and will end with the departure of the Chakwera administration.
Secondly, he criticized the Chakwera administration for its failures over the past five years, citing persistent fuel shortages, forex crises, and poor economic management as evidence of its incompetence. “How can they even think of asking for re-election when they have failed Malawians so miserably?” he asked.
Thirdly, Hon. Gangata highlighted the severe economic challenges facing Malawians, including the devastating impact of currency devaluation and widespread business closures due to forex shortages. He blamed the administration for plunging the nation into economic turmoil and pledged that a DPP government would restore stability.
Fourthly, he exposed irregularities in the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF), accusing the Chakwera administration of shielding MCP members from repaying loans while ordinary Malawians bear the brunt of financial difficulties. He assured the public that a DPP-led government would ensure justice and accountability in managing public resources.
The rally was attended by a host of prominent DPP leaders, including National Director of Youth Hon. Chisale, National Director of Women Hon. Mary Navicha, Director of Elections Hon. Jean Mathanga, and Regional Governor Hob Kambalame. Their presence underscored the party’s unity and collective determination to bring about positive change.
Hon. Gangata’s address was not just a critique of the current regime but also a call to action. He encouraged Malawians to remain resilient, reminding them that the hardships they are enduring are temporary. “Brighter days are on the horizon,” he assured the crowd, promising that the DPP, under the visionary leadership of Prof. Arthur Peter Mutharika, is prepared to lead Malawi back to its former glory.
As the DPP prepares for the 2025 elections, Hon. Gangata’s rally in Ntandire set the tone for a spirited campaign aimed at addressing the nation’s pressing issues and restoring hope to Malawians. His message was clear: the DPP is ready to take over governance and lead Malawi toward progress, stability, and prosperity.
The event ended with a resounding pledge of commitment from both leaders and supporters, reinforcing the belief that, come September 16, 2025, the Democratic Progressive Party will usher in a new era for Malawi.
