By Jones Gadama
In a stunning turn of events, Ken Msonda, a former executive member of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), suffered a crushing defeat in the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) primaries for the Rumphi East Constituency.
Msonda, who was expelled from the DPP, managed to secure only 8 votes, while his opponents, Otton Thindea and Alfred Nyasulu, garnered 285 and 509 votes, respectively.
The victory of Alfred Nyasulu means that he will represent the MCP as its member of parliament during the general elections.
Nyasulu’s win is seen as a significant boost for the MCP in the Rumphi East Constituency.
Msonda’s defeat is not an isolated incident. Several other former members of the DPP, who defected to the MCP, have also failed to secure nominations in their respective constituencies.
These include Zeliya Chakale, Grezelda Geoffrey, and Calista Chapola.
The MCP has been criticized for accepting former DPP members, with some arguing that the party is providing a safe haven for politicians who have been rejected by their own party.
Msonda’s expulsion from the DPP was seen as a significant blow to his political career, and his failure to secure a nomination in the MCP primaries is a further setback.
Other former members of the DPP, who have joined the MCP and are yet to compete in the primaries, include Esther Mcheka Chilenje and Uladi Mussa.
Mussa, a former vice president of the DPP, has been appointed as the second deputy director of campaigns for the MCP.
The MCP primaries have been marked by controversy, with some candidates accusing the party of favoritism and manipulation.
The party has denied these allegations, stating that the primaries have been free and fair.
As the general elections approach, the MCP will be looking to capitalize on its strong performance in the primaries.
However, the party will also need to address the concerns of its members and supporters, who are increasingly frustrated with the party’s leadership and direction.
