By Twink Jones Gadama
NDIRANDE – Fueling the already heated political climate, sympathizers of former Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Presidential Advisor, Kondwani Nankhumwa, set fire DPP-branded clothing in protest against his recent expulsion from the party.
The incident brings nostalgic memories of the 2018 event when Chatinkha Chidzanja, who had been expelled from the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), set ablaze MCP party regalia.
Despite Chidzanja’s actions, which grabbed national attention, the MCP went on to perform exceptionally well in the 2019 general elections. This has led political analysts to perceive the recent burning of DPP clothes as a sign of a crumbling horse, suggesting that Nankhumwa’s political career may be hanging in the balance.
Reports from eyewitnesses indicate that the hungry women who burned the DPP clothes claimed to have been given a sum of K2000 Kwacha each. However, The Maravi Post could not independently verify this information, although it is worth noting that Nankhumwa has been known to distribute cash in previous instances.
The incident has sparked concerned reactions from various quarters, with some politicians condemning the act as a futile attempt to undermine the DPP. Nevertheless, others dismiss the significance of such protests, emphasizing that nothing will deter the DPP from emerging victorious in the upcoming general elections.
The burning of political clothes appears to be a growing trend in Malawian politics, where disgruntled party members resort to such acts as a form of protest against unfair leadership decisions. Although symbolic, such demonstrations have so far displayed no significant impact on the electoral outcomes.
Moreover, political analysts argue that these demonstrations reveal the underlying frustrations within parties, shedding light on internal power struggles that may ultimately weaken party cohesion.
As the country gears up for the forthcoming general elections, the burning of DPP clothes in Ndirande serves as a reminder of the uncertain political landscape and intensifying rivalries among parties vying for power. With no respite in sight, the fate of Kondwani Nankhumwa’s political career remains uncertain, while the DPP leadership must confront internal challenges and maintain their focus on securing victory in the upcoming polls.
Only time will tell how these events will play out and impact Malawi’s political dynamics.