President Lazarus Chakwera addressed the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) convention in Lilongwe with a strong message against the exclusion of members from the party. The convention was nearly postponed after the organizing committee barred candidates deemed as new from participating. Among those excluded were Engineer Vitumbiko Mumbo, who was vying for the Vice Presidency, and Alex Major and Chatinkha Chidzanja Nkhoma, who were contesting for the position of Secretary-General.
In his speech, Chakwera emphasized that the convention was not a trivial event, highlighting the large attendance and the significance of the MCP as the major political party in Malawi, representing the entire nation rather than just one family or region. He stressed that the MCP is a party for everyone, and it was disheartening to see some members being blocked from contesting for various positions.
Chakwera also condemned the practice of some individuals offering money to delegates to secure votes, likening it to treating the MCP as something for sale. He reminded the delegates that even those who lost in the elections are still valuable to the party. He urged the delegates to vote for candidates they genuinely believe in, regardless of any financial incentives they may have received, to ensure the party’s strength in upcoming elections.
Following his remarks, the audience stood and sang in support of his message. Chakwera expressed his gratitude to those who had served the party from the 2014 convention up to the present and encouraged them to continue their dedication.
Chakwera assured all members of the MCP and the Malawian public that he is ready to lead the party and welcomed members from other political parties, stating that anyone who returns to the MCP will be accepted without prejudice. He concluded by calling for blessings upon the party and the nation.
These were Chakwera’s words as he officially opened the MCP’s convention on August 8 at the Bingu International Conference Centre (BICC).