Africa-Press – Malawi. President Lazarus Chakwera, who is also Malawi Congress Party (MCP) president, Thursday spat fire at candidates who have been splashing money on delegates to garner votes at the party’s convention.
Chakwera said this when he was opening the 2024 MCP elective convention, which is being held under the theme ‘Rebuilding The Nation’.
Chakwera said it is disappointing that some candidates were busy splashing cash on delegates to vote for them, a development he described as illegal since it is against the Political Parties Act.
Some provisions of the Act bar handouts.
“The laws of this land explicitly prohibit handouts and corruption in all forms, including within the civil service. Those who engaged in bribing delegates are aware that their actions were unlawful and deserving of condemnation.
“Moreover, any position obtained through such illicit means is inherently tainted and precarious, prone to challenges and unlikely to be sustained in the long term,” Chakwera said.
Chakwera also denounced verbal attacks that reportedly marred the campaign period.
“It was deeply disheartening to witness individuals disparaging their fellow party members in pursuit of seats. Such conduct has no place in a democratic environment.
“It is essential to recognise that those who were subjected to castigation remain part of the MCP family, regardless of the outcome,” Chakwera said.
The President added that MCP belongs to all Malawians and not just a small section of people or family.
He said for this reason, everyone had to be allowed to participate in the elections as long as they were following laws that govern the party.
“Every individual should be permitted to participate in the election, provided they have adhered to the laws that govern the party. As a pioneering political party in Malawi, the MCP is inclusive and welcoming to all.
“We are a party that transcends familial ties. This convention is a testament to our commitment to democracy and our role as a unifying force in Malawian politics,” Chakwera said.
Chakwera also expressed optimism that MCP would carry the day in the September 16 2025 Local Government, Parliamentary and Presidential Elections.
“My presidency is a testament to the collective efforts of each and every one of you. I stand before you today as a result of our shared dedication. Let us not forget that our success is a team effort, and no individual should claim sole responsibility for my presidency or the party’s achievements. We must acknowledge that our progress is a result of our unity and collaboration, and not attribute it to any one person’s actions alone,” Chakwera said.
Also addressing the convention, Chairperson Kezzie Msukwa acknowledged efforts of the convention committee.
“We strove to facilitate a successful convention to the best of our abilities,” he said.
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