Africa-Press – Malawi. In a dramatic turn of events ahead of this afternoon’s crucial vote for Speaker of Parliament, Malawi Congress Party (MCP) candidate Peter Dimba has emerged as the frontrunner, following endorsements from two influential parliamentary factions — the Independents Block and the Northern Region Block.
One of the leaders of the Independents Block confirmed to Nyasatimes that their group had reached a consensus to back Dimba, describing him as the most capable and balanced candidate among the four contenders.
“We assessed all four names, and Dimba clearly stood out,” said a member of the Northern Region Block, who also confirmed their backing. “Our members were particularly disappointed with DPP’s decision to field a candidate for First Deputy Speaker after earlier promising to support someone from the North. That betrayal shifted the mood.”
With the Independents and the North leaning towards him, Dimba’s camp is quietly confident of victory in what has become a tightly contested race.
However, DPP spokesperson Shadreck Namalomba dismissed claims of disunity, saying the party’s decision to field its own candidate reflects its strength and national character.
“DPP is a big and national party with structures across the country. Our participation in the speakership race is not about pettiness; it’s about asserting our rightful place in national leadership,” Namalomba said.
Parliament is set to elect the new Speaker this afternoon. The four candidates in the race are Peter Dimba of MCP, Kondwani Nankhumwa of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Sameer Suleman of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), and independent legislator George Katunga Million.
With critical blocs now swinging his way, all signs suggest Dimba may be on the brink of securing one of the most powerful seats in Parliament.
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