Malawi Congress Party prepares for regional elections amid internal disputes

The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) is preparing for fresh regional and district committee elections following a High Court consent judgement. The ruling, delivered by Judge Allan Hans Muhome, requires the party to hold elections for all affected positions within 12 months after it was determined that existing office bearers had overstayed their five-year terms.

Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda confirmed that the polls will cover constituency, ward, and area committees nationwide before May 2027. Several candidates have already emerged, including Amon Signal Galagaza Nkhata, who is contesting the Bua Region chair.

Amidst these organizational changes, internal tensions have surfaced. Nkhotakota Central Member of Parliament Ayuba James issued a statement defending his loyalty to the party, rejecting claims that certain individuals or families hold exclusive ownership of the MCP. James criticized those he accused of hijacking the party, asserting that the organization does not belong to any single group or lineage.