Maravi

(NYASATIMES) DPP unmask intentions for a ‘Mutharika dynasty’

DPP unmask intentions for a ‘Mutharika dynasty’
By Nyasa Times
Published: July 7, 2010

The northern region has been turned once again into a testing ground for the gurus in the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), who have started selling the name of young brother to President Bingu wa Mutharika, Professor Peter Mutharika (pictured), as heir to the presidency of Malawi after his brother vacates the office in 2014.

On June 20th. 2010, the party invited three senior party members from each of the northern region’s six districts to converge at St. John of God Hall without pre-announcing the agenda of the meeting.

According to an inside source at the meeting, Local Government and Rural Development Minister Goodall Gondwe, touted Peter –Justice and Constitutional Affairs minister – at the meeting as the right person to take over from his older brother Bingu.

“I have known Professor Mutharika for the last 51 years,” Gondwe was quoted as saying.

Next to speak was Ephraim Chiume who is Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Energy.

Nyasa Times source says Chiume was blunt, saying that the development projects that have been started by Bingu in the north can only be completed if he is replaced by his younger brother, Peter.

DPP regional governor for the north, Ancent Nkhata, told the younger Mutharika, who was present during the rally, that the only stumbling block in the region is the Livingstonia Synod which has been antagonizing the Bingu administration over a number of issues.

“We can assure you, Sir, that we are equally religious people and we will explore other avenues to counter the synod,” said Nkhata.

There were however mixed reactions from the members after the meeting who were told to start spreading the candidature of Peter Mutharika in their respective districts. Most that came said they needed more time to consult.

DPP officials were given envelopes containing money for the campaign.

The Malawi media which is currently operating with its tail between its legs has been aware of the events surrounding the meeting but failed to muster enough courage to carry any news item for fear of reprisals.

These meetings are happening in the context of a fierce succession struggle between the president’s brother and the Vice President, Joyce Banda, who considers it her rightful role to succeed the incumbent.

Labels: BINGU WA MUTHARIKA, DPP, GOODALL GONDWE

posted by MrK @ 1:58 AM