Maravi

West MMD power struggles deepen

West MMD power struggles deepen
By Chibaula Silwamba
Tue 09 Nov. 2010, 04:01 CAT

MMD power-struggles have deepened in Western Province between supporters of incumbent provincial chairperson Simasiku Namakando and agriculture deputy minister Joseph Mulyata.

And MMD provincial secretary Sikwibele Mwapela, who is also Western Province minister, warned that members forming parallel structures in the party will be disciplined.

Meanwhile, Mulyata, who confirmed his plans to vie for the position of MMD provincial chairperson against Namakando, admitted there were just internal differences.

MMD insiders in the province confirmed that the power struggle had worsened and that there were two camps in the province – one supporting Mulyata while the other backs Namakando.

But when contacted, Mulyata said: “these power-struggles are in-house, you people.”
Mulyata said he would give a comprehensive comment later because at the moment the issues were being addressed internally in the MMD.

“You publish your information and when I see it that is when I will tell you my position,” said Mulyata amidst laughter when reminded of Namakando’s candidacy for the provincial portfolio.

Nakamando’s phones were not reachable as he was said to be at his farm in rural Western Province.
And Mwapela said the provincial elections would go ahead as planned between December 3 and 5, 2010.

“These wrangles which are there are not even real; we don’t even count them to be wrangles,” he said. “And we can’t hold other elections for Mongu district. Elections were already held in Mongu. If someone wants to form parallel structures in the party, then the party will discipline them. There is only one district executive in Mongu, which is led by Mr Mukubesa. That is the only one that we know; the rest are illegal.”

He said the provincial leadership was waiting for the MMD acting national secretary Chembe Nyangu to give a go-ahead to them to hold the provincial polls.

“MMD members are ready to go for that election and they are free to vote for their preferred candidate. No one will force them to vote for anyone. No! That is why we are multiparty democracy,” Mwapela said.

He said the people causing confusion were not even part of the electoral college.

“So how are they going to vote against? Why should they bring divisions that this one is for Mulyata and this one is for Namakando? As far as I am concerned as provincial minister and provincial secretary of the party, they are all our people. There are no divisions and we won’t allow divisions,” said Mwapela. “Even Mulyata is free to stand if he wants to stand. Anyone who wants to participate should be allowed to participate. We won’t allow any camp.”

Labels: JOSEPH MULYATA, MMD, SIMASIKU NAMAKANDO, WESTERN PROVINCE

posted by MrK @ 6:33 AM