By Burnett Munthali
In a candid post on his Facebook page, Jack Banda shared a detailed analysis of Malawi’s political landscape, predicting that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) will secure victory in the 2025 elections, with or without forming alliances. Banda’s bold statements come as the country prepares for what promises to be a highly contested general election, and his perspective highlights the strategic importance of leadership and representation in Malawian politics.
Banda’s central argument is that the DPP’s strength lies in its “proven leadership,” embodied by former President Arthur Peter Mutharika (APM). He believes that Malawians will vote for stability and tested leadership, particularly in the face of growing dissatisfaction with the current government. However, he also emphasizes the importance of alliances to ensure fair representation across the country.
“The only reason DPP should even consider an alliance is to ensure the whole country is fairly represented in governance,” he wrote, suggesting that while the DPP could win on its own, a broader coalition would ensure inclusivity in government.
Banda goes further to outline what he believes would be a winning strategy for the DPP. He suggests that if Mutharika were to select Enoch Chihana, the leader of AFORD and a figure from the Northern Region, as his running mate, it would be a game-changer. According to Banda, the Northern Region has long been marginalized in national politics, and this move would give the North “a real shot” at representation.
“The North backed Saulos Chilima, only for MCP to do what they did to him. Chilima highlighted issues that resonated with the North, and Chihana embodies those same concerns,” Banda explained. He argued that choosing Chihana would tap into the frustrations of Northern voters, who feel betrayed by the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) after Chilima’s sidelining.
In addition to Chihana, Banda floated the idea of making Atupele Muluzi, leader of the United Democratic Front (UDF), the Second Vice President in a potential DPP-led government. Atupele has already been tested in elections and governance, and Banda believes that his experience and potential make him a valuable asset. However, he noted that while Atupele is capable, the country needs more than just “potential”—it needs a fresh approach that complements Mutharika’s leadership.
This proposed combination of Mutharika, Chihana, and Muluzi could be a formidable ticket, addressing the need for regional balance and political experience in the next government.
Banda did not mince words when describing the challenges facing the MCP under President Lazarus Chakwera. He argued that the party is in disarray, plagued by corruption, internal distrust, and poor leadership. According to Banda, Chakwera is now struggling to choose a running mate who won’t further destabilize his party.
“If he goes for Atu, expect a backlash from Manganya and Gotani Hara. If he picks Manganya, the MCP itself could erupt, and UTM’s support won’t be guaranteed,” he wrote, predicting internal conflicts no matter which direction Chakwera chooses. Furthermore, if Chakwera opts for Gotani Hara, the Speaker of Parliament, many within the MCP could abandon the party, leaving it in an even more vulnerable position ahead of the elections.
Banda also criticized Chakwera’s track record as president, describing him as a failure and suggesting that his leadership has further alienated voters and potential allies. “Chakwera is trapped,” Banda concluded, “and his failure as president isn’t making things any easier.”
In Jack Banda’s view, the DPP is well-positioned to win the 2025 elections, largely due to the leadership of Arthur Peter Mutharika and the party’s ability to offer proven governance. His proposed strategy of including figures like Enoch Chihana and Atupele Muluzi in a potential alliance reflects a vision of national unity and regional representation, which he believes is critical to the country’s future.
At the same time, Banda’s analysis paints a grim picture for the MCP, portraying it as a party on the brink of collapse under the weight of internal divisions and poor leadership. As Malawi heads into the election season, Banda’s insights offer a glimpse into the complex dynamics at play and the tough decisions facing the country’s political parties.
