DPP Power Struggles Erupt as Chimulirenji Blocks Primary Re-run in Ntcheu North West

Strategic Insights -

A wave of intra-party conflict has hit the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) following an injunction obtained by Everton Chimulirenji, the party's 2019 presidential running mate. Chimulirenji has successfully stopped the DPP from conducting a second primary election in Ntcheu North West constituency, a move that underscores the deepening fissures within the opposition party. The court order also blocks the party from nominating any other candidate to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), aside from Chimulirenji, until a scheduled inter-party hearing on June 18, 2025.

Key Takeaways:

  • The DPP's attempt to hastily re-run the primary election in Ntcheu North West constituency was blocked by an injunction obtained by Everton Chimulirenji, the party's 2019 presidential running mate.
  • The court order also prevents the DPP from nominating any other candidate to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), aside from Chimulirenji, until June 18, 2025.
  • The controversy stems from the initial primary election held on April 12, 2025, where Chimulirenji was declared the winner, but the results were subsequently nullified by the party due to allegations of electoral malpractice.
  • The nullification of the results was driven by complaints filed by Dr. Jane Ansah, who alleged intimidation and interference by party officials, irregular changes to the voting venue, and reports of voting in near-darkness.
  • The DPP's internal chaos and lack of cohesive dispute resolution mechanisms have been exposed, raising questions about the party's preparedness for the 2025 general elections.
  • The party's leadership faces mounting pressure to demonstrate transparency, fairness, and adherence to democratic norms in candidate selection.

Statistics:

  • The original primary election was held on April 12, 2025.
  • The DPP had planned to re-run the primary election on June 11, 2025.
  • The court order blocks the party from nominating any other candidate to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) until June 18, 2025.
  • The allegations of electoral malpractice cited by Dr. Jane Ansah include intimidation and interference by party officials, irregular changes to the voting venue, and reports of voting in near-darkness.

Sources:

  • *The Nation* (Malawi), *Maravi Post* (Malawi)