By Burnett Munthali
In 2020, Malawi’s political landscape experienced a seismic shift when the Tonse Alliance, spearheaded by President Lazarus Chakwera, dethroned the long-reigning Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Central to their victory was the widely embraced “High Five” campaign, which promised servant leadership, shared prosperity, national unity, an end to corruption, and the rule of law. These promises inspired hope in a country desperate for change and accountable governance.
However, as we approach the 2025 elections, the question arises: has the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) delivered on these promises? The answer is mixed, and with just 13 months remaining, the ruling party faces immense pressure to demonstrate that it has made tangible progress on its agenda. If the MCP can show significant achievements in areas like anti-corruption efforts and national unity, there is still a chance for a landslide victory. But this hinges on swift action and visible results.
The survival of the MCP in the 2025 elections is also tied to its ability to rebuild the Tonse Alliance, the coalition of nine political parties that brought them to power. The biggest challenge is the deteriorating relationship between the MCP and its former major ally, UTM, which has broken away from the alliance. Without UTM’s support, the MCP stands weakened and isolated. The possibility of facing the 2025 elections without its key partners puts the ruling party in a vulnerable position, one that is difficult to publicly admit, but clearly felt within party ranks.
While the MCP projects confidence, it is undeniable that they are staring at a potential electoral defeat. The disintegration of the alliance and unmet expectations from the “High Five” campaign have sown doubt among voters. Unless Chakwera and his cabinet manage to deliver meaningful progress in the next year, the likelihood of a loss in 2025 looms large.
With UTM breaking away and the Tonse Alliance in disarray, the MCP faces the daunting prospect of going it alone in the 2025 elections. Unless President Chakwera and his government can deliver on the servant leadership, prosperity, and rule of law they promised, the party risks a significant electoral loss. Time is running out for the MCP to change course, and unless real change is seen, a defeat is almost inevitable.
Summary
As the 2025 elections draw near, the MCP’s survival depends on delivering on its “High Five” campaign promises of servant leadership, prosperity, unity, and ending corruption. With the Tonse Alliance in disarray following the UTM’s exit, the ruling party is left weakened and could face a major defeat unless it shows significant progress in governance. The next 13 months are critical for the MCP to avoid an electoral collapse.
About Burnett Munthali
Burnett Munthali is a respected political analyst in Malawi, known for his sharp insights and analyses of the country’s political dynamics. He regularly contributes to different media outlets, where he covers a range of topics, including political party strategies, governance issues, and electoral predictions. His expertise and ability to dissect complex political scenarios have made him a well-known figure in Malawian political commentary.
