By Burnett Munthali
In a significant political shift, former Member of Parliament for Nsanje Lalanje, Laurence Sitolo, has officially announced his decision to join the opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Sitolo confirmed the move during an interview with Capital FM on Friday, marking a new chapter in his political journey.
This development follows his recent resignation from the governing Malawi Congress Party (MCP), a decision he made just two weeks ago. Sitolo’s defection is seen as a notable boost for the DPP, as it prepares for the 2025 general elections.
Sitolo’s decision to align with the DPP is already making waves in Malawi’s political landscape. Reports suggest that the former MP will be one of the key figures welcomed by DPP president Peter Mutharika during whistle-stop tours in Nsanje and Chikwawa this Sunday. The Shire Valley region has traditionally been a stronghold for the DPP, and Sitolo’s addition to the party’s ranks is likely to bolster its presence in this critical area.
While Sitolo’s move to the DPP has generated excitement among party supporters, it also sets the stage for an intriguing contest within the party. He is expected to vie for the Nsanje Lalanje parliamentary seat in next year’s elections, potentially facing the incumbent Gladys Ganda in the DPP’s primary polls.
Ganda, who has been a prominent figure in the constituency, is likely to mount a strong challenge, setting up what could be a fiercely contested race. The outcome of the primaries will not only determine who represents the DPP in Nsanje Lalanje but also reveal the party’s strategy for consolidating power in the region.
Sitolo’s departure is a blow to the MCP, particularly in Nsanje Lalanje, where he was a key figure. His resignation underscores growing discontent within the governing party, as it struggles to maintain its coalition and grassroots support in the lead-up to the 2025 elections.
The MCP will now need to regroup and identify a strong candidate to retain its foothold in the constituency. Sitolo’s exit may also prompt introspection within the party about its strategies for retaining members and appealing to voters in traditionally opposition-dominated regions.
Sitolo’s defection is part of a larger trend of shifting allegiances as Malawi’s political landscape heats up ahead of the elections. With both major parties—the MCP and the DPP—jockeying for position, defections and new alliances are likely to play a pivotal role in shaping the political narrative.
Laurence Sitolo’s move to the DPP is more than just a personal decision—it’s a strategic gain for the opposition party and a challenge for the MCP. As Sitolo prepares to be officially welcomed into the DPP this Sunday, all eyes will be on how this move impacts the political dynamics in Nsanje Lalanje and beyond.
The road to the 2025 elections is fraught with uncertainty, and Sitolo’s defection is a reminder that in Malawi’s politics, alliances and loyalties can shift in the blink of an eye. The coming months will reveal whether this decision will cement his political comeback or add another layer of complexity to an already competitive electoral landscape.
