By Burnett Munthali
Kachere Trading Centre in Blantyre was the unexpected yet memorable final stop of former President Prof. Arthur Peter Mutharika’s whistle-stop tour today, following a series of stops across the districts of Mulanje, Phalombe, and Chiradzulu. The visit, which was part of his ongoing campaign tour, ended with a special moment after locals blocked the president’s convoy while he was returning to his Nyambadwe residence.
The incident, which seemed to be unplanned, turned into a warm and spirited gathering. As the convoy made its way back from the earlier stops, the people of Kachere took the opportunity to show their appreciation and support for the former president. The local community expressed their gratitude by halting the convoy, ensuring that Mutharika took the time to speak with them.
During his brief stop at the trading centre, President Mutharika took the chance to thank the people of Kachere for their consistent respect and warmth every time his convoy passed through. He spoke fondly about the bond he shares with the people in this part of Blantyre, acknowledging the many occasions when he has passed through the area on his way to and from Mangochi.
“I always appreciate the kind of respect and warmth shown to me by the people of this area whenever my convoy passes through,” Mutharika said to the crowd, which responded with enthusiastic cheers. “Today, your display of support and the warm welcome you have extended means a lot to me and my campaign.”
The president further explained how the interaction with the people at Kachere and the entire day’s whistle stops served as a reminder of the strong connection between him and the Malawian people. He expressed confidence that the momentum of his campaign was building and that, with such passionate support, the DPP would continue to be a force in the 2025 general elections.
The unexpected stop in Kachere also gave Mutharika an opportunity to reflect on the challenges faced by the people of the area. He acknowledged that, like many other parts of the country, Kachere had its fair share of difficulties, including economic challenges and unemployment. Despite this, he reassured the crowd that a change in leadership was coming, and that the DPP would work to bring about the development and solutions Malawians were yearning for.
Earlier in the day, Mutharika had conducted a total of 10 whistle-stop tours across Mulanje, Phalombe, and Chiradzulu, where he addressed key issues such as the country’s economy, infrastructure development, and the importance of strong leadership. The support from the locals at each stop was palpable, as people gathered to hear from the former president, with many expressing their frustrations with the current administration’s handling of key issues.
The final stop at Kachere was significant, not just because of the local support, but because it was a reminder of the deep-rooted connection between Mutharika and the people of Malawi. Despite the challenges faced by the country, Mutharika’s campaign continues to gain traction as he reconnects with his political base and seeks to rally support for a return to leadership in 2025.
In his parting words at Kachere, President Mutharika encouraged the crowd to stay engaged and prepare for the coming elections. He reiterated the importance of voter registration and mobilizing the masses to vote for a leadership that would restore the country to stability and progress.
“As I leave Kachere today, I want to thank you once again for your warmth and support. Together, we will turn this country around,” Mutharika concluded, before his convoy continued its journey to Nyambadwe, leaving behind a community that felt heard and valued.
Today’s whistle-stop tour, which ended with an unanticipated yet heartfelt visit to Kachere, highlighted the growing energy and enthusiasm within the DPP ranks as the 2025 elections draw nearer. With the people of Mulanje, Phalombe, Chiradzulu, and now Kachere showing strong support, it’s clear that Mutharika’s message is resonating with a wide cross-section of Malawians. The momentum for a possible political comeback continues to build.
