By Burnett Munthali
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has issued a scathing statement condemning the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) for allegedly manipulating the legacy of the Mutharika family for political purposes. At the heart of this controversy is Samuel Thom Mutharika, a man who recently surfaced at an MCP rally, claiming to be a sibling of two prominent political figures: the late President Dr. Bingu wa Mutharika and the current DPP leader, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika.
The DPP has dismissed these claims as baseless and accused both Thom and the MCP of engaging in a campaign of deceit.
In the statement, DPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Shadric Namalomba, described Samuel Thom Mutharika as an “imposter” whose actions amount to identity fraud. Namalomba emphasized that Samuel Thom has no ties to the Mutharika family and is attempting to exploit their name for personal and political gain.
“This man, now aged 60, has suddenly emerged, making unfounded claims of being part of the Mutharika family. He has no evidence to support these assertions, and his actions are nothing short of deceitful,” said Namalomba.
The DPP also pointed out that this is not the first time Thom has been involved in questionable political maneuvers, accusing him of allowing himself to be used by politicians targeting the Mutharikas.
The DPP’s statement extended beyond Samuel Thom, taking aim at the MCP for allegedly orchestrating this ploy. The DPP accused the ruling party of employing “manipulative tactics” to exploit the Mutharika name in a bid to bolster its declining political fortunes.
“We warn the Malawi Congress Party to stop using the Mutharika name for their political games. Such underhanded tactics will not save your sinking ship,” Namalomba declared.
The DPP called on the MCP to focus on addressing the nation’s pressing issues rather than engaging in divisive and deceptive politics.
The DPP issued a stern directive to Samuel Thom, urging him to desist from his fraudulent claims. Namalomba labeled his actions as both unethical and disrespectful to the legacy of the Mutharika family.
“Mr. Thom, your actions are an affront to the Mutharika name. We demand that you immediately cease these false claims and stop misleading Malawians,” Namalomba stated.
Despite the controversy, the DPP expressed unwavering confidence in the leadership of Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, reaffirming its belief in his ability to lead Malawi towards a brighter future.
“Our president, His Excellency Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, remains resolute. Despite the challenges, he will rise above these malicious attacks and lead our nation to victory in the September 2025 elections,” said Namalomba.
This incident highlights the increasingly contentious political atmosphere in Malawi as the country inches closer to the 2025 general elections. The allegations of identity fraud and political manipulation underscore the lengths to which parties are willing to go to gain an edge.
While the MCP has yet to respond to the DPP’s accusations, this development is likely to add to the political tension already brewing in the country.
The DPP concluded its statement by urging all political players to maintain integrity and refrain from engaging in divisive tactics. As the September elections approach, the focus should remain on addressing the needs of Malawians rather than resorting to dishonesty and manipulation.
The question remains: will this controversy fade away, or will it shape the political discourse as Malawi prepares for the next chapter in its democratic journey?
