By Burnett Munthali
From January 18 to January 20, 2025, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Eastern Region conducted a series of whistle-stop tours in Zomba District. These events, organized under the leadership of the party’s Eastern Region Vice President, Honourable Bright Msaka, alongside Regional Governor Daud Chikwanje and the entire regional committee, showcased the party’s commitment to grassroots engagement and mobilization.
The whistle-stop tours, which covered several key locations within Zomba, aimed to strengthen the party’s presence in the region and foster closer interaction with local communities. These engagements provided a platform for the party to share its vision, address pressing issues affecting citizens, and mobilize support as the nation gears up for the 2025 elections.
Speaking at the events, Honourable Bright Msaka emphasized the importance of reconnecting with the grassroots, listening to their concerns, and delivering solutions that address their needs. “The DPP is a party for the people, and these tours are a demonstration of our commitment to serving Malawians from all walks of life,” said Msaka.
The whistle-stop tours touched on several critical topics affecting the Eastern Region and the nation at large. Key themes included:
1) Msaka and other speakers acknowledged the economic struggles faced by Malawians, particularly in rural areas, and assured citizens of the DPP’s plans to restore economic stability and create job opportunities.
2) The leadership emphasized the need to revitalize agriculture in Zomba, focusing on access to affordable farm inputs, irrigation schemes, and market opportunities for farmers.
3) The tours highlighted the DPP’s track record in infrastructure development and outlined future plans for improving roads, schools, and healthcare facilities in the region.
4) Special focus was placed on empowering women and youth through entrepreneurship programs, skills training, and education initiatives.
The whistle-stop tours also served as a rallying call for the DPP supporters in Zomba to remain united and focused as the 2025 elections approach. Regional Governor Daud Chikwanje urged party members to mobilize their communities and work tirelessly to ensure the DPP’s victory. “This is the time to strengthen our resolve and ensure that we bring development back to Malawi under DPP leadership,” Chikwanje stated.
The tours were marked by vibrant interactions between party leaders and local communities. Supporters turned out in large numbers at each stop, demonstrating their enthusiasm and solidarity with the DPP. Many community members expressed their hope that the party would bring much-needed change to their region.
In his concluding remarks, Honourable Bright Msaka called for unity among party members. He emphasized that a united DPP is stronger and more capable of addressing the challenges facing the nation. “Let us put aside our differences and work together for the good of our party and the people of Malawi,” Msaka appealed.
The three-day whistle-stop tours in Zomba underscored the DPP’s resolve to remain a formidable force in Malawi’s political landscape. As the party continues to engage with citizens across the country, the Eastern Region’s leadership remains focused on driving development and preparing for a resounding victory in the upcoming elections.