By Twink Jones Gadama
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has come out swinging in defense of former President Peter Mutharika’s recent national address, slamming Undule Mwakasungula for his biased and unfounded claims about the speech.
In a strongly-worded press release, the DPP denounced Mwakasungula’s assertion that only the current president can deliver a national address, calling it a “false notion”.
The party also took issue with Mwakasungula’s claim that the struggles faced by Malawians under the current administration are not solely the result of President Lazarus Chakwera’s failed leadership.
According to the DPP, Mutharika’s address was not an attempt to undermine the current administration’s privileges, but rather a necessary and timely intervention to shed light on the critical governance failures and challenges that are impacting Malawians today.
“The address was a call to action, a reminder that the current administration’s mishandling of the economy has resulted in a staggering 33% inflation rate and a severe shortage of foreign currency,” said Shadric Namalomba, DPP’s National Publicity Secretary and Party Spokesperson. “Malawians are facing unprecedented levels of hunger, and it’s time for the current administration to take responsibility for its failures.”
The DPP urged critics, including Mwakasungula, to focus on the substance of Mutharika’s address rather than engaging in pointless debates about its delivery. The party also encouraged Mwakasungula to adopt the role of a progressive and independent activist who prioritizes the well-being of Malawi and puts the interests of the nation above all else.
“Mwakasungula should not dwell on his past or serve as a mere puppet for the current administration’s failed agenda,” said Namalomba. “Instead, he should use his platform to speak truth to power and hold the current administration accountable for its failures.”
The controversy surrounding Mutharika’s national address has sparked a heated debate in Malawi, with many calling for the current administration to take responsibility for its failures. The DPP’s press release is the latest salvo in the battle for public opinion, and it remains to be seen how the current administration will respond.
