By Twink Jones Gadama
Zeria Chakale, who defected from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to join the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), has lost the primary elections held in Lilongwe-Lumbadzi.
Chakale, who was once a prominent figure in the DPP, garnered a mere 5 votes, while her competitor, Alexander Kusamba Dzonzi, secured an overwhelming 612 votes.
The primary elections, which were conducted through a secret ballot, have been commended for their transparency and fairness.
Unlike the traditional method of queuing behind one’s preferred candidate, the secret ballot allowed voters to cast their ballots freely, without fear of intimidation or retribution.
This approach has been hailed as a refreshing change from the usual practices and has set a new standard for future elections.
Chakale’s defeat is a significant blow to her political ambitions, particularly given her high-profile defection from the DPP.
As a former vice president of the DPP in the Central Region, Chakale was seen as a key figure in the party’s structures.
Her decision to join the MCP was widely reported, and many had expected her to make a significant impact in her new party.
However, Chakale’s loss in the primary elections suggests that she may not have enjoyed the same level of support within the MCP as she had within the DPP.
Despite her efforts to rebrand herself as an MCP member, Chakale’s past associations with the DPP may have worked against her in the eyes of MCP supporters.
As the MCP looks to the future, the party’s leadership will need to carefully consider the implications of Chakale’s defeat.
While the party has commended the secret ballot process, it remains to be seen whether this approach will be adopted more widely in future elections.
In the meantime, Alexander Kusamba Dzonzi will go on to represent the MCP in the forthcoming elections.
As he prepares to take on the challenges ahead, Dzonzi will need to build on the momentum generated by his landslide victory in the primary elections.
The people of Lilongwe-Lumbadzi have spoken, and their voices have been heard loud and clear.
As Malawi continues on its journey towards greater democracy and transparency, the MCP’s adoption of the secret ballot process is a significant step in the right direction.
