By Burnett Munthali
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has come out strongly to reject and condemn circulating rumors regarding its leadership decisions and alleged alliance plans.
In a statement released to the media, the party’s spokesperson, Shadric Namalomba, described the rumors as false, misleading, and malicious in intent.
He noted that certain individuals were intentionally manufacturing misinformation, particularly around the selection of presidential candidates and the health status of the party’s leader, former President Arthur Peter Mutharika.
According to Namalomba, some reports have falsely suggested that Dalitso Kabambe, a former Reserve Bank Governor and current DPP senior figure, has already been chosen to lead a political alliance on behalf of the party.
Equally troubling to the DPP, Namalomba said, are claims circulating on social media and other platforms alleging that Arthur Peter Mutharika is in poor health and, therefore, unfit to contest in the upcoming elections.
He categorically dismissed these allegations, emphasizing that Mutharika is in excellent health and fully capable of leading both the party and the country.
The party maintained that Mutharika remains its undisputed presidential candidate for the next elections and that any decisions regarding political alliances will not affect that status.
Namalomba stressed that the issue of running mate is a matter solely for Mutharika to decide, in line with the party’s constitutional procedures and internal leadership consultations.
He also criticized what he described as coordinated efforts by political adversaries and former allies to discredit the DPP’s leadership through underhanded tactics.
In particular, Namalomba accused some individuals now spreading rumors of having previously supported the controversial Age Limit bill, which the DPP believes was a strategic attempt to block Mutharika’s return to the political front.
The DPP sees this renewed wave of disinformation as part of a broader, ongoing campaign designed to destabilize the party and tarnish its image ahead of a critical election season.
In light of these developments, the party has issued a strong call to its members, supporters, and stakeholders to remain vigilant, united, and focused on the party’s core mission.
The party urged its grassroots base to reject what it called “baseless claims” and instead rally behind the leadership as it prepares for what could be a defining political contest.
Namalomba further reminded the public that political competition should be rooted in democratic values, respect for facts, and healthy engagement, rather than character assassination and manipulation.
He reiterated that the DPP is committed to the democratic process and confident in its vision, policies, and leadership under Mutharika.
As speculation continues to swirl in political circles, the DPP’s message was clear — no amount of rumor-mongering will deter the party from its chosen path or distract its supporters from their goal of regaining power in the next elections.
With this firm statement, the DPP hopes to quell internal uncertainties and external misinformation, while reaffirming its faith in the leadership of Arthur Peter Mutharika.
The party’s resolve, Namalomba concluded, is as strong as ever — and its eyes remain fixed on the ballot box.