By Malawi Freedom Network
Speaker of Parliament and Malawi Congress Party (MCP) First Deputy President, Catherine Gotani Hara, has gone noticeably quiet on the campaign trail since President Lazarus Chakwera unveiled his running mate for the September 2025 elections.
Once a visible force at MCP rallies, particularly in the Northern Region, Gotani Hara has not featured in recent high-profile events—sparking speculation about her role in the party and the internal dynamics following the running mate decision.
Running Mate Snub
By virtue of her position as First Deputy President of MCP, many within the party and beyond expected Gotani Hara to automatically become Chakwera’s running mate. However, the president opted for another candidate, bypassing her despite strong calls from supporters, especially in the north.
Political analysts say the move may have left Gotani Hara politically bruised. “She had built momentum, she had the experience, and she commanded respect in parliament. Being overlooked was a shock to many of her followers,” one analyst observed.
Missing from Campaign Stages
Since the announcement, MCP rallies in key districts have been dominated by other party figures. Gotani Hara, once the face of MCP’s outreach in the north, has been conspicuously absent.
Her silence has fueled debate among party loyalists. Some insiders suggest she may be taking a back seat to avoid deepening internal divisions, while others argue she is quietly weighing her next political move.
Regional Implications
Gotani Hara’s absence could have electoral consequences. She enjoys significant influence in the Northern Region, where she has previously mobilized thousands in support of MCP. Her disengagement risks weakening the party’s grassroots momentum in that region at a time when opposition parties are intensifying their campaigns.
“She is still respected in the north. If she does not actively campaign, MCP could lose ground,” said a political commentator.
What Next for Gotani Hara?
While she has not issued an official statement on her absence, close associates insist she remains committed to MCP but is “taking time to reflect” after the disappointment. Others believe her political capital is intact and that she could re-emerge as a unifying figure if tensions within the party are managed well.
For now, Malawians are left to wonder: is Catherine Gotani Hara silently retreating, or is she preparing a strategic comeback?
