The former Minister of Information emerges as a compromise figure as party factions clash over President Chakwera’s earlier choice.
By Burnett Munthali
Former Minister of Information Honourable Moses Kunkuyu has officially assumed the role of Leader of Opposition in Parliament.
This development has been confirmed by reliable sources within the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), marking a significant turn in the party’s internal dynamics.
Kunkuyu’s appointment comes at a time when the party has been grappling with deep internal divisions following disagreements over who should take up the powerful position in the National Assembly.
The MCP has reportedly settled for Kunkuyu as a neutral and unifying figure, seen as capable of bridging the gap between the warring factions within the party.
According to political insiders, two main camps had emerged in recent weeks — one supporting President Lazarus Chakwera’s initial choice for the position, and another opposing the decision, citing concerns of favoritism and lack of consultation.
These divisions had threatened to spill over into open confrontation, raising fears of a potential split within the ruling party.
Kunkuyu’s selection is therefore being viewed as a strategic compromise aimed at restoring stability and maintaining a sense of unity within the MCP parliamentary ranks.
Moses Kunkuyu, a veteran politician known for his articulate communication style and firm grasp of governance issues, first rose to national prominence during the Joyce Banda administration, where he served as Minister of Information and Civic Education. He was regarded as one of the youngest and most progressive voices in the Cabinet at the time, often advocating for youth inclusion, transparency, and reforms in the public sector. After leaving the People’s Party (PP), Kunkuyu later aligned himself with the Malawi Congress Party, where his reputation for moderation and diplomacy earned him a respected place among the party’s senior figures.
A seasoned politician and communicator, Moses Kunkuyu is widely respected for his measured tone and moderate political stance, qualities that many believe made him the ideal candidate for the role.
His leadership comes at a crucial time when the opposition is expected to play a more constructive and assertive role in Parliament, holding government accountable while maintaining national cohesion.
Political analysts suggest that Kunkuyu’s elevation could reshape the tone of parliamentary debate, bringing a more consensus-driven approach to Malawi’s polarized political landscape.
The appointment also signals a possible realignment of power within the MCP, as Chakwera and his inner circle seek to balance party loyalty with broader political pragmatism.
For now, the move has been received with mixed reactions across the political spectrum.
Some see it as a bold and unifying decision, while others view it as a temporary fix that fails to address the underlying divisions within the party.
Observers say Kunkuyu’s ability to navigate the complex political terrain ahead will determine whether his leadership will consolidate or further fragment the MCP’s internal unity.
As Parliament reconvenes, all eyes will be on the new Leader of Opposition to see how he handles the role — particularly in managing both party expectations and public scrutiny in an increasingly tense political environment.
Kunkuyu’s calm demeanor and reputation for diplomacy could prove instrumental in easing tensions, but his success will depend largely on whether he can gain the trust and cooperation of both factions within his party.
For many Malawians, his appointment symbolizes a test of leadership and maturity for the MCP as it seeks to project unity amid ongoing political turbulence.
