By Suleman Chitera
Diaspora members of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) in the United Kingdom are demanding the immediate return of £300,000 they contributed toward the party’s mobilisation and campaign efforts, following grave revelations of mismanagement and alleged theft of public funds involving senior party figures.
The contributors say they were approached by MCP leaders to raise funds for party activities and early preparations for the 2025 Presidential Election, only to later discover that those same leaders were allegedly flush with illicitly acquired money—funds meant for essential public services such as medicine, healthcare, and social welfare.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a UK-based MCP loyalist said the diaspora community feels deeply betrayed.
“They appealed to us and we mobilised, unaware that the very people begging were awash with money stolen from the poor—money meant for medicine and care. We look after the elderly here. We supported them out of love for the party. Now we want our £300,000 back,” the member said.
The donor said the funds were raised through coordinated community efforts, including voluntary contributions from low-income Malawians living abroad, many of whom sacrifice basic comforts to support political causes back home.
“This money did not come easily. It came from carers, cleaners, nurses, and factory workers. People who send money home every month to support families and communities in Malawi,” the source added.
Diaspora members accuse MCP leadership of moral hypocrisy, saying it is unconscionable to solicit donations from struggling supporters while allegedly sitting on misappropriated public resources.
According to the disgruntled members, formal letters demanding full accountability and reimbursement will be sent to MCP’s national leadership in the coming days. They insist their demand is not political sabotage but a call for basic integrity and transparency.
“We are not asking for favours. We want answers and our money—nothing more,” the source said.
The unfolding row adds to growing public concern over the handling of party finances and the blurring of lines between state resources and political campaigning, a practice civil society groups have repeatedly warned undermines democracy and public trust.
As of publication, MCP leadership had not responded to requests for comment.
Political analysts warn that alienating the diaspora—traditionally a crucial source of funding and international credibility—could carry serious consequences for MCP ahead of the 2025 polls.
For now, the party faces uncomfortable questions: Why were supporters asked to give when money was allegedly available? Where did the funds go? And will the £300,000 be returned?
