By Suleman Chitera
Controversy erupted this week after Jappie Mhango, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Vice President for the Northern Region, came under fire for remarks deemed highly disrespectful toward Malawi’s Second Vice President, Enock Kanzingeni Chihana.
A video circulating from a recent political rally in Rumphi shows Mhango asserting that Chihana “is not a government minister” and implying he would lose his position if he continued to oppose the country’s President. Critics say the comments go far beyond political rivalry and cross the line into personal insult.
The Livingstonia Synod and the Young Politicians Union (YPU) were among the first to condemn Mhango’s remarks, calling them “inappropriate” and warning against the normalization of demeaning language in political discourse. Both organizations have urged politicians to prioritize unity, respect, and tolerance in addressing issues that affect ordinary Malawians.
“The language used by Mhango is unacceptable in any democratic setting,” said a spokesperson from the Livingstonia Synod. “Political disagreement should never justify personal attacks.”
Political analysts warn that such inflammatory remarks could deepen divisions in Malawi’s already tense political landscape, especially as parties prepare for upcoming elections. Observers note that statements targeting high-ranking officials can destabilize political alliances and weaken public trust in governance.
The DPP has yet to respond officially to the backlash, leaving many to question whether party leadership condones such rhetoric from senior figures.
As condemnation continues to mount, voices from civil society and political watchdogs insist that Malawi’s leaders must set a higher standard for debate—one rooted in accountability, civility, and service to the nation rather than petty political attacks.
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