By Suleman Chitera, Lilongwe, July 14, 2025
With just two months to go before Malawi heads to the polls, the political atmosphere in Lilongwe is heating up as the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) gains significant momentum in the Central Region, traditionally considered a Malawi Congress Party (MCP) stronghold.
The latest show of force came over the weekend when DPP vice president Alfred Gangata led a high-energy rally that drew thousands of supporters to Lilongwe’s Masintha grounds. The crowd chanted slogans of change and openly endorsed the DPP as the only party capable of rescuing Malawi from what they described as economic and governance collapse under President Lazarus Chakwera.
“Lilongwe has spoken. The Central Region has awakened. It is time to restore Malawi to its rightful path,” declared Gangata, to thunderous applause. “We are heading for a 50+1 victory. The people are tired of empty promises and a collapsing economy.”
Gangata’s presence and remarks have reignited hopes within DPP ranks, especially after recent voter registration figures suggest a significant shift of support in the Central Region — a move analysts say could tilt the balance in the DPP’s favor on September 16.
Many residents interviewed during the event expressed deep frustration with the current administration, accusing President Chakwera and his MCP-led government of plunging the country into economic distress, rising unemployment, and broken promises.
“Malawi is on a sickbed, and the doctor who promised healing is the same one making us worse,” said one Lilongwe resident, visibly emotional. “Chakwera has failed us. We are ready for change.”
Political observers say the mood in the Central Region is rapidly shifting, with a growing number of traditional MCP supporters openly criticizing the administration and warming up to the DPP’s promise of economic revival and stable governance.
With Alfred Gangata spearheading DPP’s resurgence in the center and a visibly energized grassroots movement, September’s election could mark a dramatic political turning point.
As the countdown continues, one thing is clear: Central Malawi is no longer a guaranteed MCP territory, and the DPP is positioning itself as the party to beat.
