By Staff Reporter
Blantyre, Malawi – Fresh cracks have emerged within the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), raising concerns over the party’s future as internal disagreements threaten to destabilize its leadership. Sources inside MCP have revealed growing factional wars fueled by succession battles, accusations of corruption, and frustrations over the party’s recent electoral defeat.
The Trigger of the Dispute
Party insiders allege that the disagreement was sparked by leadership wrangles following the September 2025 general elections. With MCP having lost power to the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), tensions have escalated over who should take charge of rebuilding the party ahead of the next elections.
Several factions have reportedly formed: one loyal to outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera, another pushing for new blood within the party, and a third aligning with regional power brokers who feel neglected during Chakwera’s tenure.
Accusations of Betrayal and Mismanagement
According to confidential party documents reviewed by this publication, some senior members have accused the outgoing leadership of “poor strategy, arrogance, and sidelining of grassroots structures,” which they believe contributed to MCP’s electoral loss.
A group of youthful parliamentarians is demanding reforms within the party, arguing that MCP’s leadership has failed to adapt to the changing political environment. Others accuse certain senior officials of financial mismanagement, claiming party funds were misused during campaign season.
Behind Closed Doors: The Power Brokers
The infighting is said to be centered on who will take over as party president. Names being whispered in political corridors include seasoned MCP heavyweights, technocrats within the party, and even former allies who now feel betrayed.
A source close to the MCP National Executive Committee (NEC) told this publication:
“What we are witnessing is a battle for survival. Everyone wants to control the party machinery, but unless MCP resolves these issues quickly, the party risks disintegration.”
Regional Divisions Resurface
The disagreement has also reignited regional and tribal divisions that the party had long tried to suppress. Some members from the Northern Region argue that MCP leadership has been dominated by the Central Region for decades, leaving them marginalized. Similar sentiments are growing in the Southern Region, where MCP has struggled to maintain a strong base.
What Lies Ahead for MCP
Political analysts warn that if the divisions are not resolved soon, the party could face defections and weakening of its structures. Already, rumors suggest that some frustrated members are in talks with opposition parties, while others are considering forming splinter groups.
Dr. George Chaima, a political analyst, observed:
“The MCP is at a crossroads. Internal democracy and inclusivity must be prioritized if the party is to remain relevant in Malawian politics. Otherwise, these disagreements could mark the beginning of its downfall.”
Conclusion
As the MCP battles to put its house in order, Malawians are watching closely. Will the party overcome its internal conflicts and rebrand itself for the future, or will power struggles tear it apart? Only time will tell, but what is clear is that the storm inside MCP is far from over.
