By Suleman Chitera

Mangochi Monkey Bay Member of Parliament Gerald Kazembe has resigned from the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), declaring that he will continue serving as an independent legislator while accusing the opposition party of fostering tribalism, intolerance and discrimination against people from Malawi’s Eastern Region.

Kazembe announced his departure in a strongly worded statement in which he also criticized the party’s leadership, saying it had failed to confront what he described as deep-rooted internal problems.MCP Slammed Over Kamuzu Day Parallel Event as Civil Society Demands Party “Accept Defeat”

“MCP leaders have no balls,” Kazembe said, arguing that the party’s leadership lacked the courage to address what he called unfair treatment of members and supporters from the Eastern Region.

His resignation marks another political setback for the former governing party as it seeks to rebuild support while positioning itself as a credible alternative ahead of future elections.

Tribalism Allegations at the Centre

Unlike defections driven by disagreements over policy or electoral strategy, Kazembe said his decision was motivated by the party’s internal culture.

He alleged that regional identity had become a determining factor in how members were treated, claiming people from the Eastern Region were openly disrespected within the party.MCP exposes Malawi Constitution loopholesBy Vincent Gunde

If substantiated, such allegations could reignite debate over tribal and regional politics in Malawi, an issue that has repeatedly dominated the country’s political discourse despite continued calls for national unity.

At the time of publication, MCP had not publicly responded to Kazembe’s claims.

Independent Path

Kazembe said he will remain in Parliament as an independent MP, distancing himself completely from MCP structures while continuing to represent the people of Mangochi Monkey Bay.

His decision means constituents will continue to have parliamentary representation, although he will no longer sit under the MCP banner.Critics Accuse MCP Leadership of Neglecting Environment and Public Welfare

Political analysts say independent MPs often gain greater freedom to express positions without party discipline, but they also lose the institutional backing and organizational support that political parties provide.

Pressure on MCP

The resignation is likely to increase pressure on MCP’s leadership to respond to concerns about party unity and internal governance.

The party has consistently presented itself as an organization committed to national unity, inclusivity and democratic principles. Kazembe’s allegations directly challenge that image and could raise questions among supporters if left unanswered.Mass Arrests Loom in January as Corruption Net Tightens on MCP Politicians and Officials

Political observers note that internal disagreements are common in major political parties, but public resignations accompanied by allegations of tribalism can have wider political consequences if they are not adequately addressed.

Wider Political Significance

Malawi’s politics has long been influenced by regional voting patterns, with successive governments and opposition parties frequently accused by rivals of favouring particular regions or ethnic groups.

The issue remains politically sensitive because many Malawians continue to advocate for leadership based on competence, merit and national unity rather than regional affiliation.Bashir says terrible mistake for Chilima to enter alliance with MCP

Kazembe’s departure therefore adds another chapter to the ongoing national conversation about whether political parties are doing enough to promote inclusive leadership.

Awaiting MCP Response

As debate over Kazembe’s resignation gathers momentum, attention is expected to shift to how MCP responds to the allegations.

Whether the party dismisses the claims, launches an internal review or seeks reconciliation could shape public perception in the coming weeks.

For now, Gerald Kazembe has drawn a clear line under his relationship with the Malawi Congress Party, choosing to continue his parliamentary role as an independent while leaving behind allegations that are likely to fuel political debate across the country.Critics Accuse MCP Leadership of Neglecting Environment and Public Welfare