Chimulirenji Dumps DPP Support, Vows to Contest Alone

Fresh cracks have emerged in the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) as Everton Chimulirenji, former Vice President and once close ally to party leader Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, has declared that he will contest as an independent candidate in the forthcoming parliamentary elections for Zambwe Constituency in Ntcheu District.

This follows a controversial internal primary election in which Chimulirenji defeated Jane Ansah, the former chairperson of the Malawi Electoral Commission. However, in a twist, DPP leadership later announced Ansah as the party’s official candidate, a move that appears to have angered Chimulirenji.

In reaction, Chimulirenji claimed that he is no longer representing the party, insisting he will stand on his own. Efforts to reach him for further comment proved futile as his mobile phone went unanswered.

Political analyst Begason Mayenje has weighed in on the issue, saying the development is a clear indication of deep divisions and lack of unity within the DPP, adding that internal tolerance and reconciliation appear to be in short supply in the party.

The incident adds to growing concerns over the DPP’s internal stability as it prepares for the next general elections.