By Burnett Munthali
Political tension heightens in Parliament as major parties rally behind their candidates for Speaker and Deputy Speaker positions.
The battle for leadership in the National Assembly has intensified as both the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) express strong confidence in their respective candidates ahead of Wednesday’s Speaker elections.
The Malawi Congress Party has nominated Peter Dimba, the former Chairperson of the Legal Affairs Committee, to contest for the prestigious position of Speaker of Parliament.
Dimba, known for his articulate approach to legal and parliamentary matters, is being presented by MCP as a candidate with the experience and integrity needed to steer the August House effectively.
On the other hand, the opposition Democratic Progressive Party has put forward Sameer Suleman, the former Chairperson of the Agriculture Committee, as its candidate for the Speaker’s post.
Suleman, who has earned a reputation for his vocal oversight on agricultural policy and government accountability, is expected to draw significant support from opposition benches and independent MPs sympathetic to the DPP cause.
For the position of Deputy Speaker, the contest is equally fierce.
The MCP has nominated Emmanuel Chambulanyina Jere, who will face off against DPP’s Victor Musowa and UTM Party Vice President Catherine Nzumara.
The inclusion of Nzumara from UTM adds an interesting twist, reflecting the multi-party dynamics and shifting alliances that continue to define Malawi’s Parliament.
Speaking to MIJ Online, DPP Vice President for the North, Jappie Mhango, expressed strong optimism about his party’s prospects.
He said all DPP members and well-meaning parliamentarians would unite behind Suleman, describing him as a capable leader who can restore parliamentary balance and independence.
Mhango emphasized that Suleman’s record of defending farmers and championing accountability makes him the right choice for the Speaker position.
Meanwhile, MCP National Publicity Secretary Jessie Kabwila said her party is equally confident that Peter Dimba will emerge victorious.
She described Dimba as a disciplined and visionary leader who understands the needs of Malawians and can uphold the integrity of Parliament.
Kabwila urged Members of Parliament to vote for a leader who will prioritize national unity and development over partisan interests.
Adding to the competitiveness of the race, Kondwani Nankhumwa, President of the People’s Development Party (PDP), and independent legislator George Million have also joined the contest for the Speaker position.
Their participation reflects growing diversity and political ambition within the legislature.
In addition, Esther Jolobala, a seasoned parliamentarian, has entered the race for the position of Second Deputy Speaker, further broadening the field of contenders in what is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched parliamentary elections in recent years.
As the vote approaches, all eyes are on Parliament to see which candidate will command majority support and take charge of guiding legislative business for the next term.
The outcome will not only determine the Speaker’s chair but could also signal shifting alliances and future power dynamics in Malawi’s ever-evolving political landscape.
The outcome of the Speaker elections will carry significant implications for the balance of power and cooperation between the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in Parliament.
Should Peter Dimba secure the speakership, it would consolidate MCP’s influence in legislative affairs, potentially enabling the party to advance its policy agenda with smoother coordination between the Executive and the Legislature.
However, if Sameer Suleman of the DPP emerges victorious, it could mark a political turning point—reviving the opposition’s leverage and signaling growing discontent among MPs toward the ruling bloc.
In either scenario, the results will shape not only parliamentary oversight and debate but also the tone of interparty relations, determining whether Malawi’s Parliament becomes a platform for collaboration or continued political confrontation between the two dominant forces.
