By Burnett Munthali
In the heart of Salima Central West Constituency, a wave of nostalgia and political urgency is stirring among constituents.
Many residents are openly expressing their desire for the return of Dr. Jessie Kabwila to active frontline politics.
This groundswell of support appears to be gaining momentum as the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) prepares for its primary elections ahead of the 2025 general polls.
Conversations in village gatherings, marketplaces, and community meetings are increasingly centered on Kabwila’s potential return.
People are citing her courage, eloquence, and unwavering commitment to defending the interests of the marginalized as reasons she remains unforgettable.
Dr. Kabwila, a former Member of Parliament for Salima North West, served with distinction and was known for her bold stance on social justice and human rights.
Although she has been relatively quiet on the political scene in recent years, her name continues to resonate deeply with the people she once served.
Many believe that her absence from the political landscape has left a void in the quality of representation Salima once enjoyed.
Some constituents argue that the current leadership has not demonstrated the same level of intellectual rigor and vocal advocacy that Kabwila consistently exhibited.
They recall her fiery debates in Parliament and her ability to articulate the struggles of ordinary Malawians with rare conviction.
Moreover, her academic background and global exposure gave her a unique edge in policy engagement and public discourse.
Supporters say her return would not only strengthen the MCP in Salima but would also restore dignity and confidence in the constituency’s leadership.
The push for Kabwila’s comeback is not just emotional but strategic, as many feel she is best positioned to challenge opposition parties and reclaim MCP dominance.
Her critics, however, argue that her confrontational style may not align with the current political climate that favors diplomacy over defiance.
But her supporters dismiss that notion, saying the constituency needs a leader who will not shy away from speaking truth to power.
In their view, Dr. Kabwila remains a rare breed of politician who blends intellect with grassroots connection.
Her past contributions to education, gender equality, and youth empowerment are often cited as enduring legacies.
Women’s groups in the constituency have also joined the call, stating that her return would revive female representation in a space still largely dominated by men.
They see her as a trailblazer who inspires younger women to enter politics with boldness and principle.
As the MCP prepares for its internal primaries, party strategists will likely take note of this rising demand for Kabwila’s return.
Observers say her re-entry into the political arena could re-energize the MCP base and potentially shift the dynamics of Salima politics.
The question now is whether Dr. Kabwila herself is ready to take up the mantle once more and respond to what many call a clarion call from her people.
Her silence so far has only deepened the speculation and anticipation.
But if the voices on the ground are anything to go by, then the MCP primaries in Salima Central West may turn out to be one of the most watched political contests in the months ahead.
The people have spoken, and they are itching for a leader who speaks their language — and for many, that leader is Dr. Jessie Kabwila.
