By Burnett Munthali
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), led by incoming President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, held its first regional rally on Sunday, September 15, 2024, following its successful national convention. The rally took place in Phalombe, a district in the southern region, at Migowi Primary School grounds—often referred to as the “bedroom” of the DPP.
Phalombe has recently been a key target for the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) of outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera, which has been campaigning intensely in the district. Despite these efforts, the turnout at the DPP rally showed that the people of Phalombe remain loyal to the DPP and its leadership. A massive crowd filled the Migowi grounds, sending a strong signal that they are standing firmly behind the DPP and Professor Mutharika.
The rally was led by Joseph Mathyola Mwanamvekha, the DPP’s Vice President for the Southern Region. Speaking to the crowd, Mwanamvekha underscored the people’s unwavering support for the DPP, which has been the party closest to their hearts.
Thousands of supporters walked long distances to attend the rally, a stark contrast to the MCP’s strategy of ferrying supporters in trucks. The people of Phalombe sent a clear message that, come September 16, 2025, their votes will help restore the DPP and Professor Mutharika to power.
Throughout the rally, speakers condemned the hardships the people of Phalombe and the country have faced under the current MCP government. They voiced their frustrations with the economic challenges, attributing their suffering to the outgoing administration and calling for change. The crowd expressed its eagerness to bring back the DPP and Professor Mutharika to correct what they see as the mistakes of the current regime.
In addition to Mwanamvekha, the rally was attended by key DPP figures, including Secretary General Peter Mukhito, National Organising Secretary Sameer Suleman, Director of Youth Norman Paulos Chisale, National Campaign Director Chifundo Makande, Director of Operations Charles Mchacha, and several Phalombe Members of Parliament.
The rally’s resounding success in Phalombe is a testament to the strength and influence of the DPP in the southern region, as the party continues to mobilize ahead of the 2025 general elections.
