The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has refuted reports that there are divisions in the party following President Peter Mutharika’s decision to pick Everton Chimulirenji as his runningmate.
Mutharika surprised Malawians earlier this month when he overlooked four vice presidents in the DPP to choose Chimulirenji – who is also Minister of Civic Education and Community Development – as his runningmate.
Reports later emerged that senior ministers in Mutharika’s cabinet were not happy with the president’s choice.
But speaking at Ntcheu boma on Sunday, DPP Secretary General Grezelder Jeffrey said the reports are lies spread by opposition parties.
She added that DPP members are happy with Chimulirenji and are confident the party will win the May 21 presidential elections.
Speaking at the same rally, DPP Vice President for Eastern Region Msaka also disputed the reports saying the presence of party supporters from all regions at the rally shows that they are happy with his appointment.
“What people are saying is not true. There is nothing like divisions in the party that is why all the regions are here. DPP is united and will fight as one during elections. There were heavy rains here but people stayed to show solidarity that we are with him,” said Msaka.
In his speech, Chimulirenji also spoke about the issue saying the attendance of ministers at the rally is evidence that the ministers are rallying behind him.
Ministers that attended the rally included Education Minister Msaka, Minister of Information Henry Mussa, Minister of Gender Cecelia Chazama, Minister of Agriculture Joseph Mwanamvekha and Minister of Trade Francis Kasaila.
Deputy Ministers Amon Mailosi (Defence), Werani Chilenga (Natural Resources) and Charles Mchacha (Homeland Security) also attended the rally.
