Political analyst defends Mutharika’s absence at manifesto launch

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – A Malawian political analyst, Thomas Chirwa, who also lectures in political science at the University of Dar es Salaam, has defended Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) president Peter Mutharika’s absence from the party’s manifesto launch, saying it reflects confidence in his team rather than a weakness in leadership.

In an interview with Malawi24, Chirwa argued that Mutharika’s decision to delegate the responsibility to his running mate, Jane Ansah, and political ally Enock Chihana of the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), was strategic and demonstrated leadership maturity.

“Those who are questioning APM’s absence at the manifesto launch don’t understand politics. What Mutharika has done demonstrates leadership. His running mate was present, and so was his coalition partner, Enock Chihana. I don’t see any problem,” Chirwa said.

The DPP recently launched its 2025 election manifesto in Blantyre on Sunday an event that sparked public debate over Mutharika’s no-show. Critics labelled it a sign of disengagement, but Chirwa believes such interpretations overlook the value of strategic delegation in politics.

He further pointed out that the ongoing criticisms aired on the state broadcaster, Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC), are ironically working in Mutharika’s favour.

“Whatever MBC is saying about Mutharika is indirectly helping his campaign. Every time they mention his name, whether in criticism or not, they are keeping him relevant and in the public eye. That’s free publicity,” Chirwa added.

Mutharika, who served as Malawi’s president from 2014 to 2020, is making a political comeback in the 2025 elections, with Jane Ansah, a former Malawi Electoral Commission chairperson, as his running mate.

The DPP has partnered with AFORD, a party with a strong base in the Northern Region.