Blantyre Central Constituency legislator Gerald Tasaukadala has called for a deep reflection on the conduct, legacy, and continuing posture of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) in the country’s political life.
Delivering his maiden speech in Parliament on Monday, Tasaukadala further said there should be a serious national conversation about the continued use of the name “Malawi Congress Party” said it belongs to all of Malawians, “not to a political party whose history is so deeply intertwined with repression and division.”
“The people of Malawi have not forgotten the atrocities and fear that characterised the one-party era under the MCP. Families were torn apart, voices silenced, and citizens subjected to arbitrary detentions and disappearances.
“These are not distant memories; they are living wounds in the conscience of our nation. In the past five years, Malawians have once again witnessed the same traits of arrogance, repression, and disregard for human dignity,” he said
Among others, Tasaukadala cited thMCP-led administration’s mishandling of the aftermath of the tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of the late Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima and eight noble Malawians, as an example of how the party has failed the country.
“The public’s call for truth, transparency, and compassion was met instead with silence, evasion, and intimidation of those who demanded answers. We further condemn the conduct of groups popularly known as the “Zikwanje Boys,” whose acts of intimidation and violence against opposition members during the run-up to the 16th September elections remain fresh in the memories of many Malawians.
“That such groups could operate openly, with the tacit approval and protection of senior party figures, speaks volumes about the true nature of the MCP’s political culture. This behaviour is incompatible with the democratic values enshrined in our Constitution.
A party that tolerates lawlessness, shields its perpetrators, and fails to condemn violence has no moral authority to claim stewardship of our Republic,” he said
On the name “Malawi Congress Party”, Tasaukadala said it is both morally and symbolically wrong that a single party should monopolise the name of the nation while betraying the very ideals of unity, freedom, and justice that Malawi stands for.
“Mr. Speaker, Sir, it is time for accountability. It is time for political parties to cleanse themselves of violence, intolerance, and deceit. Malawi’s democracy has matured, and the people will no longer be swayed by fear. Let us build a political culture grounded in truth, service, and respect for every Malawian’s right to belong, to speak, and to dream freely,” he said
