Promises, Pitfalls and Power Plays: Are Malawi’s Running Mates Ready to Govern?
As Malawi gears up for the September 16 elections, the spotlight is on the presidential candidates — but it’s their running mates who may hold the key to shaping not only the ballot but the nation’s future. Yet amid the fervor, one troubling pattern emerges: a parade of overambitious, confusing promises from the top parties that threaten to undermine voter trust and expose a lack of serious, convincing manifestos.
Both the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) have rolled out commitments that many see as near-impossible to fulfill. Take President Chakwera’s now infamous pledge of 500,000 Kwacha for every newborn child. The promise shifted abruptly — from an immediate payout, to a fund accessible only when the child turns 18, and most recently, to a reduced figure of 50,000 Kwacha announced on the campaign trail. This flip-flopping has sown confusion among Malawians trying to understand what, if anything, the government can realistically deliver.
Meanwhile, the DPP’s bold promise of 5 billion Kwacha for constituency development funds appears wildly out of touch with Malawi’s struggling economy, which many describe as being “on its deathbed.” With revenues strained and inflation rising, such large-scale spending pledges risk being dismissed as empty rhetoric rather than serious plans.
These discrepancies point to a troubling trend: political parties appear to have entered the race without fully thought-out, competitive manifestos that can genuinely convince Malawians. Voters today have a sharper understanding of their country’s challenges and are less likely to be swayed by promises that seem too good to be true. The political theatre risks alienating a population increasingly demanding transparency, accountability, and practical solutions over grandstanding.
Dr. Jane Ansah — DPP’s Strategic Anchor, But Is It Enough?
DPP’s choice of Dr. Jane Ansah as running mate may provide administrative experience and a steely resolve born from her electoral commission tenure. Yet, given the party’s ambitious financial promises, her role may also include managing fallout from public skepticism and internal party divisions. Her leadership style suggests strong administrative control, but will it bridge the widening trust gap with a wary electorate?
Eng. Dr. Mathews Mtumbuka — UTM’s Pragmatist in a Sea of Empty Promises
UTM’s running mate brings technical know-how and grassroots appeal, representing a practical alternative amid unrealistic pledges. His background could appeal to voters hungry for credible development plans, yet the party itself struggles to present a manifesto matching his competency. Without solid party backing, even the best technocrat may be limited in driving genuine change.
Eng. Vitumbiko Mumba — MCP’s Voice of Clarity or Another Campaign Actor?
MCP’s Vitumbiko Mumba is seen as a passionate campaigner and manifesto salesman. But in an environment where many manifestos lack substance, can his rhetoric translate into concrete policies? His role may be crucial in explaining and selling the party’s vision, but Malawians increasingly expect more than words — they want evidence of real capacity to govern and deliver.
Dr. Rex Kalolo — UDF’s Policy Expert Facing an Uphill Battle
Dr. Kalolo’s academic and policy-driven approach stands out amid grand political promises. His technocratic style may appeal to voters craving structural reforms, but UDF’s challenge lies in convincing a skeptical public that expertise can overcome entrenched political patronage and economic crisis.
What the Surveys Say
Recent Public Opinion Research (POR) surveys show a fragmented electorate, where voter confidence hinges less on lofty promises and more on perceived credibility and feasibility. Running mates influence perceptions, but the overriding sentiment is clear: Malawians are tired of political theater and want manifestos that reflect real understanding and achievable goals.
Closing Reflection
As political parties scramble to gain ground, the question remains: Are Malawi’s running mates ready to govern a nation facing economic hardship and demanding accountability? Or are they mere figureheads, tasked with selling empty promises that will only deepen voter disillusionment?
This election could be a turning point — not just in leadership, but in how Malawians expect to be governed. The power behind the throne must be more than a campaign accessory; it must be a force for realistic, responsible governance. The stakes have never been higher.
