No Classmate, No Limits.

By Tameemah AbdulMajeed Mdoka

Isaac Jomo Osman’s journey to becoming Mayor of Blantyre City is one of the most unlikely and compelling political stories in recent Malawian history. Born in Mangochi to a poor family, Jomo’s childhood was defined by economic struggle rather than opportunity. At a tender age, driven by survival rather than ambition, he travelled alone to Blantyre with hopes of finding piecework to support himself. Instead, life pushed him onto the streets—where he became a familiar face, a bus caller, and eventually one of the most fearless and influential gang leaders the city had ever seen.

For years, he lived among the very struggles that now shape his political agenda: poverty, exclusion, unemployment, broken social systems, and the desperation that forces young people into illegal or informal survival networks. Yet even during those years, Jomo slowly built relationships with traders, vendors, taxi operators, youth, and community elders. Over time, his street identity evolved into something more intentional. His philanthropic efforts—supporting funerals, helping the sick, offering financial support to struggling families, and advocating for abandoned youth—earned him a place in the hearts of many.

It is this reputation, built long before he entered formal politics, that resulted in his election as Councillor for Bangwe–Ntopwa Ward—not once, but twice. And now, in November 2025, he has risen further, securing the mayoral seat after defeating Eric Mofolo and Joseph Makwinja with 15 votes to their 11 and 4 respectively.

Jomo often jokes that he is “ndilibe classmate,” a phrase that means he had little schooling and no formal academic achievements. While critics use this as a point of attack, many of his supporters view it as proof that leadership can rise from lived experience rather than certificates. For them, Jomo represents possibility: a living reminder that no background, however harsh, determines one’s limits.

Beyond politics, Jomo is the founder of Mtopwa Stars Women’s Football Club—the first Malawian team to compete in the COSAFA Women’s Championship. The club has become a symbol of hope and a platform for young women to pursue education, football, and personal growth.

Since assuming office, Mayor Jomo has maintained the same fearless, hands-on approach that defined his rise. Shortly after being elected, he invited street-connected children to his office—a symbolic and emotional moment that mirrored his own past. He encouraged them to consider small businesses rather than life on the streets and later donated K1.5 million toward their welfare.

His leadership style continues to disrupt expectations. Videos circulating online this week show Jomo walking through Limbe and Blantyre town centres, confronting shop owners—particularly Chinese and Indian business operators—about poor waste management. In several clips, he is seen escorting them to their own dumpsters, demanding accountability and reminding them of their duty to keep the city clean. Many citizens celebrate the boldness, calling it long overdue action to restore Blantyre’s pride. Others remain skeptical, questioning whether energy and activism alone can sustain institutional change.

Interestingly, his example appears to be inspiring others. In Lilongwe, the Mayor has also taken to the streets, echoing Jomo’s direct approach to municipal enforcement.

From a street survivor to gang leader, from philanthropist to twice-elected councillor, and now from the margins to the mayor’s chair—Isaac Jomo Osman stands as a symbol of both controversy and possibility. As he assumes his role, the question now is not where he came from, but whether he can transform the city that once shaped—and nearly swallowed—him.

For now, Blantyre watches with curiosity, caution, and hope.