PP reprimands Msonda over war mongering remarks
The ruling People’s Party (PP) has reprimanded its deputy publicity secretary, Kenson Msonda after a National Executive Committee (NEC)disciplinary hearing found him guilty of misconduct and insubordination, Nyasa Times has established.
Msonda’s disciplining comes in after he engaged in a war of words in the media against his superiors who demanded him to apologize on his war mongering remarks in regards to the burning down of two houses belonging to two PP’s supporters in Mulanje earlier this month.
PP’s NEC earlier this month ordered Msonda to retract and apologize to the nation and the opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for his ‘war’ remarks. However he refused and then hit back at his superiors, arguing doing so would encourage political violence.
Two houses belonged to Mulanje central constituency members, Pilani Chimpembeli and Alice Julio both from Sapuwa Village, T/A Chikumbu in the district were burnt to ashes, which Msonda alleged to have been masterminded by DPP hired thugs.
And Msonda warned that PP was ready to retaliate as it had all the necessary machinery and resources to revenge and make the former ruling party leadership and its supporters live miserably.
The remarks sparked some controversies in the ruling party with acting secretary general, Paul Maulidi warning Msonda of disciplinary action.
In an interview on Thursday, Maulidi confirmed the suspension but was quick to brand it as a ‘reprimand’, adding Msonda apologized for his arrogance and disrespect of authority.
“His issue was dealt with internally. I can say he has been reprimanded for his conduct. I would not refer to it as suspension as such, but he has been told not to speak on any party matters any more unless he seeks permission from his boss,” said Maulidi.
Maulidi faulted Msonda for contravening the party’s Constitution and has since been given code of conduct with strict regulations on how to behave in regards to party issues.
“We are trying to avoid creating confusion in the media whereby one official says this and the other contradicting fellow members. He will be allowed to speak on behalf of the party only in the absence of his boss, Hophmally Makande and after being sanctioned by the party,” added Maulidi.
But when contacted Msonda feign ignorance of the whole issue, arguing “I am hearing it from you”.
Msonda said: “Is that so, I am hearing it from you. I was not communicated to. Of course I am still deputy spokesperson and am still making statements”.
Maulidi said Msonda displayed insubordination of the highest order for being defiant and refusing to apologize for his war cry statement, arguing no NEC member would willy-nilly defy the party like he did.
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