Sidik Mia makes political comeback: I’m joining MCP, hints on being Malawi VP  in 2019

Former cabinet minister and lower shire political giant, Mohammed Sidik Mia has confirmed to Nyasa Times that he will be bouncing back in politics by joining the main opposition Malawi Congress Party  (MCP).

Mia  also announced he a is eying for the position of the country’s Vice President in 2019  and expected MCP president Lazarous Chakwera to pick him as his running mate.

Mia, a Muslim faithful, resigned from his ministerial post during the Joyce Banda reign in 2013 and announced that he had left politics altogether.

Speaking to fellow Muslims at Kanjedza Mosque in Blantyre on Thursday, Mia said he supported fellow Muslim presidential candidate Atupele Muluzi under the banner of United Democratic Front (UDF) during the 2014 elections but unfortunately things did not work out for him.

“I appeal to Moslems to help me in 2019 because I am vying for the post of Vice President of this country whether one likes it or not,” said Mia in a video clip that has gone viral on social media.

“We want us Moslems to have their own leader to represent your interests at the highest level,” said Mia.

“God willing if I get this post, in five years, show me where there is no Mosque, I will build it on my own. I will also build health facilities across the country and after five years if I don’t do these things, come to me and hold me responsible,” said Mia.

“If we want to build the future of Moslems in this country, then you have to support my cause. After Ramadan, I will be making a decision,” added Mia.

He said the social services infrastructure that he will construct will help people of all faith.

Mia has maintained his message to Muslims during meetings at Blantyre Lodge and other venues including his residence.

When contracted Mia confirmed  to Nyasa Times that indeed he is  now having  close relationship with MCP.

Mia acknowledged he ‘agrees with a lot’ of what Chakwera says about the direction this country should take beyond 2019.

“My political allegiance is now with MCP,”said Mia , adding “It’s time to make a move, Kwacha!”

“When I look at the Malawi political scene at the moment, I actually almost feel motivated to go right back into it. And Chakwera with MCP is attractive,” Mia told Nyasa Times.

He said MCP under Chakwera  wants opportunity “for the many, not the few.”

Mia also recognised the leadership role of party vice president Richard Msowoya (Speaker of Malawi Parliament) and MacDonald  Lombola, saying they are part of the leadership team he want to work with.

He said : “I want to be party to a new tone for genuine  development of  Malawi.”

Mia added: “Malawi certainly can thrive and prosper under new MCP.”