Behind Closed Doors: Usi–Mutharika Meeting Triggers DPP Power Struggle Over Presidential Ticket

A secret high-stakes meeting between Vice President Michael Usi and former President Peter Mutharika has set the political scene ablaze, with sources revealing discussions of a bombshell shake-up to the DPP’s presidential ticket. At the centre of the proposal: former MEC Chairperson Jane Ansah as presidential candidate, with Usi as her running mate.

Party insiders say the plan is being pushed as a bold gamble for electability and regional balance — but it has rattled DPP heavyweights who see it as nothing short of sidelining Mutharika, the party’s long-time electoral anchor. Legal hurdles loom large too, with uncertainty over whether such a late-stage swap can even be made under Malawi’s electoral laws.

Health Fears vs. Image Management
The plot is also being fuelled by mounting fears over Mutharika’s health. Medical professionals have allegedly urged him to avoid physically demanding activity, warning that even his planned three-region campaign tour could endanger him. Doctors reportedly advised mobility aids — a walking stick, or even a wheelchair — but party strategists rejected the idea, fearing it would shatter the image of strength DPP wants to project.

Mutharika’s last public appearances two weeks ago deepened worries. He appeared to struggle with hearing and movement, with bodyguards stationed close enough to catch him if he stumbled. At one rally, despite a podium and chair set up, he remained in his vehicle throughout, leaving supporters visibly unsettled.

Alliance Tensions Boil Over
The Usi–Mutharika talks have also sparked a crisis in the DPP–AFORD alliance. AFORD leader Enoch Chihana is demanding answers after learning Usi was offered the Second Vice President slot — a role he says was promised to him. Chihana now insists that if Ansah heads the ticket, he must be her running mate, warning that anything less would be a breach of trust. He has threatened to suspend Northern Region rallies if his demands are ignored, a move that could fracture the alliance at a critical moment.

Campaign Losing Steam
Mutharika has been absent from the campaign trail for over a week, and frustration is mounting within DPP ranks. Party insiders complain that his running mate’s speeches lack the spark to energise crowds. Some candidates, sensing a fading presidential push, are quietly diverting resources to their parliamentary races, hoping to salvage local wins from what is starting to look like a collapsing national campaign.

 

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