Chihana accuses DPP of stifling federalism debate

Son to the Malawi’s fallen pro-democracy hero Chakufwa Tom Chihana, Enock, who is also leader of the now tiny opposition Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) is accusing the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of by-passing democratic principles of free debate on issues of national importance such as federalism.

Speaking to Nyasa Times on Friday,  Chihana asked DPP led government to provide a conducive environment for the federalism debate.

“It is unfortunate that we are seeing DPP using chiefs and other government apparatus to stifle the debate on federalism,” he said, adding:”Go to the north now you will see almost nothing to point at. There is completely no development, and go to the South you will be surprised to see enormous development taking place there.”

Chihana said the country needs federalism for equitable distribution of resources in the country.

But DPP spokesperson Francis Kasaila  trashed Chihana’s claims describing him  as a frustrated and misguided politician trying to find a survival tool.

“Chihana is a frustrated politician. He was being treated by People’s Party as Second Vice President. Chihana was moving on convoy  and he could be happy to see PP ruling until now so that he could have continued enjoying the benefits of PP regime,” said  Kasaila.

Kasaila said the President has opened the federalism debate to the general public so that they can discuss without any interference.