DPP plot to stop people from attending JB’s Thyolo function foils
An attempt by opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to stop people from attending the official installation of two traditional Chiefs as ‘Senior Chiefs’ foiled on Monday when people in the district trooped at Thyolo Community Centre Ground where President Joyce Banda presided over the ceremony.
The DPP claims Thyolo, where its leader Peter Mutharika originally hails from, is its stronghold and a ‘no-go-area’ for other political parties, let alone President Banda’s governing People’s Party (PP).
DPP insiders have revealed strategies were put in place to ‘discourage’ people from attending the official elevation of the two traditional leaders—Senior Chief Thomas and Senior Chief Chimaliro—on Monday, which included mobilizing other traditional leaders from boycotting the event.
However, it was to be a rude awakening for the DPP; thousands of people clad in Orange—PP’s official colour—converged at Thyolo Community Centre Ground, chanting pro-Joyce Banda and PP slogans. Almost all traditional leaders from the district were also in attendance.
Sub T/A Khwethemule who spoke in behalf all traditional leaders in Thyolo thanked the President for elevating the chiefs and assured her of their unreserved support and loyalty.
“Do not be deceived that Thyolo belongs to one particular political grouping; that’s a fallacy, Your Excellency. We belong to the Government of the day; and that’s you, Your Excellency. Lest assured of our total support as traditional leaders and that of the people of Thyolo, cognizant that it is only Government that implements social and economic development of the country and not anyone else,” said the Chief.
