PDP’s Nankhumwa turns up as Luchenza launches its development fund

Kondwani Nankhumwa, once one of the Democratic Progressive Party’s most powerful figures and later one of its fiercest internal rivals, was among the guests at the launch of the reformed Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in Luchenza, Thyolo.

Mr Nankhumwa, now president of the People’s Development Party (PDP), shared the occasion with Local Government and Rural Development Minister Ben Malunga Phiri, who serves in the DPP-led government. T

Nankhumwa was expelled from the DPP for allegedly undermining party president Peter Mutharika’s authority and disrespecting party leadership.

The break had a long history. The DPP had earlier tried to remove him as Leader of Opposition in Parliament. He once refused to attend a disciplinary hearing, likening it to a kangaroo court.

He later gave up the Leader of Opposition role to focus on the PDP, which he said would go solo in the 2025 general elections.

Whether his attendance in Luchenza signals a thaw with the government is unclear. No one has said so.

Luchenza Municipality MP Chimwemwe Mazabuka Chipungu said projects under the reformed CDF will help turn the area into a secondary city.

He warned that contractors who misuse public money will face arrest. The projects include a two-storey classroom block at Luchenza Catholic Primary School, two teachers’ houses at Malo Primary School in Thuchila Ward, health posts in Namadzi and Namisonga wards, and road works.

Municipality chief executive Precious Kansitsi said the council will also build the Sambagalu reticulated water supply system in the 2026/2027 financial year.

Chipungu pledged K15 million for a Christmas bonanza for the community.

On his part, Phiri called for strict monitoring to ensure transparency and accountability, and urged contractors to hire local workers. Senior Chief Nanseta urged stakeholders to work together.