Finally, DPP expels Nankhumwa and others
The opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has expelled its former Vice President for the Southern region Kondwani Nankhumwa, former Secretary General Grelzeder Jeffrey, Cecelia Chazama, Nicholas Harry Dausi and Mark Botomani and others.
In a statement released on Sunday evening, DPP spokesperson Shadric Namalomba said the decision was made by the Central Committee during its meeting today following the Disciplinary hearings.
Others expelled are Otria Jere, Fortunate Simeon Phiri, Fredrick Billy Malata, Joe Thomas Nyirongo, and Kenneth Chatatata Msonda, NGC Member (North).
According to the party spokesperson Shaddreck Namalomba, the punishments were decided during a meeting of the Central Committee held on 20th January, 2024. The committee has powers to receive and consider recommendations from the DPP disciplinary committee.
Earlier this month, the disciplinary committee heard from some of the affected DPP members who were accused of holding an NGC meeting without following proper procedures. At the NGC meeting, the members agreed to hold a DPP convention in December.
Meanwhile, Namalomba has called upon DPP members to respect and abide by the resolutions, to desist from any misconduct in the Party and never to undermine and disrespect the leadership at any levels within the structures of the party.
“The Party will not hesitate to take any disciplinary action against any misconduct,” says Namalomba.
Responding to decision on MBC immediately after the announcement of expulsions, the former Director of Training and Research Kenneth Chatatata Msonda described the move as retrogressive and undemocratic stating that the disciplinary hearings were just formalised to effect dismissals on officials who wished the party well
“I have not yet received an official communication to that effect but honestly if that may be true then it’s very unfortunate and undemocratic considering that the disciplinary hearings could mean a step ahead towards rebuilding the party,” Msonda said.
Meanwhile Nankhumwa who is leader of opposition in Parliament and others are yet to comment on their expulsions and their possible next move in the work of the party position.