Political analyst Sheriff Kaisi has said the decision by six independent Members of Parliament to join the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) will significantly strengthen the government’s position and weaken the opposition during parliamentary debates.
The MPs, who were elected as independents in the September 16 General Elections, have officially aligned themselves with the DPP. They include Josephy Malingamoyo (Ntcheu North East), Fretcher Padoko (Balaka Bwaila), Dyress Mbengo (Ntcheu Dzonzi Vai), Donnex Mpuzeni (Machinga South West), Abigail Bongwe (Zomba Likangala), and Paul Ng’oma.
Kaisi described the move as unsurprising, calling it part of a recurring political pattern in Malawi.
“This is not new in Malawi’s political history. After every general election, a considerable number of independent MPs tend to join the ruling party,” Kaisi said in an interview. “They often see greater political and personal opportunity with the party in power. While it’s within their democratic right, the practice raises questions about the authenticity of their independent stance.”
He added that these defections could significantly weaken the voice of the opposition in Parliament, creating an imbalance in legislative oversight.
“Standing as an independent means you don’t subscribe to any party’s ideology, but after winning, many shift to the ruling side, not to the opposition. This reflects a political culture where power and privilege often override principle,” he said.
The move is expected to give the DPP a firmer grip in the National Assembly, further consolidating its legislative strength.
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