James defends MCP’s record, calls for fair assessment of governance under Chakwera
By Michael Martin//MALAWI
Relentless lawyer, Sylvester Ayuba James also a Member of Parliament for Nkhotakota South and a senior figure in the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has dismissed claims that his party should shoulder full blame for the country’s recent political and economic challenges.
Speaking during Zodiak TV’s Exclusive program, Ayuba argued that the MCP “did not fully enter government since the era of Kamuzu Banda,” stressing that public perception about the party’s role in governance is often distorted by political narratives.
According to Ayuba, the past five years should not be interpreted as an era in which MCP as a party controlled every arm of government.
He claimed that state operations were largely influenced by President Lazarus Chakwera’s inner circle which he described as comprising “family members and religious associates.”
Ayuba insisted that Malawians must understand the difference between the leadership of an individual and the collective responsibility of a political party especially in a coalition environment like the Tonse Alliance.
He warned that blaming MCP for every government shortcoming was both unfair and historically inaccurate.
“The party did not run the previous administrations and not every negative outcome today should be linked to MCP,” he said.
Again, Ayuba emphasized that the MCP’s legacy cannot be judged on rumours, emotions, or selective narratives.
He encouraged the public to examine verifiable achievements and failures rather than relying on partisan interpretations.
As part of his argument, Ayuba highlighted several areas where the MCP has contributed positively under President Chakwera’s leadership.
He mentioned improvements in infrastructure, public sector reforms, education expansion and governance institutions.
Ayuba, however, reiterated that attacks on MCP often arise from misunderstanding or intentional political branding aimed at weakening the party ahead of upcoming elections.
He stressed that MCP remains committed to defending its image while working to deliver tangible results to the Malawian people regardless of political pressures.
Ayuba called on citizens to judge MCP by its policy direction, development commitments and measurable activities not by rumours or partisan exaggerations.
He added that MCP believes in good governance, rule of law and public accountability, which is why the party supports reforms in public procurement, anti corruption efforts and transparent management of public finances.
During the interview, Ayuba also highlighted development strides made under Chakwera’s administration while the MCP was in government including mega farms initiatives, construction of health facilities, upgrading of rural roads, expansion of secondary schools and empowerment programs for youth and small businesses.
He mentioned that MCP has also pushed for improved ICT infrastructure, citizen access to information and bridging the digital divide to create modern job opportunities.
Ayuba said the party’s long term vision focuses on strengthening state institutions, enhancing civic education, and ensuring that government is responsive and accountable to citizens across all regions.
Ultimately, Ayuba urged for open dialogue, historical accuracy and balanced evaluation of all political actors.
He emphasized that the road to national progress lies not in blame shifting but in collaborative leadership guided by transparency, good governance and patriotism.
To present a balanced perspective, political analyst Wonderful Mkhutche cautioned that while Ayuba’s defence has valid elements, it is essential to acknowledge that MCP as the former ruling party cannot completely detach itself from state performance.
“Political accountability requires that parties accept both applause and criticism,” Mkhutche said.
Similarly, governance commentator, George Chaima added that good governance thrives on transparency and shared responsibility.
He argued that Ayuba’s remarks should be seen not as denial but as an attempt to redefine political accountability in a coalition government.
“The public must be guided to differentiate party influence from presidential autonomy,” Chaima said.
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