BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Thirty seven Members of Parliament from the Northern region have formed a bloc and endorsed Catherine Mzumara, a first-term lawmaker from the UTM Party, for the position of 1st Deputy Speaker of Parliament.
The grouping, led by former Vice President Khumbo Hastings Kachale, Frank Tumpale Mwenefumbo, and Noah Chimpeni, made the announcement in Lilongwe.
According to Mwenefumbo, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has offered to support the North on the position, prompting the bloc’s decision.
“The block has not just been formed for this, but even on bills that will be tabled in Parliament,” Mwenefumbo said, adding that ,”We must commend the DPP for the gesture they have shown.”
The bloc’s decision is seen as a strategic move to strengthen regional representation in Parliament’s leadership.
As a token of appreciation, the Northern MPs have pledged to support Sameer Suleiman for the position of Speaker of the National Assembly.
UTM Parliamentary leader Patricia Kaliati welcomed the DPP’s gesture, emphasizing the party’s willingness to work with everyone in Parliament, regardless of party affiliations.
“DPP is ready to work with everyone in parliament regardless of party affiliations,” she said.
The DPP has yet to comment on the matter, but the development signals a potential shift in the parliamentary dynamics.
With Mzumara as a frontrunner for the 1st Deputy Speaker position, it remains to be seen how other parties will respond.
Mzumara’s candidacy brings a fresh perspective to the role, and her UTM Party colleagues are optimistic about her chances.
The formation of the Northern bloc also underscores the region’s desire for greater representation in Parliament’s leadership.
As Parliament prepares to elect its leadership, the alliance between the Northern MPs and the DPP could play a crucial role in shaping the outcome.
With the support of the DPP, Mzumara’s bid for the 1st Deputy Speaker position appears strong, but the final outcome will depend on the negotiations and alliances forged in the coming days.
The post Northern MPs unite behind UTM’s Catherine Mzumara for deputy speaker position appeared first on The Maravi Post.