…forces last minute cancelling of party meetings
By Jonah Phiri
The opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has in the past four months cancelled about six rallies and whistle-stop tours due to the poor health of its leader Arthur Peter Mutharika, coupled with dementia, the Malawi Focus has learned.
Insiders at Mutharika’s Page House in Mangochi and some senior party officials have confided that fear is gripping the party, realising that it would be an uphill task and a gamble to change the presidential candidate now.
Unfortunately, the sources disclosed that the decision to pull out of the race was not up to Mutharika to make, just as was the decision for him to stand. Instead, it rests with his wife Gertrude, Norman Chisale, the party’s national youth director, and Peter Mukhito, secretary general.
“Top officials are aware that our torchbearer is in bad shape, but no one can dare say it. The Gertrude-Chisale-Mukhito circle is deadly,” said a source.
“They have warned everyone not to question Mutharika’s fitness, even in situations where it is clear dementia has taken its toll on the old man. There have been times when vehicles have lined up at Page House for a campaign outing, only to be cancelled last minute,” he said.
The official said there are times Mutharika has asked his handlers the district they were in, including the name of the area and clear signs of someone suffering from serious dementia.
The official mentioned that this happened during recent whistle stop tours in Blantyre when, before picking up the mic on three occasions, Mutharika asked if they were in Mzuzu and wanted to know the exact name of the location.
A close aide at Page House said Mutharika wanted to travel last December to the United States of America, where he stayed for decades to source campaign funds.
However, he cancelled the trip on the advice of a doctor who recommended it due to his serious dementia.
“The doctor advised that air travel can be particularly challenging for individuals with dementia due to the unfamiliar environment, potential confusion, and the stress of navigating through airports and flights,” said the aide.
The insider added that Mutharika’s health condition, coupled with old age, is the primary reason his speeches are disjointed and often make little sense.
“Some of us are not surprised to see him emotional, angry, and confrontational. It is not his wish. It is like pulling a donkey to a riverside. The man is in trouble, and it only requires a strong team from his family to save him,” said the aide.
“Unfortunately, no relatives are allowed entry at Page House or to get closer to him at any other place. That is Gertrude for you. The old man is imprisoned,” added the insider.
Sources also corroborated that there have been times when the party’s national executive committee meetings were called at Page House but ended up being canceled because Mutharika could not remember calling for such meetings or the agenda.
Gertrude holds the responsibility to communicate the message about the cancellations, with no refunds for fuel as Mutharika is the sole purse holder, and the position of treasurer general is merely symbolic.
A medical doctor who opted to remain anonymous warned that the party was playing with someone’s life because dementia can lead to confusion and disorientation.
“Public speaking can be overwhelming and confusing for someone with dementia, potentially leading to distress or agitation. It can also cause falls and injury because standing for long periods can increase the risk of falls, especially if the person has mobility or balance issues.
“Dementia can also cause fatigue more quickly, making it difficult for the person to maintain energy and focus during extended periods of standing or speaking. It can also affect speech and language skills, making it challenging for the person to communicate effectively in a public setting,” said the doctor.
The doctor further stated that being in a crowded or unfamiliar environment can increase the risk of getting lost or experiencing anxiety.
“It is important to consider these factors and consult healthcare professionals to ensure the safety and well-being of someone with dementia in such situations,” advised the doctor.
Even during his presidency, Mutharika had public falls, requiring his bodyguards to help him back to his feet.
Political governance expert Dennis Mchokero said Mutharika is not fit to run for high office. He accused senior party officials of forcing him to stand for their selfish reasons.
The party’s national spokesperson, Namalomba, dismissed these concerns, arguing that their candidate is fit to run for high office and has the vitality of a 40-year-old man.