Msonda withdraws challenge over Kamlepo’s win

People’s Party (PP) deputy publicity secretary Ken Msonda has withdrawn his challenge in the disputed Rumphi East Constituency where Kamlepo Kalua triumphed in December.

In a letter to the party’s secretariat dated January 15 2014, Msonda said he has withdrawn his protest in the spirit of party building, respect and love for PP leadership.

“Upon giving it much thought, having consulted family members, relatives, political mentors and close friends, I hereby withdraw the dispute and concerns raised over Rumphi East Constituency primary elections,” reads the letter.

Msonda confirmed authoring the letter in an interview yesterday, saying he disputed the manner Rumphi East primary election was conducted based on evidence.

“The concerns I raised were for the party’s benefit and not for personal political gains,” he said.

Msonda added that had the party taken heed of the concerns raised on December 23 2013 while Rumphi East Constituency primary elections were in progress, most of the challenges the party faced during the just ended primary elections could have been addressed and avoided.

In the letter, he has told secretary general Paul Maulidi that he joined PP during a very difficult period.

“It was for the love for the party President Joyce Banda then vice-president; upon being convinced with her democratic leadership style, the party’s policies, ideologies and values.

“I have been a very dedicated and committed member of the party since then. My loyalty to the President [Joyce Banda] and the party remains steadfast. It is unconditional, unshakable, unmovable and unquestionable,” said Msonda.

He has also pledged support to Kamlepo and has since urged his followers to work with Kamlepo for the May 20 tripartite elections.