Political pruning at work—says PP

Despite pointers that things are falling apart, the former ruling Peoples’ Party (PP) has described the massive resignations from its ranks and file as a sign of “political pruning season”.

The statement comes against the background of the latest resignation from the party of deputy director of women affairs and senior National Executive Committee (NEC) member Ettinor Koloviko.

In May alone, the former governing  party, which has survived without its leader Joyce Banda since June  last year, has already lost two of its three vice-presidents Harry Mkandawire (Northern Region) and Brown Mpinganjira who was responsible for the Southern Region.

Sosten Gwengwe who was Banda’s running mate during last year’s May 20 Tripartite Elections, also recently hinted at leaving the party.

But reacting to the high-level resignations, PP spokesperson Ken Msonda said yesterday the party was not shaken because its grassroots remain solid.

He said: “Few months prior and after any general election there is a political wind that blows. This is the period referred to as ‘political pruning season’ and ‘weak leaves fall off’. PP is currently going through that season.”