Three men in a boat

Political life languishes as three old adversaries line up their parties for the elections that lie ahead

Malawi's politics are dominated by three men. President Bingu wa Mutharika holds several ministerial portfolios and leads the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). John Tembo leads the opposition and the largest, oldest party, the Malawi Congress Party (MCP). Ex-President Bakili Muluzi is the extra-parliamentary leader of the United Democratic Front (UDF). All three, say their critics, are self-appointed to their present offices; moreover, they are the only significant challengers in the presidential election that is due in 2009. (Though a third term for Muluzi would be constitutionally dubious).

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