Leader of the People’s Development Party (PDP), Kondwani Nankhumwa, has accused the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of playing political games aimed at blocking him from contesting for the position of Speaker of Parliament.

Nankhumwa made the remarks after his name was excluded from the final list of candidates, despite his submission of nomination papers ahead of the election. His disqualification came after the Office of the Clerk of Parliament received five nominations, while parliamentary rules allow only four candidates to appear on the ballot.

Clerk of Parliament Fiona Kalemba told the House that her office had received all five nominations before the 1 p.m. deadline, but was bound by Standing Order 6, which permits only four names to appear on the ballot paper.

“Since my office received more than four candidates, and all made their submissions before the official deadline, I therefore wish to declare that my office has officially received the first four nominations and will proceed to conduct the elections with these candidates,” Kalemba said.

The valid nominees were Sameer Suleman, Peter Dimba, Sandram Scott, and Laston Vigaro, while Kondwani Nankhumwa’s nomination was disqualified for being the fifth submission.

“It is unfortunate that politics has once again taken centre stage in what should have been a fair parliamentary process,” Nankhumwa said. “I was surprised by the rule, but although disappointed, I have accepted the outcome.”

Despite the dispute, Chigumula - BCA Banana legislator Sameer Suleman was elected Speaker of the National Assembly following a tightly contested race marked by intense lobbying and narrow margins.

Suleman, nominated by Karonga Central legislator Frank Mwenifumbo to represent the DPP, emerged victorious against three other contenders, including his closest rival, Peter Dimba of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).

According to official results, Suleman secured 134 votes, while Dimba garnered 85. Vigaro and Scott received no votes, and one member abstained.

A total of 221 Members of Parliament cast their ballots, while two were absent and six seats remain vacant. Kalemba, who presided over the proceedings, officially declared Suleman the winner amid applause from the government side.

Meanwhile, DPP spokesperson Shadreck Namalomba dismissed Nankhumwa’s allegations, describing them as unfounded.

“Mr. Nankhumwa should have been fully aware of parliamentary procedures, especially since he is not new to the House,” Namalomba said. “The party had no influence over the Clerk’s administrative decisions.”

Political analyst Chimwemwe Tsitsi said the controversy was not unexpected, adding that while Parliament acted within its rules, transparency must remain central to its operations.

“This is not surprising,” Tsitsi observed. “Parliament must ensure due process is followed, but it should also remain open and transparent to avoid perceptions of bias.”