How “Wadya Ntoliro” Became a Political Flashpoint in Post-Election Malawi

The phrase “Wadya Ntoliro,” now widely circulated on social media and referenced in satirical music pieces, has become one of the most talked-about political expressions following the 2025 presidential election. The origin of the phrase has been linked to Kondwani Mdoko, a young Malawi Congress Party (MCP) supporter whose influence on campaign messaging has drawn debate across the political divide.

The expression gained prominence after former President Lazarus Chakwera was captured on video in Mzuzu, stepping out of the State Lodge and casually said it on camera. At the time, many Malawians questioned what the expression meant and why it had suddenly entered the national political space.

Following the decisive 16 September 2025 elections—where Chakwera and the MCP were defeated—the phrase resurfaced online and took on new interpretations, with critics using it to symbolise what they describe as misplaced priorities and ineffective communication during Chakwera’s administration.

Political analysts have argued that the incident reflects broader concerns about the party’s campaign strategy during the 2025 polls. Some observers believe the MCP leadership relied too heavily on informal advice from young cadres instead of seasoned political strategists, contributing to mixed messaging and public confusion.

Meanwhile, in the post-election period, a separate issue involving the reported theft of four State House security dogs has also generated public commentary. Former State House officer Godfrey Jalale was arrested in connection with the matter, drawing further scrutiny over security management during the previous administration.

These incidents have collectively fuelled social media conversations, with artists producing songs referencing “Wadya Ntoliro,” turning the phrase into a cultural symbol of the 2020–2025 political era.

Critics of the former administration argue that the spread of the phrase underscores broader concerns about communication gaps, inconsistent decision-making, and internal advisory challenges during Chakwera’s presidency. Supporters of the former president, however, say the phrase has been blown out of proportion and used unfairly for political ridicule following the electoral loss.

As the country moves forward under new leadership, the “Wadya Ntoliro” phenomenon remains a reminder of how quickly public communication moments can transform into national talking points—shaping political narratives long after elections are concluded.