By Jones Gadama
In a significant shift in strategy, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has announced that it will not contest the September 16 elections alone, but rather in alliance with other parties.
This decision comes after mounting pressure from its supporters, according to DPP Secretary General Peter Mukhito.
In an interview, Mukhito revealed that the party has listened to the voices of its loyal supporters, who were advocating for a collaborative approach rather than going solo in the elections.
“We have bowed down to the pressure from our supporters, and we have decided to work with other parties,” Mukhito said.
The DPP’s decision to form alliances with other parties marks a departure from its earlier stance of contesting the elections independently.
According to Mukhito, the party’s leadership will engage in further discussions with potential partners to finalize the details of the alliances.
“The one who will lead the alliance will be known when we have completed our homework,” Mukhito added, hinting that the party is still in the process of negotiating with potential partners.
The DPP’s about-face on the election strategy has been welcomed by political analysts, who believe that no single party can win the elections outright.
Political expert Victor Chipofya commended the DPP’s decision, stating that it is a pragmatic move given the current political landscape. “No party will get 50+1 vote on its own,” Chipofya said, emphasizing the importance of forming alliances to achieve electoral success.
The DPP’s decision to form alliances is also seen as a recognition of the party’s limitations and the need to build broader support to win the elections.
By partnering with other parties, the DPP hopes to pool resources and tap into the support bases of its allies, increasing …its chances of success in the September 16 elections. This strategic move is seen as a pragmatic approach, given the current political landscape in Malawi.
The DPP’s potential partners include the United Transformation Movement (UTM), the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), the United Democratic Front (UDF), and the People’s Party (PP), with whom they are discussing forging a united front to address the country’s socio-economic challenges.
The DPP’s decision to form alliances comes after its supporters urged the party to adopt a collaborative approach rather than contesting the elections alone.
According to Peter Mukhito, the party’s Secretary General, the goal of this alliance is to provide alternative leadership that can resolve the difficulties faced by Malawians in areas such as economic instability, unemployment, and the rising cost of living.
AFORD President Enoch Chihana has disclosed that talks regarding a DPP-AFORD alliance have progressed significantly, although he expressed concerns about the electoral process, citing potential biases in election management.
Despite this, the DPP remains committed to ensuring the forthcoming elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner, allowing the people of Malawi to choose the leadership that best serves their needs.
The outcome of these talks will play a significant role in shaping Malawi’s political landscape leading up to the September elections.
By partnering with other parties, the DPP aims to pool resources, tap into the support bases of its allies, and increase its chances of success.
