Alliance for Democracy (Aford) president Enoch Chihana yesterday announced that his party has entered into an electoral alliance with former governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in the September 16 General Election.
During a news conference in Lilongwe yesterday also attended by DPP heavyweights, including senior national governing council member George Chaponda and secretary general Peter Mukhito, he said he was offered the position of Second Vice-President should DPP return to power.
Chihana said with 21 presidential hopefuls eyeing the hot seat, it was clear that many were driven by personal ambition rather than a genuine desire to serve the nation.
“Therefore, I have decided not to join this calamity of greedy individuals who are eager to satisfy their personal interests and not that of the common man. It is imperative that we prioritise unity, stability, socio-economic development, and collective progress over individual interests,” he said, justifying his decision not to contest for the presidency.
Chihana also cautioned against violence, saying Aford does not want to part of a government that shields lawlessness.
On whether Aford has faith in the alliance considering its past experience in the disintegrated governing Tonse Alliance led by Malawi Congress Party (MCP), he said discussions with DPP have taken about a year with mutual respect for each partner’s contributions.
DPP director of political affairs Ben Phiri said DPP president Peter Mutharika, who is set to present his nomination papers today, will decide on the running mate who may come from any party.
“This is not about personal gains; it is about rescuing Malawians from the suffering they are facing today. Everyone is welcome to join the alliance,” he said.
Chaponda also chipped in and dismissed assertions that Mutharika, who turned 85 on July 18, was not fit to run for the office of President, saying doubters “will be shamed” when he presents his nomination papers.
Besides, Chaponda, Phiri and Mukhito, DPP director of campaign Sameer Sulemani also attended the briefing.
