Divisions have emerged in the United Democratic Front (UDF) over the party’s position in the September 16 General Election after some national executive committee (NEC) members conceded defeat, but president Atupele Muluzi feigned ignorance.
Yesterday, some UDF NEC members led by acting national publicity secretary Labana Chilungo addressed the media at Lingadzi Inn in Lilongwe to announce that the party has conceded defeat in the presidential election.
He also proceeded to congratulate former president Peter Mutharika on his projected electoral victory, saying from the unofficial results, it was clear that he was poised to win.
Said Chilungo: “As UDF, we were in this contest and we have seen our position. We have nothing to lose by coming here and congratulating Peter Mutharika for his victory. This gesture will help in promoting peace.”
But in an interview later, Atupele expressed surprise with the group’s position, saying he did not sanction the press briefing and was not aware of any such communication being made in the party’s name.
“I have not sanctioned any press briefing, any declaration and I am not aware of any press briefing by the party,” he said.
On Saturday, Atupele told the media that there were irregularities in the conduct of the elections, which needed to be addressed before any conclusions can be drawn
