By Wadza Botomani
Lilongwe, July 24, 2025 – The Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) has officially announced a political alliance with the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), endorsing former President Peter Mutharika as its leader for the upcoming elections.
AFORD President Enock Chihana confirmed the alliance during a press briefing at the party’s headquarters in Area 47, Lilongwe. He stated that AFORD will fully support Mutharika’s leadership and that the DPP leader will have the sole authority to choose his running mate.
Chihana emphasized that he is not seeking any personal position in the alliance, saying the decision was made in the best interest of the country. He dismissed concerns about the absence of AFORD’s vice president, Timothy Mtambo, at the announcement, stating that Mtambo was aware of the alliance and was away on party duties in Chitipa.
Senior DPP officials, including Secretary General Peter Mukhito, George Chaponda, Sameer Suleman, and Ben Phiri, attended the event. Chaponda led the DPP’s negotiations in forming the alliance.
Chihana highlighted AFORD’s history of supporting various parties to form governments, including the UDF, the late Bingu wa Mutharika, Joyce Banda, and the current administration. He expressed confidence in the new partnership, stating that the party has no doubts about working with the DPP.
On campaign preparations, Chihana assured that AFORD has sufficient resources, including campaign materials such as T-shirts, and vowed to run a vigorous campaign.
Following the announcement, Chihana called for a show of support from AFORD members, who unanimously affirmed the alliance. The move signals a significant shift in Malawi’s political landscape as parties consolidate forces ahead of the elections.
