By Rahim Abdul
The Alliance for Democracy (Aford) has dismissed recent remarks made by Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Northern Region Governor Christopher Mzomera Mngwira, saying his statements do not reflect any agreement between the two parties.
Aford says it was important to clarify the matter to avoid misleading the public.
Aford’s news officer, Amatullah Maluwa, made the clarification after Mngwira addressed a political meeting in central Rumphi.
She said his comments had created confusion among community members, prompting the party to correct the narrative.
During the meeting, Mngwira claimed that Aford should avoid fielding a candidate in the upcoming Rumphi by-election.
He argued that the party’s involvement would be inappropriate following the appointment of Aford president Enoch Chihana as the country’s second vice president.
Mngwira suggested that Aford’s participation in the by-election would appear ungrateful to President Peter Mutharika, whom he credited for giving Chihana a senior leadership role.
He warned that entering the race would be a sign of disrespect.
He further argued that Aford should show appreciation by stepping aside and allowing the governing party to dominate the by-election.
According to him, such a gesture would strengthen the working relationship between the parties.
However, Aford has rejected these claims, insisting that Mngwira was merely seeking attention and attempting to portray himself as a powerful political intermediary.
Maluwa stressed that his views do not represent any official position.
She added that Rumphi remains one of Aford’s strongest political bases, making the suggestion to withdraw from the race unrealistic.
Maluwa said the party values the support it receives from the area.
According to her, Aford’s decisions are made through its structures and guided by internal consultations, not external influence.
She maintained that no outsider has the authority to determine whether the party should contest an election.
Maluwa also noted that the upcoming by-election gives Aford an opportunity to reaffirm its relevance in national politics.
She said many supporters in Rumphi are expecting the party to field a candidate.
As preparations for the by-election continue, Aford has assured its members that it will remain committed to decisions that reflect the will of its supporters.
The party emphasised that Mngwira’s statements carry no impact on its plans for Rumphi.
