Days after being endorsed by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) as a torchbearer in the next year’s presidential candidate, United Democratic Front (UDF’s) Atupele Muluzi has rejected the endorsement, calling it undemocratic.
Writing on his official Facebook page, Muluzi said he is of the view that the position should be contested at the forthcoming Convention in August 2024.
“I decided to step down as President of UDF two years ago to ensure a fair and level playing field for all candidates vying for positions, including the presidency, at the UDF Convention in August 2024. As a firm believer in democracy, I stand by the principles that guide our political processes.
“It is imperative to highlight that the idea of the UDF NEC endorsing me as a Presidential Candidate is contrary to democratic values. Such actions not only undermine the essence of democracy but also diminish the authority of political party elective conferences and the aspirations of other individuals seeking the presidential role.
“We must uphold and promote intra-party democracy within our political organizations. Let us work together to strengthen democracy within our parties and uphold the values that form the foundation of our political system,” he said
On May 28, 2022, Muluzi stepped down as the party’s president saying he wanted to pursue business interests for the development and progress of Malawi.
As part of this transition, he has appointed Lillian Patel, the Party Vice-President for the Eastern Region, as the acting president until the next National Convention where his successor will be elected12.
