…SG says discussions have started
By Kondwani Banda
The ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has signaled its intention to enter into an electoral alliance with other political parties ahead of the crucial September 16 presidential, parliamentary and local government elections.
Speaking during a political rally in Dowa, MCP Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda confirmed that the party has already initiated discussions with other political stakeholders but stopped short of naming the potential allies.
“Malawi Congress Party is willing to form an alliance with any party that is available, and we have already started discussions with some political parties,” said Chimwendo Banda.
“However, I cannot mention the parties at this point. The discussions are ongoing, and we are exploring common ground,” he said.
This development comes as political parties begin to position themselves for what is expected to be one of the most competitive elections since the dawn of multiparty democracy.
The adoption of the 50+1 electoral system has changed the political landscape significantly, making it difficult for a single party to secure an outright majority, especially in the presidential race.
Chimwendo Banda’s remarks have ignited a flurry of speculation about possible partners, especially considering that MCP led the Tonse Alliance in 2020, which dislodged the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) from power.
That alliance, which included United Transformation Movement (UTM), People’s Party (PP) and several smaller parties, was hailed as a model of opposition unity at the time.
According to political analyst Chrispin Sauzande, the MCP’s move to keep alliance options open is not only strategic but necessary under the current electoral framework.
“The 50+1 system compels political parties to be realistic about their chances. Even dominant parties like MCP cannot afford to be complacent,” said Sauzande.
“Given its status as the ruling party, MCP is in a good position to attract smaller parties looking for relevance and influence in the next administration,” he said.
Another political commentator, Mary Chipeta, believes the MCP’s approach to alliances this time will be more calculated and focused on compatibility rather than convenience.
“In 2020, the Tonse Alliance was formed largely to remove the DPP. The motivation was common. This time, MCP will need to think more about ideological and operational alignment,” said Chipeta.
Chipeta said MCP’s ability to offer tangible benefits through incumbency makes it an attractive partner for many smaller parties that lack reach and resources.
As the September elections approach, attention will now turn to how other major parties such as the DPP and the remnants of UTM position themselves.
However, the UTM, United Democratic Front, and Alliance for Democracy recently announced that they are in discussions about the possibility of forming an alliance for the September elections.