Aford embarks on rebuilding exercise, opens party headquarters in Lilongwe

The Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) president Enock Chihana says the party has engaged extra gear of ensuring that it  is fully revamped, by among other operations opening national headquarters in Lilongwe.

Chihana said the party has since secured offices in Area 47  Lilongwe so that it acts as a central point in the rebuilding process of the party.

He also said the party intends to open regional offices in the North and Eastern regions.

“We cannot talk about revamping the party when we still have no offices,” he said, adding that they now have opened doors to anyone wishing to join the party.

“I have advised my team to say open the doors — pasapezeke otchinga (nobody should be barred from joining,” he said.

Chihana expressed optimism that the party is regaining its last glory and currently they have, for the first time, recruited a vice-president from the Southern Region — Dr. Louis Mbiridzi from Chiradzulu.

Just recently, Chihana received some senior party members from the recent past ruling party, the Democratic Progressive (DPP) — who were led by former deputy national publicity secretary (Central) Chris Michael Thaulo.

Thaulo has said he decided to join AFORD because of the negative environment in DPP, that has potential to dent his political ambitions.

Chihana said following the announcement of the party rebuilding, a lot of people have been willingly joining them.

He said he was delighted to see such prominent people like the deputy publicity secretary of the former ruling party joining AFORD.

Chihana said that lack of communication with the grassroots from all regions of the country, had been a major setback to the party’s popularity.

Founded by the late Chakufwa Chihana, AFORD has, over the years lost most of the seats in Parliament from the 33 seats it enjoyed from 1994 but currently only has one through Yeremiah Chihana of Mzimba North.

Alliances with the then ruling United Democratic Front  (UDF) and opposition Malawi Congress Party  (MCP) led to disagreements within the rank and file of the party leading to formation of factions and splinter parties.

In the recent past, Chihana has been tussling for the party presidency with former Karonga Central legislator and Deputy Minister, Frank Mwenifumbo.

The two announced their reunion during the signing ceremony of the Tonse Alliance partnership in Lilongwe, when they both declared their allegiance to the partnership.

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