Malawi News

UDF National Executive Committee to shape convention future

UDF National Executive Committee to shape convention future

By Pemphero Malimba:

United Democratic Front (UDF) National Executive Committee (Nec) is expected to meet this week to discuss the future of the party’s elective convention, The Daily Times has learned.

The convention was initially scheduled for August 3 2024 at Comesa Hall in Blantyre before it was postponed.

UDF publicity secretary, Yusuf Mwawa, said Sunday that the Nec members will convene in Blantyre to plan the way forward.

“We will discuss the new dates, the voters’ roll and there may be some amendments to the constitution to address concerns regarding the eligibility of members competing at the national conference,” Mwawa said.

He added that the meeting is expected to be chaired by the party’s leader, Lilian Patel.

Mwawa emphasised that the postponement was a necessary measure to ensure that UDF conducts a national conference that is both fair and credible.

“It is important that everyone is confident that the members attending the conference are those who can genuinely lead the party into the 2025 Parliamentary, Local Government and Presidential Elections,” he said.

The UDF spokesperson added that the party is pleased with the number of people expressing interest in contesting various positions.

“We have observed a significant increase in the number of members coming forward. These are individuals who have not previously been part of UDF’s leadership but are now stepping up,” he said.

Political and governance expert George Chaima suggested that the party’s leadership should make decisive moves to ensure the success of its activities.

“UDF needs to make strategic and concrete decisions because the success or failure of any institution depends on its leadership. The leadership must position itself effectively to make decisions that will propel the party forward,” Chaima said.

He reiterated that UDF could have planned better for the convention.

“I believe the postponement of their convention was due to inadequate pre-planning. What they are addressing now should have been done much earlier,” Chaima added.

At least 1,000 delegates are expected to elect new office bearers for UDF at the convention