By Burnett Munthali
The United Democratic Front (UDF) has expressed surprise at the findings of the Afrobarometer survey released on Friday, December 6, 2024. The survey, which gauged public opinion on Malawi’s political landscape ahead of the 2025 elections, revealed mixed reactions from citizens regarding the party’s relevance and prospects.
In a statement released on Saturday, the UDF leadership acknowledged the survey results but expressed reservations about their accuracy. The party’s spokesperson noted, “While we respect the work of Afrobarometer and the significance of public opinion surveys, we are surprised by the findings, particularly regarding perceptions of the UDF’s influence in shaping Malawi’s future.”
The UDF, once a dominant political force under Bakili Muluzi, has faced dwindling support in recent years. Despite efforts to revitalize the party and position itself as a viable alternative to the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and the opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), the Afrobarometer survey suggests that many Malawians remain unconvinced about the UDF’s ability to address the country’s pressing challenges.
The survey indicates that the UDF’s support base has shrunk significantly, with a notable portion of respondents questioning the party’s relevance in the current political climate. This comes as a blow to the party, which has been working to reestablish its identity and rebuild grassroots connections.
Political analysts attribute this decline to internal conflicts, lack of clear policy direction, and competition from newer political movements. The recent resignation of Aisha Adams as Chair of the UDF’s convention organizing committee, amidst internal disagreements, has further compounded the party’s struggles.
The Afrobarometer findings present a critical moment for the UDF to reflect and strategize. Analysts suggest that the party must focus on the following:
1) The UDF needs to engage more actively with Malawians, particularly the youth, who make up a significant portion of the electorate.
2) Resolving internal disputes and fostering unity within the party will be crucial for its credibility.
3) The party must articulate a compelling vision for Malawi’s future, addressing key issues such as unemployment, corruption, and economic growth.
Despite the survey’s findings, the UDF remains optimistic. The party has reiterated its commitment to presenting a strong and unified front in the 2025 elections. “We believe that the UDF’s legacy and values resonate deeply with Malawians,” the spokesperson added. “Our focus is on addressing their concerns and presenting a vision that restores hope and progress for all.”
The Afrobarometer survey serves as both a challenge and an opportunity for the UDF. While the results may be a wake-up call, they also provide a chance for the party to reassess its strategies and strengthen its position ahead of the elections. Whether the UDF can leverage this moment to regain its former glory remains to be seen.
