UDF factions unite

Members of the factions in the opposition United Democratic Front-UDF have finally decided to come together and work as one political block, leader of one of the factions Friday Jumbe has revealed.

The Jumbe and Atupele Muluzi factions were formed almost two years ago following leadership wrangles in the party last year.

The wrangles were sparked by its secretary general Kennedy Makwangala who endorsed Atupele Muluzi, a son to the former chairman of the party and state president Bakili Muluzi, as the party’s torch bearer in the 2014 polls.

The divisions in the party have left its supporters confused and also threatened its future.

The appointment of key members of the party into ministerial positions by the new government also created the uncertainty of the future of the party.

But Jumbe told the media that the two sides have decided to work together after realizing that they cannot face and win the polls amidst divisions.

“We have noted that they could not make it individually on the political scene. So we are currently holding discussions to formalize our move, so that we can forge ahead.”

There was no immediate comment from Atupele on Jumbe’s reconciliatory tone.

However, a chancellor college political science lecturer Blessings Chinsinga said the joining of the two factions will help strengthen the party ahead of the 2014 general elections.

He said “the development has happened at the right time when all parties are putting their houses in order.”