Umodzi Party Reaffirms Commitment to Tonse Alliance Amid Partner Exits
The Tonse Alliance, formed in 2020, has faced challenges as coalition partners reassess their positions ahead of the 2025 general elections.
BLANTYRE, Malawi — The Umodzi Party (UP) has expressed its intention to remain in the Tonse Alliance, led by the Malawi Congress Party, despite recent departures of key coalition partners, writes Mayamiko Phiri.
UP President Thomas Wezzie Kaumba voiced his party's commitment during an interview in Blantyre on Friday.
This comes after the Alliance for Democracy (Aford), United Transformation Movement (UTM), and People's Party (PP) withdrew from the coalition.
"Those who are leaving the Tonse Alliance, they don't have the welfare of people at heart," Kaumba said.
"That's why they are moving out with elections approaching for their personal gains."
Kaumba defended the alliance's performance, citing reduced threats to people with albinism, infrastructure development, fuel availability, and the resumption of railway transportation as positive achievements under President Lazarus Chakwera's administration.
"As things stand currently, we are much committed to support the Tonse Alliance," Kaumba stated.
He added that the Umodzi Party is prepared to contest the 2025 elections independently if the alliance is officially dissolved.
The UP president also revealed that his party is establishing grassroots structures nationwide to enhance its visibility and competitiveness.
The Tonse Alliance, formed in 2020, has faced challenges as coalition partners reassess their positions ahead of the 2025 general elections.
Despite these setbacks, smaller parties like UP continue to express support for the ruling coalition.