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Message: [QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 52266, member: 636"] AFORD leader Enoch Chihana announced his party's backing for Arthur Peter Mutharika during a political gathering in Chiradzulu District's Namadidi area. The endorsement positions the former president as the opposition's preferred candidate for Malawi's September 2025 electoral contest. Chihana urged rival parties to form a unified coalition against President Lazarus Chakwera's ruling Malawi Congress Party. He warned that divided opposition votes would benefit the current administration while prolonging economic hardship. The AFORD chief praised Mutharika's governance experience from his 2014-2020 presidential term. Behind-the-scenes negotiations between AFORD and the Democratic Progressive Party preceded this public declaration. Party sources revealed discussions centered on policy coordination and campaign strategy development. Chihana expressed confidence that Mutharika possesses the diplomatic and fiscal management skills necessary for national recovery. He emphasized the need for proven leadership rather than experimental approaches to governance. The endorsement signals potential opposition realignment as the campaign period approaches. Political analysts view this development as potentially catalytic for broader opposition unity. Other opposition figures may follow Chihana's lead in supporting Mutharika's candidacy. AFORD's backing provides regional strength, particularly in northern constituencies where the party maintains loyal supporters. The announcement forces the ruling party to adjust its electoral calculations. Chihana concluded by urging voters to prioritize economic considerations when selecting their next leader. [/QUOTE]

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