Political analysts have cautioned that the decision by independent Members of Parliament (MPs) to join political parties after elections could undermine public trust and weaken democratic accountability.

Dr. Tiyesere Chikapa and George Phiri argue that during elections, candidates enter into a political contract with voters based on trust that they will represent the people’s interests. By changing political affiliation after being elected, they contend, MPs breach that contract and risk discouraging voter participation in future elections.

Their comments come in the wake of recent developments in which several independent MPs have joined the governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) even before Parliament has convened.

Dr. Chikapa observed that such actions effectively deprive constituents of genuine representation.

“The voter chose them as independents, and now, all of a sudden, it’s like you are tossing the people’s choice aside. That can frustrate voters,” he said.6

George Phiri echoed these sentiments, describing the move as a reflection of limited understanding of democratic principles.

“It shows a lack of understanding of democracy. I believe what should have happened is that they first seek the mandate of their electorate,” he said.

On Thursday alone, four independent MPs from the Northern Region joined the ruling DPP.

The experts further warned that this trend could lead to excessive concentration of power in the governing party, paving the way for the adoption of unpopular or unbalanced policies.