He is little known in the political circles and, contrary to peoples’ expectations, Atupele Muluzi, the UDF leader, has settled for him as his running mate in the May elections. That is Dr. Godfrey Chapola, the man the UDF leader has announced as his running mate.

Dr. Godfrey Chapola is a graduate of the University of Malawi (BSc), University of Exeter (UK) (MSc) and University of Florida USA (PhD). He is an agriculturist by profession.

Dr Chapola has worked for the Malawi Government, is the former General Manager of the then Tobacco Research Institute of Malawi (predecessors to ARET), the former General Manager of the Tobacco Control Commission and is now the Managing Director of an NGO.

Dr. Chapola has been described as a suave development conscientious citizen who has implemented many development programs both in official and private capacities. Born in 1949. he comes from Lilongwe.