This system was challenged by political activists throughout the years, however Banda's dictatorship suppressed opposition, creating a culture of silence.
[1] Due to growing pressure, Banda agreed to hold a referendum to let the public decide on the issue of multi-party rule.
During the 1993 referendum, Malawians voted for a multi-party system and it became legal to form political parties in Malawi.
Other prominent parties formed and emerged as well, notably the United Democratic Front which was founded by Bakili Muluzi.
The UDF under the charismatic Bakili Muluzi won these elections becoming the first party that was democratically voted into power in Malawi.