In the wake of the recent UTM convention held in Mzuzu, presidential aspirant Dr. Mathews Mtumbuka has alleged that the results were rigged, casting a shadow over the integrity of the electoral process. Mtumbuka’s claims of “missing votes” and “harassment of monitors” were swiftly rebuffed by the convention organizers and the Mtendere Electoral Support Network, which oversaw the election process.
Despite his assertions of irregularities, Mtumbuka has stated that he will not protest the outcome and will continue to serve the party. However, the controversy surrounding the election is far from over. Another candidate, Newton Kambala, has signaled his intent to challenge the convention results through a statement released by his spokesperson, Dr. Chidanti Malunga. Kambala’s team has announced plans to compile their concerns regarding what they believe affected the electoral outcome.
As tensions rise within the UTM ranks, the party may face an internal crisis if Kambala and his supporters decide to pursue a formal challenge. This could complicate the party’s unity and impact its prospects in upcoming elections. With allegations of misconduct and calls for accountability echoing through the party, the future of UTM leadership hangs in the balance as the ramifications of this contentious convention unfold.
