MZUZU – The UTM convention took a battle turn as both Patricia Kaliati and Newton Kambala, contenders for the party’s presidency, launched sharp criticisms at Dalitso Kabambe, who has been accused of attempting to erase the legacy of its founding president, the late Saulos Klaus Chilima.
Kabambe, a former Governor of the Reserve Bank of Malawi and a cousin to former President Peter Mutharika, has reportedly been deployed by the DPP to infiltrate the UTM and possibly restore it to its previous political alignment – the DPP.
Allegations have surfaced claiming that Kabambe’s mission is part of a broader DPP strategy, which would culminate in him being selected as Mutharika’s running mate in the upcoming elections if he succeeds in his endeavors to seize UTM.
Earlier reports from Shire Times suggested that Kabambe had been granted resources for this covert operation, with the intent to forge alliances between DPP and UTM, as well as other interested parties. This perceived “takeover” of UTM which also purports to wipe Chilima’s legacy off the party has ignited fierce opposition from those within the party who cherish the legacy of its founder.
Patricia Kaliati, the outgoing UTM Secretary General, wasted no time in condemning Kabambe’s ambitions during her speech. “If anyone wants to erase the legacy of Chilima and start printing the party apparel with their faces, they will be using those apparels at funerals, not at our party’s functions or events,” Kaliati stated emphatically. Her remarks hinted at the belief that Kabambe’s efforts to rebrand UTM under his image were not only unwelcome but also a direct affront to the party’s history and ideals.
There are reports that Kabambe, who is hopeful that he will attain the party’s leadership, has already printed UTM-branded apparel with his own face as its ‘new president’ replacing that of its founding leader, Saulosi Chilima.
Echoing Kaliati’s sentiments, fellow presidential aspirant Newton Kambala also took aim at Kabambe, affirming that the integrity of the UTM brand would be maintained. “No one shall be allowed to erase Chilima’s face and replace it with their own on UTM attire,” Kambala declared, emphasizing the party’s dedication to preserving its foundational values and leadership.
Kambala further asserted his commitment to keeping UTM independent from DPP influences, stating, “I will make sure that UTM appears on the ballot next year. If there is any need to consider an alliance with any party, the decision will be made after consulting with our party delegates.” This declaration fortifies his stance against any perceived alignment with the DPP, signaling his intent to nurture UTM as a standalone political entity.
The tensions during the convention have raised questions about the future direction of UTM, as party members grapple with the implications of Kabambe’s alleged agenda. The potential for internal division looms large, with rival factions emerging within the party, each vying for control over its identity and political trajectory.
