A group of concerned members from the United Transformation Movement (UTM) has voiced their deep dissatisfaction with the recent UTM convention, expressing serious concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and the results of the presidential vote.
In a statement released on social media, the members highlighted their belief that the convention did not reflect the true wishes of the party’s membership. Allegations surrounding the party’s infiltration by members sympathetic to the opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) have particularly alarmed the members. The statement notes that these concerns point to a compromised list of delegates which may have skewed the election outcome.
“We demand a thorough explanation from those responsible for organizing the elections and managing the processes,” the statement read. “The sudden and drastic changes in party leadership have left us feeling betrayed and disenfranchised.”
The signatories, including prominent party figures Charles Kondowe, Kondwani Munthali, and Fletcher Katambalare, underscored the absence of founding members in key positions, asserting that this undermines the fundamental character of UTM.
They have since called for an investigation into the alleged irregularities, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
In solidarity with Dr. Michael Usi’s claims of manipulated convention procedures, the members criticized the lack of sufficient oversight and they have demanded that the party leadership should address these critical concerns including allegations of vote manipulation and the presence of DPP sympathizers within the party.
“As we reflect on the legacy of Dr. Saulos Chilima, we cannot help but wonder if this is what he would have wished for his once-mighty UTM,” they stated, urging party leaders to uphold the founding principles and values of the movement.
Concerned members have given party executives a seven-day ultimatum to respond to their demands for a transparent investigation and clear accountability. Failing that, the group threatens to seek court intervention to ensure that justice is served.
The controversy over the convention results has sparked significant debate within UTM and raised questions about the future leadership and direction of the party as it navigates internal discord amid ongoing political challenges in Malawi.
The UTM leadership has yet to officially respond to the allegations or the ultimatum presented by concerned party members. Meawhile, both Dr. Matthews Chinombo Mtumbuka and Mr. Newton Kambala who contested on the presidency have separately alleged vote rigging during the convention .
While Dr. Mtumbuka has categorically stated that he would not be challenging the rigged results in court, Mr. Kambala is having none of it, promising a possibility of taking the matter to court to nullify the election.
