By Burnett Munthali
Dr. Dalitso Kabambe’s resignation from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) was driven by several critical factors that reflect both personal ambitions and party dynamics. Here’s an in-depth look at the main reasons behind his departure:
1) Unmet presidential ambitions
Kabambe aspired to become the DPP’s presidential candidate. He anticipated being handpicked by then-President Peter Mutharika (APM) as his successor. However, the DPP’s policy required that all candidates be elected through a party convention rather than being appointed directly. This policy clash created a significant obstacle for Kabambe, who felt his expectations were not being fulfilled.
2.) Frustration with APM’s Re-election Plan
Kabambe’s frustration intensified when APM announced his intention to seek re-election in 2025 during the National Governing Council (NGC) meeting. APM’s plan involved leading the DPP into the 2025 elections and then transitioning leadership afterward. Kabambe, unable to accept this decision and feeling sidelined, abruptly left the meeting, demonstrating his dissatisfaction with APM’s plans.
3.) Failed Underground Campaign
In his frustration, Kabambe, collaborating with businessman Leston Mulli, initiated an underground campaign aimed at undermining APM. This campaign sought to discredit APM and elevate Kabambe’s own position within the party. However, the effort failed to gain significant traction and did not achieve its intended objectives.
4.) Exposure of Legal Maneuvers
Kabambe’s involvement in financing legal actions against APM to prevent him from standing at the convention was exposed in the media. The exposure revealed that Kabambe had not paid those involved in the legal battles, leading to further complications. Figures like Ken Nsonda and Malata, who were part of the legal action, later withdrew their support and apologized to APM, further damaging Kabambe’s standing within the party.
5.) Realization of Damaged Position
After his legal maneuvers were exposed, Kabambe recognized that his actions had irreparably harmed his position within the DPP. Although he maintained a facade of loyalty and politeness towards APM, he understood that his reputation within the party had been severely damaged, especially after the public fallout and subsequent apologies.
6.) Strategic Realignment with UTM
Following the suspicious death of Soulos Chilima, Kabambe saw an opportunity to align himself with the United Transformation Movement (UTM). He believed that UTM offered a more viable platform for his presidential ambitions, presenting a faster route to achieving his goals compared to his stalled prospects within the DPP.
In summary, Dr. Dalitso Kabambe’s resignation from the DPP was influenced by his unmet presidential aspirations, frustration with APM’s re-election bid, failed covert operations, exposure of legal controversies, and a strategic pivot towards UTM in pursuit of his political ambitions.
