By Burnett Munthali
Masintha Ground – In a passionate speech delivered at Masintha Ground on Sunday, September 1, Hon. Newton Kambala emphasized the crucial role of the people in the United Transformation Movement (UTM) and outlined the party’s vision for the future. His address highlighted both the challenges facing Malawi and the UTM’s commitment to addressing these issues.
Kambala declared that UTM could not fulfill its mission without the support of the people gathered at the rally. “UTM will move together until we go into government in September,” he affirmed, underscoring the party’s determination to achieve political success and implement its agenda.
The MP also addressed pressing concerns, noting the rising cost of maize and the shortage of medicine in hospitals. These issues, he argued, reflect the failures of the current system and reinforce the need for UTM’s reform agenda. “We are here because we are not status quo; we are not weak,” Kambala declared, positioning UTM as a dynamic force for change.
Kambala called on citizens to register for national identification cards, which are crucial for voting in the upcoming elections. He assured those facing difficulties with the registration process that he is ready to assist. His commitment to supporting constituents extended to a broader call for vigilance against those who seek to undermine UTM’s efforts. Drawing a parallel with a local story about a man who prioritized wealth over family support, Kambala urged members to protect UTM from individuals who aim to destabilize the party.
Looking forward, Kambala outlined UTM’s vision for developing mega farms and collaborating with business leaders to achieve economic growth. He warned against misleading claims of affiliation with UTM and denounced efforts by other parties to distract voters with monetary incentives.
In summary, Hon. Newton Kambala’s address at Masintha Ground reinforced UTM’s dedication to addressing Malawi’s challenges and rallying support for its vision. His message was clear: unity and engagement are essential for UTM to succeed and bring about meaningful change in the country.
UTM National Campaign Director addresses tragic death of Dr. Saulos Chilima and calls for inquiry
Masintha Ground – At a recent rally, the UTM National Campaign Director Makwenda Chunda, made a poignant address concerning the tragic death of Dr. Saulos Chilima, Malawi’s Vice President, and his colleagues. The director expressed profound shock and sorrow over the loss, describing the incident as both unexpected and deeply painful.
“We were perplexed when we learned that the plane carrying Dr. Saulos Chilima went missing around 10:00 hours in the morning,” the Campaign Director recounted. He described being present at Chikangawa Forest during the initial search efforts, which were unfortunately halted and set to resume the following day. “The search was abandoned for the day, and we were disheartened to find that the plane had been stripped of Dr. Chilima’s clothes, shoes, and socks,” he added, reflecting on the distressing circumstances surrounding the crash.
Makwenda Chunda emphasized his dissatisfaction with the interim report on the crash, stating unequivocally, “I want to announce today that we do not accept the interim report.” He called for calm and promised to engage directly with the government and the President regarding the matter. “Everyone must remain quiet because I want to speak with the government and the president,” he urged.
In his emotional speech, Chunda paid tribute to Dr. Chilima, describing him as a friend, mentor, leader, and brother. He recalled Chilima’s pivotal role in supporting President Chakwera through legal battles, demonstrations, and ultimately helping to secure the current administration. “Dr. Saulos Chilima was fearless,” he noted, acknowledging the Vice President’s significant contributions to the government’s success.
The National Campaign Director called on President Chakwera to establish a comprehensive commission of inquiry to investigate the crash. “Mr. President, I want to ask you to account for a commission of inquiry,” he implored. He proposed that the committee should include lawyers, judges, politicians, and weather experts and emphasized the need for an independent investigation, preferably by a reputable company, although not the German company currently involved.
The speech, however, was cut short due to a technical fault, leaving the audience and observers eager for further developments on the matter. Makwenda Chunda’s call for transparency and accountability reflects the deep concerns within the party and the broader public regarding the tragic loss of Dr. Saulos Chilima.
