Tag Archives: UTM party

Politics

Cracks, camps widen in UTM party

MaraviPost 1 Comment

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Unified Transformation Movement (UTM) is facing a major crisis, with insiders revealing that the party is divided and at war with itself.

According to a passionate UTM supporter, the party has split into two factions: the original UTM led by comrades like Kaliati, Fredo, and Kambala, and the DK Forces led by Phyllis and others who are allegedly working with the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government.

The DK Media Forces are propagating that the original UTM is working with DPP by promoting the agenda of DPP, like what Fredo is doing.

This claim has sparked outrage among UTM supporters, who accuse the DK Forces of spreading propaganda and attempting to discredit the original UTM leaders.

The original UTM faction is standing firm, supporting President Mutharika’s administration and celebrating his State of the Nation Address (SONA).

Fredo, a prominent UTM figure, is being touted as a true representative of the party, and his efforts to promote development in his constituency are being praised.

However, the DK Forces are not taking it lying down. They are allegedly using social media to spread propaganda and discredit the original UTM leaders, including Fredo.

“They’re trying to rewrite history and erase UTM’s original vision,” says the supporter.

The supporter urges UTM supporters to be vigilant and not fall prey to the DK Forces’ divisive tactics.

“If you see a page attacking APM or the DPP government, it’s the DK Forces media team, not the real UTM,” they caution.

As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear: UTM is at a crossroads, and the party’s future hangs in the balance.

Will the original vision of the party prevail, or will the DK Forces succeed in hijacking the movement? Only time will tell.

The supporter concludes: “Wa UTM yeniyeni ndi uyu Fredo watengera SONA ku constituency kwake.

The same DK Forces media akuti Fredo walakwitsa sanayike background ya UTM pa frayer yake… So my comrades, beware!”

Politics

Chisomo Nkhata quits UTM after being dropped from Lilongwe Mlodza Candidancy

Burnett Munthali

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Chisomo Nkhata, a UTM aspirant in Lilongwe Mlodza Constituency, has announced that he will not be contesting on the party’s ticket in next week’s election.

Nkhata said he made the decision after UTM submitted the name of Shyreen Masanza to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) as its official candidate for the constituency.

He explained that this development left him disappointed and frustrated with the party’s leadership.

Speaking to MIJ Online, Nkhata confirmed that he has withdrawn from UTM in protest at what he described as unfair internal processes.

Despite the setback, Nkhata revealed that he is not quitting politics altogether, announcing his intention to run in the 2030 parliamentary elections.

He emphasised that his focus will now be on rebuilding his political career outside the UTM framework.

At the time of reporting, UTM spokesperson Felix Njawala had not yet commented on the matter.

Politics

Felix Njawala slams MCP’s campaign messaging-“Chakwera and his cadres have nothing to show for five years in power”

Burnett Munthali

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-As Malawi enters the final stretch of its heated 2025 election campaign season, political accusations continue to fly—this time from UTM’s outspoken politician, Felix Njawala.

Njawala has taken a firm swipe at the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP), claiming it has completely failed to articulate any tangible achievements from its five years in office.

Speaking during a campaign rally, Njawala argued that MCP’s campaign lacks substance because the party has no credible development record to present to the people of Malawi.

According to him, the MCP is merely recycling vague rhetoric and hollow promises, as it struggles to explain how it has transformed the country since assuming power in 2020.

Njawala accused the ruling party of investing more in public relations than in actual delivery of services or infrastructure that impact the daily lives of Malawians.

He challenged MCP leaders to point out even one major project or reform that has fundamentally improved the lives of ordinary citizens in the past five years.

The UTM member further alleged that the government has failed in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, job creation, and public sector reform.

He cited worsening fuel shortages, rising food prices, unemployment, and corruption scandals as key indicators of the administration’s failure to govern effectively.

Njawala argued that while MCP leaders boast of stability and unity, the reality on the ground tells a different story—one of rising poverty and broken promises.

He claimed that the ruling party’s silence on its track record during the campaign period is not coincidental, but rather a clear admission of failure.

Njawala also questioned how the MCP expects Malawians to renew their mandate when their lives have not improved under its leadership.

He called on voters to scrutinize campaign messages and reject parties that rely on emotional slogans instead of delivering measurable progress.

The comments come at a time when political alliances are being tested, and UTM continues to position itself as a party of transformation and accountability.

As the September 16, 2025 elections approach, Njawala’s remarks add to the intensifying political discourse, where performance, credibility, and truth-telling are in the spotlight.

While MCP has yet to directly respond to Njawala’s criticism, his statement reflects growing public impatience with political rhetoric that lacks substance.

With just weeks to go before Malawians cast their votes, the battle for narrative control is becoming as crucial as the policies being promised.

District News

Kabambe receives hero’s welcome in Mulanje Bale

Burnett Munthali

By Burnett Munthali

On Thursday, 1 May 2025, the people of Mulanje Bale turned out in large numbers to welcome the President of the UTM Party, Dr. Dalitso Kabambe.

It was a day filled with excitement, unity, and hope as supporters gathered in anticipation of Dr. Kabambe’s arrival in the southern district.

From the early hours of the morning, enthusiastic crowds began to assemble along the roads leading to the main venue, waving UTM flags and singing political songs in support of their leader.

The turnout was a clear indication that Dr. Kabambe’s popularity continues to grow, especially in the rural constituencies where calls for change have become more vocal in recent years.

Supporters of all ages, dressed in UTM regalia, chanted slogans and danced in celebration, signaling their appreciation for the vision and leadership of Dr. Kabambe.

Upon his arrival, Dr. Kabambe was welcomed with loud cheers and traditional dances, reflecting the warm hospitality and admiration of the people of Mulanje Bale.

Addressing the crowd, Dr. Kabambe expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming reception, stating that it strengthened his resolve to serve the people of Malawi with integrity and dedication.

He emphasized that Malawi is at a crossroads and that only visionary and transformative leadership can move the country forward.

Dr. Kabambe highlighted key issues affecting Malawians, including the high cost of living, rising unemployment, and persistent corruption, which he said are symptoms of failed leadership and misplaced priorities.

He reiterated UTM’s commitment to creating jobs, revamping the healthcare and education sectors, and empowering the youth and women to participate meaningfully in the nation’s development.

The UTM leader stressed the importance of national unity and patriotism, calling on Malawians to rise above tribal and political divisions for the sake of a better future.

He assured the people that under a UTM government, there would be equal opportunities for all, and no citizen would be left behind in the pursuit of national progress.

Dr. Kabambe further stated that UTM believes in a people-centered development agenda, where every policy is tailored to improve the quality of life of ordinary Malawians.

He called on voters in Mulanje Bale to remain hopeful, vigilant, and committed to the cause of change, adding that real transformation requires the active participation of every citizen.

The Mulanje Bale rally marked a significant moment in Dr. Kabambe’s political campaign trail as it demonstrated the party’s deepening grassroots support in regions traditionally dominated by other political parties.

Political analysts have noted that UTM’s growing presence in areas like Mulanje is a signal that the political landscape in Malawi is undergoing a significant shift.

As the 2025 elections draw closer, Dr. Kabambe’s visit to Mulanje Bale has not only energized the UTM base but also reminded voters that their voices and their votes are powerful tools for change.

The successful rally in Mulanje Bale reinforces the belief among UTM supporters that Dr. Kabambe is a credible alternative to the current leadership and a symbol of hope for a new Malawi.

As the sun set on this memorable Thursday, the people of Mulanje Bale dispersed with renewed enthusiasm, their spirits lifted by Dr. Kabambe’s message of hope, renewal, and national revival.

For many, his presence was not just a campaign visit but a call to action—a reminder that a better Malawi is possible if people unite behind purposeful and principled leadership.

Lifestyle

Dalitso Kabambe promises transformational development for Mangochi using Malawi’s own resources

Burnett Munthali

By Burnett Munthali

Dalitso Kabambe, who is the leader of the UTM Party, has declared that his government will open the financial gates and utilize funds already secured to transform Mangochi into one of the most beautiful cities in Africa.

Kabambe said, for example, that the Malawi government has already accessed MK4 trillion from Afrexim Bank which will be used to construct high-standard roads and build a modern airport terminal to attract international tourists.

He explained that Mangochi City will also benefit from a state-of-the-art hospital that will cater to various medical conditions, ensuring better healthcare for the people of the region.

The UTM leader further stated that other development initiatives will include investment in water-based transport and oil exploration activities on Lake Malawi.

He emphasized that the time has come for Malawi to start implementing projects that generate its own wealth and channel that wealth into national development.

Kabambe underscored the importance of using Malawi’s own financial resources to achieve sustainable progress without overdependence on donors.

He believes that this approach will not only boost economic independence but also create employment opportunities and uplift living standards in the country.

According to him, Mangochi’s transformation will serve as a model of what is possible when a government commits to vision-driven leadership backed by financial discipline.

He insisted that the UTM-led administration will prioritize investment in infrastructure, tourism, and health as the backbone of Malawi’s future economy.

Kabambe concluded by calling upon Malawians to rally behind this vision, assuring them that real and tangible development is within reach if resources are managed well and political will remains strong.

Politics

Road to September 16: Over 200 dump MCP for UTM in Karonga Central

MaraviPost

MZUZU-(MaraviPost)-More than 200 people at Mbande in Karonga Central Constituency on Thursday, April 3, 2025 dumped the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) for the opposition UTM party, saying the latter promises an industrious future for them.

Speaking at a function held at Mbande Primary School, where Kaitano Simwaka was introduced as UTM torchbearer for the constituency, UTM regional governor for the northern region Moses Mlenga said it was “a relief” to see that people are finally willing to change their lives for the better.

“The decision you have made today,” Mlenga said, “is the right one towards making Malawi great and prosperous for everyone. My prayer is that God should keep you healthy so that you vote for Dr Dalitso Kabambe, the only hope for Malawi on September 16.”

According to Mlenga, UTM was overwhelmingly impressed with Simwaka as the torchbearer for Karonga Central and requested the chiefs and constituents to bless and trust him.

“Karonga Central has suffered for a long time because of some people who feel like the constituency is a personal or family estate.

“Their time is up because this is time for real change for the better with Simwaka,” said Mlenga.

On his part, Simwaka said he was grateful for the support of the constituents and pledged servant leadership once he takes over as parliamentarian.

“I was born and raised up here, and I know the problems of this constituency.

“Together we will be discussing our problems and come up with the best of solutions for our own sake,” said Simwaka.

One of the defectors, Lughano Mwalilino, said he is convinced with UTM’s agenda for development, saying he “is disappointed with MCP.”

Politics

UTM dresses down Michael Usi’ scapegoat, hypocrisy

Dorica Mtenje

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The United Transformation Movement (UTM) has publicly confronted Vice President Michael Usi, accusing him of pursuing a self-serving agenda, referred to as “Odya zake.”

In an interview with Maravipost on Tuesday, January 28, UTM Secretary Williet Karonga expressed concerns about Usi’s actions, claiming he is trying to create conflict within UTM.

Karonga stated, “We have long realized that Usi is focused on his agenda. It is disheartening that he is attempting to sow discord among UTM followers with new party materials he is producing, which bear the same colors as UTM.”

Initially, Usi was elected as the Vice President of UTM by the party’s founder, Saulos Chilima.

However, after Chilima’s death, Usi did not attend the party convention held in Mzuzu, where Dalitso Kabambe was chosen as Chilima’s successor.

Following the convention, Usi publicly declared that the UTM convention was illegal, arguing that it did not follow the proper legal procedures.

Currently serving as Vice President in the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) regime, Usi has been seen wearing UTM-branded materials at various government events.

This is contrary to UTM’s decision to distance itself from the Tonse Alliance government after the tragic plane crash that killed Chilima.

In a surprising development, Zodiak recently discovered secret clothing at one of the printing companies featuring the Vice President’s face along with the same colors as UTM, shifting from the original green color previously used.

Efforts to reach Vice President Usi for comment on this matter were unsuccessful, as his phone went unanswered.

Opinion, Politics

My Take On It: Who or what do others see projected in our lives?

Janet Karim 1 Comment

But by the grace of God, I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. —- 1 Corinthians 15:10

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” — Galatians 2:20

Heartiest congratulations to Dr. Dalitso Kabambe for his United Transformation (UTM) Primary election win, becoming the Presidential candidate for the 2025 Malawi Tri-partite elections! His win led to the defeat of three contenders Kambala (UTM founder), Dr. Mtumbuka, and former UTM Secretary-General strong-person Patricia Kaliati.

My serious advice on this, as celebrations and analyses take their round, is that the Presidential candidate Kabambe must not forget or throw away the three contenders (Kambala, Mtumbuka, and Kaliati). He, the Party and indeed the whole country needs them.

For unity, for the wealth of contributions, they can and will bring to party and country, and for modelling how party politics must be run. Presidential candidate Kabambe should make major plans to incorporate them for success in 2025 as well as a fruitful presidency. Let the UTM bring back the brilliance of the SKF tenure.

On November 18, 2024, I turned 70 years old; to commemorate this, there were a two-week long celebrations: 1) my nephew took me, his Mum and wife to a Christian concert; 2) my son came to visit me from the UK; 3) my best friend/sister came (in a surprise fashion) from Malawi); 4) my cousin did the airport transfers for my son (Dulles Airport is a maze!); and gifts, over 300 Facebook wishes and church a sister compiled an amazing rendition of my favorite CeCe Winans song (That’s My King). Each one remembering me in a manner I did not know had even registered in friends and family, but they poured out their love while celebrating me as they knew of me.

Getting back to the UTM elections in wins and the defeats, a recent article took a stand on Kaliati’s failure to secure winning votes on the party’s presidential candidacy as a reflection of “a troubling trajectory in her political career.”

The article further went on to say that “her decline can largely be attributed to a series of unfortunate and controversial statements made over the years.” The author of this pronouncement does not give a single example of the statements, but says the “utterances have been reckless and divisive,” hence marking the end of Kaliati’s over 20-year political career in Malawi.

I refute these allegations and beg to differ from this stand, as other Malawian political analyst pundits must likewise refute this position. Failure is not an indicator of decline in any sector of the human race.

It is merely a turning point. Kaliati, has her legacy etched firmly on Malawi’s political map. She entered the political scene during the UDF party presidency of Dr. Bakili Muluzi, served in Bingu wa Mutharika’s DPP, and is among the founder members of the UTM.

In all three parties, Honorable Patricia’s brand and legacy has been dazzling, brilliant, and remarkable. New UTM leader Kabambe would be walking into the grey zone should he not give Kaliati a role ln the party of when he forms his government upon winning the presidency in 2025. Below are five examples of the Kaliati factor in Malawi politics.

1. As tourism minister in Muluzi’s term, she put backpackers (low-budget foreign tourists) on notice when they were building shantytowns along Malawi’s lakeshore.

At one of the shabby resorts, the owner complained that she had traveled on her inspection tour with journalists, she responded in pure Kaliati style: “Whom did you want me to come here with, my husband?”

2. During Bingu’s early tenure as president and after he had broken away from the UDF (forming the DPP), some UDF politicians threatened me for my writings and MBC Mizwanya radio program in support of Bingu. They said they were making plans to silence me. She was then minister of information. When she learned of this, Kaliati took her the recordings and writings to the President. I shall always recall the support both she and former President Dr. Joyce Banda (then minister of foreign affairs) gave in their interventions.

3. As a diplomat in New York, I was privileged to negotiate in the resolution to end the global malaise of child marriage. As minister of women and children, Kaliati negotiated with her fellow parliamentarians to localize the global ruling on pushing marriage of boys and girls to 18 years. Malawi was the first country to end child marriage through a country law.

4. Still as minister of women and children, Kaliati in 2016 brough a team of champions of advocates in ending child marriage in Malawi. Among them was the globally popular Malawi Child Marriage Terminator, Sr. Chief Theresa Kachindamoto. (She now a global icon in her own right).

5. Kaliati has been the ever-present woman in red UTM regalia since former VP SKC trotted out of the DPP to form the UTM. Through her voice at political party rallies, Kaliati enjoyed a lot of respect, recognition, and resounding support from UTM President SKC. As much as SKC was a crowd puller and exhibited great crown control, Kaliati was and is a rubble-rouser. SKC brand of crown pull was quieter full of proverbs, Kaliati’s brand was loud, distinct, vociferous and raucous. Both styles are grand in their own rights.

Patricia Kaliati firmly etched on Malawi’s political map. UTM needs and can rightly benefit from her distinct and unique brand of political clout.

Osaopa! Osafooka! Osatopa!

Politics

Michael Usi deserts UTM convention to avoid embarrassing defeat

MaraviPost

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-For fear of embarrassing defeat, State Vice President Michael Usi has decided said not be party to UTM’s elective convention slated for November 17, 2024 in Mzuzu.

Usi, who is UTM current president told The Nation Online that he does not want to be tainted by the unconstitutional decisions that the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) has made in the run-up to the conference despite his efforts to advise NEC against the alleged illegal moves.

“As State Vice President, I cannot be involved in a process that is proceeding with serious violations of the party constitution because doing so would make me complicit and if I am seen as complicit in the violation of a party constitution, how can people trust that I will uphold the Constitution of the Republic?,” said Usi.

Some of the violations he cited include moves to change the party constitution without due process, altering the composition of delegates to the national conference and proceeding with the national conference before similar exercises are held at constitutional, district and regional levels where the constitution says delegates to the national conference derive from.

“So, yes, I have not filed my nomination papers because I have no time for unnecessary fights,” he said.

But sources within UTM told this publication that Usi’ decision is based on fear of defeat at the convention as he has no delegates support.

“He has played politics to seek sympathy from the general public to be seen more intelligent while he knows that he could face shameless defeat at the convention.

“Usi always think that is more intelligent in the party. This is he told local media recently that he could not resign from the party citing lack of leadership skills in other party’s members. He has lost the plot”, says the source.

But UTM publicist Felix Njawala asked for more time before he comment on Usi’ decision

Breaking News: Usi Withdraws from UTM Convention, Citing Constitutional Violations

By Twink Jones Gadama

In a shocking turn of events, State Vice President Michael Usi has announced his withdrawal from the United Transformation Movement’s (UTM) elective convention, slated for November 17, 2024, in Mzuzu.

As the current president of UTM, Usi’s decision comes after his efforts to advise the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) against alleged unconstitutional decisions fell on deaf ears.

In an exclusive interview with Nation Online, Usi expressed his concerns about the party’s violation of its own constitution.

“As State Vice President, I cannot be involved in a process that is proceeding with serious violations of the party constitution… If I am seen as complicit in the violation of a party constitution, how can people trust that I will uphold the Constitution of the Republic?” he questioned.

Specifically, Usi cited three key violations: the alteration of the party constitution without due process, changes to the composition of delegates to the national conference, and proceeding with the national conference before similar exercises are held at constitutional, district, and regional levels.

These actions, according to Usi, undermine the very foundation of the party and the country’s democratic principles.

“I have no time for unnecessary fights,” he stated, explaining his decision not to file nomination papers.

This development comes amidst growing tensions within UTM, with some members expressing concerns about the party’s direction and leadership.

Usi’s withdrawal from the convention raises questions about the party’s future and its ability to unite ahead of the convention.

As the November 17 convention approaches, it remains to be seen how UTM will address these constitutional violations and internal conflicts. One thing is certain, however:

Michael Usi’s withdrawal has sent shockwaves through the party, sparking a renewed debate about leadership, accountability, and the rule of law.

The implications of Usi’s decision will be far-reaching, with potential consequences for the party’s reputation and electoral prospects.

As Malawi navigates its complex political landscape, the UTM’s ability to resolve its internal conflicts and adhere to its constitution will be closely watched.

In the words of Usi, “How can people trust that I will uphold the Constitution of the Republic?”

The answer to this question will depend on the actions of UTM’s leadership in the coming days and weeks.

Politics

UTM elective convention: Kabambe dates Southern Region delegates for support

Chisomo Phiri

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The United Transformation Movement (UTM) presidential aspirant Dr. Dalitso Kabambe has urged delegates to vote for him during the party’s elective convention on November 17, 2024, in Mzuzu.

Speaking with journalists after meeting the delegates at Malawi Sun Hotel in Blantyre on Thursday, Kabambe said he is worthy of running the party since he has worked in various top government positions for twenty-five years and is ready to bring the experience he gained from those positions into UTM.

“I am urging the UTM delegates to vote for me during our convention next week. The party needs someone who has experience to drive it forward and I am eligible for that. I have twenty-five years of experience and qualifications in running various government institutions.

“I have been budget director, I have been Governor of Reserve Bank, I have been principal secretary in Malawi government and I have served various top positions out there. I bringing all this worthy of experience into UTM so that the party also has people who can run this country,” said Kabambe.

The former RBM Governor also highlighted the economic challenges Malawi is facing under Tonse Alliance leadership, including hunger, poverty and joblessness, which have left half the population in dire need of help.

He emphasized that the country needs a government that addresses these challenges and meets the needs of its people.

Kabambe promised to bring economic reform and transformation if elected.

He stressed that the UTM party needs to stand by its ideals of unity and transformation and elect a team that can be trusted by Malawians and has the confidence of the people.