By Burnett Munthali
Chrissie Kanyasho, the leader of UTM’s parliamentary caucus, has announced that UTM members will not participate in government functions during the upcoming parliamentary session set to begin on July 26.
In a statement to Times 360 Malawi, Kanyasho revealed that a letter was sent to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Catherine Gotani Hara, informing her of their decision. “We have already sent the letter, and it will be on the Speaker’s desk by tomorrow,” said Kanyasho.
The UTM members who will not be participating include Steve Mikaya (Blantyre West), Simon Salambula (Ntcheu West), Felix Kayira (Karonga North West), and Chrispin Mphande (Nkhata Bay West). These MPs, alongside other UTM members who won their seats independently and later joined the party, are choosing to remain in opposition rather than align with the government.
Additionally, some MPs who joined UTM after winning their seats independently have also opted to stay out of government roles.
One notable exception is Biswick Million, MP for Zomba Changalume, who has stated he will not step away from government involvement. Kanyasho indicated that those who continue to serve in government positions will be expected to leave the UTM caucus, as it signifies they are no longer working with the party.
The UTM’s decision reflects a broader strategy of opposition and distance from government operations, with the party emphasizing its commitment to remaining independent from the ruling coalition.
As of now, senior officials in the National Assembly have not commented on this developme
