The UTM has announced plans to build a memorial pillar for the late Saulos Chilima at the crash site in Chikangawa, pending family approval. Party leaders criticized the current administration for failures in governance and condemned police actions during recent protests. The UTM emphasizes the importance of maintaining the legacy of Chilima as they prepare for future elections.
The United Transformation Movement (UTM), through its National Campaign Director Maquenda Chunga, announced plans to build a memorial pillar at the Chikangawa site to honor the late Saulos Chilima. This disclosure came during a rally at Katoto Secondary School Ground in Mzuzu. Currently, the party is seeking consent from Chilima’s family to proceed with the construction.
Chunga expressed that UTM will continue to mourn Chilima, the party’s founder, acknowledging the party’s existence owed largely to his efforts. Furthermore, he refuted rumors suggesting UTM leadership’s involvement with the controversial age limit bill, clarifying that President Dalitso Kabambe is not supporting such legislation. Chunga confirmed the party’s readiness to endorse any presidential candidate yet intends to maintain leadership.
UTM President Dalitso Kabambe criticized the current administration, led by President Lazarus Chakwera, highlighting issues such as rampant corruption and soaring living costs as significant failures. Kabambe urged the party’s supporters to remain vigilant concerning leadership accountability regarding these pressing issues.
Felix Njawala, UTM’s publicity secretary, condemned the unrest witnessed during vendors’ peaceful demonstrations in Mzuzu, accusing the police of political bias in their operations. He attributed the chaos to the police’s use of teargas to control the situation, urging for a tactful approach in managing civil dissent.
Additionally, UTM presidential advisor Mathews Mtumbuka chastised the Chakwera administration for failing to fulfill promises made to develop the northern region. He specifically noted the lack of progress on initiatives such as Mbelwa University and Orton Chirwa International Airport, asserting that a leadership transition to Kabambe would rectify these shortcomings.
Patricia Kaliati, an advisor to Kabambe, expressed her concerns regarding the departure of certain senior UTM members after Chilima’s burial, suggesting that their actions undermine the party’s integrity and Chilima’s legacy.
The UTM plans to honor the late Saulos Chilima with a memorial pillar at the Chikangawa crash site, pending family approval. Party leaders criticized the current government for its perceived failures and detachment from UTM values. Furthermore, they condemned political manipulation of law enforcement during public demonstrations. The UTM aims to present a united front as it prepares for future leadership, asserting their commitment to the legacy of Chilima and improvement of governance in Malawi.
Original Source: malawi24.com
