By Burnett Munthali

On Wednesday, July 17, 2024, Vice President Dr. Michael Usi drew a vivid metaphor by comparing himself to a woman cooking nsima, a staple Malawian dish. In his analogy, he likened himself to someone holding the “mthiko” (cooking stick), despite the “hot price” or difficulties that might arise. This metaphor offers a rich layer of interpretation about his role and position within the United Transformation Movement (UTM) and his political journey.

Interpretation of the metaphor

By comparing himself to a cook who continues to work despite the heat and potential spills, Dr. Usi emphasizes his resilience and determination. Just as a cook endures the challenges of cooking over a hot stove, he suggests he too persists through political and personal challenges, showing steadfastness in his role despite difficulties.

The “mthiko” or cooking stick represents the tools of his trade and the ongoing effort he puts into his work. It symbolizes his active involvement and continuous effort in managing and leading within the UTM. This indicates that, like a cook who keeps stirring the pot to ensure a well-cooked meal, Dr. Usi is consistently working to manage and steer the party or address political issues.

The metaphor underscores the responsibilities and leadership roles Dr. Usi assumes. Just as a cook must skillfully handle the cooking stick to prepare a meal, Dr. Usi conveys that he is adeptly handling his responsibilities, guiding

The phrase “I’m a cooking stick” isn’t a common metaphor or idiom, so its meaning can vary depending on context. If used metaphorically, it might imply a role or function related to supporting or facilitating something, similar to how a cooking stick (or spoon) helps in preparing food.

For instance, if someone says “I’m a cooking stick” in a metaphorical sense, they might be suggesting that they play a supportive or enabling role in a situation, helping to stir or manage various elements, much like how a stick is used to stir ingredients in cooking. However, without additional context, it’s challenging to pinpoint a specific meaning.

The metaphor “I’m a cook” can imply several meanings depending on the context:

Firstly, it can suggest that the person sees themselves as someone who creates or manages a process. Just as a cook prepares and combines ingredients to make a dish, someone using this metaphor might feel they are orchestrating or handling various elements of a situation or project.

Secondly, it may also highlight that the person is skilled in combining different elements to achieve a desirable outcome, indicating creativity and expertise in their field, similar to a cook’s ability to craft a delicious meal from diverse ingredients.

Thirdly, the metaphor can imply that the person is good at solving problems and handling challenges, as a cook must adjust and adapt recipes based on available ingredients and conditions.

Overall, saying “I’m a cook” metaphorically emphasizes a person’s role in managing, creating, or solving issues with skill and adaptability.

Whatever the case, Dr Michael Usi knows better what he was driving at. Interpretations still remain opinion and guess work.