By Elywin Chighali Mhango

  UTM held a press briefing at its headquarters in Area 10, Lilongwe, the day to outline preparations for its upcoming convention scheduled for November 17. Party Publicity Secretary Felix Njawala provided updates on the event while addressing concerns about low voter registration ahead of the 2025 elections.

During the briefing, Njawala revealed that the national executive committee convened earlier in the day to finalize details for the convention. He confirmed that the nomination fee for candidates would remain unchanged and noted that the deadline for submission of nomination papers is set for November 11. The party has allocated a budget of 250 million MWK for the event, with an additional 30 million MWK reserved for unforeseen expenses.

In an effort to bolster funding for the convention, UTM has organized a fundraising dinner, as highlighted by party member Patricia Kaliati. She emphasized the importance of financial support to ensure the convention’s success.

Addressing questions about the nomination status of Dr. Michael Usi, the party president, Njawala suggested that Usi may have submitted his nomination papers via email, though this has yet to be confirmed.

The press briefing aimed to instill hope among Malawians, many of whom have been hesitant to register for the 2025 elections due to widespread disillusionment with political parties. Njawala urged citizens to believe in the possibilities of change and participation in the democratic process.

As the UTM gears up for its convention, the party’s leadership appears focused on reviving enthusiasm and engagement among voters, aiming to showcase a united front in the lead-up to the elections.

By Twink Jones Gadama

The sudden demise of UTM leader Dr. Saulosi Klaus Chilima in June has sparked a fierce battle for control within the party, with his family and the party engaging in a bitter dispute over the ownership of multiple vehicles.

At the heart of the controversy are 28 vehicles, which Chilima’s family claims as personal property, citing sentimental value.

However, UTM officials counter that the vehicles were purchased using party funds, including loans from banks and individuals, making them party assets. A senior UTM official, who wished to remain anonymous, emphasized that if the family wants to claim ownership, they must also agree to settle the outstanding loans.

The dispute has taken a dramatic turn, with both sides exchanging accusations and threats. In a bold move, Chilima’s family has locked seven vehicles in a safe compound, sparking allegations from UTM members that they are prioritizing personal interests over the party’s well-being.

Some UTM officials believe that if Mary Chilima, the widow of Dr. Chilima, takes over the party leadership, the ownership dispute will be resolved naturally.

However, this proposal has received negative feedback so far.

The battle over vehicle ownership is a microcosm of the larger struggle within UTM.

As the party navigates this critical juncture, resolving the dispute will require a delicate balance of personal, party, and public interests.

Dr. Chilima’s passing created a power vacuum within UTM, with various factions vying for control.

His family, who were instrumental in his rise to leadership, now find themselves at odds with party officials.

The 28 vehicles at the center of the dispute were purchased during Dr. Chilima’s tenure as party leader.

While his family claims they were bought for personal use, UTM officials argue that they were acquired using party funds.

As the dispute continues to simmer, UTM officials are calling for a resolution that prioritizes the party’s interests.

With the party’s future hanging in the balance, finding a solution that balances personal, party, and public interests is crucial.

The outcome of this dispute will have far-reaching implications for UTM’s future.

Will the party emerge stronger and more united, or will the battle for control tear it apart?