UTM plans to construct a memorial pillar for late Saulos Chilima in Chikangawa, seeking family consent. The party denies links to the contentious age limit bill and criticizes the current government for corruption and unmet promises. UTM leaders emphasize the need for regional development and address internal party dynamics post-Chilima’s passing.
On Sunday, UTM’s National Campaign Director, Maquenda Chunga, announced plans to build a memorial pillar at the plane crash site in Chikangawa to honor the late Saulos Chilima. During a rally at Katoto Secondary School in Mzuzu, he emphasized the need to obtain consent from Chilima’s family before proceeding with this tribute. Chunga stated, “We as UTM are still and shall continue mourning the late Chilima who was the founder of the party… we shall construct a memorial pillar at the scene of the accident.”
Chunga also addressed rumors regarding UTM’s association with the controversial age limit bill, asserting, “That’s a total lie. Our President Dalitso Kabambe has nothing to do with such undemocratic bill…we are ready for any presidential candidate but at the end, we shall carry the flag.”
UTM President Dalitso Kabambe criticized the current administration, highlighting issues such as corruption and the rising cost of living as critical failures of President Lazarus Chakwera’s government.
Furthermore, UTM publicity secretary Felix Njawala condemned the violent incidents that occurred during recent peaceful vendor demonstrations in Mzuzu, claiming police were politicized and that their actions sparked chaos. Njawala noted that “police were using teargas.”
Mathews Mtumbuka, UTM’s presidential advisor, criticized the Chakwera administration’s failure to fulfill promises related to key regional developments, asserting that the northern region has seen no progress during their term. He urged that if Kabambe is given a chance, significant changes would occur in the north.
Patricia Kaliati, an advisor to Kabambe, expressed concern about some UTM senior members who she felt had abandoned the party and the legacy of the late Chilima shortly after his burial.
UTM is taking steps to honor the late Saulos Chilima with a memorial pillar at the crash site. The party is distancing itself from rumors regarding the age limit bill while criticizing the current government for its failures. Key figures within UTM emphasize the need for development and support while highlighting internal party challenges following Chilima’s passing.
Original Source: malawi24.com
