In a significant political development, the Central Executive Committee of UTM has decided to exit the Tonse Alliance. National Publicity Secretary Felix Njawala announced the decision at a press conference held at the party’s headquarters in Area 10, Lilongwe.
Njawala explained that the committee reached this resolution to honor the vision of the party’s late President, Dr. Saulos Chilima, who tragically passed away in a plane crash in Mzimba district last month.
He stated that all resolutions made during the meeting will be presented to the party’s National Executive Committee, which is scheduled to convene on July 19, 2024.
“UTM is gearing up for the 2025 elections, carrying forward the vision of our President, Dr. Saulos Chilima,” Njawala said.
He called on like-minded Malawians to join the party in their efforts and encouraged citizens to participate actively in voter registration.
Njawala also paid tribute to the late Chilima, describing him as a humble and exemplary leader, and promised to uphold his legacy.
Speaking earlier, UTM Secretary General Patricia Kaliyati highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the future of the Tonse Alliance following Chilima’s death. She noted the lack of communication from their coalition partner, the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
“We had anticipated a meeting with the President to address the growing concerns from our supporters about our next steps,” said Kaliyati.
She added that the party consulted its legal team to navigate the situation in accordance with UTM’s constitution.
Kaliyati also commended President Chakwera for appointing Dr. Michael Usi as the country’s Vice President after Chilima’s passing. She expressed confidence that the youth, inspired by Chilima’s ideologies, would unite to fulfill his vision.
The announcement of UTM’s decision to leave the Tonse Alliance was met with celebration by supporters. The party’s National Executive Committee meeting on July 19 is expected to address, among other things, the scheduling of the next party convention.
