Dr. Dalitso Kabambe has been elected as the new President of the United Transformation Movement (UTM) for a five-year term, following a tightly contested delegates’ conference in Mzuzu. The former Reserve Bank governor triumphed over three other candidates to claim the top post in the party.
Kabambe secured the majority of votes, defeating Newton Kambala, who garnered 26 votes, Patricia Kaliati with 21 votes, and Mathews Chinombo Mtumbuka, who amassed 22 votes. The conference marked a pivotal moment for UTM as it sought to stabilize after the departure of its founding leader, Saulos Chilima.
In his acceptance speech, Kabambe acknowledged the internal challenges UTM has faced. “The strife in UTM was expected because we had lost our towering pillar, Saulos Chilima,” he said, expressing optimism for the future under his leadership.
The newly elected president extended gratitude to his competitors and called for unity within the party. “I never thought I would win when I was coming here; it was not an easy contest,” Kabambe said. “I congratulate all the other candidates I competed with.”
Kabambe emphasized the need for collective effort moving forward. “It is now time to work,” he urged, signaling his commitment to rebuilding the party and preparing it for future challenges.
The election comes at a critical time for UTM, as the party navigates its role in Malawian politics amidst shifting alliances and evolving voter dynamics. Delegates expressed hope that Kabambe’s leadership would bring renewed vigor and direction to the party.
