By Burnett Munthali
Limpopo FM reports that the United Transformation Movement (UTM) is planning to withdraw from the Tonse Alliance on Friday, July 12, 2024. This follows the release of an audio clip by comrade Ntanyiwa on Thursday night, July 11, 2024, which has stirred significant political attention.
In response to this development, President Lazarus Chakwera called an emergency meeting on Thursday. The decision for UTM to break away is reportedly linked to the late Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima’s intention to withdraw from the alliance upon his return from South Korea. The UTM executive members have unanimously agreed to exit the Tonse Alliance, citing concerns about ongoing leadership challenges.
In an interview on Times TV hosted by Brian Banda, MCP Secretary General Einshower Mkaka revealed that MCP operates with a degree of secrecy, stating, “Imeneyo taiyedzeka kaye,” which translates to “that will be dealt with later.” Mkaka also confirmed that MCP has decided against supporting Chilima as the presidential candidate for 2025.
Amid these tensions, Patricia Kaliati, Felix Njawala, and Newton Kambala have been offered cabinet positions. This move could further divide UTM, with those accepting ministerial roles likely shifting allegiance to MCP and leaving UTM.
Additionally, there have been reports of government officials from State House being assigned to arrest immigration officers instead of Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) personnel. This development, along with a new government proposal to UTM, adds further complexity to the unfolding political scenario.
As the situation evolves, Malawians are closely watching the implications of UTM’s potential withdrawal from the Tonse Alliance and the broader political ramifications.
