The UTM Party has long been a significant political force in Malawi. However, it has recently faced substantial turmoil following the death of its charismatic leader, Saulos Chilima.
Chilima, the party’s founder and a prominent political figure, played a crucial role in shaping UTM’s identity and direction.
His passing in a plane crash in Chikangawa Forest on June 10, 2024, has triggered a series of challenges that the party is struggling to address.
With just over a year remaining before the general election in September 2025, UTM must navigate these challenges decisively and analyse their broader implications.
Political rallies and public outbursts may not be the best approach to resolving these issues, particularly when there may be others waiting to capitalise on the party’s instability.
The immediate consequence of Chilima’s death has been the creation of a leadership vacuum within UTM.
According to the party’s constitution, State Vice President Michael Usi, Chilima’s running mate in the 2019 presidential election, has ascended to the party’s top post.
However, Usi is facing resistance.
Despite the challenges, he is the party’s leader and is expected to provide direction. Those opposed to Usi can only vote him out at their elective convention.
Yet, given his growing influence as State vice president, he might win and become the official leader of the party.
If Usi secures the position at the convention, will those opposing him leave the party? How else will they challenge him if he receives a legitimate mandate to lead?
Chilima’s leadership, characterised by his dynamic and visionary approach, was instrumental in the party’s success and growth.
His absence has left a significant void that has yet to be filled by a similarly strong figure, as Usi is clearly not yet able to fill Chilima’s shoes.
However, this does not mean that Usi lacks his own leadership skills. Chilima’s style was his own and it is not necessary for everyone to replicate it.
Leadership comes in many forms and it is worth questioning what tangible changes Chilima’s approach brought to public services.
Despite facing resistance, Chilima could have pursued alternative strategies, such as abandoning the alliance when his ideals were rejected.
Critics argue that Usi cannot match Chilima’s political acumen, which earned him over a million votes in the election.
While this may be a valid concern, the focus should now be on how Usi will navigate the party’s internal politics moving forward.
As vice president, Usi holds considerable power, which he may use in various ways, including attracting others to public positions or using financial influence to sway delegates.
In their desperation, some UTM members who are not in favour of Usi are hoping that former Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) member Dalitso Kabambe will lead them.
However, it is unclear whether Kabambe is eligible to contest at the convention, having recently joined UTM from the DPP.
Even if the constitution is silent on this issue, the convention committee has the authority to issue guidelines on the election process.
It will be interesting to see whether the committee allows Kabambe to stand, given that Usi may influence the selection process.
To maintain its electoral appeal and strengthen its bargaining position in any potential alliances, UTM must prioritise electing a new leader who can command respect and unite the party’s base.
This leader should embody Chilima’s vision while offering new ideas and a clear strategic direction.
The party should invest in internal dialogue and reconciliation to resolve conflicts and foster unity. Regular internal meetings could help mend divisions.
Additionally, UTM needs to conduct a comprehensive organisational review to identify and address structural weaknesses.
To consolidate its appeal and regain its political footing post- Chilima, the party must focus on constructive strategies rather than senseless public rants that only benefit its opponents.
