By Burnett Munthali
Mzuzu, Malawi – The UTM Party is holding its much-anticipated national convention today, November 17, in Mzuzu, where a major contest is unfolding for the party’s presidential candidacy. With four prominent candidates vying for the leadership, the outcome of the election remains uncertain, as all contenders have strong support and a clear vision for the future of the party.
The convention, which has drawn significant attention across the nation, is set to decide not only the UTM’s presidential candidate but also various leadership positions within the party. Given the stakes, the event is expected to be a turning point in the party’s journey toward the 2025 general elections.
At the heart of the contest are four high-profile figures:
Dr. Dalitso Kabambe – A former Reserve Bank Governor, Kabambe is widely regarded for his economic expertise. His background in finance and his position as a former government official have earned him the support of party members who prioritize economic stability and growth. Kabambe’s track record of handling Malawi’s financial affairs gives him credibility among those looking for a leader with practical experience.
Engineer Newton Kambala – A seasoned political figure, Kambala has earned respect for his work in infrastructure and development. His supporters see him as a visionary leader capable of driving the country’s development agenda forward. Kambala’s political experience and his focus on key development sectors make him a formidable contender.
Dr. Mathews Mtumbuka – A well-known academic and politician, Mtumbuka brings intellectual rigor to the table. His educational background and analytical approach to politics appeal to party members who want a leader capable of deep thinking and strategic planning. Mtumbuka’s supporters see him as someone who can lead with integrity and a focus on national unity.
Patricia Kaliati – The current UTM Secretary General and a prominent figure in Malawian politics, Kaliati has become one of the party’s most recognized faces. Known for her strong leadership skills and political savvy, Kaliati is seen by many as a natural leader. Her charisma and experience in national politics have earned her a loyal following, particularly among grassroots supporters.
As the convention unfolds, all four candidates are making their case to the delegates, each emphasizing their vision for the future of the party and the nation. While some supporters already have their favorites, the outcome remains unpredictable. Any of the four contenders could emerge victorious, depending on how delegates perceive their leadership qualities and ability to lead UTM to success in the upcoming elections.
Political analysts suggest that the contest is likely to come down to the candidates’ ability to connect with the party’s base and secure crucial endorsements from influential party members. The leadership decisions made today could have a significant impact on UTM’s position in the 2025 election race.
For UTM, today’s convention is a pivotal moment in its development as a political force in Malawi. With the party already boasting substantial representation in Parliament and local government, choosing the right leader is critical for maintaining momentum and further consolidating its position.
While the presidential race is the highlight, the broader theme of party unity and future strategy will also be discussed during the convention. Delegates will likely debate key issues such as economic reform, social justice, and the party’s approach to coalition-building in the lead-up to the general elections.
As the contest heats up in Mzuzu, UTM members are hoping that the convention will produce a leader who can unite the party and provide a clear vision for Malawi’s future. Given the strength and experience of all four candidates, the final result could have a lasting impact on the party’s trajectory.
One thing is certain: the race for the UTM presidential nomination is wide open, and any of the candidates has the potential to win and lead the party toward a successful electoral campaign in 2025. As the delegates cast their votes, all eyes will be on Mzuzu, awaiting the outcome of this crucial decision for the party and Malawi’s political future.
