By Linda Kwanjana
Dalitso Kabambe, the former governor of RBM, has become emblematic of the darker side of political entitlement. His decision to award himself an unprecedented K24 million monthly salary epitomizes a concerning mindset: one where personal gain supersedes public service. His indifference to public outcry and criticism over his obscene salary revealed a profound disconnect from the very citizens he was purportedly serving. Such extravagant self-enrichment raises significant questions about his motivations and ethical standards, leaving Malawians rightfully alarmed about the implications should he ever be trusted to lead the country as a whole at any time in future (because well, 2025 is simply not for him).
Kabambe killed with a spoon and he is seeking to be armed with a grenade and gun. With historical precedent showing that no prior RBM governor or indeed that after him has come close to his exorbitant salary, Kabambe’s greed indicates a potential for broader corruption if he were granted further power. If he considers his compensation “justified” based on his role, one shudders to think what sort of excess he would deem acceptable as a national leader. This culture of entitlement is dangerous, insinuating a willingness to prioritize personal gain over public welfare.
Moreover, Kabambe’s legacy is further clouded by allegations of criminal activities during his tenure at the RBM, with a criminal case currently in court. If you cannot be alarmed by his self-enriching unprecedented entitlement, at least think of the K1 billion fraudulent transfer from RBM to a local bank during a night when election results were announced in 2020. That forms part of his alleged criminality that he is bound to answer in court.
An audit report chronicles criminality that highlight Kabambe as a heartless thief, sparking fears of gross mismanagement of public funds.
These legal challenges that he has to confront coupled with his questionable ethics, could have dire ramifications for his party, the UTM, especially if he were to be convicted. A party leader facing felony charges would effectively disenfranchise his party, leaving it leaderless and vulnerable ahead of crucial elections.
The nexus of greed, entitlement, and alleged criminality exemplified by Kabambe serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in safeguarding democratic values. As a nation, Malawi must prioritize leaders who genuinely seek to serve the public interest, rather than those who view public office as a means to enrich themselves.
