By Jones Gadama
UTM President Dr. Dalitso Kabambe has disclosed that his party is engaged in coalition talks with other opposition political parties, ahead of the highly anticipated September 16 polls.
Kabambe made this revelation during a whistle-stop rally at Mchinji boma, which was attended by senior party officials, including Patricia Kaliati, Dr. Mathews Mtumbuka, Willett Kalonga, and Emmanuel Mwanyongo, alias Yongo wa Yongo.
According to Kabambe, the coalition talks have gained momentum, thanks to the 50+1 electoral system, which requires a presidential candidate to secure at least 50% + 1 of the total votes cast to win the election.
This system, introduced in 2019, aims to ensure that the president is elected with a clear majority, thereby reducing the likelihood of a disputed outcome.
Kabambe expressed optimism about the prospects of forming a coalition government, stating that the nation will be updated on the outcomes of the talks in due course.
This development is likely to send ripples throughout the Malawian political landscape, as opposition parties seek to unite against the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
In addition to the coalition talks, Kabambe also provided an update on the party’s manifesto submission to the National Planning Commission (NPC).
He revealed that all processes are underway, and the document will be submitted before the July deadline.
This move is seen as a crucial step in outlining the party’s vision and policies ahead of the elections.
Kabambe’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping UTM’s direction, particularly since his landslide victory in the party’s presidential race last year.
With his economic expertise and experience as a former Reserve Bank of Malawi governor, Kabambe is well-positioned to drive UTM’s agenda forward.
As Malawi gears up for the September polls, the UTM’s coalition talks and manifesto submission are likely to be closely watched by political analysts and citizens alike.
With the 50+1 electoral system in place, the stakes are high, and opposition parties are under pressure to unite and present a formidable challenge to the ruling party.
In the coming weeks and months, Kabambe and his team will face the daunting task of navigating the complex web of coalition politics, while also outlining a clear vision for Malawi’s future.
