By Burnett Munthali
Malawian social commentator Rick Dzida has sparked a spirited debate on the viability of UTM President Dalitso Kabambe’s presidential bid, suggesting that his chances of success without a strong electoral alliance are slim.
Dzida’s analysis, shared in a WhatsApp group discussion on December 7, 2024, draws comparisons between Kabambe’s current position and the late Vice President Saulos Chilima’s third-place finish in the 2019 presidential election.
“Kabambe sangamake pa SKC. If SKC came third in the 2019 presidential election, chances of Kabambe’s victory without a formidable electoral alliance are dismal,” Dzida remarked.
In response to Dzida’s statement, another contributor observed the shifting political landscape in Malawi.
“Amalawitu akusontha each and every day chifukwa chazomwe akuziona,” they noted, hinting at growing dissatisfaction among Malawians due to the current administration’s perceived failures.
Dzida acknowledged these changes but stressed that Kabambe’s path to the presidency would require more than just public dissatisfaction. He questioned the likelihood of Kabambe securing enough support in a direct contest against key opponents like President Lazarus Chakwera and former President Arthur Peter Mutharika (APM).
“Zoona akusinthadi. Atati apikisane payekhapayekha pakati pa Chakwera, APM ndi DK, perekani mmene angawinire. 1,2,3!!” Dzida challenged, inviting further discussion on Kabambe’s chances in a hypothetical three-way race.
Another participant defended Kabambe, arguing that he deserves a chance to compete against political heavyweights Chakwera and APM.
“DK timpase mpata kaye apikisane awiriwa; boma likuwaziwa,” they said, suggesting that Kabambe’s potential should be tested in a direct contest with Malawi’s established political leaders.
Kabambe, who recently assumed the presidency of UTM following the death of Saulos Chilima, has called on Malawians to rally behind his leadership. He believes his policies can deliver meaningful economic change, but critics like Dzida argue that his political strategy needs stronger alliances to ensure victory in the 2025 general elections.
As Malawians continue to evaluate potential candidates, discussions like these highlight the challenges and opportunities facing political leaders. Whether Kabambe can defy the odds and emerge as a leading contender will depend on his ability to mobilize support, address public concerns, and possibly build alliances with other parties.
