By Durell Namasani
Blantyre, Malawi – UTM President Dr. Dalitso Kabambe took his campaign to Blantyre on Sunday, addressing packed rallies at Makata Ground and Lunzu Trading Centre, where he pledged to reverse Malawi’s economic decline if elected in the September 16 general elections.
At Lunzu, Kabambe, a former Reserve Bank of Malawi governor, delivered a stark assessment of the nation’s crisis: “People sleep hungry, farmers lack fertilizer and markets, and prices of essentials are unbearable. This is not the Malawi we deserve” . Positioning himself as a technocratic alternative, he promised UTM’s “blueprint” would stabilize the economy through industrial growth, agricultural reforms, and job creation .
Kabambe’s speech contrasted his tenure as central bank chief (2017–2020)—marked by single-digit inflation and stable fuel and fertilizer prices—with the current Kwacha collapse (from 732 to 3,500 per USD) and soaring national debt (K16 trillion) under President Lazarus Chakwera . He emphasized UTM’s plans to complete stalled projects like Mombera University and establish new industries to spur self-reliance .
The rallies coincided with UTM’s ongoing coalition talks with other opposition parties, aiming to consolidate support under the 50+1 electoral system . Analysts note Kabambe’s appeal stems from his economic credentials and Chilima-esque reformist rhetoric, though MCP-aligned media have intensified attacks to undermine his credibility .
With six months to elections, Kabambe’s message resonates among voters weary of inflation and unemployment. “Malawi needs competence, not empty promises,” he declared, framing the poll as a referendum on survival .
