By Twink Jones Gadama
The recent events surrounding the UTM party and the SKC Foundation have laid bare the hypocrisy of those claiming to fulfill the legacy of the late Saulos Klaus Chilima. The contradictions exhibited by Dalitso Kabambe, the current leader of UTM, and Mary Chilima, the widow of the late politician, are a stark reminder that the pursuit of power and self-interest can often masquerade as a commitment to legacy.
Dalitso Kabambe appears to honor the spirit of Saulos Chilima by continuing to utilize the building donated by Chilima as UTM’s headquarters. This decision demonstrates respect for Chilima’s wishes, as he had intended for the building to support UTM. However, Kabambe’s boycott of the SKC Foundation raises questions about his true commitment to Chilima’s legacy. If Kabambe genuinely respected Chilima’s values, wouldn’t he support the foundation’s launch, despite any differences with President Chakwera? This inconsistency suggests that Kabambe’s actions may be driven by personal interests rather than a genuine desire to preserve Chilima’s legacy.
On the other hand, Mary Chilima’s launch of the SKC Foundation, purportedly to fulfill her late husband’s dreams, has been marred by controversy. Reports indicate that the Chilima family is now chasing UTM out of the very building that was donated by Chilima. This action is a stark contradiction to Mary Chilima’s claims of fulfilling her husband’s legacy. It appears that the pursuit of power and self-interest has taken precedence over any genuine commitment to Chilima’s values.
Kabambe’s refusal to attend the launch of the SKC Foundation, citing the presence of President Chakwera, further highlights the hypocrisy of those claiming to fulfill Chilima’s legacy. If Kabambe truly believed in Chilima’s principles, would he not have put aside his differences with Chakwera to support the foundation’s launch? Instead, his actions suggest that his commitment to Chilima’s legacy is conditional and self-serving.
The contradictions exhibited by Kabambe and Mary Chilima serve as a reminder that the pursuit of power and self-interest can often masquerade as a commitment to legacy. As we reflect on the life and legacy of Saulos Klaus Chilima, it is essential to separate genuine commitments to his principles from self-serving actions that seek to exploit his popularity. Only then can we truly honor his memory and continue his work towards a better future for all….
