By Burnett Munthali
The UTM party’s National Governing Council (NGC) meeting, initially scheduled for today, has been abruptly cancelled following the arrest of the party’s Secretary General, Hon. Patricia Kaliati, on charges of conspiracy to commit a felony. Kaliati’s detention has sparked waves of concern among UTM members and supporters, given her influential role in the party’s leadership. The cancellation has only intensified speculation surrounding the arrest and the meeting’s initial announcement.
The cancellation follows a press statement by Hon. Felix Njawala, UTM’s Publicity Secretary, who had confirmed the meeting would proceed. However, many members have voiced concerns over holding such a significant gathering without the presence of both Kaliati and the party’s President, Dr. Michael Usi. Critics argue that attempting to convene the NGC without these two leaders could undermine the party’s internal processes and transparency.
Adding to the tensions, some NEC members have openly refused to participate in any NGC meetings organized under these circumstances. Many see Njawala’s actions as an effort to downplay Kaliati’s absence and shift the focus away from her arrest.
Kaliati’s arrest, coupled with the sudden cancellation of this meeting, raises questions about the motivations and intentions of various UTM leaders. With this situation still unfolding, the party’s internal dynamics and leadership approach will be under close scrutiny in the weeks ahead, as members navigate these challenges and seek to uphold the party’s principles.
