By Burnett Munthali
A controversial post on social media by Bakili Muluzi TV, a popular page in Malawi, has sparked heated reactions from UTM supporters. The post, which appeared on Facebook, directly addressed UTM members, accusing them of hypocrisy and distancing themselves from the government they helped bring to power in 2020.
The post reads: “A UTM! You don’t own this page. Moreover, you came here to follow the death of Chilima. You are free to go wherever you like. Today, we bring a video for our followers.”
The message continued with strong criticism of Dr. Saulos Chilima, the former Vice President, and his role in the political landscape of Malawi. It stated: “Chilima destroyed this country due to his arrogance in 2020. Don’t act like saints now. Dr. Lazarus Chakwera is on the seat today because of people like you from UTM. Over the past four years, did you not realize that things were bad? While we’ve been criticizing the past four years, you, UTM, have been standing behind him. Now, don’t be upset just because Chilima has passed away. The truth will be revealed when you attempt to walk on this page.”
The post suggests a growing discontent among some Malawians with UTM’s shift in loyalty. According to the message, UTM’s supporters were instrumental in the success of President Chakwera’s administration but have now turned their backs on him. The post calls out UTM members for criticising the government only after the death of Chilima, accusing them of opportunism and hypocrisy.
This controversial statement comes at a time when political tensions in Malawi remain high, with divisions in alliances and coalitions continuing to surface. The remarks made by Bakili Muluzi TV reflect the complex relationship between the UTM and the governing Malawi Congress Party (MCP), highlighting the fragility of political alliances and the shifting allegiances in the country’s political landscape.
The post has sparked debates across social media platforms, with many UTM supporters expressing their displeasure and calling for more respect for Chilima’s legacy, while others continue to criticize the direction of the government since Chakwera took office.
As the political drama unfolds, the impact of social media platforms, like the one used by Bakili Muluzi TV, will continue to shape public discourse and influence the trajectory of Malawi’s politics. The controversial post highlights the complex interplay of power, loyalty, and betrayal in the country’s political arena.
