°°”Tale of politics and power”
Dr. Michael Usi’s journey to the helm of Malawian politics is a story of unexpected twists and turns. As the running mate to the late Dr. Saulos Chilima in the 2019 elections, Usi’s fate was inextricably linked to that of his predecessor.
Following Chilima’s ascension to the Vice Presidency under President Lazarus Chakwera, Usi’s own star began to rise.
However, tragedy struck when Chilima’s life was cut short in a devastating plane crash, leaving Usi to take the reins as Vice President.
Despite being welcomed by the UTM Party, Usi’s tenure was short-lived. He soon found himself at odds with the party, ultimately leading to his expulsion. Undeterred, Usi went on to rebuild his party dubbed ‘Odya Zake Alibe Mulandu’, marking a new chapter in his political career.
Speaking in an interview, Ernest Thindwa, a seasoned political analyst, weighed in on Usi’s rise to power.
“Dr. Usi’s ascension to the Vice Presidency was a result of circumstance rather than design,” he said.
However, he said his expulsion from the UTM Party and subsequent rebuilding of his party demonstrate a clear desire to carve out his own political path.
George Chaima, a governance expert, echoed Thindwa’s sentiments.
He said that: “Usi’s decision to form his own party is a bold move, but it remains to be seen whether he can muster the necessary support to make a meaningful impact on the political landscape.”
Again, Wonderful Mkhutche, another governance expert, added, “The fact that Usi was able to rebuild his own party so quickly after being expelled from the UTM Party speaks to the fluid nature of Malawian politics.
However, he added that it also raises questions about the stability and cohesion of the country’s political parties.
