By Burnett Munthali
Chiza Mbekeani, once a prominent figure within the UTM party as Director of Students Affairs, has officially abandoned the party.
He has now pledged allegiance to the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), marking a significant political shift ahead of the crucial 2025 general elections.
Mbekeani stated unequivocally that the UTM is engulfed in deep-rooted internal problems, which, according to him, render the party unfit to form the next government.DPP’s confidence surge: Saidi Declares David Kambalame the next MP for Mazengera
He stressed that UTM has no clear future or strategy to assume national leadership come 16 September 2025, the date set for Malawi’s next general elections.
In a bold move, Mbekeani personally approached Honourable Alfred Gangata, the Vice President of the DPP for the Central Region.DPP Central Region Vice President Alfred Gangata arrested
He asked Hon. Gangata to formally convey his apology to “Adad” — a term popularly used by DPP supporters to refer to former President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika.
Mbekeani admitted he had made a mistake in aligning himself with UTM and now seeks forgiveness for his past political decisions.
He humbly requested that his newfound loyalty be accepted and that he be allowed to serve under the DPP banner moving forward.DPP’s top brass storm Mazengera for Mega Rally in a show of strength and unity
In addition to switching allegiance, Mbekeani appealed directly to Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika to champion the cause for justice concerning the mysterious death of former Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima.
He emphasized that the truth about Chilima’s death must be uncovered and made public, suggesting that only under Mutharika’s leadership can such justice be achieved.
Mbekeani’s defection is not only a blow to the UTM party but also a clear endorsement of what he believes is a return to proven and dependable leadership.
As political temperatures rise ahead of the 2025 elections, Mbekeani’s move signals a potential trend among disillusioned UTM loyalists.
The DPP, under the experienced hand of Arthur Peter Mutharika, appears to be regaining traction as more individuals express confidence in its capacity to restore stability and order.
Whether Mbekeani’s defection will spark a larger wave of political migration remains to be seen, but it undeniably adds momentum to DPP’s campaign narrative.
His public repentance and call for justice could also resonate with voters who feel betrayed by the silence surrounding Chilima’s untimely demise.
As the countdown to September 2025 continues, Malawi’s political landscape is shifting, and defections like Mbekeani’s may well shape the direction of the nation’s democratic destiny.
