By Suleman Chitera

The growing disagreement between the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and the UTM Party over the upcoming memorial event for late former Vice President Saulos Chilima has triggered sharp criticism from political commentators, who say the dispute is overshadowing a moment meant for reflection, unity, and respect.Malawi Military Faces Questions Over Handling of Plane Crash Debris

Political analyst Humphrey Mvula has faulted both parties for what he describes as unnecessary and poorly timed political wrangling surrounding the memorial scheduled for next month. According to Mvula, the disagreement risks politicising Chilima’s legacy at a sensitive time when national attention is focused on ongoing investigations into the plane crash that claimed his life.Concerned Citizen finds Chakwera wrong holding Chikangawa SKC Memorial

UTM Decision to Exclude MCP Raises Tensions

The controversy stems from a decision by the UTM Party not to invite leadership of the Malawi Congress Party to the memorial event. UTM officials have defended the move, arguing it is intended to protect MCP leaders from potential hostility from supporters still demanding answers regarding Chilima’s death.Sober Analysis On K750M Saga At MOA & SFFRFM

UTM National Publicity Secretary Felix Njawala previously stated that emotions remain high among supporters, and the party believes excluding MCP leadership would help avoid confrontation and maintain order during the event.

The decision has since been accepted by MCP, although it has not reduced the broader political tension surrounding the memorial.

Analyst: Both Parties Are Politicising a Moment of National Reflection

Humphrey Mvula has strongly criticized both parties, arguing that the dispute is inconsistent with the legacy of Saulos Chilima, who is widely remembered as a unifying and peace-oriented political figure.How Malawi’s Gold Is Allegedly Flowing Into Israel Through Smuggling Networks

Mvula said it is unfortunate that political actors are allowing party differences to spill into a memorial event that should instead promote national unity and respect for the deceased.

He further emphasized that the timing of the dispute is particularly concerning, given that fresh investigations into the plane crash that killed Chilima are still ongoing. According to Mvula, political stakeholders should have exercised patience and maturity until the inquiry concludes before engaging in divisive arrangements.

Growing Sensitivities Around Chilima’s Death

The death of former Vice President Saulos Chilima in a plane crash remains one of the most sensitive political events in recent Malawian history. Public interest in the investigation remains high, with many citizens calling for transparency and accountability regarding the circumstances of the tragedy.Israeli National Nir Gess Under Fire Over Misleading Claims on Malawian Children’s Heart Surgeries

Against this backdrop, analysts warn that any political framing of memorial events risks deepening public suspicion and eroding trust between political actors and citizens.

Calls for Unity and Respect Intensify

Observers say the dispute reflects a broader challenge in Malawi’s political environment, where even national moments of mourning can become entangled in partisan dynamics.Israel Farm Jobs Losing Appeal Among Malawian Workers Over Escape Concerns

Mvula’s remarks echo growing calls from civil society voices urging political leaders to depoliticise memorial activities and focus instead on honouring Chilima’s contribution to national development and governance.

Conclusion

As the memorial date approaches, pressure is mounting on both MCP and UTM to adjust their approach and ensure the event remains focused on remembrance rather than rivalry. Analysts caution that continued disagreement risks overshadowing Chilima’s legacy and deepening political divisions at a time when national unity is strongly needed.President Mutharika Urged to Revoke Nir Ges’ Diplomatic Passport Amid Outgoing MCP Scandal