By Burnett Munthali
In a thought-provoking analysis, political commentator Bashir Al Bashir has strongly defended Dr. Dalitso Kabambe’s decision to contest for the presidency under the United Transformation Movement (UTM), and addressed the misconceptions surrounding his past affiliations with the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
According to Al Bashir, the narrative that Dr. Kabambe will return votes to DPP or somehow revive its fortunes is not only misguided but completely ignorant of the political facts. He pointed out that Hon. Kondwani Nankhumwa, who left DPP to form his own party, has not been welcomed back into DPP, nor has he brought any significant votes to the party after his departure. This trend of party loyalty or shifting allegiances is crucial in understanding the dynamics of Malawi’s political landscape, particularly with the rise of new voices like Dr. Kabambe.
Dr. Kabambe, who was previously with DPP, served as the party’s vice president from 2014 to 2020. During this period, Al Bashir notes, Kabambe did not attempt to bring UTM votes back to DPP, even during moments when the DPP and UTM could have benefited from strategic alliances. This, according to Al Bashir, is a clear indication that Dr. Kabambe’s political integrity and vision for Malawi extend far beyond any personal vendettas or party loyalty.
Al Bashir elaborates on the challenges Dr. Kabambe faced within DPP, where he was reportedly “used, abused, and bruised” by the very people who should have supported him. Al Bashir vividly recalls the struggles Dr. Kabambe endured, particularly with the party’s so-called cadets who constantly attacked him, undermining his efforts and aspirations. This, he insists, is a chapter of Malawian politics that has been “buried,” but it remains an important one to acknowledge for the sake of transparency and understanding Dr. Kabambe’s journey.
The writer goes on to emphasize that Dr. Kabambe now feels “honoured” to be given the opportunity to contest for the presidency under UTM. Unlike his experience with DPP, where his efforts were not fully appreciated, Kabambe sees his involvement with UTM as a new and fresh chapter in his political career. Al Bashir insists that Dr. Kabambe’s decision to run with UTM is not motivated by personal gain, but by a genuine desire to bring meaningful change to Malawi. He is committed to fighting for the presidency and advancing the vision of UTM, which promises to break away from the old guard and usher in new leadership.
Al Bashir also addressed the notion of forming alliances, which is common in Malawi’s political scene. However, he clearly stated that while UTM is open to alliances, there is a clear condition: UTM will have a presidential candidate in Dr. Kabambe. He rejects the idea of UTM being relegated to a secondary position or a “second fiddle” in any potential alliances. For Dr. Kabambe and UTM, it’s about taking a strong stance and offering voters a clear choice for the future of the country.
In conclusion, Al Bashir underscores that Dr. Kabambe’s political loyalty now lies firmly with UTM. His candidacy is not about playing political games or shifting loyalties but about offering a genuine alternative for Malawians who are seeking change. Dr. Kabambe’s vision, he insists, is for a better Malawi—one that is not bogged down by past allegiances but propelled forward by a desire for progress and reform.
As Malawi approaches the 2025 elections, Al Bashir’s message is clear: Dr. Kabambe is not just a candidate; he is the change that Malawians are yearning for. It is time for new leadership, and UTM, under Kabambe’s stewardship, is ready to answer the call.
