By Burnett Munthali
In an unusual turn of events at the recent UTM Party convention, a delegate reportedly cast their votes by marking the photo of the late Dr. Saulos Chilima throughout the ballot booklet. The incident has sparked both curiosity and reflection, as it underscores the profound impact the late Vice President and UTM leader continues to have on the party and its members.
The UTM convention, which was convened to elect new leadership ahead of the 2025 elections, was marked by spirited debates and high emotions as the party seeks to rebuild after the loss of its iconic leader. Dr. Chilima, who passed away earlier this year, was a towering figure in Malawi’s political landscape, admired for his eloquence, vision, and tenacity in challenging the status quo.
According to sources within the convention hall, the delegate in question appeared visibly emotional and chose to honor Dr. Chilima’s memory by voting exclusively on his photograph, which was featured in the booklet as a tribute. This act, while unconventional, has been interpreted by many as a symbolic gesture of loyalty and reverence.
The UTM Party is currently navigating a critical period of transition as it seeks to solidify its identity and chart a path forward in the absence of its founder. The convention, held in Lilongwe, brought together delegates from across the country to elect new leaders who will carry the party’s vision forward.
Party insiders reveal that the loss of Dr. Chilima has left a void that is difficult to fill. While the party has shown resilience and commitment to its core ideals, the emotional resonance of the late leader’s legacy remains palpable.
The incident has elicited mixed reactions among delegates and political observers. Some view the act as a poignant reminder of the lasting influence of Dr. Chilima on the party’s rank and file. Others argue that the gesture, while heartfelt, highlights the emotional struggles within the party as it attempts to move forward.
“I think this was a powerful way to express respect for our late leader,” said one delegate, who requested anonymity. “Dr. Chilima’s vision and principles remain the cornerstone of UTM, and this act of voting on his photograph shows how deeply he is missed.”
Others, however, expressed concerns about the practicality of such actions in a process meant to elect new leaders. “While we all honor Dr. Chilima’s memory, we must focus on building a strong future for the party,” commented another delegate. “We need to ensure our decisions are forward-looking and grounded in reality.”
The UTM leadership has not issued an official statement regarding the incident but is expected to address it during the post-convention review. The party remains focused on regrouping and preparing for the 2025 general elections, where it hopes to position itself as a formidable political force.
Dr. Chilima’s legacy continues to loom large over the UTM Party, shaping its identity and inspiring its members. As the party moves forward, it must balance the weight of its history with the demands of the future, ensuring that the memory of its late leader is honored in a manner that strengthens the party’s unity and resolve.
The act of voting on Dr. Chilima’s photograph serves as a reminder that his vision and influence are far from forgotten. For UTM and its supporters, the challenge now lies in translating that legacy into actionable strategies that will keep the party relevant and resilient in Malawi’s ever-evolving political landscape.
