By Burnett Munthali
The political landscape in Malawi is witnessing a revival of one of the country’s most powerful and influential political platforms: Imbizo. Known for being a space where citizens engage directly with their leaders, share their concerns, and discuss national issues, Imbizo has been absent for some time but is now making a return. This resurgence is spearheaded by Dalitso Kabambe, the current presidential candidate, who is following in the footsteps of the late Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, the former vice president of Malawi.
Dr. Chilima, who tragically passed away in June 2024, was known for his passion for public service and for connecting directly with the people through his Imbizo gatherings. His leadership style emphasized transparency, open communication, and the empowerment of ordinary Malawians. Through Imbizo, he bridged the gap between the government and the citizens, providing a platform where the voices of the marginalized and ordinary people were heard and respected.
Chilima’s approach not only earned him widespread popularity but also solidified the Imbizo platform as a critical part of Malawian political culture. His untimely death left a void in the hearts of many Malawians, but the return of Imbizo under Kabambe’s leadership is seen as a step towards continuing his legacy.
Dalitso Kabambe, a prominent economist, has stepped into the political scene with vigor and determination, inheriting the vision of the late Dr. Chilima. Kabambe, a former governor of the Reserve Bank of Malawi, is widely respected for his expertise in economic management and his commitment to the country’s development. As he now takes on the challenge of leadership, he has embraced the Imbizo platform as a means of connecting with the people and continuing the work that Dr. Chilima started.
In recent months, Kabambe has embarked on a series of Imbizo-style gatherings across Malawi, reaching out to citizens from all walks of life. These events are not just political rallies; they are interactive forums where people can express their grievances, share their hopes, and directly influence the political agenda. Kabambe has emphasized his commitment to a people-centered approach, where policies and decisions are driven by the needs and desires of the citizens.
The return of Imbizo under Dalitso Kabambe is a beacon of hope for many Malawians who crave a more inclusive and transparent political process. The platform provides an opportunity for citizens to engage with their leaders, ask tough questions, and ensure that their voices are heard. Kabambe’s efforts to revive this legacy have been met with positive reception from communities across the country, with many believing that it could lead to a more responsive and accountable government.
As Kabambe continues his political journey, he faces a challenging road ahead. However, the foundation laid by Dr. Chilima and the support of ordinary Malawians through Imbizo offer Kabambe a unique opportunity to carry forward the vision of a stronger, more inclusive Malawi.
With the return of Imbizo and Dalitso Kabambe at the helm, the legacy of the late Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima is not just being remembered; it is being built upon and carried forward. The platform promises to be a powerful tool for engaging Malawians in meaningful dialogue and for shaping a future that is driven by the needs of the people. As Malawi heads towards the 2025 elections, the return of Imbizo offers a promising sign of a brighter, more participatory political era.
