By Twink Jones Gadama
The opposition UTM party yesterday boycotted SKC Foundation, a charity established in honor of the late Vice President Saulos Chilima.
The party’s decision comes after it emerged that President Lazarus Chakwera had been invited to the event by the organizing committee.
In a statement, UTM leader Dr. Dalitso Kabambe explained that the party’s decision was not a snub to the Chilima family, but rather a protest against the invitation extended to President Chakwera. Dr. Kabambe argued that the UTM party cannot share a platform with individuals who have failed to account for the death of their president.
“The grief of our party and the surrounding questions about our president’s death remain unanswered,” Dr. Kabambe said. “Why should we share a platform, drink wine, and dine with those who failed to account for the loss of SKC?”
Dr. Kabambe praised Madam Mary Chilima, the widow of the late Vice President, for her decision to honor her late husband’s legacy. He emphasized that the UTM party’s decision is not a rejection of the Chilima family or the SKC Foundation, but rather a stand against those who have failed to provide justice for the late Vice President.
Despite boycotting the launch, the UTM party has made a contribution of K10 million to the SKC Foundation. Dr. Kabambe reiterated the party’s commitment to upholding the legacy of the late Vice President and continuing the fight for justice.
“The revolution he championed is alive, and we carry it with energy,” Dr. Kabambe said. “We stand with the family and stand also with all Malawians who believe in justice. The vision of SKC is still on, and the fight is not over.”
The launch of the SKC Foundation is seen as a significant event in Malawi’s political landscape. The foundation aims to promote the legacy of the late Vice President and support various charitable causes. However, the controversy surrounding President Chakwera’s invitation has cast a shadow over the proceedings.
