Unraveling the Controversy: Njawala’s Misrepresentation of UTM NEC Resolutions

Felix Njawala, publicity secretary of UTM, has been accused of misleading the public regarding the convention’s date, venue, and candidate eligibility criteria. An investigation indicates that Njawala failed to secure NEC ratification for his announcements, specifically regarding a second declaration of the convention date, which insiders suggest is a serious breach of protocol. Additionally, his omission of the agreed venue and misrepresentation of eligibility requirements raise concerns about his intentions, particularly regarding support for Dr. Dalitso Kabambe, which could jeopardize the integrity of the party’s internal processes.

The recent revelations surrounding the United Transformation Movement (UTM) underscore a severe misrepresentation of resolutions made during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting led by Felix Njawala. This meeting occurred on Monday at Vice President Dr. Michael Usi’s residence in Lilongwe, where critical decisions were made regarding the upcoming party convention. However, Njawala has since faced allegations of misleading the public regarding the announcement of the convention’s date, venue, and eligibility criteria for candidates. Contrary to preceding reports, Njawala announced the convention date as November 17, 2024, for a second time without NEC ratification, raising flags of concern among party insiders. An anonymous source indicated that such actions are indicative of a serious disciplinary breach. The initial date was nullified, yet Njawala’s subsequent announcement appears to be an attempt to cover a lack of proper leadership oversight. Moreover, Njawala’s omission of Mzuzu as the designated venue, as agreed upon by NEC, raises eyebrows. The consensus had highlighted Mzuzu’s significance due to UTM’s strength in the Northern Region, yet it appears Njawala is advocating for Blantyre, citing regionalist motives. Inside sources have revealed that this push aligns with a larger strategy to manipulate the convention’s outcome in favor of specific candidates. In terms of eligibility to contest high-party offices, Njawala has also misrepresented NEC’s resolution. An internal source has noted that the NEC agreed to restrict candidacy to individuals who have been members of the party for over two years. This decision was enacted to retain the integrity of critical party positions amidst potential influxes from rival parties. Njawala’s failure to clarify these eligibility parameters suggests ulterior motives, possibly intended to favor Dr. Dalitso Kabambe, a prospective candidate supported by Njawala himself. The allegations surrounding Njawala have prompted concerns over trust and democratic processes within UTM. The party’s integrity may be at stake as divisions among leadership grow, leading to uncertainty about the party’s future. Efforts to gain insight from Njawala and others in the party have been obstructed, leaving questions regarding the internal strife unresolved.

The United Transformation Movement (UTM) is a political party in Malawi led by Vice President Dr. Michael Usi. The recent NEC meeting that took place was crucial in establishing the details of the upcoming party convention, which aims to consolidate support and outline the party’s objectives. Felix Njawala, the publicity secretary, has become a central figure in the controversy following his purported misrepresentations regarding critical issues such as the convention’s date, venue, and candidate eligibility. The allegations suggest a troubling trend of manipulation and a potential agenda that may undermine the party’s integrity and democratic processes.

This situation compels UTM to confront internal discord and ensure adherence to its resolution protocols. The overarching concern is whether the party can navigate this period of upheaval and emerge unified, or whether the leadership crisis will exacerbate divisions, threatening the party’s very existence.

Original Source: www.nyasatimes.com