Felix Njawala, publicity secretary of the United Transformation Movement (UTM), faces accusations of misrepresenting resolutions from the party’s recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. Allegations include manipulating the convention date, omitting the agreed venue, and distorting eligibility criteria for party positions. Insights from party insiders suggest that Njawala’s actions may be self-serving, potentially undermining UTM’s internal democracy and threatening the party’s future.
A troubling incident has emerged within the United Transformation Movement (UTM) as Felix Njawala, the party’s publicity secretary, faces allegations of misrepresenting crucial resolutions from the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. This meeting took place on Monday at the residence of Vice President Dr. Michael Usi, who also serves as the party’s president. Investigation reports indicate that Njawala released a press statement on Tuesday that manipulated critical information regarding the date and venue of the impending party convention, while also misrepresenting eligibility criteria. Specifically, Njawala announced that the convention would be held on November 17, 2024, which he had already disclosed previously. Sources indicated that his second announcement was not sanctioned by the NEC and was, therefore, null and void. Insiders revealed that this action was indicative of his practices whereby he publicly states party matters without ratification from the proper channels. Moreover, Njawala failed to mention that the convention would be held in Mzuzu—a decision agreed upon during the NEC discussions—presumably to favor Blantyre, which aligns with his inclinations. This omission raises concerns about his adherence to the collective decisions of the party. Furthermore, sources noted regional biases in his remarks, underscoring his preference for Blantyre. Additionally, Njawala was accused of misrepresenting eligibility standards for party office holders. The NEC had resolved that candidates for high-ranking positions should have been party members for a minimum of two years. This measure is perceived as a way to protect the integrity of the UTM against potential incursions by other political party members due to impending defections and competition for leadership roles. Njawala’s failure to accurately convey this resolution is troubling, particularly given the context of increased political maneuvering.
The United Transformation Movement (UTM) is a political organization in Malawi currently facing internal strife stemming from recent actions by its publicity secretary. The party recently held a crucial meeting during which pivotal decisions about an upcoming convention and eligibility criteria for leadership roles were made. These developments are critical as they intersect with ongoing political dynamics, including the potential influence of external party members seeking to contest within UTM. The integrity of the party is under scrutiny as the actions of key officials like Njawala raise doubts about adherence to their democratic processes and resolutions.
The situation within UTM is precarious as allegations against Felix Njawala raise serious questions about the party’s internal governance and integrity. The redirection of public communications regarding key party decisions, paired with strategic omissions, may jeopardize the future of the party. If these claims are substantiated, UTM must address the discord within its ranks to maintain its credibility and efficacy as a political movement in Malawi.
Original Source: www.nyasatimes.com
