UTM president Dalitso Kabambe has announced that the party in not going to attend the launch of Saulos Klaus Chilima (SKC) Foundation tonight.
Addressing the media in Lilongwe, Kabambe said the party has made a decision not to attend the launch because of the attendance of President Lazarus Chakwera.
Mary Chilima invited Chakwera to the launch, which State House said it is an honour.
Chilima, former first lady Shanil Dzimbiri and seven others were on board an MDF plane Dornier 228 MAFT03 from Lilongwe to Mzuzu Airport when it crashed in Chikangawa on June 10 2024.
“As we reflect on the life and contributions of our late former president, we must also acknowledge the complex emotions that arise from recent events. It is with a sense of principle and respect for those we have lost that I announce our party’s decision not to attend the launch of the SKC Foundation.
“This decision was not made lightly. We carry with us the weight of grievances regarding how the legacy of our late founding president has been handled. And it is deeply troubling for us to share this with you. We share the same platform with the current leadership of this country at this significant moment. The freedom of our president should be an embodiment of unity and respect.
“And at this juncture, unfortunately, we fail with his imperative. To uphold our principles. We are acutely aware of the circumstances surrounding the invitation of the president to this event. We will not say much, though we know exactly what happened. We refuse to pretend as if all is well. The grief of our party and the unanswered questions surrounding the tragic death of our founding president remain unresolved.
“The question is what do we ask of ourselves as UDM? How do we share a platform with those who hold Malawi as the truth? How do we sit side-by-side, wine, drink, dance with those who have yet to account for the scumstances of that day? These questions are weighing heavily in our hearts,” said Kabambe
