The recent UTM convention, which elevated Dalitso Kabambe to the presidency, has sent ripples across Malawi’s political landscape.
It sidelined prominent figures like Newton Kambala and former Secretary-General Patricia Kaliati, leaving many wondering about the next moves for Michael Usi, the former Vice President of the party.
While speculation abounds, Usi’s path forward seems fraught with challenges.
One speculated move is for Usi to challenge the convention’s outcome in court, arguing a lack of constitutionalism.
This strategy aims to nullify the elections and revert the party to its previous state.
However, political analyst Wonderful Mkhutche has dismissed this approach, stating, “Taking the legal route as well as fighting for a new convention will further dirt his reputation as someone who does not exactly know what he wants.”
Legal battles rarely end quickly or cleanly, making this a precarious option for Usi.
Another possible route is for Usi to organize a rival convention with his loyalists, potentially creating two factions within UTM.
This move would spark a battle for legitimacy, further weakening an already fractious party. While this tactic might appeal to some of his supporters, it risks isolating Usi politically and tarnishing his image as a principled leader.
Mkhutche observed, “UTM is now past Michael Usi. He had the time and freedom to become the President of the party, but he preferred the comfort of the vice presidency.
“He cannot have both, and he chose his side. Usi is respected as a man of principles, and it will be a huge disappointment seeing him still using the UTM colours in his politics. He needs to leave the party to its rightful leaders.”
Usi had ample opportunity to assert himself as UTM’s leader during his tenure as Vice President but seemed content in his supportive role.
Now that the convention has shifted the power dynamics, his indecision could haunt him.
Remaining within UTM under its new leadership or attempting to regain control risks portraying him as inconsistent and lacking a clear vision.
To preserve his legacy and principles, Usi may need to chart a new path outside UTM. His continued association with the party under its current leadership could undermine his credibility.
By stepping away, he could redefine himself politically and avoid the infighting that often consumes divided parties.
Usi faces a critical moment in his political career. Any Machiavellian maneuver to reclaim power risks eroding his reputation as a man of principles.
The UTM has moved on, and so should Usi—perhaps to a platform that better aligns with his ideals and vision.
His ability to connect with grassroots supporters while maintaining a reputation for integrity has earned him respect across the political divide, but this moment will define whether he maintains or loses that respect.
