By Ethel Banda

In a dramatic twist of events about 42 United Transformation Movement (UTM) members in Mangochi have dumped the party and have since joined opposition United Democratic Front (UDF).

They were welcomed at Chisambanope area in Thundu ward by Mangochi Mayor Edna Yusuf who is also the UDF Organising Secretary for Women in the Eastern Region.

Yusuf says they are geared up in rebranding the party so that they should form the next government.

“We are not sleeping as we want to retain the UDF mastership, people love this party that is why they are coming in large numbers to join it,” Said Yusuf.

She added that it is Covid-19 that is restricting them from holding massive rallies to hook support for the yellow camp.

In an interview one of the defectors, Catherine Cassim said the political future in UTM is not clear that is why they have decided to press an exit button.

Ironically councillor of the area Coaster Bwanali dumped UTM earlier this year and re-joined his yellow family which ushered him into power.

The welcoming ceremony was graced by Yusufu, director of women east Mrs Jana, Councillor Bwanali, UDF district governor for Mangochi and his Committee members among others.