Governance expert lauds Mutharikas choice of seasoned officials

By Innocent Manda

One of Malawis renowned good governance commentators, Mavuto Bamusi, has applauded President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika for appointing three seasoned civil servants into his new administration, saying the trio will add valuable experience.

The three appointees include Dr Justin Saidi, now Chief Secretary to the Government; Stuart Naison Ligomeka, appointed Deputy Chief Secretary; and Kiswell Dakamau, named Director of Chief Residences.

In an interview with the Malawi News Agency on Tuesday, Bamusi said the appointments reflect trust in professionalism and experience, noting that such individuals can strengthen institutional stability within the civil service.

“I personally know and recommend these people. They have all served in government with unquestionable integrity, diligence, and respect for public office. Their loyalty to service delivery is remarkable,” said Bamusi.

According to Bamusi, appointing individuals who have been in the government system for long helps preserve institutional memory and ensures continuity in the execution of government policies and administrative reforms.

“The President has demonstrated that governance is about capacity and competence. Choosing career civil servants promotes efficiency and reduces the politicisation of key government functions,” he continued.

However, Bamusi urged the three officials to remain focused on serving the interests of Malawians and to avoid involvement in partisan politics as they execute their duties.

“You would find the former Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Colleen Zamba, attending political rallies, which raised questions of professionalism. We do not expect these officials to follow that path,” he urged.

On Sunday, President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, who was inaugurated on Saturday, 4 October, released a partial list of cabinet members and key administrative appointments to kickstart the implementation of his governments development agenda.

Some of the positions announced include Enock Kanzingeni Chihana as Second Vice President, George Chaponda as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joseph Mwanamvekha as Minister of Finance, and Lieutenant General George Jafu as Chief of Defence.