By Burnett Munthali
A state luncheon is underway at Mount Soche Sunbird Hotel in Blantyre.
The event follows the official swearing-in and inauguration of President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika and Vice President Dr. Jane Ansah at Kamuzu Stadium earlier today.
The luncheon has drawn together high-profile guests, including local dignitaries, international delegates, government officials, business leaders, and members of the diplomatic community.
Held in the elegant surroundings of one of Blantyre’s most prestigious hotels, the luncheon serves as both a formal celebration and a symbol of national unity.
President Mutharika, fresh from taking his oath of office, was welcomed to the venue with applause and warm greetings from attendees who congratulated him on his return to leadership.
Vice President Dr. Jane Ansah, Malawi’s second female Vice President, joined the President at the head table, where the two shared light conversation with invited guests.
The atmosphere inside the hotel is a blend of celebration and reflection, with guests expressing optimism about the new administration’s vision for national recovery and progress.
Soft music and traditional performances from local artists have added a cultural touch to the occasion, blending modern elegance with Malawian heritage.
In his brief remarks before the luncheon, President Mutharika reiterated his call for discipline, accountability, and patriotism as key pillars of his new term.
He thanked Malawians for renewing their trust in his leadership and promised to work tirelessly to rebuild the nation’s economy and restore public confidence in government institutions.
Vice President Ansah also spoke briefly, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve and emphasizing the importance of unity, hard work, and faith in achieving national transformation.
Guests raised toasts in celebration of the country’s democratic transition and the hope that the next five years will usher in stability, prosperity, and renewed national pride.
Outside the hotel, jubilant citizens continued to celebrate, waving flags and chanting songs of victory, a sign of the excitement sweeping across Blantyre and beyond.
The state luncheon marks the formal close of the inauguration day’s events, capping a historic moment in Malawi’s political journey.
It symbolizes not just the start of a new government, but also the collective aspiration of Malawians for a brighter, more united future.
