By Mabvuto Kalawa, Malawi Freedom Network Correspondent
As the nation awaits the orientation and swearing-in of newly elected Members of Parliament following the September 16, 2025, general elections, many Malawians are eager to know who will become the next Speaker of Parliament.
The big question remains—will the next Speaker come from the ruling party or the opposition? No one knows yet, but all eyes are fixed on what promises to be an interesting outcome.
Many Malawians expressed disappointment with the former Speaker of Parliament, accusing him of failing to perform his duties impartially. Allegations of favoritism towards the ruling side left a section of the public calling for a Speaker who will prioritize fairness and national interest.
As rumours circulate that several MPs are eyeing the position, opinions are divided across the political spectrum. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has endorsed Hon. Sameer Suleman as its candidate, while the opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has yet to announce its choice. Another potential contender is Hon. Dr. Kondwani Nankhumwa, President of the People’s Development Party (PDP).
During random interviews conducted by this reporter, several citizens shared their views on who they would like to see as the next Speaker.
Jane Banda, a former councillor candidate for Sanjiko Ward in Lilongwe Mpenu Constituency, said she would be comfortable if Hon. Sameer Suleman were elected. According to her, Suleman proved himself as a voice for ordinary Malawians during previous parliamentary sessions, particularly in advocating for transparency in the Affordable Inputs Programme (AIP). She said Suleman’s integrity and focus on accountability make him a strong candidate for the position.
Another respondent expressed the view that the next Speaker should come from the opposition to ensure balance and fairness in parliamentary deliberations. He recalled that when Parliament once had an opposition Speaker, the bills passed were in the best interest of ordinary Malawians, especially those in rural areas.
Mr. John Thengeza, a businessman and carpenter, agreed with Jane Banda, describing Hon. Suleman as a development-conscious leader who cares about the people and does not take sides.
Village Headman Katope said he has no preference between the ruling and opposition parties but urged MPs to elect a Speaker with integrity, dedication, and a non-partisan spirit. He warned against voting for individuals driven by party loyalty rather than national interest. “The Speaker should be someone who works for the people, not for personal or party gain,” he emphasized.
As Malawians who voted for change on September 16, 2025, the public is once again watching closely. Will the newly elected MPs choose a Speaker who will deliver for the nation?
The question still stands: Will it be Hon. Sameer Suleman, Dr. Kondwani Nankhumwa, or someone else? The ball is now in the hands of our Honourable Members of Parliament.
