By Suleman Chitera, Sanjika Palace, Blantyre
Malawi’s newly appointed Second Vice President, Enoch Chihana, has officially been sworn into office during a ceremony held at Sanjika Palace in Blantyre. The event also marked the swearing-in of two newly appointed Cabinet ministers — Roza Fatch Mbilizi, Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development, and George Partridge, Minister of Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism.
The oath of office for the Vice President was administered by Deputy Chief Justice Lovemore Chikopa, while Chief Registrar of the High Court and Supreme Court of Appeal, Innocent Nebi, administered both the oath of office and the oath of allegiance for the ministers.
During the ceremony, President Arthur Peter Mutharika urged the new appointees to focus on service delivery and national development rather than personal enrichment.
“This government is about hard work, integrity, and results. The people of Malawi expect action, not excuses,” said President Mutharika, emphasizing his administration’s renewed commitment to improving governance, economic growth, and accountability.
A Call to Duty and Integrity
President Mutharika reminded the new officials that leadership is a sacred trust that must be exercised with humility and dedication to the people. He stressed that the new appointments are part of his broader vision to strengthen government operations and accelerate the implementation of key reforms aimed at reviving Malawi’s economy.
Profiles of the New Appointees
Enoch Chihana – A seasoned politician and leader of the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), Chihana brings extensive political experience and a reputation for advocating good governance and national unity.
Roza Fatch Mbilizi – Known for her expertise in public administration, Mbilizi is expected to drive agricultural reform and water management initiatives critical to Malawi’s food security.
George Partridge – A respected economist and business leader, Partridge’s appointment to the Ministry of Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism signals a push toward industrial growth and job creation.
Strengthening the Mutharika Administration
The swearing-in at Sanjika Palace marks a key moment in President Mutharika’s administration as he seeks to bolster his Cabinet with capable and reform-minded leaders. The ceremony attracted senior government officials, party leaders, and members of the diplomatic community.
As the newly sworn-in officials begin their duties, all eyes are on how their appointments will influence the government’s economic recovery agenda and service delivery to the Malawian people.
