By Suleman Chitera

New Cabinet Structure Marks a Strategic Move Towards Streamlined Governance and Continuity

Lilongwe, Malawi — President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has maintained a 24-member cabinet structure in his 2025 government, mirroring the size of his previous administration in 2019. The new cabinet includes 21 ministers and deputy ministers, with the President, First Vice President and Second Vice President completing the total.

This is in contrast to the recent Chakwera-led administration, which held 27 cabinet members, and even more notably his initial cabinet in 2020 which had 33 members, making Mutharika’s approach visibly more compact and cost-conscious.

One notable change in the 2025 cabinet is the introduction of the Ministry of State, a portfolio that was not featured during Mutharika’s 2019 term. Additionally, the President has appointed a Second Vice President without increasing the number of ministers—signaling a reshuffle and realignment rather than expansion.

Mutharika Heads to Lilongwe Amidst Warm Farewell

Another significant shift is the recombination of ministries previously separated under the Chakwera administration. For example, the Ministry of Education has reverted to a unified portfolio after previously being split into Basic & Secondary Education and Higher Education. The consolidation is being viewed as part of the President’s broader efficiency-driven governance strategy.

Familiar Faces Return

President Mutharika has retained 8 members from his 2019 cabinet, underscoring continuity and trust in their experience. Those returning include:

George Chaponda

Bright Msaka

Joseph Mwananvekha

Charles Mhango

Ben Phiri

Mary Navitcha

Jappie Mhango

Chimwemwe Chipungu

These figures were key influencers in the previous DPP administration and are expected to play critical roles in driving policy and political stability.

Political Context

The unveiling of the full cabinet came just hours after Parliament elected its new leadership. Two of the three top positions were secured by DPP legislators — Right Hon. Sameer Suleiman as Speaker of the National Assembly and Hon. Victor Musowa as First Deputy Speaker — signaling a strengthened DPP presence in legislative affairs.

This morning, President Mutharika is scheduled to officially open the 52nd Session of Parliament, marking the formal beginning of legislative business under his new administration.