By Staff Reporter

The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) has challenged the government to explain the legality of Monday’s Cabinet meeting, raising questions over the absence of the President and Vice President, and reports that another minister would chair the session.

Speaking during a press briefing in Lilongwe, CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa said Malawians deserve clarity on how the Cabinet meeting is being conducted.

Namiwa questioned why a Cabinet meeting was reportedly taking place in Lilongwe while the President was in Blantyre.DPP forwards CDEDI’s fuel stolen request to police

“Malawians are surprised that there is a Cabinet meeting today, yet the President is in Blantyre while the Cabinet meeting is in Lilongwe. How is that possible?” Namiwa asked.

He further questioned why Vice President Dr Jane Ansah had allegedly not been invited to attend the meeting.

“The Vice President, Dr Jane Ansah, has not been invited to today’s Cabinet meeting. Why is that?” he said.

Namiwa also demanded an explanation over reports that Minister Enock Chihana would chair the Cabinet meeting, arguing that the public should be informed about the legal basis for such an arrangement.

“We are hearing that Enock Chihana will chair the Cabinet meeting. Why? Which legal provisions are you following?” Namiwa questioned.ICC Exposes Security Lapses During Namiwa Demonstration, Calls for Accountability

According to Namiwa, CDEDI attempted to seek clarification from Chief Secretary to the Government Justin Saidi, but was unsuccessful.

“We tried to speak to Chief Secretary Justin Saidi, but we were unable to reach him,” he said.

The governance watchdog has called on the government to respond publicly to the concerns, saying transparency is essential in matters relating to the conduct of Cabinet and constitutional governance.CDEDI Turns Up Pressure on Road Fund Over Toll Money Transparency

Government had not yet responded to the allegations and questions raised by CDEDI at the time of publication. The claims made by Namiwa remain unverified, and the relevant authorities are yet to provide their official position.