Parliament rejected the confirmation of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) lawmaker Lonnie Chijere Phiri to be appointed to the Parliamentary Service Commission.

The proposal was tabled in the August House by leader of the house Richard Chimwendo Banda who wanted Chijele Phiri to replace Dr. George Chaponda who is now leader of the opposition.

Banda presented the motion, which read: “Pursuant to section 194D(1)(b) of the Constitution and section 5(2) of the Parliamentary Service Act, this House resolves that Zomba Chingale MP Honorable Lonnie Chijere Phiri be appointed to the Parliamentary Service Commission, filling the vacancy left by Mulanje South West MP Honorable Dr. George Chaponda’s election as Leader of Opposition.”

However, government MPs rejected the motion, prompting opposition MPs to request a division, which was granted by the Speaker.

During voting, 32 MPs voted in favour of Chijere Phiri while 75 MPs voted against her appointment while 85 MPs were not available in the house.

The development means the opposition DPP has to appoint another person to replace Chaponda.