By Suleman Chitera
Speaker of Parliament, Right Honourable Sameer Suleman, MP, on Monday morning held his first official engagement with the Parliament Secretariat’s management team, outlining a transformative vision aimed at strengthening the effectiveness and relevance of the legislative arm of government.
During the meeting, the Speaker emphasised his commitment to making Parliament “relevant, responsive and responsible,” noting that this could only be achieved through unity of purpose within the institution.
“My vision is to make Parliament relevant, responsive and responsible. I know this can only be achieved if we are to read from the same book, same chapter, same page and same paragraph,” he said.
Focus on Impact, Not Numbers
Speaker Suleman stressed that his leadership will not be measured by the number of parliamentary sittings he presides over, but rather the impact those meetings will have on national development.
“I don’t want to be judged by how many Sessions, Meetings or Sittings of Parliament I presided over but the difference these meetings will make to the development of our nation. My desire is to be measured by the difference I have brought. I want change and change is what we must attain,” he highlighted.
He added that the institutional culture must align fully with Parliament’s vision and mission, calling for collaboration, efficiency and renewed commitment from all departments within the Secretariat.
Parliament’s Role in Vision 2063
The Speaker also underscored the critical role Parliament plays in the achievement of Malawi 2063 (MW2063), the country’s long-term development blueprint. He said effective legislation and strong oversight are essential for realising national aspirations.
Secretariat Welcomes Speaker’s Vision
Responding on behalf of the Secretariat, Clerk of Parliament Fiona Kalemba said the engagement provided clarity on the Speaker’s expectations and direction for the institution.
She noted that the interaction helped management better understand the Speaker’s priorities and the collective responsibility required to meet them.
During the meeting, the Speaker was also briefed on the structure and functions of the Secretariat, enabling him to appreciate the internal workings of the parliamentary administrative system.
A New Era for Parliamentary Leadership
Speaker Suleman’s first engagement marks the beginning of what he describes as a new chapter of impact-driven leadership, with a strong focus on institutional efficiency, national development, and long-term transformation.
