By Chisomo Phiri
In a moment rich with historical symbolism, Enock Kamzingeni Chihana on Tuesday afternoon was sworn in as the Second Vice President of the Republic of Malawi, becoming the second person and the first in democratic Malawi’s history to follow in his father’s political footsteps at the same level of leadership.
The oath of office was administered by Deputy Chief Justice Lovemore Chikopa during a ceremony held at Sanjika Palace in Blantyre.
Chihana’s appointment carries deep historical resonance, as his late father, Chakufwa Chihana, was the first person to hold the position of Second Vice President.
Chakufwa Chihana is widely remembered for his pivotal role in restoring multiparty democracy in the early 1990s.
Before the September 16 General Elections, Enock Chihana’s party, the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), entered into an electoral alliance with the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP),a partnership that paved the way for his inclusion in the new administration.
His appointment was made in accordance with Section 80(5) of the Constitution of the Republic of Malawi, which provides for the appointment of a Second Vice President from a political party different from that of the First Vice President.
During the same ceremony, Roza Fatch Mbilizi was sworn in as Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development, while George Partridge took the oath as Minister of Industrialisation, Trade, Business and Tourism.
Their oaths were administered by Chief Registrar of the High Court Innocent Nebi.
Chihana’s return to the high echelons of government marks both a personal milestone and a symbolic continuation of his family’s contribution to Malawi’s democratic and political journey.
