By Burnett Munthali
Vice President Jane Ansah has thanked president Arthur Peter Mutharika for giving her the opportunity to serve as Malawi’s vice-president, saying his decision to choose her as his running mate marked a significant moment in her public-service journey.
Ansah made the remarks on Saturday at Chisitu Parish in Mulanje during the Archdiocese of Blantyre Catholic Women Association’s annual Umai wa Amai Maria celebration, where she reflected on her political journey, her relationship with Mutharika and the significance of women taking up senior leadership positions.
The vice-president said she remains grateful to Mutharika for having confidence in her abilities and selecting her as his running mate ahead of the September 16, 2025 presidential election.
She said the opportunity demonstrates the importance of political leaders giving women space to serve in positions of national responsibility.
Ansah said her experience should encourage other Malawian women to believe in their capabilities, prepare themselves for leadership and make full use of opportunities when they arise rather than waiting for senior positions to be offered to them.
She urged women to combine opportunity with hard work, competence, discipline and commitment to public service, stressing that holding a senior position comes with responsibilities that must be fulfilled through dedicated service.
The vice-president also appealed to Malawians to exercise caution over information circulating on social media concerning her relationship with Mutharika and other issues involving the country’s leadership.
She said some of the claims being circulated are false and urged citizens to distinguish between verified information and allegations that can mislead the public and unnecessarily create tensions around national leadership.
Ansah further explained that her respect for Mutharika is rooted in her Christian beliefs, saying her faith guides how she relates to the country’s leadership and other people.
She said she can not profess to love God while deliberately disrespecting the President, whom she recognises as Malawi’s Head of State.
Ansah’s expression of gratitude comes amid broader national discussions about the representation of women in politics and senior public institutions, where advocates continue to call for greater opportunities for women to participate in decision-making.
