Wednesday, December 17, 2025
No menu items!
spot_img
Home Blog Page 84

Vice Presidents Usi and Ansah hold historic meeting to ensure smooth transition of power

0

By Burnett Munthali

Outgoing Vice President of the Republic of Malawi, Right Honourable Dr. Michael Bizwick Usi, held a cordial meeting with the Incoming Vice President, Dr. Jane Ansah.

The meeting was part of broader efforts to ensure a smooth and orderly transition of power following the victory of President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika and his running mate in the September 16, 2025, elections.

Their discussion was conducted in a spirit of mutual respect, focusing on continuity and the shared responsibility of safeguarding national interests.

Dr. Usi assured Dr. Ansah of his full support as she prepares to assume her new role.

He emphasized that he would always remain available, if called upon, to provide guidance and assistance during the transition and beyond.



In response, Dr. Ansah commended Dr. Usi for his statesmanship and willingness to cooperate.

She described his pledge of support as a demonstration of patriotism and maturity.

Dr. Ansah further noted that such gestures are vital for fostering unity and stability during a historic political transition.

The meeting between the two leaders highlights Malawi’s commitment to peaceful democratic processes and the importance of collaboration in moments of political change.

It also sets a positive tone for the incoming administration, signaling that the transfer of power can be managed with dignity, dialogue, and mutual understanding.

As Malawi moves forward under new leadership, the cooperation between Dr. Usi and Dr. Ansah will stand as an example of responsible governance and respect for democratic values.

Dr. Michael Usi, who has served as Vice President since 2020, is widely recognized for his unique journey from the creative arts into national politics.

Popularly known by his stage name Manganya, Usi built a reputation as a comedian, actor, and social campaigner before transitioning into public service.

He entered politics under the United Transformation Movement (UTM), working closely with the late Vice President Saulos Chilima and later assuming the role of second-in-command after Chilima’s tragic passing.

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Usi became known for his straightforward communication style, his focus on grassroots engagement, and his efforts to champion issues affecting ordinary Malawians.

As he exits office, many observers note that Usi leaves behind a legacy of connecting government to people in ways that resonated across communities.

By contrast, Dr. Jane Ansah’s background is rooted firmly in law and public administration.

A highly respected legal scholar and former Supreme Court judge, she has served the nation in multiple capacities, including as Attorney General and later as Chairperson of the Malawi Electoral Commission.

Her role at MEC during the disputed 2019 elections made her a controversial figure at the time, but her later work in academia and the judiciary has reaffirmed her credentials as a dedicated public servant.

Now, as she prepares to assume the role of Vice President, Ansah brings deep legal expertise, institutional knowledge, and a reputation for resilience.

Her elevation marks a significant milestone in Malawian politics, making her one of the few women to rise to such a high executive office.

The encounter between Dr. Usi and Dr. Ansah therefore carried symbolic weight, bridging Malawi’s outgoing and incoming leadership through dialogue and shared commitment.

In a political environment often marked by division, their willingness to cooperate sends a powerful message of continuity, stability, and national interest above partisan lines.

As the Mutharika administration prepares to take the reins, the collaboration between the outgoing and incoming vice presidents will serve as an important foundation for governance in the years ahead.

Kamwendo appointed assistant coach at CAPS United

0



By Rahim Abdul

Zimbabwean Premier Soccer League giants CAPS United have appointed former Malawi international midfielder Joseph “Shakira” Kamwendo as one of their assistant coaches.

Kamwendo, who is currently head coach of Malawi’s Mnchinji Villa, will work closely with CAPS United’s head coach Ian Bakala.

According to the club’s president Farai Jere, the decision to bring in Kamwendo is part of the team’s broader strategy to strengthen its technical panel ahead of the new season.

“Joseph Kamwendo is a legend of African football with a wealth of experience both as a player and now as a coach. His presence will help our squad a lot, especially the younger players, who can learn from his vast knowledge of the game,” Jere said.



Kamwendo is no stranger to CAPS United, having played for the Green Machine earlier in his professional career before moving on to clubs in South Africa, Denmark and Mozambique.

During his playing days, he was renowned for his vision, creativity, and leadership on the field.

The former Flames captain also enjoyed a decorated career with Malawi’s national team, earning more than 100 caps and representing his country in several regional and continental tournaments. His leadership and passion for football made him one of the most respected players of his generation.

Since retiring from active football, Kamwendo has focused on coaching and football development. At Mnchinji Villa, he has been instrumental in nurturing young talent and instilling professionalism in the squad, which earned him recognition from football stakeholders both locally and abroad.

His return to CAPS United in a coaching capacity is seen as a homecoming that could reignite the team’s ambitions. Many supporters have welcomed the appointment, describing it as a strategic move that could restore the club’s competitive edge in the Zimbabwean league.

CAPS United, one of Zimbabwe’s most successful football clubs, has been rebuilding its squad and technical staff in recent years to reclaim its dominance on the domestic scene. The addition of Kamwendo is expected to boost both the technical bench and the morale of the players.

Speaking about his appointment, Kamwendo expressed excitement and gratitude for the opportunity: “CAPS United is a club that is very close to my heart. I am honored to return here in this new role and I look forward to contributing to the success of the team.”

As the new season approaches, fans of CAPS United and Malawian football alike will be watching closely to see how Kamwendo fares in his latest football chapter, hoping his experience and leadership will guide the Green Machine to new heights.

Mutharika warns against abuse of transition period

0



By Chisomo Phiri

President-elect Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has issued a stern warning to outgoing government officials against engaging in corrupt and irregular practices during the transitional period, describing such actions as illegal, intolerable, and a betrayal of public trust.

In a statement released on Tuesday, September 30, 2025,and signed by his spokesperson Shadreck Namalomba,Mutharika has expressed concern over reports that some outgoing government officials are taking advantage of the period before the transfer of power to push through questionable contracts and payments, authorize irregular promotions, and carry out dubious recruitments and transfers.

Mutharika



Reads the statement in part:“The behavior not only goes against the principles of patriotism but also violates public trust and breaks the law.”

Mutharika has reminded public servants that he had previously warned against such acts during a press conference at his Nyambadwe residence in Blantyre.

He has reiterated that any public officers found engaging in illicit activities will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

Mutharika has also assured Malawians that any unlawful or irregular decisions made during the transition will be nullified once his administration takes office.

“The incoming administration remains committed to safeguarding public resources and serving the best interests of every Malawian,” adds the statement.

The president-elect’s warning comes as Malawi prepares for a change in leadership following his September 16 presidential election victory, with his team vowing to prioritize accountability and transparency in government operations.

FAM considers policy to increase women coaches in women’s football

0

By Rahim Abdul

The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has revealed plans to introduce a policy that would require all women’s football teams under its competitions to be coached by female coaches.

FAM President Fleetwood Haiya said the initiative comes in response to the low number of women coaches currently active in the country, despite many having the necessary qualifications and certifications.

Haiya



According to Haiya, the majority of women who have undergone coaching courses and hold recognized licenses often fail to find opportunities because most teams prefer hiring male coaches.This, he argued has limited the growth of female coaches in football.

“Women have the potential and skills to lead teams but in many cases, they are sidelined. We want to change that narrative by ensuring that they are given the platform they deserve,” said Haiya.

He further disclosed that FAM will soon engage club owners and team managers to discuss the proposed policy, emphasizing that their buy in is crucial for the initiative to succeed.

The policy, if adopted, will apply to all teams competing in the NBM Women’s Premiership as well as district and regional leagues where young girls participate.

Haiya said the move is also in line with FAM’s broader agenda of promoting gender equality in football, adding that the presence of more women coaches will serve as an inspiration for young girls aspiring to build careers in the game.

If implemented, Malawi would join other countries in Africa and beyond that are deliberately pushing for women’s leadership in sports, positioning itself as a champion of inclusivity in football.

Fuel,beer prices up

0



By Chisomo Phiri

The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) has raised fuel pump prices by an average of 33.16 percent effective Tuesday midnight .

In a statement made available to this publication, MERA board chairperson Charles Kambauwa says following the adjustment, petrol will now be selling at K3,499 from K2,530 per litre while diesel will be selling at K3,500 from K2,734 per litre.

MERA last revised the pump prices in November 2023.

On the other hand,Castel Malawi Limited has announced upward adjustment of prices for some of its beer and spirit products, effective today Wednesday October 1,2025.



According to a communication from the company, the changes affect popular brands such as Carlsberg Green, Castel Beer, Kuche-Kuche, and Pomme Breeze.

For instance, a 330ml Carlsberg Green will now cost K2,500, up from K2,200.

The company says the move is aimed at ensuring continued product availability, urging customers to bear with the adjustments.