President Lazarus Chakwera has dismissed Minister of Homeland Security Richard Chimwendo Banda and Minister of Defence Harry Mkandawire. This decision, announced today through the Secretary to the President and Cabinet, comes on the heels of recommendations from the Jabbar Alide Commission of Inquiry, which investigated the tragic Malawi Air Force plane crash that resulted in the deaths of former Vice President Saulos Chilima and eight others.
The commission’s findings highlighted negligence and oversight of tragedy management by the Home Affairs and Malawi Defence sectors, leading to widespread public outcry. In response to these findings, President Chakwera has taken decisive action to address the situation.
Former Malawi Congress Party (MCP) spokesperson Peter Ezekiel Ching’oma has been appointed as the new Minister of Home Affairs, taking over from Chimwendo Banda, the party’s new Secretary General. The appointment of Ching’oma, who brings a wealth of political resilience and a fresh perspective, is viewed as a strategic move to enhance the government’s response to national security issues.
Richard Chimwendo Banda’s tenure as Minister of Homeland Security has been marred by accusations of negligence, particularly regarding the government’s handling of the aftermath of the plane crash. His departure is expected to signal a renewed commitment to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the security sector.
Harry Mkandawire, who served as Minister of Defense, was also removed from his position with his alleged shortcomings attributed to poor situation management during the aftermath of the tragic plane crash. President Chakwera is expected to be the nominal cabinet official for the defense ministry while featuring as Commander-In-Chief of the Malawi Defense Forces.
The recent reshuffle has ignited discussions among political commentators and citizens alike. Observers note that the President’s decision reflects a willingness to take bold steps to address the failures of his administration and uphold the principles of good governance.
