Malawi’s outgoing Speaker of the National Assembly, Rt Hon. Catherine Gotani Hara, has been praised for her groundbreaking leadership, discipline, and integrity during her historic term in office. As the first woman to hold the role, she broke long-standing barriers and set new standards in a position that has often been marked by pressure and political tension.
Her tenure was defined by a strong commitment to transparency, the rule of law, and maintaining order in the House. Under her leadership, Parliament saw constructive debate and improved public trust, with many hailing her as a symbol of what women can achieve in modern politics. Working alongside President Lazarus Chakwera’s administration, her leadership helped usher in key reforms and a more collaborative relationship between the executive and legislature.
Commenting on her legacy, Thandie Wa Pulimuheya, a prominent voice in Malawi’s women’s movement, praised Gotani Hara for her resilience and service: “You did your job with integrity. You stayed true to who you are—and for that, you’ve made the sisterhood proud.”
As Malawi concludes the longest parliamentary session in its multiparty history, Gotani Hara leaves behind a legacy of courage and inspiration, remembered as a pioneer who paved the way for future generations of women in leadership.
