By Edwin Mauluka
Newly elected Speaker of the Malawi National Assembly and Blantyre City South East legislator Sameer Suleman says he has not assumed the position to serve the interests of only his governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) but to uphold fairness and integrity in Parliament.
“As Speaker, I pledge to preside over the affairs of this House with impartiality, fairness, and firmness, ensuring that every voice is heard and every view is respected,” said Suleman following his election to the position that will see him manage and direct national deliberations.
“This chamber must continue to be a platform where ideas flow respectfully, where accountability flourishes, and where our actions reflect the highest aspirations of all Malawians,” he added.
Clerk of Parliament Fiona Kalemba declared Suleman the winner after he secured 134 votes, defeating his closest rival Peter Dimba of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), who garnered 85 votes.
Four lawmakers contested the position, including two DPP members: Sandram Mavuto Scott (Thyolo Thekerani) and Lasken Vinyo Vigaro (Blantyre City Michiru-Chilimba). Both received zero votes.
A total of 221 members were present out of 229 parliamentary seats. Two were absent, one abstained, and six seats remain vacant, according to the Malawi Electoral Commission.
Suleman succeeds Catherine Gotani Hara, the Mzimba North East legislator from MCP, who served as Speaker from 2019 to 2025. He said his election symbolizes a renewed collective commitment to representative democracy, urging lawmakers to prioritize reasoned debate, sound legislation, principled oversight, integrity, and decorum.
“The days ahead will demand diligence, cooperation, and courage. We must rise above partisan politics and put the nation first,” said Suleman. “The challenges Malawi faces require collective wisdom and sober stewardship. Let us commit to a Parliament that leads by example, legislates prudently, and oversees with integrity.”
In related elections, DPP MP for Mulanje Bale, Victor Musowa, was elected First Deputy Speaker after securing 134 votes, defeating Emmanuel Chambulanyina Jere (MCP,
Mzimba South) who got 60 votes, and Catherine Mzumara (UTM, Mzimba North) who managed 24 votes.
Machinga East MP Esther Jolobala of the UDF, who was unopposed, becomes the new Second Deputy Speaker. Mchinji South MP Owen Mainjani withdrew from the race, reportedly to promote gender balance in the leadership of Parliament.
President Peter Mutharika is scheduled to open the 52nd Session of Parliament on Friday, marking the start of the First Meeting of the National Assembly and the 2025/2026 Mid-Term Budget Review.
