EDITORIAL | The Forum

After five weeks of deliberations, Malawi’s National Assembly has adjourned, having completed the 2025–2026 Mid-Year Budget Review and formally opened the 52nd Session of Parliament. Speaker Sameer Suleman closed the meeting with praise for members’ contributions but his commendation came wrapped in a sharp rebuke. Far too many MPs, he said, have been missing sittings without permission.

His reminder was blunt and overdue: representing Malawians is not a part-time hobby.

“Your contribution must always serve the greater good of our nation,” he said, before warning that persistent absenteeism will attract deductions and other disciplinary measures. Attendance, he stressed, is not optional. It is a legal requirement under parliamentary summons.

The Speaker also cautioned both sides of the aisle to adhere to proper procedures when introducing bills. It was a subtle but important call for a more disciplined, transparent, and accountable legislature, one that functions as a guardian of democracy rather than a stage for political theatrics.

Leader of the House Jappie Mhango, for his part, described the meeting as a strong start for the newly elected Parliament and reaffirmed the DPP administration’s commitment to delivering on its promises. He said President Peter Mutharika is focused on rebuilding the economy.

But rebuilding Malawi begins with something embarrassingly basic: showing up for work. Too many lawmakers treat Parliament as a place they visit at their convenience while still collecting allowances paid by taxpayers who expect diligence, not dereliction.

And it is not only absenteeism that erodes trust. The sight of MPs dozing off during debates is a national insult. No employer would tolerate an employee who literally sleeps on the job, yet Malawians are expected to accept this from the very people shaping the nation’s future.

Speaker Suleman’s words were a step in the right direction, but rhetoric alone cannot restore dignity to Parliament. Enforcement must follow. Discipline must be real. The House owes Malawians seriousness, not slumber.

It is long past time for Parliament to match its authority with responsibility.

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