Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Times News
Published on 2024-04-05 07:44:43
Parliament in Malawi has recently undergone a reshuffling of oversight committees, with Member of Parliament Peter Dimba making a return as the chairperson of the Legal Affairs Committee. Dimba had previously resigned from this position in February 2023, citing diminishing political will in the fight against corruption following the suspension of Anti-Corruption Bureau Director General Martha Chizuma. Despite his absence, Dimba was re-elected to the position, although it was uncertain at that time whether he would accept the role.
Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara announced the need to reconstitute committees, specifically highlighting the Legal Affairs, Budget and Finance, and Public Appointments Committee (Pac) as requiring immediate elections for chairpersons. Joyce Chitsulo, MP for Mwanza West, who recently declared she is no longer a member of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), was re-elected for the fourth time as chairperson of Pac. Additionally, Gladys Ganda, a DPP legislator for Nsanje Lalanje, was also re-elected as the chairperson for the Budget and Finance Committee for the fifth consecutive time.
Chitsulo expressed her gratitude for the re-election, reaffirming her commitment to working diligently to ensure the committee fulfills its responsibilities smoothly. Ganda, in a separate interview, pledged to continue advocating for the prudent use of public resources, emphasizing the importance of serving the people of Malawi by overseeing government spending and borrowing practices to reduce debt and ensure funds are allocated as intended.
The decision to reshuffle the committees aligns with Section 56(6) of the Constitution, which outlines the establishment of committees responsible for overseeing public bodies under the Executive branch of government. These committees play a critical role in holding the government accountable and ensuring transparency in the management of public funds.
Overall, the reshuffling of oversight committees in Parliament signifies a commitment to upholding good governance practices and promoting accountability in the administration of public affairs. The re-election of experienced individuals like Dimba, Chitsulo, and Ganda reflects a dedication to oversight and oversight roles, aiming to serve the best interests of the Malawian people. As these committees continue their work, it is crucial for them to remain vigilant in their oversight duties to promote integrity, transparency, and efficiency in governance.
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