Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has dismissed Defence Minister Harry Mkandawire in a Cabinet reshuffle aimed at strengthening the country’s governance as part of efforts for a better 2025. The reshuffle, announced on Wednesday, also saw the removal of Deputy Education Minister Nancy Mdooko and the reassignment of several other ministers to new positions.
The move follows mounting public pressure on Chakwera, particularly over the controversial handling of Vice-President Saulosi Chilima’s death in a military plane crash on June 10, 2024. The crash, which claimed the lives of Chilima and eight others, occurred in a remote forest in northern Malawi amid dense fog. The country’s military has faced severe criticism for its response, with accusations of negligence in organizing search and rescue operations.
Chakwera’s decision to act on the issue was hailed by political commentator George Phiri, who described the firing of Mkandawire as a “step in the right direction.” Phiri noted that, while the decision was delayed, it signaled the president’s recognition of public dissatisfaction and the need for accountability in government.
However, the reshuffle has sparked criticism over the size of the Cabinet, which remains at 31 members despite the country’s economic struggles. Economist Milward Tobias condemned the large Cabinet, calling it “insensitive” to the economic plight of Malawians. He argued that the president missed an opportunity to downsize the Cabinet, pointing out the inconsistency between the government’s austerity rhetoric and its actions.
As Malawi heads towards elections in September, political tensions are rising, with many citizens scrutinizing the government’s actions closely. The reshuffle, while a move toward addressing public concerns, has added fuel to an already heated political climate.