The newly-appointed Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) chairperson High Court of Malawi Judge Annabel Mtalimanja yesterday took oath of office alongside two new MEC commissioners—Reverend Phillip Kambulire and Limbikani Kamlongera.
Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda administered the oath at the Lilongwe High Court and they have immediately commenced their duties.
Mzikamanda advised them to take their oaths seriously and prepare to face challenges and setbacks which he said are only meant to distract them from performing their duties diligently.
“Always remember that your role is to safeguard democracy through the electoral process, this is not an easy task, but knowing you all I trust you will overcome those challenges and setbacks,” he said.
The Chief Justice also reminded them that their appointment is guided by the constitutional provision, as such, they must always refer to the same Constitution to guide them in their work.
Mtalimanja was appointed MEC chairperson on Wednesday by President Lazarus Chakwera on the recommendation of the Judicial Service Commission to replace Judge Chifundo Kachale whose four-year tenure ended on June 6 2024 alongside that of commissioners Anthony Mukumbwa and Olivia Liwewe.
The appointments complete the composition of the commission which includes commissioners Emmanuel Fabiano, Francis Kasaila, Caroline Mfune and Richard Chapweteka.
According to a 2021 Annual Malawi Judiciary report, Mtalimanja was born on July 26 1976 and was appointed judge of the High Court on June 19 2013. She holds a bachelor of laws (Hons) degree from the University of Malawi (1999) and a master of laws degree from the University of Melbourne, Australia (2005).
She has been a Fellow of Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, London since 2021.
Before joining the Judiciary, Mtalimanja worked in the Ministry of Justice as senior State advocate, senior assistant chief State advocate, legislative draftsperson and administrator general.
Kambulire is moderator of Nsungwi CCAP Congregation in Area 25, Lilongwe under CCAP Nkhoma Synod while Kamlongera is an education and media professional.
Electoral stakeholders have tipped Mtalimanja to emulate Kachale, whom they have described as impartial, calm, diligent, approachable and engaging during his tenure.
Kachale gained public respect and trust following his successful administration of the June 23 2020 court-sanctioned Presidential Election which ushered into government Chakwera and the Tonse Alliance administration.
He has since expressed satisfaction with the work his team of commissioners and secretariat did, and said has confidence in the new chairperson.
However, Kachale said the job was difficult. He said: “My plea is that stakeholders and everybody should give them the opportunity and the goodwill that our team received and enjoyed.
“It is a very difficult job, but I do believe that they have what it takes to do this to the satisfaction of the people of Malawi
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