Bingu says ministers appointed on merit, loyalty

President Bingu wa Mutharika on Thursday swore into office two new Cabinet ministers and said he appointed his 31-cabinet team on "merit" and" loyalty."

The swearing in follows Wednesday’s hiring of new cabinet.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mutharika said he appointed the new cabinet "on the bass of loyalty, dependability and merit."

Goodall Gondwe, who was sworn in as the new Energy Minister said he was pleased with his appointment and pledged to bring positive change in the ministry.

"My main priority will be to improve fuel situation as well as constant electricity black outs," said Gondwe, an accomplished economist widely credited for revitalising the Malawi economy during Mutharika’s first term when he served as Finance Minister.

Aaron Sangala (right) taking oath as he assumes the position of minister of internal security. On the left is Chief Secretary to Office of President and Cabinet, Bright Msaka

"This is one of the most difficult ministries in government at the moment but I can be equal to it," he said after the ceremony at State House.

He however appealed for more time to make an impact, saying "solutions cannot come in a day."

Also taking an oath of office and allegiance was Patricia Kaliati, making a comeback in cabinet and as Information Minister.

"I will keep informing people and also keep educating people on what is going on the ground," outspoken Kaliati, who becomes government spokesperson, said.

The cabinet includes the "surprise" choice of academic-cum-journalist Dr Ken Lipenga as Finance Minister.

Lipenga will have a tough task as the country is targeting a "zero-deficit budget" unveiled this year in which recurrent expenses like government salaries are set to be paid out of local resources.

Worsening donor ties and a spat with former colonial power Britain, triggered twin expulsions of envoys, followed by London's cutting of direct aid last month over concerns over economic management and governance.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) in June said its programme with Malawi was off-track as the government had failed to review a US$79,4 million credit facility meant to cushion the chronic foreign exchange shortages.

But Mutharika’s younger brother, Prof. Peter Mutharika – is the new Foreign Affairs Minister  with a task to rebuild relations with donors.

Peter Mutharika will also have an opportunity to gain international exposure as he prepares to contest for 2014 presidential elections.

Mutharika, apart from being President and commander-in-chief of the Malawi defence force and the Malawi police service, took for himself three portfolios of  statutory corporations, civil service administration and national relief and disaster management.

Nyasa Times 09 Sep, 2011

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Source: http://www.nyasatimes.com/national/bingu-says-ministers-appointed-on-merit-loyalty/
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