By Evance Matola and Chifundo Kowedza:
President Peter Mutharika has challenged the newly sworn-in cabinet ministers and other government officials to work with competence and integrity, which are key pillars in government service delivery.
Mutharika said this on Thursday at the swearing-in ceremony that took place at Sanjika Palace, where Minister of Foreign Affairs George Chaponda, Minister of State Alfred Gangata, Minister of Finance, Economic and Development Planning Joseph Mwanamveka, Chief Secretary Justin Saidi, and Deputy Chief Secretary Stuart Ligomeka took the oath of office.
On women’s inclusion, Mutharika said other critics have criticised him for not appointing women in his partial appointments of ministers and other government positions.
“People just criticise APM all the time. I am always happy when I see women taking up big positions in different sectors. I would like to see women in all sectors taking leadership positions in the public and private sectors as well as in NGOs,” he said.
He added that it is important for women to fully participate in running the country.
“Gender equality is a priority. Women will hold positions across all sectors. Our government will be diversified and inclusive,” he emphasised.
Mutharika has also challenged civil societies and religious organisations to make appointments of women into decision-making roles rather than criticising his government.
Regarding the appointment of Gangata as Minister of State, Mutharika said that the decision was made to empower youths in the country to take a leading role in economic development.
