Malawi’s development partners have issued a strong call for bold, inclusive, and accountable leadership as the country’s newly elected Parliament begins its five-year term (2025–2030).

Speaking on Monday during the opening of a two-day orientation workshop for the 224 newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC), partners including the United Nations and Oxfam have urged lawmakers to enact reforms that prioritize the poor, protect vulnerable communities, and revive the nation’s economy.

Tackling Economic Turmoil with Equity

UN Resident Coordinator Rebecca Adda-Dontoh warned that Malawi faces “serious and widespread challenges,” stressing the need for lawmakers to act swiftly and responsibly.

“The situation demands strong leadership and decisive austerity measures aimed at uplifting the nation,” said Adda-Dontoh. “Parliament must make bold and tough austerity decisions. Malawi is facing numerous challenges — economic stagnation, fiscal pressure, rising poverty, and a climate crisis — all of which require urgent, courageous action.”

Oxfam’s 50-50 Project Coordinator, Annie Maluwa, echoed similar sentiments with a firm call for equity in all economic reforms.

“We implore this House to ensure that all economic policies are pro-poor and inclusive,” Maluwa said. “It is their duty to shield vulnerable communities from the harshest impacts of any fiscal consolidation.”

Integrity and Duty in Leadership

Clerk of Parliament Fiona Kalemba emphasized the weight of responsibility entrusted to the MPs by their constituents.

“Serve them not with arrogance, but with integrity, wisdom, and a strong sense of duty,” she urged. “Carry the trust your constituents have placed in you with the utmost responsibility.”

Kalemba’s remarks marked a shift in tone — from electoral victory to the practical work of lawmaking, governance, and public accountability.

Gender Representation Falls Short

Despite progress in democratic processes, concerns were raised about Parliament’s lack of gender balance.

Both the UN and Oxfam expressed disappointment over the low number of women elected. Adda-Dontoh called for greater female political representation, while Maluwa reaffirmed Oxfam’s support for women leaders.

“We will continue to empower women across Malawi in their leadership journeys,” said Maluwa.

Looking Ahead

As the orientation concludes today, the task ahead is clear: legislators must pursue policies that are economically sound, socially just, and politically courageous.

The workshop, themed “From Election to Action: Empowering Parliamentarians for Impactful Legislation, Governance, and Transformation,” was designed to equip MPs with tools to transition from campaign mode to governance.