General Namanthanga told Zodiak Online yesterday at Kamuzu Barracks in Lilongwe after receiving a sword of command from outgoing MDF commander General Vincent Nundwe, that MDF officers are part of the response team preparing for a possible COVID-19 outbreak in the country.

“COVID-19 is a new phenomenon that is unfolding in the world, and then we need to put mechanisms to be able to respond to it. But as we speak, part of military personal are in the response team on the pandemic, monitoring those who are coming in.” Said General Namathanga.

Turning to the outgoing commander, the new MDF commander General Namathanga commended General Nundwe for defending people’s rights and maintaining MDF’s independence during his tenure.

In recent years, the country has seen involvement of MDF soldiers in internal security matters such as providing security during ant-government protests.

The New MDF chief also assured Malawians that the soldier’s will continue exercising their constitutional mandate by assisting the Malawi Police Service in internal security matters where necessary.

“The MDF can be asked to help the police where necessary in providing internal security. When need be, we will definitely move in.”

In his remarks, General Nundwe, said he is leaving MDF a happy man, having served the country to the best of his abilities.

“As far as I am concerned, I feel I have done my part and the one who can judge me is a Malawian.” Said General Nundwe.

General Nundwe has served in the MDF for 42 years having joined the military in 1978 rising in ranks to the top most position in the army.

“It has been a long walk. It has not been easy but with God all is possible.” He said.

He also encouraged the new General to be diligent when executing his duties.

“I have known him (General Namathanga) to be professional. I urge him to remain professional as he takes up his new role,” Said General Nundwe.

General Namathanga who joined the military in 1980 was appointed MDF commander on 17 March replacing General Nundwe who has served in the position for nine months.