Former Malawi president Dr Lazarus Chakwera has been appointed by the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon. Shirley Botchwey, as her Special Envoy to Tanzania, following post-election violence that has claimed multiple lives and raised political tensions.

Chakwera will visit Tanzania from 18 to 21 November for a four-day engagement aimed at initiating inclusive dialogue with government officials, political leaders, civil society organisations, religious and traditional leaders, and international partners. He will also meet with President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

“I have accepted the Commonwealth’s request to lead a peace-building mission to Tanzania. The situation there requires calm, dialogue and credible engagement, and I am ready to offer my contribution,” Chakwera said during a media briefing in Lilongwe on Monday.

He confirmed that President Peter Mutharika has given his full approval to undertake the mission.

Secretary-General Botchwey said Chakwera’s leadership and experience will be critical in supporting constructive dialogue.

“Dr Lazarus Chakwera’s experience and leadership will be important in supporting constructive dialogue among all stakeholders. I am confident it will contribute to peace and stability for the people of Tanzania, grounded in the Commonwealth’s shared values of inclusion, justice, and accountable governance.”

Chakwera will be supported by Commonwealth Assistant Secretary-General Prof. Luis Franceschi, and the outcomes of the mission will guide the Secretary-General’s next steps under her Good Offices role.

Reflecting on Malawi’s democratic credentials, Chakwera said: “During my administration, we demonstrated that power can change hands peacefully and that key positions, including the Speaker of Parliament, can be filled without turmoil.”

Turning to domestic politics, he addressed tensions within the Malawi Congress Party following its 16 September election defeat: “This is not the time to tear each other apart. We must reflect honestly on why Malawians voted us out of power. If we fight among ourselves, we will only damage the party. We must rebuild with humility and discipline.”

Meanwhile, Chakwera says he remains confident the MCP will recover emphasizing MCP will overcome "this period and regain public trust if we remain focused, united and truthful about our mistakes.”

The unrest in Tanzania erupted after disputed general elections, which saw opposition parties contesting the results.

Clashes between security forces and protesters, coupled with reports of intimidation and arrests of opposition supporters, have contributed to widespread tensions and fatalities in several regions.