LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The National Advocacy Platform (NAP) has commended President Peter Mutharika’s government for its decision to reduce the number of Principal Secretaries from 80 to 38, describing the move as bold, timely and necessary in the face of Malawi’s current economic challenges.
In a statement signed by NAP Chairperson Benedicto Kondowe and National Coordinator Baxton Nkhoma, the organisation said the decision, announced by the Chief Secretary to the Government, signals a renewed commitment to discipline and reform in public administration.
NAP noted that the reduction reflects political will to address inefficiencies that have long characterised the upper levels of the civil service.
According to the platform, an expanded senior bureaucracy had over time strained coordination across ministries and weakened accountability.
The advocacy group said the bloated structure also undermined value for money, especially at a time when public resources are under severe pressure.
NAP believes a leaner leadership setup offers a chance to clarify mandates and improve the pace and quality of decision making in government.
The organisation further observed that cutting senior positions could significantly reduce administrative costs that do not directly benefit citizens.
It added that resources saved through the reform should be redirected to frontline service delivery and priority national investments.
NAP also praised the timing of the move, saying it sends a strong signal of shared sacrifice as Malawians continue to endure economic hardship.
However, the platform cautioned that the success of the reform will depend on how it is carried out.
NAP stressed that redeployment, retention or release of affected officers must be guided by transparency, objectivity, and merit.It warned that any perception of political patronage or vindictiveness would erode public confidence and damage the reform’s credibility.
NAP emphasized that reducing numbers is not an end in itself but a means to building a professional, accountable and citizen focused civil service that truly serves the national interest.
