Tag Archives: Gotani Hara

Politics

Surprise Visits are Normal, Honorable Suleiman Doesn’t Owe Anyone an Explanation

Maravi Post Reporter

By Twink Jones Gadama

The recent letter from Speaker of the House Catherine Gotani Hara to Honorable Sameer Suleiman, requesting an explanation for his conduct during a visit to the Small Holder Farmers Fertilizer Revolving Fund of Malawi (SFFRFM) warehouse, has raised eyebrows.

Gotani Hara
Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara lost Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) elections

The complaint lodged by the CEO of SFFRFM alleges that Honorable Suleiman visited the warehouse without prior notice, compromising the security and integrity of the institution.

However, it’s essential to remind Speaker Hara that surprise visits are a normal part of any government official’s duties.

These visits are meant to ensure transparency and accountability, and they don’t require prior notice or explanation. In fact, informing the CEO beforehand would have likely compromised the purpose of the visit, as it would have given them an opportunity to cover up any irregularities.

It’s worth noting that Vice President Michael Usi has been conducting surprise visits to various institutions, and he hasn’t been summoned for an explanation.

So, why should Honorable Suleiman be treated any differently? The answer lies in the fact that Speaker Hara is acting more like an agent of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) rather than the Speaker of Parliament.

As reported earlier, Catherine Gotani Hara is considered the worst speaker in Africa.

Her bias towards the MCP is evident in her actions, and it’s clear that she’s trying to intimidate the opposition.

However, this tactic will not work, as Honorable Suleiman and other opposition members will continue to perform their duties without fear or favor.

Honorable Suleiman doesn’t owe anyone an explanation for his visit to the SFFRFM warehouse. Surprise visits are a normal part of his duties, and they’re essential for ensuring transparency and accountability.

Speaker Hara should focus on conducting her duties in a fair and impartial manner, rather than acting as an agent of the MCP.

SADC

Gotani Hara: The worst speaker of Parliament in Africa

MaraviPost 2 Comments

By Twink Jones Gadama

Catherine Gotani Hara, the current Speaker of the National Assembly of Malawi, has found herself at the center of a storm of criticism that questions her competence and impartiality in one of the most crucial roles in the country’s democratic framework. The role of the Speaker is pivotal in ensuring that parliamentary procedures are followed, that debates are conducted fairly, and that the rights of all members of parliament (MPs) are upheld. However, under Gotani Hara’s leadership, many have begun to argue that she has failed to fulfill these responsibilities, leading to a perception that she may be the worst speaker not only in Malawi but potentially in Africa.

The criticism against Gotani Hara is not merely anecdotal; it is rooted in a series of procedural irregularities and a perceived bias towards her party, the Malawi Congress Party (MCP). This has raised serious concerns about the integrity of the legislative process in Malawi. The role of the Speaker is to act as a neutral arbiter, ensuring that all voices in the parliament are heard and that the legislative process is conducted in accordance with established rules and regulations. However, many observers argue that Gotani Hara has prioritized the interests of her party over the principles of democracy and parliamentary procedure.

One of the most significant criticisms has come from the Leader of the Opposition, George Chaponda, who has publicly lamented the manner in which bills are being passed in the National Assembly. Chaponda’s concerns highlight a broader issue regarding the scrutiny of legislation, which is essential for a functioning democracy. The legislative process is designed to allow for thorough debate and examination of proposed laws, ensuring that they are in the best interest of the public. However, the allegations of unprocedural bill passing under Gotani Hara’s watch suggest a troubling trend where the urgency of party agendas takes precedence over due process.

The implications of this situation are profound. When bills are passed without proper scrutiny, it undermines the very foundation of democratic governance. Laws that affect the lives of citizens are being enacted without the necessary debate and consideration, leading to potential negative consequences for the populace. This not only erodes public trust in the legislative process but also raises questions about the accountability of elected officials. If the Speaker is perceived as failing to uphold the integrity of the parliamentary process, it can lead to a broader disillusionment with the political system as a whole.

Moreover, the perception that Gotani Hara is more concerned with protecting her party than with serving the interests of the nation further complicates her position. The Speaker’s role is not to be a partisan player but to facilitate a fair and balanced legislative environment. When the Speaker is seen as biased, it can create an atmosphere of hostility and division within the parliament, making it increasingly difficult for constructive dialogue to take place. This is particularly concerning in a country like Malawi, where political tensions can run high and where the need for collaboration and consensus-building is essential for national progress.

The call from Chaponda for the president not to assent to bills that have not been properly scrutinized is a significant one. It underscores the importance of checks and balances within the government and highlights the role of the executive in ensuring that the legislative process is respected. If the president were to heed this advice, it could serve as a critical intervention to restore some level of integrity to the legislative process. However, it also raises questions about the relationship between the executive and legislative branches of government and whether there is a willingness to confront the issues that have arisen under Gotani Hara’s leadership.

Critics of Gotani Hara have also pointed to her lack of experience and preparedness for the role of Speaker. While she may have had a political career prior to her appointment, the responsibilities of the Speaker require a deep understanding of parliamentary procedure, a commitment to impartiality, and the ability to manage complex debates. If Gotani Hara is perceived as lacking in these areas, it raises concerns about her ability to effectively lead the National Assembly. The Speaker must be a figure of authority and respect, someone who commands the confidence of all members of parliament, regardless of their political affiliation. If this confidence is lacking, it can lead to a breakdown in the functioning of the parliament.

The situation in Malawi is not unique; it reflects a broader trend seen in various democracies where the integrity of parliamentary processes is called into question. The role of the Speaker is critical in maintaining the health of a democracy, and when that role is compromised, it can have far-reaching consequences. The challenges faced by Gotani Hara serve as a reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency in governance. It is essential for leaders to recognize that their actions have implications beyond their immediate political interests; they shape the very fabric of the democratic process.

In conclusion, Catherine Gotani Hara’s tenure as Speaker of the National Assembly of Malawi has been marred by allegations of bias, procedural irregularities, and a failure to uphold the principles of democratic governance. The criticisms leveled against her, particularly by opposition leader George Chaponda, highlight the urgent need for a reevaluation of her role and the functioning of the parliament as a whole. If Malawi is to move forward as a democratic nation, it is imperative that the integrity of its legislative process is restored. This requires a Speaker who is committed to impartiality, transparency, and the principles of democracy. As it stands, Gotani Hara’s leadership raises serious questions about the future of parliamentary governance in Malawi and serves as a cautionary tale for other democracies facing similar challenges.

Politics

Retired high Court judge Dustin Mwaungulu sides with DPP – Faults Gotani Hara for ceding Power to Judiciary

Ufulu

The circus that is going on in  Malawi Parliament and its first woman speaker is embarrassing to say the least. Gotani Hara is retarding the progress of all women in the country.

As the first Woman speaker of the house, she is making it difficult for future women who will have ambitions to lead Parliament.

Rule of law Vs standing orders: Malawi’s Parliament struggles to determine legitimate Opposition Leader

Retired high Court judge Dustin Mwaungulu writes:

“All this is because of the problem of the independence of the judiciary – taken to interesting heights – and parliamentary sovereignty – reduced to its improper height!

The National Assembly, under the Constitution, is master and sovereign of its procedures! The Leader of the opposition  is a creature (of procedure) by the National Assembly (in its standing orders). It is doubtful that a court can intervene in a parliamentary process – by an injunction!

And for the Speaker to succumb to a court process undermining its sovereignty is unheard of! It must be obvious to any judicial officer that fighting with the legislature by imposing orders affecting its process is ignoble! Just as it must be obvious to the legislature that judicial intrusion should not undermine its sovereignty over the process!”

Of Malawi Speaker Gotani Hara incompetence, recipe for her impeachment
Development, Malawi

World Vision Malawi dates Parliament on 2021-2025 Strategy

Lloyd M’bwana
Dube and Speaker (from left)

By Tione Andsen (MANA)

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-World Vision Malawi (WVM) has emphasised the need for Members of Parliament (MPs) to embrace its 2021-2025 Strategy easy implementation.

The call comes after WVM engage lawmakers on Wednesday, November 24, 2021 in the capital Lilongwe that legislators be supportive towards implemention.

WVM National Director, Francis Dube observes that lawmakers are important on the strategy as are policy holders saying strategy offers a positive promise to the children of Malawi and government.

Dunbe therefore calls for the transparency and accountability in the implementation process of the Strategy.

“It will provide an opportunity for checks and balance in its implementation and calls collaboration, linkages and advocacy for the improvement of the livelihoods of children and communities,

“We want our legislators to be part and parcel of strategy’s implementation whose beneficiaries are MPs constituents” Dube added.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Catherine Gotani therefore agreed to partner with WVM in order to foster development needs in various constituencies in the country.

Hara observed that WVM has been in operational in the country since 1982 but has had no working agreement with the National Assembly.

The Speaker pointed out that Non- Government Organizations (NGOs) such WVM should strive to establish working with relationships with the National Assembly.

“NGOs should be keen to look for opportunities in order to lobby with Members of Parliament (MPs) to change some of the laws they deem not conducive to their operations. They can lobby through private members motions in order to advance some amendments of the laws,” she added.

Hara therefore appealed to NGOs in the country to consult MPs when implementing development projects in an area in order to instill issues of ownership.

The Speaker hailed WVM for engaging MPs to appreciate the newly formulated WVM 2021-2025 strategy which need the support of all stakeholders.

She said the gesture would accord MPs to have a better understating of the Strategy and be part of the implementation process.

“We have seen that the Strategy is been implemented in the sectors of education, food security, Early Childhood Development (ECD), health, education, water and ending  Gender Based Violence  (GBV) and child marriages,” Hara explained.

Minister of Gender, Social Welfare and Community Development, Patricia Kaliati said it was pleasing to note that the new WVM Strategy has been aligned with Malawi 2063.

She said Strategy calls for the involvement of all stakeholders so that no one should not be left behind.

Kaliati said District Council should be vigilant in making sure that all NGOs working in their councils should be implementing their development projects according to their District Development Plans (DDPs).

She said in order to achieve this MPs need to play their rightful role in the monitoring and implementation processes.

The 2021-2025 Strategic Plan aims at improving communities’ lives for better.

Human Rights, Law and order, Lifestyle

CDEDI to go ahead with vigil on smuggled bill at Malawi Parliament despite Lilongwe council refusal

Maravi Post Reporter

By Thandie Chadzandiyani

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s civil rights watchdog Center for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) insists that will go ahead with planed vigil at the main entrance of parliament building from August 11, 2021 despite Lilongwe City Council (LCC) refusal.

CDEDI says the vigil aimed at forcing Parliament leadership including Clerk Fiona Kalemba, Speaker Catherine Gotani Hara, leader of the house Richard Chimwendo Banda to give tangible answers to the public on the smuggled MK93 billion Loan Autholization Bill.

On Monday, August 9, LCC refused to grant permission to CDEDI to hold a vigil at Parliament Building from Wednesday over the smuggling of the money Bill to Parliament.

The council’s spokesperson Tamala Chafunya said the council had denied CDEDI the permission due to Covid-19 restrictions and security as the country hosts the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit.

But CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa told The Maravi Post on Tuesday that the vigil ahead as planed on Wednesday.

Namiwa hinted that the council has no right to stop the vigil as its citizens rights to demonstrate against any evil deeds.

“The president has to know that this a Democratic nation, such that us citizens have rights and one of them is to hold peaceful demonstrations.

“What the Lilongwe city council has done is to vindicate on what what we have been saying that President Lazarus Chakwera’s Malawi Congress Party (MCP) is a threat to democracy. So we will proceed the vigils up until the president set up a committee, its a no retreat no surrender journey,” dares Namiwa.

In a statement and letters served to Lilongwe City Council and Malawi Police, CDEDI said it panned to hold the vigil until Clerk of Parliament Fiona Kalemba, Speaker of the National Assembly Catherine Gotani Hara, and Leader of the House Richard Chimwendo Banda address issues surrounding the Bill.

“CDEDI’s decision to hold a vigil at the Parliament building, follows an expiry of a 48-hour ultimatum we gave madam Kalemba, honourable Gotani Hara, honourable  Chimwendo Banda, and the Leader of Opposition, honourable Kondwani Nankhumwa, who has since given his side of the story, as per our earlier demands.

“Malawians may wish to recall that the Nation Publications Limited [NPL], reported last week, that the draft piece, No. 22 of 2021, Bank of Baroda [construction of residential houses under the National Housing Project, and various security institutions], Loan Authorisation Bill, allowing the Malawi government to borrow K93 billion, to finance the construction of houses for security agency workers in the country, found its way onto the order paper in the National Assembly, mysteriously,” reads part of the statement signed by the organisation’s executive director Silvester Namiwa.

“In view of this, Cdedi demanded President Dr Lazarus Chakwera to act decisively on the matter, by instituting an independent committee to investigate the scandal and report back to Malawians within 30 days.

“We further demanded   Hon. Gotani-Hara, Hon. Chimwendo Banda, Hon. Nankhumwa, and madam Kalemba, to exonerate themselves,” the statement reads.

Parliament spokesperson Ian Mwenye said they are aware that there is public interest in the matter, but there are also investigations taking place on the Bill; hence, commenting on it would jeopardise investigations.

He said Parliament will only make a statement after investigations.

The money Bill was smuggled to Parliament without following proper processes and knowledge of key stakeholders such as the Attorney General, the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Justice.

Malawi

Malawi Parliament’s budget session set Sept 4

Richard Kayenda


MZUZU-(MaraviPost)-Speaker of the National Assembly, Catherine Gotani Hara, has on Saturday announced that parliament will convene on September 4 this year to deliberate on 2020/2021 budget.

According to the Parliament boss, the session will run until October 9 and Head of State, Dr Lazarus Chakwera, will officially grace the opening.

This will be Chakwera’s first time to present a State of the National Address, since he took over government in June this year.

In July, parliament passed a four month provisional budget which was pegged at MK721 billion.

Meanwhile, following the regime change, development partners have pledged to resume direct budgetary support to Malawi. So far, African Development Bank (ADB) has already pledged US$40 billion towards the budget.

The Democratic Development Party (DPP) government passed a MK1.7 trillion budget for the 2020/2021 budget until the new government called it off and replaced it with the four month provisional one.

Regional

Gotani Hara might not be the Speaker Malawi needs in these trying times

Maravi Post Reporter 1 Comment
Race on for Malawi’s Speakership; Gotani Hara gets nod within female lawmakers

In these trying times Malawi Parliamentary Speaker Gotani Hara, is exposing her ignorance and showing herself to be overwhelmed by circumstance, needing advise from someone who really understands The Malawi Constitution and how power is separated between Judiciary, Lawmakers which she is part of and The Presidency.

The Lady is simply looking lost and most probably getting direction from Lazarus Chakwera.

The Malawi Parliament should seek legal guidance from the office of the Attorney General before running to the questionable ConCourt which started this mess in the first place.

Madam Speaker and her MCP team have rushed to the High 5 judges posing as ConCourt before the legal committee of parliament met and discussed these issues. The action reveals a lot about the symbiotic relationship the corrupt judges have with the Malawi Congress party (MCP)

The High Court sitting as a Constitutional Court in February recommended that Parliament amends the Constitution to accommodate some reforms on majority interpretation. Even the 5 ConCourt judges did not recommend a backdoor and unwarranted introduction of new bills. They knew the supremacy of the Malawi Constitution and that it is over and above any other laws.

Hon. Gotani Hara and her overzealous friends knew this very well that’s why they attempted to amend the Constitution first, but they did not have the required numbers.

In an act of desperation, they used simple majority to push for the passing of a new bill with the reforms. They then sent this new side law to the President for assenting knowing very well that what they were sending to the President wasn’t what the ConCourt recommended.

The current stunts where Speaker of Parliament is reporting to Court that President did not assent to the side laws is both alarming and shameful. What she should have been reporting to Court was the fact that Parliament had failed to amend the Supreme Law of the land to include certain reforms. She should have been reporting the failure of Parliament not any absence of assent to bills that were not required by the ConCourt in the first place.

Analysts are dismayed as to what has to lead the Speaker of Parliament to skip the Legal committee of Parliament which is represented by all political parties in the house.

What is it that she has found more attractive in the corrupt High 5 judges who have caused the current constitutional crisis?

Madam Speaker our law is very clear that if the state president does not sign the bills, the bills are sent back to parliament to be discussed again. So why the rush? is it incompetence or something more nefarious?

Why is the Speaker of parliament avoiding the house to scrutinize the bills again? This is the way laws are debated and passed in Malawi

Malawians deserve a better service from their parliament, the wills of the people are invested in their parliament and not 5 paid-up opposition judges. Parliament is not a one-man show.

Gotani Hara has shown herself to be overwhelmed, in over her head. She needs to resign as in these trying times Malawians deserves a competent speaker. Speaker for the whole parliament not for one Party in Parliament.