Political Activist and Comedian Bon Kalindo is earmarked for a diplomatic appointment.
According to information that we have, Ministry of Foreign Affairs has proposed Kalindo’s name as first secretary for Tourism at Malawi’s mission in Brazil.
The ministry has also proposed former Minister of Industry Roy Kachale as Malawi’s Ambassador to Switzerland.
Both Kalindo and Kachale said they were not aware of the respective proposed appointments.
“I am hearing it from you my brother and I cannot lie to you,” said Kalindo.
According to a close source, communication has since been sent to President Lazarus Chakwera on these proposed appointments.
One top official in the ministry [name withheld] said it is unlikely that the ministry would propose someone’s name for appointment without consulting them.
“Ideally, they would seek consent before proposing their names for appointment” said the official.
Asked why the ministry made the proposal to the President, who is legally authorised to appoint ambassadors, the official said the action was within its mandate.
“The President appoints ambassadors but in this case the ministry is making a proposal to the President to fill the vacancy at the Switzerland Misson where there is no head of mission. Someone appointed previously, did not take up the position for personal reasons. So, the ministry is asking the President to consider their proposal.
“As for Kalindo it is just a mere formality to inform the Principal [President] otherwise such appointments are made at ministry level.”
Both Minister of foreign affairs Nancy Tembo and spokesperson John Kabaghe have not responded to our questionnaire sent on Monday May 23, 2022.
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