Chilenje snubs transfer from US to Zimbabwe for parliamentary seat
Malawi’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Esther Mcheka Chilenje has resigned following her redeployment from United State to serve at Malawi diplomatic mission in Zimbabwe.
Sources at Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Chilenje was told of the transfer from US to Zimbabwe but later tendered her resignation.
However, Chilenje claims she has resigned because of what she calls mounting pressure from traditional leaders and constituents in Nsanje North constituency to contest in the 2014 tripartite elections.
“On October 25, 2013, the people of my area, Nsanje North, T/A Mlolo, petitioned her Excellency Dr. Joyce Banda in their letter dated September 23, 2013, that was presented through Nsanje District Commissioner expressing their plea that they want me to stand as their parliamentarian in the coming tripartite elections next year,” said Chilenje in the letter.
The time the traditional leaders and constituents presented the petition, they described Chilenje as a development conscious person.
The letter further says: “In view of the above development, I wish to inform you that I have accepted the outcry of the people from my constituency. Accordingly, I wish to give notice that it is my intention to terminate my contract with effect from December 31, 2013”.
Mcheka Chilenje was elected as MP in Nsanje North on Republican Party (RP) ticket in 2004 elections and was subsequently elected First Deputy Speaker of the Malawi National Assembly.
She lost her seat in 2009 to current Parliamentarian, Frank Viyazyi of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
Follow and Subscribe Nyasa TV :
