DPP leadership shake-up: New VP, SG and spokesman appointed

Malawi ruling Democratic Progress Party (DPP) has made “courageous changes” in its hierarchy, replacing some of its top brass following their respective appointments in government positions.

The major shake-up has seen the removal of Jean Kalilani from the position of the party’s Secretary General.

Kaliani, who is also Health Minister, has since been appointed as the party’s special advisor.

The new DPP secretary general is Ecrain Julius Kudontoni.

The party has also appointed veteran economist and diplomat Ted Kalebe as Vice President for the Centre replacing Dr Hetherwick Ntaba who is heading to Britain as Malawi’s new High Commissioner to London.

Another DPP position of vice president has gone to Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr George Chaponda (south).

Leader of Government in parliament, Francis Kasaila is now the party spokesman replacing verbose Nicholas Dausi, who is heading state spy agency.

DPP has also appointed Richard Makonde as the new National Organizing Secretary taking over from Chimwemwe Chipungu who is now Safe Motherhood National Coordinator.

State Vice President Saulos Chilima is now a member of DPP National Governing Council as special advisor like Kalilani.

Meanwhile, DPP leader and Head of State Peter Mutharika have wished the newly appointed members all the best as they undertake their new roles.

H e said the restructuring process would be done in order to strengthen the party in preparations to 2019 elections.