The Joint Transition Team says preparations for the inauguration of President-elect Peter Mutharika and Vice-President-elect Jane Ansah tomorrow are at an advanced stage with leaders from three countries confirmed confirming attendance.
During a press briefing in Blantyre yesterday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Mwayiwawo Polepole said President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, Botswana President Duma Boko and President Daniel Chapo of Mozambique are expected to be in attendance.
He further said Eswatini has also confirmed that it will send a delegation to the event to be held at the Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre.
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Meanwhile, the joint committee has formed sub-committees on protocol, security, entertainment, media, budget and finance, transport and food and accommodation which have representation from the government and Mutharika’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
Secretary to the Treasury Hetherwick Njati said the budget subcommittee is consolidating all expenses from the various subcommittees and will have a picture of the budget for the event today.
He said: “The aim is to hold a colourful event while ensuring prudent use of resources.”
The inauguration will be held under theme ‘The great return to proven leadership-transforming Malawi through a People-centred Government’.
DPP director of elections Jean Mathanga, who is chairing the protocol sub-committee, said the theme is a reminder that the country has not just changed leadership but is in firm and capable hands.
She said: “We are confident that it will be a day when Malawians will be proud of their democracy and optimistic about the future.”
Meanwhile, the sub-committees are expected to meet today at the venue for dress rehearsals.
The event will start with the swearing-in of the President-elect and Vice-President-elect by Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda followed by the inauguration of the seventh President of the Republic of Malawi, which will be symbolised by presentation of symbols of office, military honours, performances and inaugural address.
Mathanga said after the inauguration at the stadium, there will a luncheon for all invited dignitaries at another venue.
The inauguration is expected to be spiced up with traditional dances while people in other areas will be able to watch in public viewing points.
Outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera and Vice-President Michael Usi as well as former presidents Joyce Banda and Bakili Muluzi already confirmed their attendance.
Since the first post-independence inauguration in 1994, Chakwera will only be the second outgoing president in Malawi to formally hand over power to his successor after an election.
