The Weigh In on “Blue-Alliance” Government Over Second Vice President Appointment

By Draxon Maloya……….

The formation of the Blue-Alliance government between the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) has sparked mixed reactions on social media.

Other commentators have commended the arrangement, citing its potential to promote inclusivity and champion the aspirations of Malawians.

The Blue-Alliance was formed based on the current constitutional mandate, which allows the sitting president to appoint a second vice president if deemed desirable in the national interest.

However, not everyone is pleased with this development. Dickson Kashoti, a social media influencer, criticized the appointment of a second vice president, claiming it would be a waste of taxpayer money.

“The DPP made the issue of cost of living a main campaign issue, promising to fix the economy and bring down the cost of living. But how can this be possible with the wastage of funding for two offices of vice presidents?” Kashoti questioned on his Facebook page.

Kashoti further called for the abolition of the second vice president’s office, arguing that it is a waste of taxpayer money.

On the other hand, Mervin Nxumayo, chairperson of the Young Human Rights Defenders Network, praised the Blue-Alliance power-sharing deal, saying it is likely to perform wonders.

“I can hear President-elect, Professor Peter Arthur Mutharika, telling Malawians to tighten their belts, and he needs energetic Malawians who can have the needed authority to run government affairs,” Nxumayo said.

According to Nxumayo, the AFORD leader will be accorded a position befitting the respect he deserves.

“Mutharika has all the constitutional powers to appoint Enoch Chakufwa Chihana as the Second Vice President of Malawi, which is a constitutional position that can be appointed by the President.” Nxumayo said.

Under the Constitution, the President has the power to appoint a second vice president, as Nxumayo noted.