Mutharika Appoints Lieutenant General Kalino as Deputy Chief of Defence

President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has appointed Lieutenant General Kondwani Gift Kalino as the new Deputy Chief of Defence for the Malawi Defence Force (MDF), with immediate effect.

The announcement was made by Chief Secretary to the Government, Justin Saidi, who confirmed that the appointment was made in accordance with the powers vested in the President under Section 161(4) of the Constitution of the Republic of Malawi.

According to Saidi, the decision reflects President Mutharika’s confidence in Lieutenant General Kalino’s leadership, discipline, and commitment to serving the nation through the Malawi Defence Force.

Lieutenant General Kalino’s appointment comes at a critical time when the MDF continues to play a key role in maintaining national security, disaster response, and peacekeeping operations both locally and internationally.

The new Deputy Chief of Defence is expected to assist the MDF Commander in strengthening military professionalism, enhancing operational efficiency, and supporting the government’s broader national security objectives.

The appointment also underscores President Mutharika’s ongoing efforts to ensure stability and continuity within the command structure of the Malawi Defence Force.

Observers have commended the move, noting that leadership renewal within the military is essential for sustaining discipline, morale, and readiness among the country’s defence personnel.

As Deputy Chief of Defence, Lieutenant General Kalino is set to bring a wealth of experience and a strong sense of duty to his new role, contributing to the Defence Force’s mission of safeguarding Malawi’s sovereignty and peace.

President Mutharika has expressed confidence that the newly appointed officer will continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity, loyalty, and service expected of the nation’s top military leadership.

The Malawi Defence Force remains one of the country’s most respected institutions, with its leadership transitions being closely followed by both the public and regional partners.

Lieutenant General Kalino’s appointment marks yet another milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen the nation’s defence and uphold the constitutional mandate of protecting Malawi and its citizens.