Suleman wins Speaker race, promises fair and united Parliament

Newly elected Speaker of Parliament Sameer Suleman has pledged to preside over the National Assembly with fairness, impartiality, and respect for all voices, urging legislators to rise above partisan divides and prioritize national interests.

In his acceptance speech after being declared winner and sworn in by Deputy Chief Justice Lovemore Chikopa at Parliament Building in Lilongwe, Suleman said Parliament must serve Malawians with integrity, diligence, and sound oversight to ensure accountability and quality legislation.

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The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator secured the speakership with 134 votes, defeating Malawi Congress Party (MCP) candidate Peter Dimba, who garnered 85 votes. DPP-backed nominees Sandram Scott and Laston Vigalo received no votes, while one abstention was recorded.

In the race for First Deputy Speaker, DPP’s Victor Musowa also triumphed with 134 votes, followed by MCP’s Emmanuel Chambulanyina Jere with 60, and UTM Party’s Catherine Mzumara with 24.

Esther Jolobala of Machinga East (UDF) went unopposed as Second Deputy Speaker after Mchinji South MP Owen Malijani (MCP) and Zomba Likangala MP Abigail Bungwe withdrew their nominations.

The election, however, was not without controversy. People’s Development Party (PDP) leader Dr. Kondwani Nankhumwa was barred from contesting after his nomination reportedly fell outside the four-slot limit prescribed under Standing Order 6. The DPP’s decision to field three candidates effectively filled most of the available slots, leaving only one for the MCP.

Political analyst Dr. Chimwemwe Tsitsi observed that while the process complied with parliamentary procedures, it raised questions about transparency and inclusiveness.

He said the episode offers a valuable lesson for lawmakers about acting swiftly and ensuring openness in future nominations.

“Perhaps one would be interested to know how transparent the whole process is,” Tsitsi said. “Once one or two candidates have submitted their interest, it should be publicized so that other MPs know how many slots remain and can act quickly to avoid disqualification.”

Tsitsi added that the outcome reflects both the DPP’s tactical acumen and the structural advantages that come with holding power.

“It’s quite commendable for the ruling party to have produced a Speaker,” he said. “While we expect impartiality and professionalism from the Speaker’s office, it is also politically stabilizing for a governing party to have one of its own presiding over the House.”

He further urged Suleman and other parliamentary leaders to conduct themselves with professionalism and integrity.

“Malawians expect a Speaker who will lead with maturity and impartiality, ensuring that Parliament operates in the best interests of citizens who entrusted them with power,” Tsitsi said.

Suleman’s election was conducted in line with Section 53(1) of the Malawi Constitution, which mandates that the Speaker and Deputy Speakers be elected by a majority vote during the first sitting of a newly constituted Parliament.