Commonwealth taps ex-Malawi President Chakwera to mediate Tanzania’s political tensions
During his visit, Chakwera is expected to meet government officials, opposition figures, civil society leaders, religious authorities, and international partners.
The Commonwealth has stepped into Tanzania's simmering political tensions following the just-concluded disputed elections by appointing Malawi's former president, Dr Lazarus Chakwera, as special envoy to help guide an inclusive national dialogue.
Chakwera's appointment comes just a month after he lost Malawi's election to his predecessor, Prof Arthur Peter Mutharika, in a contest widely expected to see Mutharika return to power. The timing adds regional resonance: a recently departed head of state, now free from domestic constraints, stepping into a delicate diplomatic role in a neighbouring country.
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Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey announced Chakwera's four-day mission to Tanzania, beginning November 18, describing his mandate as initiating "inclusive discussion with Tanzanian stakeholders" on elections, reconciliation, and governance. His brief aligns with the organisation's Good Offices role—quiet diplomacy aimed at pre-empting democratic unravelling.
During his visit, Chakwera is expected to meet government officials, opposition figures, civil society leaders, religious authorities, and international partners.
'Experience and leadership'
Botchwey said Chakwera’s "experience and leadership" would support constructive engagement and advance "inclusion, justice, and accountable governance."
Tanzania's politics have been tense in recent months, with disputes over electoral processes and growing calls for reform.
Botchwey's recent public statements signalled heightened concern in London over the country's political climate, paving the way for more assertive Commonwealth engagement.
Accepting the role, Chakwera said he was "deeply honoured" and committed to fostering dialogue that "upholds democratic principles and strengthens the rule of law."
A former pastor who once guided Malawi through its own tempestuous transition, Chakwera brings both moral authority and regional proximity—qualities likely to ease Tanzania's historical resistance to external mediation.
However, Tanzanian statecraft has long rejected any external intervention in the country's political affairs.
Chakwera will be supported on the mission by the Commonwealth Assistant Secretary-General Prof Luis Franceschi.
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