Muluzi reappoints Cabinet
2004-02-25 11:24
Blantyre, Malawi - President Bakili Muluzi has appointed a new Cabinet that includes most of the ministers who lost their posts when he unexpectedly dissolved the government earlier this week.
The opposition Alliance for Democracy retained its five seats in the 45-member unity Cabinet announced late on Tuesday, including party leader Chakufwa Chiha, who serves as second vice president and agriculture minister.
Former Justice Minister Henry Phoya becomes minister for privatisation, replacing Cassim Chilumpha, the ruling United Democratic Front's candidate for first vice president in May 18 elections. Paul Maulidi, a ruling party member retains his post as justice minister.
The ruling party's presidential candidate, Bingu wa Mutharika, retains his functions as minister of economic planning and development.
Muluzi, who came to power in the southern African country's first democratic elections in 1994, is stepping down after two terms in office.
Muluzi gave no reason for dissolving the previous Cabinet on Monday, or when he announced the new posts on Tuesday, almost two months earlier than necessary for the elections.
There were six new appointments on Tuesday, including lawyer Raphael Mhone who becomes minister for statutory corporations.
- AP