By Wezzie Gausi:
President Peter Mutharika Thursday called for a stronger and more professional intelligence system, stressing that accurate information is critical in safeguarding Malawi’s economy and national interests.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony of Major General Blaise George Saenda as Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe, the President said intelligence must support national development and not political agendas.
“Today, intelligence has evolved into an indispensable tool for economic growth,” Mutharika said.
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He said NIS carried a critical mandate to ensure the safety of citizens and protect the country’s economy, noting that reliable intelligence was key in identifying threats early.
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“In the past, intelligence services were regrettably misused as instruments of political victimisation,” he said.
Mutharika said the government expected NIS to detect and expose deceit, particularly from individuals who take advantage of the country’s resources under the guise of investment.
“We recall instances when purported investors promised our nation an ‘early Christmas’, yet delivered nothing of substance,” he said.
He added that it is the duty of the intelligence service to act early against such practices to protect national interests.
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The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that national security remains strong and that the intelligence service is fully supported to execute its mandate.
“As we celebrate his appointment, I wish to reaffirm my administration’s full commitment to ensuring that our national security remains very tight,” he said.
Mutharika described Saenda as a highly trained and disciplined security expert and urged him to carry out his duties with loyalty, integrity and dedication.
He also called for close collaboration between the NIS and other law enforcement agencies to safeguard the country.
“I am confident you will serve as Director General of the National Intelligence Service with honour and distinction,” he said.
In his remarks, Saenda pledged to serve the nation diligently and uphold the trust placed in him.
