By Wezzie Gausi:
United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres has congratulated President Peter Mutharika on his inauguration as President of Malawi, pledging continued cooperation between Malawi and the UN on issues of peace, security, human rights and sustainable development.
In a letter dated October 4, 2025, Guterres extended his “warm congratulations and best wishes” to Mutharika and expressed optimism that the renewed leadership would further strengthen Malawi’s collaboration with the UN on key global priorities.
“I am confident that the United Nations will continue to enjoy your support on issues of common interest, including peace and security, human rights, climate action and sustainable development,” the letter reads.
Guterres also commended the election of Jane Ansah as Vice- President, describing her appointment as a progressive step towards promoting women’s participation in political leadership.
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He encouraged the new administration to advance gender parity at all levels of government.
Guterres further reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to working with Malawi to achieve national development goals and global sustainability targets.
“Let me also take this opportunity to reassert my commitment to continue to support the Government and people of Malawi in their endeavour to build a prosperous nation, including through the work of the United Nations Country Team under the leadership of the Resident Coordinator,” the letter concludes.
The statement from the UN chief comes as Mutharika’s administration faces mounting pressure from gender advocates following an initial round of top government appointments that featured only male officials.
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Rights groups including the Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation and the Malawi Human Rights Commission have publicly urged the President to ensure that upcoming appointments reflect gender balance and inclusivity.
Mutharika, who was sworn in following his electoral victory, faces high expectations to deliver on economic recovery, governance reforms and women’s empowerment among other areas.
