Parliament Convenes with Low Turnout; Deputy Speaker Vows to Address Absenteeism Issue

First Deputy Speaker Madalitso Kazombo expresses concern over low attendance in Parliament, emphasizing readiness to address absenteeism issue.

LILONGWE, MALAWI — The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Madalitso Kazombo, voiced his disappointment on Wednesday as only 51 members of parliament attended the session, with 145 absent, writes Francis Polinyu Banda.

Due to the low turnout, the scheduled 2 p.m. start was delayed as the speaker ordered a roll call to determine the extent of absenteeism.

In response, Kazombo directed Parliament staff to close the chamber doors to prevent latecomers while the roll-call was conducted, emphasising his seriousness towards the issue.

"I have been talking about the issue of absenteeism for so long, and now I am going to be serious about it," charged Kazombo, leaving no room for ambiguity.

Despite the Speaker's efforts to engage political party chief whips and address the matter, no substantial progress has been made, according to reports.

The low attendance prompted the Leader of the House, Richard Chimwendo Banda, to postpone the Committee Reports Agenda on the Order Paper to either Tuesday or Wednesday next week, allowing more time for contributions from absent members.

This occurrence comes as the 50th session of the National Assembly begins, bringing to light the persisting issue of absenteeism within Parliament.

---