According to a statement signed by the Chief Secretary to Government George Mkondiwa, Mutharika has made the appointments in exercise of the powers conferred upon him by section 89(1)(e) of the Constitution.

Gunda former director of political affairs in Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Corporation will replace David Bandawe.

While as former deputy minister Greneger Msulira Banda will replace Brigadier Reuben Ngwenya who was recalled from Tokyo.

Mkondiwa, however, said the appointments are subject to confirmation by the National Assembly’s Public Appointments committee (PAC).

Malawi has reduced the number of diplomats in embassies from the established positions of 234 to 152 and for the local staff from 217 to 184.

As part of the public sector reform program, government is taking measures to curb excessive expenditure in foreign missions and ensure efficiency thereby downsizing staff by recalling dead wood.

The first 20 recalled envoys are expected to jet into the country in June.

According to Foreign Affairs minister Francis Kasaira, the second group comes in December and the exercise will continue until next year.

“This exercise will help government save up to K7 billion a year so you can see that it is a cost saving venture,” Katsaira said.

Mkondiwa also announced the appointment of new Director of Public Procurement Paul Limbani Taulo. He replaces Dye Mawindo who retired after serving on the position since 2012.

Taulo was until his appointment Collateral Manager at AHL Cmmodity Exchange since June 2015.

He holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree majoring in international trade from the University of South Africa in 2012 and is currently studying with Amity University of India for degree majoring in financial and investment analysis.

He has vast experience in collateral management, commodity sourcing and procurement chain management. He also awaits PACs nod.