LONDON, England – The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Botchwey, has appointed HE Dr Lazarus Chakwera, the immediate past president of Malawi, as her special envoy to the United Republic of Tanzania.
Dr Chakwera will arrive in Tanzania for a four-day engagement from 18 to 21 November to initiate an inclusive discussion with Tanzanian stakeholders as part of efforts to address issues surrounding the elections and to support the start of a national dialogue on reconciliation and development.
During his visit, he will meet with government officials, political party leaders, representatives of civil society organisations, religious and traditional leaders, and other national and international stakeholders.
The appointment follows the secretary-general’s recent statement on Tanzania and her keen interest in engaging with the Tanzanian government.
Secretary-General Botchwey said:
“Dr Lazarus Chakwera’s experience and leadership will be important in supporting constructive dialogue among all stakeholders, and I am confident it will contribute to peace and stability for the people of Tanzania grounded in the Commonwealth’s shared values of inclusion, justice, and accountable governance.”
Accepting the appointment, Dr Lazarus Chakwera, said:
“As an African from a neighbouring country who has followed the situation in Tanzania closely, I am deeply honoured by this invitation to serve as Special Envoy. I accept this assignment and am grateful for the secretary-general’s confidence. I am fully committed to supporting inclusive dialogue, which upholds democratic principles and strengthens the rule of law.”
Dr Chakwera will be supported by the assistant secretary general, Prof. Luis Franceschi. The outcome of the visit will guide the secretary-general on her decisions and actions on the way forward under her good offices role.
