MWE Correspondent
The Commonwealth has appointed former Malawi president Dr Lazarus Chakwera as its Special Envoy to Tanzania, assigning him the task of helping ease political tension and supporting the start of a national dialogue after the country’s disputed electoral period.
Announced by Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey, the appointment places Dr Chakwera at the centre of a sensitive diplomatic effort aimed at restoring calm, rebuilding trust and opening space for meaningful political conversation. His four-day mission, scheduled for 18 to 21 November, will include meetings with government officials, leaders of political parties, civil society organisations, faith-based institutions and members of the diplomatic community.
According to the Commonwealth Secretariat, the envoy’s role aligns with the organisation’s Good Offices mandate, which focuses on preventing conflict, supporting democratic stability and promoting peaceful solutions in member states. During his mission, Dr Chakwera is expected to facilitate broad consultations designed to create a credible platform for national dialogue — one that allows citizens and political stakeholders to discuss reconciliation, governance reforms and the long-term direction of the country.
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Secretary-General Botchwey described Dr Chakwera as a statesman with strong regional insight and extensive experience in democratic processes. She noted that his presence in Tanzania reflects the Commonwealth’s commitment to encouraging inclusive and constructive engagement at a time when the nation continues to experience political unease following its disputed election.
Dr Chakwera said he accepted the role with humility, expressing hope that his contribution would help Tanzania chart a peaceful and democratic path forward. He emphasised that genuine dialogue — grounded in respect, accountability and the rule of law — remains essential for sustainable national stability.
He will be supported on this mission by Professor Luis Franceschi, the Commonwealth’s Assistant Secretary-General responsible for governance and peacebuilding, who will assist in guiding the consultations and preparing recommendations for the Secretary-General’s next steps.
While expectations remain cautious, the deployment of a high-level envoy signals the organisation’s growing concern about Tanzania’s political climate and its belief that open dialogue can allow the country to move toward healing and long-term stability.
