The growing battle over Parliament’s powers has drawn fresh political concern, with calls for the legislature to be left to do its job without interference from the Executive.
United Democratic Front (UDF) leader Atupele Muluzi has warned the government against politicising Parliament, saying the legislature must be allowed to discharge its constitutional responsibilities independently and free from political influence.
Muluzi made the remarks while commending Speaker of Parliament Sameer Suleman for his decision to establish a committee to investigate complaints received by Parliament concerning the conduct and performance of other arms and institutions of government.
He told Malawi24 that Parliament is an independent arm of government with a constitutional responsibility to represent the interests of Malawians, provide oversight and ensure accountability in the management of public affairs.
According to Muluzi, complaints brought before Parliament should be investigated openly, fairly and without fear or favour to establish the truth and ensure that government institutions remain accountable to the people.
He stressed that Parliament must be given the freedom to exercise its oversight mandate without political interference, warning that attempts to influence its operations could undermine democratic principles, the separation of powers and public accountability.
“Parliament must be allowed to perform its constitutional and oversight functions independently, without political interference. Any attempt to influence the work of Parliament undermines the principles of separation of powers, democracy and accountability,” Muluzi said.
Muluzi’s comments come amid a disagreement between the government and the Speaker over the proposed committee.
On Wednesday, the government reportedly informed Speaker Suleman that he could not establish the committee without first obtaining authority from the President.
The position has raised questions about the extent of Parliament’s independence and its constitutional powers to investigate matters brought before the House.
Muluzi maintained that Parliament must be allowed to perform its oversight role independently, particularly when dealing with complaints involving public institutions.
He said Malawians have a right to know the truth about issues affecting the functioning of government institutions, adding that any investigations must be conducted transparently, fairly and impartially.
The UDF leader’s remarks add to the growing debate over the separation of powers among Malawi’s three arms of government and the need to safeguard Parliament’s independence in discharging its constitutional mandate.
The dispute is likely to attract further attention as Parliament considers how to proceed with the proposed committee and the complaints it is expected to investigate.
