The Public Appointments Committee (PAC) of the Parliament of Malawi on Tuesday, continued interviews for board nominees of State-Owned Enterprises and Statutory Corporations, including the Mining and Minerals Regulatory Authority (MMRA), with a strong emphasis on competence, integrity, and performance expectations.

PAC Chairperson Hon. Felix Njawala said the Committee is paying particular attention to technical boards such as the MMRA, noting the importance of mining to Malawi’s economic development.

“MMRA is a very technical board. Mining is key to the development of this country, and we want to have competent and able people in that board,” said Njawala.

He added that the committee assesses nominees’ experience, qualifications, and track record both academically and professionally.

“We focus on competence and experience. We also check the background of individuals and what they have achieved. So far, the appointing authority did a good job, but where there are issues, we will raise them,” he said.

Njawala urged prospective board members to uphold high standards of conduct and accountability if confirmed.

“Board members must represent Malawians. The country is lagging behind because of deliberate abuse of power and positions. It is high time we move away from such behavior. Many challenges stem from underperformance by those entrusted with responsibility,” he said.

He further stressed that Parliament expects stronger oversight and tangible results from state enterprises over the next five years.

“If confirmed, the expectation is that they will perform. As the Appointment Committee, we will not relent we will be summoning them to check progress. Malawians must see the impact of having the Parliament that we have today,” he added.

Commenting on the process, the Director General of the Mining and Minerals Regulatory Authority (MMRA), Mphatso Chikoti described PAC’s screening of nominees as a positive development for the sector.

He said working with a vetted board provides additional assurance that board members possess the competence and professionalism required to guide the Authority effectively.

“What PAC is doing is a good development. Working with a board that has been vetted gives us the assurance that we will be working with competent people who have been scrutinized professionally,” he said.

He expressed optimism that once confirmed, the new board will enhance governance, regulatory efficiency, and strategic growth within Malawi’s mining sector.

Government announced new boards in December 2025, appointing Boards of Directors for 66 State Owned Enterprises and Statutory Corporations across critical sectors of the economy. The MMRA board was among those interviewed by PAC as part of the vetting and confirmation process.