HEAD OF SADC ELECTORAL MISSION TO MALAWI SAYS;
‘I will serve with integrity, impartiality’ – Ex-DPM Themba Masuku
By Kwanele Dhladhla
Former Deputy Prime Minister Themba Masuku has expressed deep gratitude to His Majesty
King Mswati III following his appointment as Head of Mission for the SADC Electoral
Observation Mission (SEOM) to the Republic of Malawi.
Masuku said he was humbled by the honour and pledged to serve with integrity as he leads the
regional delegation to observe Malawi’s General Elections on September 16, 2025.
“Bayethe Wena Waphakathi! I am absolutely humbled and feel deeply honoured by this
appointment by the King and Ingwenyama. I pledge to carry out this assignment with the
requisite integrity, impartiality, and a deep sense of duty that such an appointment demands,”
Masuku said.
He added that his role would be grounded in principles of transparency and respect for Malawi’s
sovereignty.
“I also give the assurance that whatever I will do will reflect the values of peace, transparency,
and deep respect for the sovereign will of the peoples of Malawi,” he said.
The appointment was officially announced by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International
Cooperation, Pholile Shakantu, who confirmed that it was made by His Majesty King Mswati III
in his capacity as the Incoming Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and
Security Cooperation (TROIKA).
“It has pleased His Majesty King Mswati III to appoint Themba Masuku as the Head of Mission
for the SADC Electoral Observation Mission to the Republic of Malawi,” Shakantu said.
She explained that the SEOM plays a vital role in ensuring that elections across the region are
conducted in line with SADC’s Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections,
which safeguard transparency, fairness, and credibility.
“Masuku will lead a delegation tasked with ensuring that Malawi’s electoral process adheres to
the highest standards of transparency, credibility, and fairness. His extensive experience in
governance and diplomacy positions him well to guide the SEOM in fulfilling its mandate during
this pivotal electoral process,” she added.
Masuku has previously held several senior roles in government, including as Deputy Prime
Minister, and has decades of experience in public administration, diplomacy, and policymaking.
Shakantu further emphasised that Masuku’s appointment is a reflection of Eswatini’s
commitment to democratic governance and peacebuilding in the region.
“This appointment reaffirms His Majesty King Mswati III’s dedication to strengthening regional
cooperation and advancing Eswatini’s leadership in multilateral initiatives that foster unity,
democratic values, and sustainable development throughout the Southern African region,” she
said.
The Malawian General Elections are being closely monitored by the region and the international
community. SADC’s observation mission is expected to help build trust in the process and
reduce the potential for disputes.
The mission, under Masuku’s leadership, will oversee the electoral process from pre-election
preparations to the post-election phase, before issuing a final report and recommendations in line
with SADC protocols.
By leading this critical mission, Eswatini once again steps forward as a regional leader in
diplomacy, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to democracy, peace, and stability in
Southern Africa.
