LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Former Malawi Defence Force (MDF) Commander Paul Valentino Phiri is accused of illegally promoting former President Lazarus Chakwera’s ex- ADC (aide-de-camp) Raphael M’bobo from Colonel to Brigadier General during the transition of power period after September 16 Elections.
According to restricted promotion, appointments, relinquishment posting, transfer of officers and other ranks notice dated September 29, 2025, we have seen, Valentino Phiri single-handedly promoted M’bobo without approval of Malawi Defence Force council as required by the law.
M’bobo and wife
Phiri made the decision when MDF council was dissolved following regime power change from Chakwera to incumbent Arthur Peter Mutharika. Chakwera lost elections to Mutharika by 56.8%.
According to Defence Force Act 2024, the MDF council which is comprised of Defence Minister (Chairman of Defence Council), Secretary for Defence, Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Commander, Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff, makes recommendation for appointments, promotions, transfers for officers which Valentino Phiri violated.
The development however has attracted tension in the force while some officers are calling for M’bobo’s promotion reversal.
“Immediate, Chakwera lost September 16 elections, Valentino Phiri new that his job was over. Phiri instead accepting the reality of power change, he single-handedly and illegally promoted his tribesman M’bobo from Colonel to Brigadier General for a mark.
“Phiri’s appointment was illegal and unacceptable against Defence Force Act which only allows MDF council to make recommendations for such decision. We are therefore calling the reversal of M’bobo’s promotion with immediate effect,” demands angrily senior MDF office on condition anonymity.
He added, “Now that the Minister of Defence, Chief of Staff, Secretary to President and Cabinet, Defence Ministry Secretary are in place, the MDF council is in force to make decisions. We need order in the force not politically motivated promotions, appointments and promotions”.
When contacted if is aware of the tension within MDF, Defence Minister Chimwemwe Chipungu asked for more time to learn saying he has just been appointed for the position.
MDF is now headed by Major General Jaffu.
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LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-In a ceremony steeped in tradition and military pageantry, General Dr. Paul Valentino Phiri officially handed over command of the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) to General George Jaffu at Kamuzu Barracks in Lilongwe.
The handover ceremony, marked by a Pull Out Parade, signified the beginning of a new era for the MDF under General Jaffu’s leadership.
During the ceremony, General Phiri symbolically handed over the flag and sword of command to General Jaffu, signifying the transfer of authority.
The event underscores the country’s commitment to orderly transitions and stability within its armed forces.
General Phiri, who has been at the helm of the MDF since July 2023, has had a tenure marked by significant international engagements and efforts to modernize the defence force.
Notably, he led diplomatic missions to the United States, meeting with high-ranking officials at the Pentagon, and strengthening bilateral defence relations with countries like India.
However, Phiri’s tenure was not without controversy, as he faced allegations of financial misconduct and was embroiled in a high-profile lawsuit over the detention of a businessman.
Despite these challenges, Phiri’s leadership was marked by efforts to enhance the MDF’s capabilities and participation in peacekeeping missions.
As General Jaffu takes the reins, he faces the task of navigating the MDF through complex security challenges while maintaining its modernization efforts.
The MDF has been actively engaged in peacekeeping missions and humanitarian efforts, both locally and internationally.
The change in leadership comes at a time when the country is seeking to bolster its defence capabilities and strengthen its security framework.
General Jaffu’s experience and leadership skills will be crucial in guiding the MDF in the years to come.
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