Malawi on Wednesday appointed the first-ever Director of Public Assets Declaration (DPAD) with immediate effect. Deputy Clerk of Parliament Henry Njolomole said the appointment is partial fulfilment of a section of Public Officers Declaration of Assets Liabilities and Business Interest Act that stipulates that public officers submit details of their assets within three months of being appointed.

“The new DPAD will be responsible for receiving and verifying declarations of assets of public officers including the president and members of parliament,” he said.

The office has been established following a public pressure that public office bearers were accumulating excess and unexplained wealth during their time of office.

Tukula who beat 10 other candidates will be deputised by Michael Chiusiwa.