Second Deputy Speaker Clement Chiwaya who is also Member of Parliament for Mangochi Central has announced his retirement from frontline politics and that he will not contest in the forthcoming 2019 polls.

Chawaya made the announcement in a statement made available to faceofmalawi reporter dated April 15, 2018.

According to Chiwaya, the decision to quit frontline politics has been arrived at after consultations from family and relatives.

“As we go into the 2019 General elections I have taken time to reflect on my future. I have discussed with my family in Thyolo Zomba Mangochi and US on what my future should be. First let me thank His Excellency Dr Bakili Muluzi for the love and support that he has given me since I started politics he took me under his wings. He has treated my like his own son. He has been there during my good and hard times. I will always cherish his love for the less privileged.

“I would be short of gratitude if I did not mention the love that Rt Hon Atupele Muluzi the president of my party for everything he has done for me in my political career. He has been my pillar, my source of encouragement and above all a personal friend. He will remain a great friend that I will always be around. I should mention also that party structures right from UDF NEC regional District as well as constituency and branch have stood with me in the last fourteen or so years I have been active in politics.

“Late Bishop Assolari for allowing me to join politics and even funding my campaign. His sprit has been over me always. I pray for his eternal life. “Ambuye ntchito minayigwira” My wife Sulleya for the support she has always given me even in times when the world seemed like crumbling on me. We have had a great time as well as bad times. In her I find solace. To my fellow MPs you have been great. To all the Mangochi constituents I will never forget your support. Today after consultations with my family I have arrived at a decision that I will not seek an elected position in 2019.”

However, Chiwaya said he will continue serving the United Democratic Front (UDF), the party that ushered him into power.

Chiwaya joined frontline politics in 2003 soon after I returned from the United States.