Statement by Ambassador Elizabeth Cousens, U.S. Representative to the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, to the Memory of Bingu Wa Mutharika, the late President of the Republic of Malawi, in the U.S. Capacity as UN Host Country

Elizabeth Cousens
U.S. Representative to ECOSOC 
U.S. Mission to the United Nations 

New York, NY

April 16, 2012

AS DELIVERED

Thank you, Mr. President.

The United States wishes to extend its deepest condolences to the family of late President Bingu Wa Mutharika, and to the people and Government of the Republic of Malawi, for their loss.

Our thoughts are with the people of Malawi during this time of sorrow.

As President of Malawi since 2004, President Mutharika fought to reduce poverty in his country and led efforts to advance food security in Africa as Chairperson of the African Union, the first Head of State from his country to assume that esteemed position.

President Mutharika studied in Zambia, India, and the United States, earning a doctorate in development economics, and had a notable career as an international civil servant.

At such a difficult time, we further recognize and welcome the constitutional transfer of power following President Mutharika’s passing and express our support for Her Excellency Joyce Banda, southern Africa’s first female head of state.

As Malawians mourn the loss of their President, the United States remains committed to maintaining our strong relationship and abiding partnership with the people and government of Malawi.

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