Councilor Isaac Jomo Osman has been elected the new Mayor of Blantyre City after securing a clear victory in a tightly contested election held today at the Blantyre City Council chambers. Jomo, who represents Bangwe Mthandizi Ward, amassed a total of 15 votes, defeating two other contenders—Eric Mofolo, who garnered 11 votes, and Joseph Makwinja, who finished with 4 votes. The election, conducted through a secret ballot among councilors and Members of Parliament representing Blantyre City constituencies, marks a significant return for Jomo, who previously served as Deputy Mayor and has been an influential figure in city politics. Supporters applauded the outcome, describing Jomo as a grassroots leader with deep community ties and a strong track record in representing local interests. In his acceptance remarks, Jomo pledged to prioritize improving service delivery, restoring city cleanliness, strengthening security, and enhancing infrastructure development across Blantyre. The new mayor is expected to immediately begin working with council officials to address longstanding challenges such as waste management, traffic congestion, and deteriorating road networks. As celebrations erupted among his supporters, Jomo expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and promised to unite councillors across political divides for the betterment of Blantyre City. Congratulations to Mayor Isaac Jomo Osman.

The government has with immediate effect reassigned Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (Escom) Chief Executive Officer Kamkwamba Kumwenda to the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), formerly the Polytechnic. The development marks yet another major shift within Malawi’s key parastatals barely a month after the new administration took office. Several top executives in state-owned enterprises have either been suspended, redeployed, or reassigned—actions that some commentators have described as “cleaning up the rubble.” A letter signed by the Chief Secretary to the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), Justin Saidi, dated this week, has directed Kumwenda to wind up his duties at Escom immediately. According to the correspondence, Kumwenda has been assigned to serve as a lecturer at MUBAS, though he will remain an employee of Escom. The directive further clarifies that Kumwenda will not lose any of his current employment benefits or entitlements while serving in his new academic role. The government has not publicly stated the reasons for the reassignment. However, the move comes at a time when the energy sector remains under scrutiny over persistent power challenges, including blackouts, aging infrastructure, and financial inefficiencies within both Escom and its sister companies. The reshuffle is expected to trigger further debate among industry analysts, with many waiting to see what additional reforms or leadership changes the administration will implement in the coming weeks.

The Ministry of Agriculture has clarified that under the K10,000 Affordable Inputs Programme (AIP), each targeted farming household will receive a full fertilizer and seed package, dismissing reports that beneficiaries are being asked to share one bag among several people. In an interview with The Khulubvi Post, the Chief Public Relations Officer in the Ministry of Agriculture, Arnold Namanja, said the program targets 1.1 million farming households across all districts of Malawi. Namanja emphasized that every targeted household will receive one 50kg bag of NPK fertilizer, one 50kg bag of Urea, and a 5kg cereal seed pack. “This package is going to one household and should not be shared,” he said. “The reports that farmers are being told to share fertilizer among five people are incorrect.” According to Namanja, the Ministry has already secured 33,000 metric tonnes (MT) of fertilizer out of the required 110,000MT for this planting season. Distribution will start in areas that receive rainfall earliest, to ensure timely planting. A total of 1.1 million farming households will benefit from the AIP program. Additionally, 1,800 farming households will receive goats as part of a livestock empowerment initiative aimed at diversifying rural incomes. The Ministry expects that farmers will produce an average of 33,000MT of maize, enough to sustain household food needs and potentially generate a marketable surplus. “This will enable families to have food throughout the year and sell any excess production,” Namanja explained. To curb corruption and misuse, the Ministry has empowered communities in every stage of implementation—from beneficiary selection to market management and redemption. Namanja added that the Ministry is collaborating with the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Police, National Intelligence Service (NIS), and civil society organizations to ensure transparency and accountability. When asked about Malawi’s hunger situation, Namanja referred questions to the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) but cited Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (MVAC) findings showing that over 4 million people are at risk of hunger between now and March 2026. He also noted that information on foreign or donor assistance to address hunger and food insecurity will be provided by DoDMA in due course. Namanja said estimates for the upcoming harvest season are still being compiled, with details to be released once assessments are complete. The Ministry of Agriculture has reaffirmed that each farming household will receive a complete fertilizer and seed package, not shared, under the K10,000 subsidy program. The government says reforms in transparency and coordination with oversight agencies aim to ensure that the 2025/26 planting season is efficient, corruption-free, and food-secure.

Second Vice President Enoch Kanzingeni Chihana has appealed to Malawians to remain patient and hopeful as President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika works to restore the country’s battered economy, which he blamed on the previous Malawi Congress Party (MCP) administration under Dr. Lazarus Chakwera. Addressing a development rally at Bolero Secondary School Grounds on Thursday, Chihana acknowledged the economic hardships facing Malawians but said the government was steadily implementing measures to turn the situation around. “The Blue Alliance has fulfilled its promise of making education free so that more children from poor families can access it. We have also bought maize from Zambia to ensure that no Malawian starves,” said Chihana. “Our commitment is to promote the greatest good for our people. The damage done by Chakwera and his lieutenants is great, but the journey to recovery has begun. I can assure you, fellow citizens, that soon we will exit darkness and enter a new glorious dawn under Mutharika’s leadership.” Chihana added that President Mutharika was currently engaging with the World Bank to secure financial support aimed at stabilizing the economy through grants and investment programmes. “These hardships are temporary. Once the economy stabilizes, forex and fuel shortages will be a thing of the past,” he said. In his remarks, Paramount Chief Chikulamayembe called on the government to distribute free food to hunger-stricken families and thanked President Mutharika for appointing “a son of the soil” — referring to Chihana — as the Second Vice President. During the rally, Chihana also introduced Paul Thambazale Nyirenda as the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) candidate for the upcoming by-election, pledging full support for his candidacy. The event drew several senior figures from both the AFORD and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), symbolizing growing cooperation within the Blue Alliance as the administration intensifies its efforts to revive the economy and improve livelihoods across Malawi.

Renowned philanthropist and founder of Salvation for All Ministries International (SFAMI), Apostle Clifford Kawinga, who is also the owner of Creck Football Club, continues to extend his humanitarian work to communities across Malawi through food relief and agricultural empowerment programs. For several years, Apostle Kawinga has consistently provided maize and food aid to vulnerable families during times of crisis — including the COVID-19 pandemic, Cyclone Freddy, and recurring lean hunger seasons. He describes these efforts as part of sharing the love of Christ and complementing government initiatives to combat hunger and poverty. “This work is about love in action — meeting people’s needs as Christ did, while supporting government efforts to fight hunger in our nation,” Apostle Kawinga said. This year, SFAMI is set to begin its annual maize and food distribution campaign from late November through February, targeting multiple districts nationwide. Thousands of families are expected to benefit from the initiative. Alongside the relief program, Apostle Kawinga is also implementing the Hope Field Initiative, a community-based farming project designed to empower local farmers with tools, inputs, and modern irrigation technologies. The program provides items such as fertilizer, seeds, hoes, and solar water pumps to boost agricultural productivity and promote self-reliance. The Hope Field Initiative is currently active in Machinga, Chiradzulu, and Thyolo Districts: In Machinga, seven farmers’ clubs have been established under Paramount Chief Kawinga, working with Senior Chief Mlomba, TA Nkoola, TA Ngulunya, TA Ntumbwinda, TA Nyambi, and TA Ngokwe. In Chiradzulu, four clubs operate under TA Nkalo, TA Mpunga, and STA Maoni, reaching over 1,000 households. In Thyolo, two clubs under Senior Chief Nkhwethemule and Senior Chief Mphuka have reached 4,000 households. Each farmers’ club has received 10 bags of maize for m’memo (casual workers), 15 hoes, 50 bags of fertilizer, and a set of farm inputs and solar pumps to enhance irrigation and crop yields. Apostle Kawinga explained that his dual focus on food relief and agricultural empowerment is designed to address both immediate and long-term needs of Malawian communities. “We must not only feed the hungry but also help them grow their own food. True empowerment comes when people can sustain themselves,” he said. Community leaders have hailed Apostle Kawinga’s efforts, describing them as a beacon of hope that blends faith-based compassion with practical development solutions.

The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has maintained its stronghold in Phalombe after its councillors won key leadership positions during the district council elections held on Saturday. Councillor Luka Jeffrey of Swang’oma Ward was elected Chairperson, while Councillor Alex Mambo of Khongoloni Ward secured the position of Vice Chairperson, both representing the ruling DPP. The elections followed the swearing-in ceremony of ten councillors, signaling the beginning of a new chapter in local governance for the district. In his victory speech, Councillor Jeffrey pledged to promote inclusive and transparent leadership, emphasizing his commitment to unity and development across all political lines. “My priority is to promote unity and transparency as we work together to deliver meaningful development to the people of Phalombe,” he said. Echoing the sentiment, Vice Chairperson Councillor Mambo said the new council leadership would focus on improving service delivery and ensuring accountability in all local development projects. “We are determined to strengthen efficiency and ensure that every project benefits the people it is meant to serve,” Mambo stated. Paramount Chief Kaduya, who attended the ceremony, congratulated the newly elected officials and urged them to put the interests of the people first. She called for unity and cooperation among councillors from different political backgrounds to accelerate development in the district. “The people of Phalombe are looking to you for progress. Work together, regardless of your political affiliations,” she advised. Political observers say the DPP’s continued dominance in Phalombe reflects its deep-rooted support base in the district, despite growing competition from opposition parties ahead of the next general elections. The new council leadership is expected to prioritize infrastructure development, education, and health initiatives as part of efforts to improve living standards and stimulate growth in the district.

Over 6,000 people from Malembo in Lilongwe on Sunday received food relief from Apostle Clifford Kawinga, founder of Salvation for All Ministries, who sourced and distributed the aid to assist households facing food shortages. Speaking after handing over 6,000 bags of maize, Apostle Kawinga emphasized that the church’s mission goes beyond preaching the gospel. He said spiritual ministry must be accompanied by acts of compassion that meet people’s physical needs. “Apart from winning souls for Jesus, the church has a noble and moral responsibility to feed the hungry, just as our Lord Jesus Christ did when He fed the multitudes with only five loaves and two fish,” Apostle Kawinga said, citing Matthew 14:17–18. This latest donation comes amid rising food insecurity in several parts of Malawi following successive poor harvests. Many families in rural communities, including Malembo, have struggled to find adequate food supplies. Apostle Kawinga, who has carried out similar charitable initiatives across the country, reaffirmed his commitment to reaching out to more vulnerable communities in the coming months. “We will continue extending help to our brothers and sisters in need until hunger becomes history in Malawi,” he pledged. In addition to food relief, Apostle Kawinga announced that Malembo residents will be among the first beneficiaries of the Hope Field Initiative, a program under Salvation for All Ministries aimed at empowering rural households with agricultural inputs such as seeds and fertilizer. The Hope Field Initiative, already active in Machinga, Thyolo, and Chiradzulu Districts, seeks to promote food self-sufficiency and reduce dependency through sustainable farming practices. Local leaders and beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the timely assistance, describing Apostle Kawinga’s gesture as a “blessing that brings hope in a difficult time.”

In a decisive move to tighten fiscal discipline and curb excessive public spending, the Government of Malawi has announced a comprehensive set of Expenditure Control Measures to be implemented immediately and remain in effect until the end of the 2025/2026 financial year. The announcement, contained in a circular Ref. No. C5/5/001 dated 6th November 2025, was issued by Dr. Justin Adack K. Saidi, the Chief Secretary to the Government under the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC). The directive has been circulated to all Controlling Officers, Heads of Department, and Chief Executive Officers of Parastatals and State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). Key Measures Introduced According to the circular, the government has ordered an immediate moratorium on the procurement of motor vehicles and high-value assets, except in special cases where prior approval is granted by the Office of the President and Cabinet. The move is aimed at curbing unnecessary government expenditure on luxury and non-essential items. Recruitment and promotions within the civil service have also been frozen, with only essential positions in critical sectors being considered on a case-by-case basis. Promotions for officers from Grade F and below will now require authorization from both the Treasury and the Department of Human Resource Management and Development (DHRMD) to ensure fiscal capacity. On payroll management, the circular emphasizes personal accountability by Controlling Officers, requiring them to personally verify and approve all payroll submissions to avoid cases of ghost workers and fraudulent payments. In a cost-cutting measure targeting meetings and travel, Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have been instructed to hold physical meetings within their office premises or opt for virtual platforms such as video conferences. Government has also imposed strict restrictions on external travel, citing the need to preserve scarce foreign exchange reserves. All foreign travel must now receive prior approval from the Chief Secretary for presidential clearance, while delegation sizes will be strictly controlled. Furthermore, the circular stipulates that donor-funded travel will no longer attract government “top-up” allowances, a practice that has previously burdened public finances. Procurement and Fiscal Compliance The Chief Secretary reminded MDAs that under the Public Finance Management Act (2022), it is illegal to commit government funds where no resources have been allocated. Henceforth, all procurement must be aligned with quarterly Treasury allotments and backed by IFMIS-generated Local Purchase Orders (LPOs). Any goods or services procured outside this system will not be recognized or paid by government. Additionally, extra-budgetary requests have been outlawed except under special circumstances, reinforcing the administration’s resolve to adhere strictly to approved budgetary limits. Fuel and Foreign Mission Reforms In another significant austerity measure, fuel entitlements for all public officers — including Cabinet Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and senior officials — have been slashed by 30 percent with immediate effect. The circular also announced an impending restructuring of Malawi’s diplomatic missions, with the number of embassies and staff to be reduced. Each embassy will now be limited to a maximum of five officials, including the Ambassador or High Commissioner. Mining Sector Review The Government has also ordered a comprehensive review of all mining licenses and contracts, warning that any mining license that has remained idle for more than five years will be revoked. This move signals renewed efforts to ensure that Malawi benefits meaningfully from its natural resources. Accountability and Enforcement Dr. Saidi stressed that Controlling Officers, Heads of Departments, and CEOs of SOEs will be held personally accountable for compliance with these measures. Any breach of the directive, especially unauthorized promotions, procurements, or expenditures, will render the actions invalid and may attract disciplinary action. “These measures are meant to safeguard public resources and ensure that every kwacha is spent prudently and transparently,” Dr. Saidi wrote, urging all institutions to bring the circular’s contents to the attention of every officer. Analysis: Austerity in an Era of Fiscal Pressure The latest expenditure control measures reflect growing fiscal pressures facing the Malawian government amid sluggish revenue collection, rising debt servicing costs, and dwindling foreign reserves. Economic analysts view the move as a necessary austerity intervention, though its success will depend heavily on strict enforcement, political will, and transparency in the approval processes. Dr. Ellen Nyasulu, a Lilongwe-based economist, noted that “the government’s approach mirrors fiscal consolidation strategies adopted by several African nations facing budget deficits.” However, she cautioned that if not managed carefully, the measures could affect service delivery, particularly in health, education, and infrastructure sectors. Observers have also praised the decision to review mining contracts, describing it as a step toward enhancing accountability in the extractive sector, where Malawi has historically lost potential revenue due to poor oversight and dormant licenses. As the austerity period begins, all eyes will be on how the government balances expenditure restraint with the need to maintain essential public services and economic growth.

 Second Vice President Enoch Kanzingeni Chihana has paid glowing tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of ex-servicemen and women who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars (1914–1918 and 1939–1945). Speaking from his Area 9 residence in Lilongwe, where a delegation of ex-soldiers led by General Henry Odillo (retired) presented him with a poppy flower in honour of the fallen heroes, Chihana emphasized the importance of remembrance and national gratitude. “As President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, who is the Commander of the Malawi Defence Force, has underscored, I also wish to honour our men and women in uniform for their ultimate sacrifice that brought peace to the world, including Malawi,” Chihana said. He commended President Mutharika’s commitment to strengthening the country’s security apparatus, noting that continued investment in the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) was crucial in tackling modern security challenges. “This is why President Mutharika has declared that he will continue to invest in the capabilities of our military — equipping them with the resources and support necessary to address evolving security challenges that confront us daily,” he added. Chihana described the nation’s servicemen and women as “an epitome of selflessness and patriotism,” calling on Malawians to reflect deeply on their sacrifices and extend moral and material support to veterans. In a gesture of solidarity, the Second Vice President donated K2.5 million to the Veterans and Ex-Service League of Malawi (VELOM) to support their fundraising campaign. Receiving the donation, General Odillo, who chairs VELOM, expressed gratitude for Chihana’s contribution, revealing that the organization is aiming to raise K300 million during this year’s Poppy Week. Earlier, during the official inauguration of Poppy Week at Page House in Mangochi, President Arthur Peter Mutharika also called on Malawians and the corporate sector to assist war veterans, donating K5 million toward the cause. The poppy flower, a global symbol of remembrance, is traditionally distributed by organizations such as the Royal British Legion and Royal Canadian Legion to honour soldiers who died in combat and to raise funds for veterans and their families.

The revelation that several Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) presiding officers were arrested for allegedly attempting to rig the September 16 elections has left citizens asking one critical question: why have their names never been revealed? In a democracy, transparency is not a luxury — it is the lifeblood of trust. When individuals entrusted with managing an election are accused of undermining that very process, the public deserves full disclosure. The refusal or delay by authorities to release the names of the suspects only fuels speculation, conspiracy theories, and suspicion toward both MEC and law enforcement agencies. If indeed arrests were made, as reported, the public has a legitimate right to know who these individuals are, what roles they played, and which constituencies they were assigned to. Concealing such details sends the wrong message — that some people are “too connected” to be publicly named or that political interests are at play behind the scenes. MEC has often spoken about its commitment to credibility and openness. Yet, silence in moments that demand accountability weakens that claim. Transparency does not jeopardize investigations — it strengthens them by allowing public scrutiny to reinforce justice. In contrast, secrecy erodes confidence and leaves voters wondering whether the very system meant to protect their voice is compromised. This case is more than just about a few rogue officers; it is about the integrity of Malawi’s democratic institutions. If names are withheld for political convenience or fear of backlash, then democracy itself becomes the casualty. The public is not asking for gossip — they are demanding accountability. The Malawi Electoral Commission and the police owe Malawians an explanation. Either the arrests were genuine, in which case names should be disclosed, or the story was exaggerated — in which case, clarity is equally essential. In matters of elections, truth delayed is trust denied.

A masked man claiming allegiance to the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has issued threats against Deputy Minister of Homeland Security (Operations), Hon. Norman Chisale, and supporters of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). In a video circulating on social media and verified by Khulubvi Post, the masked individual warns of unleashing violence on DPP supporters in the Central Region. The threats come at a time when the DPP-led government has launched a nationwide crackdown on suspects accused of involvement in violent attacks in Lilongwe and other parts of the country during the 5 year rule of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP). The recent arrests follow years of reported political violence and intimidation during the MCP administration led by former President Lazarus Chakwera between 2020 and 2025. During that period, numerous citizens—including civil servants—were allegedly assaulted or hacked with machetes while attempting to exercise their constitutional right to protest against the rising cost of living and low salaries. Among the notable victims was Civil Society Organization leader Sylvester Namiwa, who was attacked in broad daylight as police officers and Malawi Defence Force soldiers reportedly stood by without intervening. Critics have described the five-year MCP regime as a period of widespread lawlessness and impunity. With the current government restoring law and order through targeted arrests, MCP cadres have now turned to issuing threats against security officials and DPP supporters instead of allowing the legal process to take its course. Observers note that such acts of intimidation mirror the MCP’s dark history of political repression during the one-party era from 1964 to 1992—an era remembered for human rights abuses that ultimately led Malawians to demand a return to multiparty democracy. Meawhile, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Malawi, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has assured Malawians that security will be restored in this country and will promote the rule of law to take its

Newly elected President of Malawi Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has announced his long-awaited Cabinet, drawing widespread praise for his deliberate and balanced approach to the appointments. The President, who took several weeks to unveil his team, is being commended for exercising patience and careful consideration to ensure regional, tribal, and gender representation in his new administration. According to the official list released by the Office of the President and Cabinet, the appointments reflect a calculated balance across Malawi’s four regions — the Southern, Eastern, Central, and Northern — demonstrating Mutharika’s intention to foster national unity and inclusivity after a competitive election season. Southern Region: Strong Presidential Core The Southern Region, traditionally the stronghold of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), anchors the Cabinet with several key figures close to the President. Leading the region is President Arthur Peter Mutharika himself, hailing from Thyolo, along with notable appointees such as Joseph Mwanamvekha (Chiradzulu), who takes over as Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Decentralisation, and George T. Chaponda (Mulanje), who returns as Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Others from the region include Ben Malunga Phiri (Thyolo) as Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Mary Navicha (Thyolo) as Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, and Jean Mathanga (Chiradzulu) heading Natural Resources, Energy and Mining. The Southern region also provides youthful energy in the deputies, including Chimwemwe Chipungu (Lucheza) as Minister of Defense, and Francis Foley (Nsanje) as Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Technology. Eastern Region: Economic and Educational Drive The Eastern Region is represented by a dynamic team that blends administrative experience with professional expertise. Hon. Roza Mbilizi Fachi (Mangochi) takes charge of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development, a crucial portfolio given the country’s dependence on agriculture. She is joined by Hon. George Patridge (Mangochi) as Minister of Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism, and Bright Msaka (Machinga) as Minister of Education, Science and Technology — all tasked with driving growth and innovation. Completing the eastern bloc are Feston Kaupa (Zomba), appointed Minister of Transport and Public Works, and Shadrick Namalomba (Mangochi), who takes over as Minister of Information and Communications Technology, signaling a government focus on infrastructure and digital transformation. Central Region: Security and Labour in Focus The Central Region, often seen as Malawi’s political swing zone, features a blend of senior government officials and emerging leaders. The First Vice President, from Ntcheu, represents the region’s top leadership in the administration. Supporting him is Alfred Ruwan Gangata (Dedza) as Minister of State, and Peter Mukhito (Lilongwe), who takes on the sensitive post of Minister of Homeland Security. The President has also appointed Joel Chigona (Salima East) as Minister of Labour, Skills and Innovation, and Patricia Wiskies (Lilongwe Nankhaka) as Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, reflecting an emphasis on employment, vocational skills, and youth empowerment. Norman Chisale (Ntcheu) joins the Cabinet as Deputy Minister of Homeland Security (Operations), a role expected to strengthen internal security coordination. Northern Region: Justice and Health Anchors The Northern Region also features prominently in the new Cabinet, reinforcing Mutharika’s commitment to nationwide inclusivity. Leading the northern representation is the Second Vice President from Rumphi, alongside Charles Mhango (Rumphi) as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Madalitso Baloyi (Mzimba Kafukule) as Minister of Health and Sanitation, and Jappie Mhango (Rumphi) as Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development. Additionally, Martha Mzomera Chiuluntha-Ngwira (Mzimba) has been appointed Deputy Minister of Gender, Children, and Disability Welfare, adding gender balance to the northern delegation. Public Reaction: Praise for Patience and Balance The Cabinet announcement has been widely welcomed by Malawians across political divides, with many observers applauding President Mutharika for taking time to ensure inclusivity rather than rushing appointments. Political analysts note that the Cabinet’s regional equilibrium could help consolidate national unity and reduce perceptions of favoritism. The inclusion of women and youthful technocrats has also been viewed as a positive step toward modernizing governance and promoting gender equality. Opposition figures, while acknowledging the balance, have urged the government to focus on service delivery, economic stabilization, and corruption control — key challenges that defined the previous administration. A Cabinet of Continuity and Renewal Overall, President Mutharika’s new Cabinet combines experience, loyalty, and regional representation, signaling both continuity and renewal within his leadership. As Malawi embarks on a new chapter, expectations remain high that the diverse team will deliver on the President’s promise of economic recovery, social cohesion, and good governance