Constitutional position of the Defence Force of Malawi

(1) The Defence Force of Malawi shall operate at all times under the direction of those civil authorities in whom this Constitution vests such power, and shall— (a) uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic and guard against threats to the safety of its citizens by force of arms; (b) uphold and protect the constitutional order in the Republic and assist the civil authorities in the proper exercise of their functions under this Constitution; (c) provide technical expertise and resources to assist the civilian authorities in the maintenance of essential services in times of emergency; and (d) perform such other duties outside the territory of Malawi as may be required of them by any treaty entered into by Malawi in accordance with the prescriptions of international law, but no part of the Defence Force of Malawi shall be employed outside the territory of the Republic for more than ninety days without the approval of the National Assembly. (2) No person or authority may direct or deploy the Defence Force of Malawi to act in contravention of this Constitution. [4 of 2004]