Chiefs asked to be corrupt free as government elevates some in Balaka
By Precious Msosa
Government has called on chiefs in the country not to be corrupt in discharging their duties but rather let justice take its course in every situation.
Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture Richard Chimwendo Banda made the call during the elevation of five chiefs in Balaka on Monday. He said government is aware of malpractices by some chiefs who tend to favour their relatives and those who bribe them during the period of relief items distribution.
“We have complaints of some chiefs who are very corrupt such that they demand bribes in order to favor them in relief food distribution. We know that in other areas, there are some families who repeatedly benefits from social programs like Mtukula Pakhomo, among others. This must stop because chiefs are parents of everyone,” said Chimwendo Banda amid loud ululations from the audience.
He, therefore, appealed to the newly elevated chiefs to ensure that Village Development Committees (VDCs) and Area Development Committees (ADCs) should also not abuse their mandate by deliberately neglecting the right beneficiaries in these social programs.
He said the elevated chiefs is in appreciation of their hard work and should therefore strive to continue being good servants of the people.
District Commissioner for Balaka Tamanya Harawa appealed to government to consider arranging special orientation for the promoted chiefs so that they professionally discharge their duties.
He said the promotion of the chiefs is a big boost to the development of the district as the chiefs will be motivated to champion for projects.
The newly elevated Senior Chief Nsamala who was formerly Traditional Authority said he was thankful to government for recognizing some of the chiefs in the district.
He advised his fellow promoted chiefs to continue being good to the people and help government in developing the country.
The other elevated chiefs are T/A Mpilisi, T/A Matola, T/A Phimbi (formerly Sub T/As) and Sub T/A Mbera.
