Thyolo District Commissioner, Hudson Kuphanga, and Luchenza Municipality Chief Executive Officer, Wanyapakucha Mzumara, have called on newly elected ward councillors to prioritize public service over personal gains.

Speaking today after the swearing-in ceremony of councillors and the election of a new mayor for Luchenza Municipality, Kuphanga reminded the elected leaders that their mandate is to serve the people who entrusted them with power.

“As President Professor Peter Mutharika has often emphasized, you have not been elected to satisfy your bellies, but to serve the people,” said Kuphanga. “Let every decision you make be guided by the desire to improve the welfare of your communities.”

On his part, Mzumara advised the new municipal leadership to focus on fostering development and unity across the town.

“I urge the new mayor and councillors to dedicate themselves to uplifting Luchenza through meaningful development initiatives,” said Mzumara.

During the election, Councillor Grivin Namukopo was elected Mayor of Luchenza Municipality after defeating Councillor Henderson Sipuni, while Councillor Wyson Movirikana was elected Deputy Mayor, beating Bhima Ndalama by three votes to two.

In his acceptance speech, Mayor Namukopo pledged to work with all councillors, including those who did not succeed in the elections, to ensure collective progress.

Namukupo: “I am ready to work with everyone in our municipality, regardless of election outcomes,” he said. “Let’s join hands and work together to drive development and make Luchenza a better place for all.”

Meanwhile, at the Thyolo District Council, Councillor George Jailosi was elected Council Chairperson after securing eight votes against Councillors John Orima and Rain Namalomba, who each received four votes.

"We are ready to serve the people who have entrusted us with this duty. I am urging my fellow councillors to work with the technocrats in accordance with the guidelines," councillor Jailosi said.

Meanwhile, Councillor Mercy Zipilana has been elected Vice Chairperson of the district council.

Both local authorities have since pledged to strengthen collaboration among councillors, technocrats, and communities to accelerate development initiatives in their respective areas.