Director of Social Services in Blantyre Arch diocese Fr Francis Tambala and HIVOS project manager Tisungane Nanthoka told Zodiak on Tuesday that it is pathetic that such malpractices have been denying citizens access to quality development projects.

Fr Tambala said elective leaders need to discuss with their subjects in identifying and implementation of projects to benefit the general population.

“We as CCJP and HIVOS are engaging elective leaders including ward councilors and local structures like Area Development committees and village development committees to be proactive in monitoring procurement issues. This will minimize fraud and corrupt cases,” said Fr Tambala.

On her part, Nanthoka said HIVOS will continue empowering local structures with necessary skills to promote accountability in the fulfilment of development projects

Deputy Mayor of Blantyre City Council Funny Balaba Kanojerera has since encouraged elective leaders to champion transparency and accountability in order to sustain public trust.

He however asked development partners to address sanitation issues currently rocking the city due to the old and dilapidated sewage system.