Action on Vacant Council Offices Awaits Investigation

ouncilors standing at the DPD's office in Thyolo ouncilors standing at the DPD's office in Thyolo - file photo

The Local Government Service Commission (LASCOM) says it has no immediate plans to replace the district council officers who have been forced out by the ward councilors in Mulanje and Thyolo.

In Mulanje, councilors demand an immediate transfer of the Director of Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources, Yaz Nyirenda for alleged incompetence and arrogance, while in Thyolo, they have booted out directors of planning and development and that of public works including his assistant for derailing development progress.

But speaking to Zodiak Online on Wednesday, the Commission's Executive Secretary, Berlings Kumpata, says as of now the Ministry of Local Government has to investigate first before any action is taken.

"The Commission has no immediate plans to replace the officers as the Ministry of Local Govt has to investigate the issues before action is taken," Kumpata said.

Governance commentator Victor Chipofya wants the law to interpret the mandate of councilors in recent events including shutting down of NRB offices.

"We need to go back and look at the role of the councilors under the parliamentary Act; is it a mandate for them to be closing down the offices or is it their role to bring about developments, but two wrongs do not make it right. If they continue reacting in the negative way it is just going to bring about animosity because everybody has got the right to be heard," he said.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Local Government spokesperson, Anjoya Mwanza has asked for more time before commenting on the matter.

Three weeks ago, Mangochi councilors also sealed NRB offices over reports of incompetence and corruption.

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