By Manasse Nyirenda

Rumphi, April 6, Mana: Deputy Minister of Local Government, Joyce Chistulo has called for a speedy identification of a replacement of late acting Traditional Authority (TA) Mwamlowe who was laid to rest on Saturday.

She made the remarks during the funeral ceremony of the late traditional leader at his headquarters in Mlowe where she represented the president, Dr Lazarus Chakwera.

She said Mwamlowe was a representative for his people in the local assembly and his demise has created a gap that needs to be filled quickly.

"Traditional chiefs are very critical in championing government's development activities in their respective communities and the death of Mwamlowe has created a gap that needs to be filled.

"We hope the family will quickly identify a replacement to represent them at the local assembly. We also hope the process will be according to laid down succession procedures to avoid wrangles," said Chistulo.

She also echoed calls by Member of Parliament for area, Kamlepo Kalua and the late chief’s family to elevate the Mwamlowe Chieftaincy to Senior Chief because it is one of the oldest chieftaincies in the district.

Senior Chief Katumbi who represented Paramount Chief Chikulamayembe, described late Mwamlowe as a peaceful person who was friendly to everyone.

Family representative, Weston Mhango described the late chief as the pillar to the family who loved his family and community very much.

He added that the community will also miss his passion for sports in particular football and had a social football team which he accompanied to various areas to watch it play.

Born Ian Kachipapa Mwamlowe on 21 June in 1967 he became acting chief in 2014 following the death of his father, but was never officially installed as TA.

He is survived by a wife and two children.