By Blackson Mkupatira

Chiradzulu, October 07, Mana: Chiradzulu District Council on Monday elected Patrick Chimtengo from Chikowa Ward in Chiradzulu South Constituency as council chairperson, while Nelson Mwandama from Mombezi Ward in Chiradzulu West Constituency was elected Vice Chairperson.

Chintengo won the chairperson role with eight votes, defeating Chikondi Nkula of Ntayamwana Ward in Chiradzulu North Constituency, who garnered six votes out of 14 cast. In the vice-chair election, Mwandama secured nine votes against Douglas Mkweza of Mwanje Ward in Chiradzulu East, who received five.

In an interview with Malawi News Agency (Mana) following his victory, Chimtengo pledged to strengthen collaboration between the council secretariate, local chiefs and elected council members to ensure efficient execution of development projects.

Chimtengo also acknowledged the challenges in local revenue generation, noting that inadequate sanitary infrastructure in key markets has hindered the council’s ability to maximize revenue collection.

“Before I was elected as chairperson, I served as chairperson for the Finance and Audit Service Committee, so I’m well aware of the council's financial challenges and we have already laid out measures to boost our revenue base.

“For example, we have constructed toilets and sheds in markets, we are just waiting to hand them over to the people so that they could start utilizing them. We are also taxing Kabanza operators and contractors,” Chimtengo said.

Chimtengo, however, called on councillors, members of Parliament, traditional leaders and the council secretariat to work together to enhance service delivery and improve the district's performance in the Local Authority Performance Assessment, saying this will guarantee additional grants for developmental projects.

On his part, Mwandama echoed Chimtengo’s sentiments, vowing to collaborate with the council leadership and secretariat to ensure quality service delivery for the benefit of the people of Chiradzulu.

“I will work tirelessly within the confines of the law to help in developing the district,” he said.

In his remarks, District Commissioner for Chiradzulu, Francis Matewere congratulated the new leadership and assured them of the council’s support.