Balaka chiefs, CSOs accuse council of abusing K14m

Traditional leaders and civil society organisations (CSOs) in Balaka have asked government to probe the council’s spending of K14 million meant for chiefs’ honoraria.

Speaking on Monday when about 10 traditional leaders met Balaka CSOs to discuss the issue, group village head M’manga said the council’s explanation that the money was diverted to other projects does not make sense.

He said: “We are aware chiefs’ remuneration comes from central government every month. Diverting the money to meet other expenses is prohibited by the Malawi Finance Management Act.

“The Act does not allow money to be diverted from one expenditure item to run another expenditure item or budget line to another.”

He said government should audit the council because the plan to sell land to pay the chiefs is “unlawful”.

Balaka CSOs chairperson Charles Sinetre said the resolution made by the full council to sell land to offset the misappropriated money was unreasonable.

He said: “Land is a non-renewable asset which cannot just be disposed of because of some people’s mismanagement and incompetence.

“The council should find a better way rather than selling land since chiefs have refused the proposal.”

The newly-elected Balaka District Council chairperson Michael Chauluka said it was unfortunate chiefs have stayed for nine months without being paid.

He said: “Council has agreed to sell some government land to pay chiefs although it might take time as we need to follow proper procedures.

“Unfortunately, people responsible for this mess are not available to answer; hence, we have to investigate to unearth the truth.”

Chiefs in attendance included traditional authorities Chanthunya, Sawali, Mbera and Senior Chief Kalembo.