KA councillors fight for positions
Divisions have emerged among councillors in Karonga over the positions of chairperson and vice-chairperson ahead of the council’s elections slated for September 14 this year.
This follows a declaration by incumbent chairperson Patrick Kishombe and his deputy Ernest Mwalughali that they will swap positions despite standing for two consecutive terms.
Speaking in an interview on Wednesday, Kishombe, who represents Chilanga Ward, said he has unfinished work to undertake.
He said if he leaves office now, the council would face some challenges.
Said Kishombe: “However, I understand that since I have been on the position for two consecutive terms, I cannot stand again as chairperson. As such, I have decided to stand for the post of vice-chairperson.”
In his remarks, Mwalughali of Lupembe Ward said he is ready to stand for the position of chairperson.
However, three other councillors who have also shown interest to contest for the position of chairperson, are against the decision by the incumbent leaders.
One of the councillors, Harry Mwanyembe, said the plan by the two is against guidelines stipulated in the Local Government Act.
He said: “The Act clearly stipulates that the chairperson is obliged to serve two consecutive terms only. As such, what the two would like to do is unacceptable.”
Other councillors, who are eying the position of chairperson are McDonald Tengamowa and Wiyule Kanyika of Uliwa and Kaporo wards, respectively.n
