Mzuzu councillors protest academic’s inclusion

There was drama at Mzuzu City full council meeting on Wednesday when councillors protested the inclusion of a representative from Mzuzu University, claiming the expert criticises them during council deliberations.

The council met to approve names of representatives from various sectors, but when the members saw Collen Zalengera’s name, hell broke loose.

One of the councillors, Peterkings Mbale, refused to approve the academic, saying councillors were not comfortable to work with him.

“These people are supposed to assist us but they oppose us when they contribute ideas during council meetings,” he said.

Another councillor, Manson Waya, demanded that Zalengera apologise if the councillors were to work with him.

“I believe when we are in a group, there is no one who is better than others. We all should learn from one other,” he said.

It took Mzuzu City Mayor Brian Nyasulu to reason with the councillors to accept Zalengera, saying he was the best the council could work with.

“What we should be looking at is his capability and not what transpired in the last meeting. He is the best we can work with. Google his name, you will find a lot about him,” he said.

After the mayor had campaigned for Zalengera, some councillors were convinced and approved his name.

When contacted yesterday, Zalengera laughed off the councillors’ demands for apology.

“I don’t owe them an apology for. If that’s the case, I’m even ready to excuse myself,” he said.