MANGOCHI-(MaraviPost)-Traditional leaders in Mangochi South West Constituency have commended their legislator, Dr. Shadric Namalomba, for taking time to thank his constituents following the September 16 general elections.

The chiefs, led by Senior Chief Chilipa and Sub Traditional Authority Masapi, made the remarks on Tuesday during two separate meetings held in their respective areas. 

The meetings were organised by  Namalomba who also serves as Minister of Information and Communications Technology to express gratitude for the peaceful conduct of the elections and the support rendered to him and President Professor Peter Mutharika.

Speaking on behalf of the traditional leaders, the chiefs most of whom were Group Village Heads said it is uncommon for elected leaders to return to their communities simply to express appreciation after securing victory at the polls. They therefore described Namalomba’s gesture as commendable and respectful.

The chiefs also thanked President Professor Peter Mutharika for appointing  Namalomba to the Cabinet as Minister of Information and Communications Technology, saying the appointment was a source of pride for the constituency and should not be taken for granted.

During the meetings, the traditional leaders used the opportunity to present several development concerns.

 Among the key issues raised were challenges in the delivery of subsidised fertiliser under the Farm Input Subsidy Programme (FISP), the need to replace a damaged electricity transformer at Chilipa Trading Centre, and calls for the construction of the Mangochi–Chilipa–Balaka road.

In his address, Namalomba expressed deep appreciation for the overwhelming support shown by traditional leaders and their subjects, who voted for Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidates at all levels ward councillors, Member of Parliament, and President during the September 16 polls.

He urged the chiefs to continue promoting unity and active community participation in development initiatives and he also called for the protection of Phirilongwe Forest, which he said is facing serious deforestation, and warned traditional leaders against engaging in corrupt practices, particularly in the implementation of government programmes such as FISP.

Responding to the concerns raised,  Namalomba assured the chiefs that measures have already been put in place to ensure timely distribution of subsidised fertiliser across all areas. He further said government plans include upgrading Chilipa to a rural growth centre and facilitating the construction of the Chilipa road to improve connectivity and economic activity in the area.

The Maravi Post