The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Principal Secretary in the Charles Kalemba says time has come for District Commissioners and Chief Executive Officers to get back the esteemed status which Councils used to have in the past.

In his remarks at the DCs and CEOs technical meeting at Mzuzu Hotel recently, the PS said as Responsible and Controlling officers, they should develop a spirit of living behind a legacy in their councils.

“The office of the DC used to be respected because that is where the government sits and you have eroded the status. Nowadays, Councils are known for theft and mismanagement of funds. You are responsible officers as well as controlling officers. You need to clean up. You should decide whether to live up or Leave the game,” said the PS.

He also said that it is possible to have a council system that is prudent and reminded the DCs and CEOS that they have the power to sanction anyone not delivering on the job or is involved in resources and funds abuse in the councils.

National Local Government Finance Committee Executive Director, Alifeyo Banda concurred with the PS saying that most of the problems in the Councils are a reflection of DCs and CEOS not being in control.

“We have so many issues in the councils and most of them reflect that you are not in control of your councils. How can we be having strikes in councils for failing to pay direct staff? You need to understand your responsibilities in the councils. Have a vision and be aware that if you do not have a strategic plan you cannot lead the council anywhere,” said Banda.

He said that these meetings were organized to focus and align the local council controlling officers on their responsibilities and what is expected so that they are be held accountable when there is deviance.

The NLGFC is also planning to develop an administration manual for DCs on their responsibilities and council management. The manual will also act as an induction roadmap for newly recruited DC’s.