Ben Phiri pledges new law to boost chiefs’ welfare: Inkosi Chindi laid to rest

The long-awaited Chiefs Act will be tabled in Parliament next February in a move aimed at improving the welfare of traditional leaders across Malawi, Local Government and Rural Development Minister Dr Ben Malunga Phiri has announced.

Speaking at the burial of Inkosi Chindi IV at Euthini Headquarters in Mzimba on Wednesday, Phiri said the government was determined to push through the legislation, describing chiefs as a vital force in driving development at community level.

His remarks came amid criticism from Mzimba Central MP Vitumbiko Mumba, who accused the government of dragging its feet over the review and enactment of the proposed law.

Responding to the concerns, Phiri insisted the matter was now firmly on the government’s agenda.

“Government relies on chiefs to propel development in their communities; hence, in the February sitting, Parliament will bring the issue to the House,” he said.

The minister also revealed that President Peter Mutharika was deeply saddened by the death of Chindi, who died in India on 23 October while receiving treatment for cancer.

Phiri pointed to the government’s financial support for the late chief’s treatment abroad as evidence of its commitment to the welfare of traditional leaders.

In a further message to communities, the minister urged peaceful transitions in traditional leadership, warning against succession disputes that often follow the death of chiefs.

He welcomed the decision by Mzimba’s traditional leadership to identify Crispin Jere, the late chief’s 20-year-old son, as the next Inkosi Chindi.

Earlier, Paramount Chief Mmbelwa V, speaking through Traditional Authority Mtwalo, praised the government for funding the late chief’s medical treatment in India.

“We hail Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika’s government for sending the late chief to India for treatment. This was a manifestation of great commitment to ensuring that the chief got better,” he said.

Born Ntabeni Jere, Inkosi Chindi IV leaves behind a wife and six children as Mzimba prepares for a new chapter under his designated successor.