Chiradzulu DPP councillors clash with DC affect hospital

Chiradzulu District Hospital officials are sending SOS that soon ambulances would be grounded and food would not be provided to patients as payments cannot be made following the forced closure of the district commissioner’s office.

Ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) ward councillors closed the office of the DC Mary Kaleso a month ago accusing  her of refusing to support party activities as she is trict on financial prudence.

Kaleso is responsible for approving all expenditures at Chiradzulu District Hospital.

Owen Chataika, public relations officer for Chiradzulu District Hospital said the situation at the institution is getting out of hand.

“The hospital cannot pay those contracted to provide food to patients, we will soon not be able to pay for fuel for hospital vehicles,” he said.

But the unrepentant and politically charged ward councillors say they would only open the DC’s office if Kaleso is removed from office.

Three months ago, the same ward councillors forced another DC out of office.

The ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has since threatened to dissolve the Chiradzulu District Council if the councillors continue to intentionally flout laid down operational procedures and guidelines.