Ministry orders Lilongwe Mayor Bikoko to dissolve advisory committee

Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has ordered Mayor of the Capital City Lilongwe, Counsellor Desmond Bikiko to immediate dissolve the advisory board he has established, saying it is against Local Government Act Cap 22 : 01 of Laws of Malawi.

Ministry Public Relations Officer Muhlabase Mughogho confirmed to Nyasa Times about the order.

“The local Government Act, cap 22:01 of the laws of Malawi recognises the need for Local Government to deliver services to its residents through structures. Coming up with a parallel committee is way against the laws of the land that govern local government,” said Mughogho.

Mughogho said Lilongwe City council, just like any other council, establish various committees where issues of diverse nature may be debated and solutions found.

“The council also incorporated members of interest groups so as to enrich dialogue and include issues often marginalized in society. In addition each council has community structures like ward Development Committees and neighbourhood development committees where issues of development can be discuss,” said Mughogho.

Bikoko on Monday this week, unveiled six member advisory team from different communities residents within the city.

The Mayor told a group of journalists after the unveiling ceremony that he wanted to take the council to the people.

Bikoko said that is why the ambassadors are from all business communities in the city such as Rwanda, Burundi, Malawians, Indian, and Nigerian Business Community.

Speaking on behalf of all ambassadors, Mylord Jere, of Angoni Enterprise commended the council for the development.

Jere urged the council to engage Rwanda if they want to achieve Lilongwe to be a clean city.