Mulanje retains DPP’s Brazio as council chairperson
Mulanje District Council on Saturday re-elected Isaac Brazio as its Council Chairperson and Stanford Mawila as vice chairperson after swearing into office 18 ward councilors elected during the May 21, 2019 Tripartite Elections.
Brazio, who is Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) Chisitu ward councilor, retained his seat after amassing 14 votes defeating his fellow DPP Councilor, Daniel Chauluka from Chonde ward with a single vote while Mawila (DPP) from Msikawanjala ward came first with 16 votes defeating Rose Chikwakwa from Mimosa Ward by six votes.
In his acceptance speech, Brazio pledged to work hand in hand with traditional leaders, Members of Parliament and fellow councilors to develop the district.
“For Mulanje to develop we need to join hands and work together,” he said.
He then pledged to boost the council’s revenue through the ‘Revenue Enhancement Plan’ that is being put in place by the district council to create funds to finance developmental projects.
He said: “During my last tenure in office, we noted that there are many loopholes when it comes to collection of revenue especially in our markets. So we developed this plan that will introduce electronic ticketing (e-ticketing) among other things, to seal those holes and in a way enhance revenue.”
Brazio said he was optimistic the introduction of e-ticketing will allow the council raise money to support some projects in its development plans.
“You will note that despite Mulanje having more markets than other districts, we generate low revenue as compared to such districts just because they are using e-ticketing. Take Dedza District Council for example,” he said.
Also speaking at the meeting, newly elected vice chairperson, Stanford Mawila said he was ready to work with the council and communities to end problems people face and develop the district.
