Paramount chief refuses to sit next to chiefs in meeting, labels them enemies

Controversial mang’anja chief, Paramount Lundu of Chikwawa on Saturday surprised people when he refused to sit next to fellow traditional leaders during a full Chikhwawa District Council meeting.

He said he could not sit close to his “enemies.”

Lundu has a difficult relationship with most of traditional leaders in the district as well as in his area.

He is condemned for his dictatorial tendencies.

Recently, he locked up one of his subjects in a room at his headquarters and left him without food for days until the police freed him.

The state has not taken any action against this notorious but powerful chief.

However, the full council meeting was postponed, not because Lundu refused to sit next to fellow chiefs, but councillors boycotted the meeting.

Collex Nankumba, one of the councillors said they were provided with council committee reports the same day they were supposed to meet, instead of three days earlier as the by laws provide.

Chief Mulirima accused some council members of staff of incompetence, saying they do not work for people.

District commissioner, Fred Movete said next time he would ensure the council members get the reports on time.

However, the council members got full allowances and transport reimbursement despite the fact that the meeting was postponed, forcing the council blow up a K1.1 million in allowances and transport reimbursements.