UDF takes control of local councils in eastern region: Win chairperson title in Mangochi, Zomba, Balaka and Machinga

United Democratic Front (UDF) which is led by Atupele Muluzi currently serving as Minister of Lands, have tightened their grip on eastern region support as they take control of councils.

The eastern region local authority map is yellow, as a result of the UDF winning chairpersons in the district to gain dominance of councils.

Mangochi Town Council re-elected UDF councillors Ibrahim Kacheya and Maimuna Mwanyali as chairperson and vice-chairperson respectively on Tuesday.

Kacheya, who is a councillor for Mikoma Ward, and Mwanyali who is a councillor for Kalunga Ward, retained their positions unopposed.

“For two- and-a-half years we have been at the helm, we have managed to bring visible developments in the town. Talk of buildings, garbage collection, among other notable milestones.

“This is why we have managed to win the hearts of the people. This signifies that we had capable leadership,” Kacheya said

In Machinga, Margret Uladi, who is also director of women in UDF was elected chairperson.

Balaka also elected a UDF councillor Daud Amin as its chairperson.

In Zomba city where there were no elections for the Mayor, UDF holds the seat of deputy mayor Davie Maunde.

The UDF youthful councillor Chikumbutso Likandawe is also chairperson of the Zomba District council.

Apart from Easter Region, UDF has councillors in Likoma, Kasungu, Chitipa, Nsanje and Salima.

UDF spokesman Ken Ndanga hailed Atupele Muluzi leadership, saying “he is giving the leadership we need.”

He did, however, acknowledge: “The truth is UDF still has a mountain to climb if we are to return to government in 2019.”

Ndanga said UDF members remain hopeful that Atupele Muluzi will take the party in a new direction.

“We need to do far more. We need to do better and UDF will work hard,” he added.