Villagers erect fence around Lucius Banda’s memorial house — after locals accused of drinking and posing for photos on the grave

Villagers in Sosola, Balaka district, have taken matters into their own hands and erected a wooden fence around the memorial house built by the family and friends of late musician Lucius Banda, insisting the barrier is necessary to protect the site from disrespectful behaviour.

Reporters, together with village chiefs, visited the memorial house, built on the boundary of Sosola’s village graveyard, to investigate the growing tension surrounding the site.

“People come and disrespect the site” — chief defends decision

Speaking at the scene, one of the traditional leaders explained why the community felt compelled to act.

“People arrive at this house recklessly, taking photos while drinking beer, and some even step on graves nearby, which disrespects our culture, and that is why I have built this fence,” the chief said.

Family and committee kept in the dark, chiefs say

The traditional leaders confirmed that neither the family nor the committee that oversaw construction of the memorial house had been consulted or informed about how the fence would be built.

However, they insisted this had not caused any friction or upset, noting that family members were in attendance when the memorial house was officially opened.

Family remains silent as police confirm no complaint filed

Lucius Banda’s family has so far declined to comment on the matter.

Meanwhile, Balaka Police Publicist Gladson M’bumpha confirmed that police have not received any formal complaint in connection with the dispute.

The move highlights growing concern within the Sosola community over how the beloved musician’s memorial site has been treated by visitors since his passing, with local leaders now taking direct action to preserve the dignity of both the memorial house and the neighbouring graveyard.