By Twink Jones Gadama
In a dramatic turn of events, the Neno District Council, led by the police, has confiscated thirty drums of tar from CR-Company, a road construction firm, around Zalewa. The drums were being ferried to Chikwawa, where the company is constructing a road.
According to an official from the Neno District Council, who opted to remain anonymous, the council took the action because the Road Authority had not sought permission to collect the tar, nor had it consulted with the local community. “The Road Authority has not been transparent in its dealings,” said the official. “They have not considered the needs of the people of Neno, who have been waiting for a long time for the completion of the road to be tarred.”
The Neno District Council has accused the Road Authority of corruption, alleging that it has been diverting resources meant for Neno to other projects. “This is a clear case of corruption,” said Samson Njolomole, an activist who has been fighting for the people of Neno to have a tarred road. “We will not let this happen. We demand that the collected tar be returned to Neno.”
The Road Authority has not yet reacted to the allegations, but reports indicate that it recently took over 20 drums of tar meant for Neno. This has further fueled suspicions of corruption and mismanagement of resources.
The confiscation of the tar drums has been hailed as a victory by the people of Neno, who have been fighting for years to have their road tarred. “We are tired of being neglected,” said one resident. “We deserve better. We deserve a tarred road that will improve our lives and boost our economy.”
The Neno District Council has vowed to take further action to ensure that the Road Authority is held accountable for its actions. “We will not let this matter rest,” said the council official. “We will fight for the rights of the people of Neno and ensure that they receive the services they deserve.”
The controversy surrounding the tar drums has highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public resources. It has also underscored the importance of community involvement in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Road Authority will respond to the allegations and what measures it will take to address the concerns of the people of Neno. One thing is certain, however: the people of Neno will not rest until they receive the services they deserve.
