By Suleman Chitera
The Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Dr. Ben Phiri, has issued a blunt warning to staff at Zomba City Council, declaring an end to the long-standing practice of transferring misbehaving secretarial officers instead of disciplining them.
Speaking during a visit to the council on Thursday, Phiri said the era of “recycling indiscipline” through transfers is over, stressing that any secretarial staff found engaging in misconduct will be dismissed outright.
“This is your last chance,” the minister warned. “There will be no transfers for those who misbehave. If you cross the line, you will be fired. Full stop.”
Phiri did not mince words about the council’s overall performance, openly expressing dissatisfaction and rating its progress as below average. He said the state of service delivery and management at the council falls far short of expectations, especially considering Zomba’s status as a major city.
The minister singled out revenue collection as a critical failure, arguing that the city is sitting on untapped potential. He said with proper systems, discipline, and accountability, Zomba could be financially self-sustaining.
“If this city were a private company, it would be making enough money to run itself efficiently,” Phiri said. “The problem is not lack of opportunities; it is poor management and weak enforcement.”
He challenged council officials to tighten controls, improve staff conduct, and aggressively enhance revenue mobilisation, warning that government patience is wearing thin.
Phiri’s tough stance sends a clear signal that underperforming councils and undisciplined staff will no longer be shielded by administrative conveniences, but will instead face direct and decisive consequences.
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