A grouping of concerned citizens calling itself Nkhotakota First and Concerned Citizens has criticized officials in the government departments responsible for lands and water, accusing them of failing to perform their duties in the interest of people in Nkhotakota district.
The grouping made the remarks on Friday in Nkhotakota when it presented a petition to the district council.
Speaking on behalf of the grouping, Denis Kayamba said for a long time the district has been facing land-related challenges, which he attributed to the conduct of some officials who are allegedly issuing land documents carelessly and in violation of procedures.
Kayamba cited an example involving land where a Simso filling station is located in Nkhotakota town, claiming that three different individuals are in possession of ownership documents for the same land.
He further alleged that recent violence in Nkhotakota town, which resulted in the death of a person, was partly due to negligence by authorities, particularly in the lands department.
“Our officers are not performing well on land issues. They are altering land documents, and government should consider removing all responsible officers,” said Kayamba.
On water issues, the grouping said the responsible authorities must act urgently, as people are struggling to access safe and clean water.
They said it is unacceptable that residents can only access water in their homes once a week.
Receiving the petition, Acting District Commissioner for Nkhotakota, Mathias Bluegam, assured the grouping that the concerns will be forwarded to relevant authorities.
Bluegam said the council has already dismissed some officials suspected of not following proper procedures in the course of their duties.
Meanwhile, Nkhotakota First and Concerned Citizens has given the council ten days to address the issues raised.
