Paramount Chief M’mbelwa V has hailed government for funding Traditional Authority (T/A) Chindi’s cancer treatment in India, describing the support as a demonstration of its commitment to traditional leaders’ welfare.
Chindi, born Ntabeni Jere, died on October 23 2026, in India, where he was referred for specialised cancer treatment.
M’mbelwa’s message was conveyed by T/A Mtwalo on Wednesday during the burial ceremony of Chindi IV at the fallen chief’s headquarters in Euthini.
M’mbelwa V said the government’s intervention demonstrated its commitment to ensuring that the chief received appropriate medical care.
| Joel Phiri
“We hail President Peter Mutharika’s government for sending the late chief to India for treatment. This was a manifestation of great commitment to ensuring that the chief received the best possible care,” said Mtwalo.
However, Mtwalo allayed fears of succession disputes following Chindi’s death, saying the family had already identified the late chief’s 20-year-old son Chrispin Jere as his successor.
Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Ben Phiri said the government remained committed to supporting traditional leaders, citing the assistance extended to Chindi as evidence of the commitment.
He said the President was saddened by Chindi’s death, adding that government relies on traditional leaders to promote development, peace and unity in their respective communities.
Phiri said his ministry will take to Parliament the revised Chief’s Act for its enactment to strengthen the welfare and operations of traditional leaders.
The late Chindi, who was a member of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian Synod of Livingstonia, is survived by a wife and six children.
Among other notable dignitaries who attended the ceremony were Second Vice-President Enock Chihana, Minister of Health and Sanitation Madalitso Baloyi, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Charles Mhango, Adviser to the President on Parliamentary Affairs Christopher Mzomera Ngwira, former Vice-President Khumbo Kachali and Minister of Transport and Public Works Jappie Mhango
