Group village head (GVH) Nkumphira of Traditional Authority Ganya in Ntcheu has called on parliamentary aspirants in Ntcheu Bwanje Constituency to be transparent and accountable in managing funds for development projects.
She said politicians have for a long time implemented projects without consulting citizens, thereby creating mistrust and tension between leaders and their constituents.
GVH Nkumphira said this on Tuesday during a debate that the National Initiative for Civic Education (Nice) Trust organised ahead of the September 16 2025 General Election.
The debate sought to give voters a chance to engage with the candidates on their plans.
“I appeal to candidates to be transparent and accountable with the management of funds so that they do not create enmity with voters,” said Nkumphira.
She stressed that transparency and accountability are essential for development because they encourage community support for projects.
“There has been no good relationship between politicians and the people due to the way leaders manage funds,” said the chief.
Aspirants who took part in the debate included independents Gift Kandidziwa, Lucy Mauluka and Nancy Chaola Mdooko as well as Richard Chidengu of National Patriotic Party.
They all pledged to accept the election results and support the eventual winner.
“Elections are not war. They are about choosing someone to represent the constituency and steer development. We are ready to accept the outcome and support the chosen one,” said Mdooko.
Nice Trust Ntcheu programme officer Yohane Keala said they organised the debate to help voters make informed decisions by understanding the candidates’ manifestos.
“It is our aim to ensure that people have the right information before they vote so that they make choices based on facts,” he said.
The European Union funded the debate under the Boma Lathu Project
