Electorates demand irrigation scheme
Prospective voters in Lupembe Ward in Karonga Central Constituency have demanded that the winner of the August 23 by-election should revive the abandoned Lughali Irrigation scheme.
Village head Lughali raised the issue on Friday at Lughali Primary School during a political debate National Initiative for Civic Education (Nice) Trust organised.
He said: “I would like to know what the contesting candidates will do to revamp Lughali Irrigation Scheme to enhance food security in the area.
development contract as Kaunda (L) looks on
“Again, what are their plans on the road that connects Lughali and Lupembe Health Centre which becomes impassable during the rainy season?”
Responding to the question in turns, Democratic Progressive Party candidate Innocent Kalesi Gondwe said the multi million kwacha project requires government’s commitment’s funding.
“I will liaise with the member of Parliament to find partners to revamp the scheme,” he said.
UTM Party candidate Atusaye Mwenifumbo said he will bank on Constituency Development Fund to revamp the scheme.
Nice Trust Karonga district civic education officer Moses Kaunda said despite the absence of two candidates who did not even give apologies, the turn up was impressive.
“The participants asked relevant questions on what their candidates will do once ushered into power,” he said.
The two candidates who snubbed the debate are Ken Simsokwe of Alliance for Democracy (Aford) and Elisha Bwinga of Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
In an interview, MCP district chairperson James Nkhoma said the party’s busy campaign schedule contributed to their candidate’s failure to participate in the debate.
In a separate interview, Aford district governor Mackenzie Malema said Simsokwe was attending his relative’s funeral.
MEC will also hold by-elections in Wenya Ward in Chitipa Wenya Constituency and Shire Ward in Balaka Central East Constituency.
