Minister pledges zero corruption in land deals

Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development Symon Vuwa-Kaunda has assured Malawians of transparency and accountability in allocation of plots in Blantyre.

The minister made the remarks on Wednesday during an inspection of 20 commercial and 150 residential developed plots at Wenela and Chigumula sites, respectively, in the city.

He said anyone involved in dubious processes to provide land will face the law.

“Some officers in my ministry and Asians are in police custody for conniving in preparation of fake title deeds and offer letters. This is a warning to all government officials. Any culprit will face dismissal because we need the general public to benefit from these initiatives,” the minister said.

In an interview, acting  commissioner for lands (South) Peter Chikweni said they will discharge their duties professionally.

“People in need of plots should get the forms from our offices. Plot allocation committee offers land to deserving applicants only. And every committee member is aware of the minister’s stern warning,” he said.

So far, the lands office has received over 2 000 residential applications against 150 available plots in Chigumula ranging from K3 million to K5 million.