Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda says apart from being the custodian of culture and morality, traditional leaders are key pillars to the country’s socioeconomic development.
Chimwendo was speaking on Friday at Bvumbwe Research Ground in Thyolo during the elevation of Inkosi Bvumbwe whose real is Matthews Bvumbwe from Traditional Authority (TA) to Senior Chief.
At the same function, the Minister also elevated Sub T/A Chidothe whose real is Godfrey Mapondera to Traditional Authority.
In his speech, Chimwendo said government recognizes the pivotal role, traditional leaders play in socioeconomic transformation of the country hence it puts the welfare of chiefs at heart.
“You are Chiefs in our own right but also you have been entrusted to champion economic growth and transformation of your people in the society. And that you must always bear in mind that you have subjects to look after them with equity and blind eye judgments. You are inheritors of our land, sea, and fauna.
“As we elevate you today, president Chakwera expects you to bring hope and the needs of your people and our land by unifying through inclusivity so that all your subjects can treasure,” said Minister who is also leader of government business in Parliament.
Chimwendo then assured the chiefs that the administration of president Chakwera was not interested in controlling the affairs of traditional leaders and as such would not meddle in chieftaincy issues.
Chimwendo said: “what was of importance to government was that all chieftaincy issues and grievances arising from them were resolved peacefully and in good faith, to enable government to prosecute its agenda for the accelerated transformation and development of the country.”
On their part the newly elevated crowned chiefs pledged their loyalty to the President and government also underlined their commitment to work tirelessly to secure the country’s socioeconomic development.
