Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government Charles Kalemba has challenged internal auditors in district councils to professionally scrutinize and audit allowances that officer’s claim when they go to fields.

Kalemba was speaking in Mzuzu during an orientation of internal auditors in district councils.

He said the tendency of claiming more allowances than days spent in the field must end.

“People should not be claiming a five day night allowances when they just spent a day or two in the field. Let the finances be well managed,” said Kalemba.

The Secretary added that for a long time, the way finances have been managed at local councils has been chaotic and it’s time to revamp the system and ensure quality delivery of services.

“Malawi 2063 cannot be achieved if our systems are not ticking. People need to embrace change. Anyone found in the wrong side of the law should face the consequences. The administrative disciplinary actions should also be put to full use,” added Kalemba.

Among other things, the secretary said the rot is too much. For instance, Kalemba said 400 million kwacha which represents 30 percent of the COVID 19 money that was allocated to councils, was mismanaged.

Kalemba further   called on auditors to audit time the workers spend at work. He said officers should not be at work but spend the whole time on social media.

Auditors from ten district councils are in attendance including Chitipa, Mzimba, Nkhatabay, Nkhotakota, Rumphi, Karonga, Salima, Kasungu and Likoma.

-MBC-