Concerned stakeholders, community leaders, youth, women and citizens of Nkhotakota District have written to the Ministry of Local Government demanding clarification on two pressing issues: the reinstatement of District Commissioner Mr. Matengeni Tonho and the outcome of an investigation into alleged mismanagement of over MK600 million.
In a letter dated 28th August, 2026 addressed to the Principal Secretary for Local Government and Rural Development, the group expressed anxiety and frustration over what they described as lack of transparency in the matter.
According to the letter, in February 2026 government placed DC Matengeni Tonho and former Director of Finance Mr. Khumbo Masankhula on a three-month forced leave. The action followed allegations of mismanagement of MK600,000,000 that was meant for development projects in the district.
At that time, the Ministry assured the public that the National Audit Office would conduct a thorough investigation.
The stakeholders say months have passed but there has been no public update on the audit findings. They are also concerned about reports regarding the possible reinstatement of the DC without the people of Nkhotakota being informed.
“We write to you with concern because this matter is causing anxiety among many people in our district,” reads part of the letter. Copies have also been sent to the DC, MPs, Councillors, Chiefs, Police, Civil Society and all radio stations in Nkhotakota.
Sources within the district allege that corruption within councils is worse than what happens in politics. “People are angry. It seems even within the Ministry of Local Government there are issues of corruption. Councils are where a lot of money is being lost,” said one community leader who asked not to be named for fear of victimization.
The stakeholders are now demanding that government immediately release the findings of the MK600 million investigation and clarify the status of the DC.
As of press time, the Ministry of Local Government was yet to responded
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