Mtayachalo demands probe into cash-for-work programme, fertiliser distribution in Chama North constituency

Chama North Constituency lawmaker, Yotam Mtayachalo, has called on the government to investigate alleged irregularities in the cash-for-work and fertiliser distribution programmes in his area.

In a statement issued Wednesday, Mtayachalo said widespread complaints suggested unfair implementation of the cash-for-work programme, with some politically connected individuals allegedly benefiting at the expense of genuine participants.

“Some individuals are abusing the facility by including bogus beneficiaries who did not work, in exchange for political favours,” he alleged.

“There are also claims that officials are receiving kickbacks, amounting to theft of public funds, and this has been going on for some time,” he said.

He warned that such actions could tarnish government’s image and erode support for the ruling party in the district, as many constituents perceived that the misconduct was sanctioned by those in power.

Mtayachalo also urged the government to probe the distribution of farming inputs under the social security pack during the 2024/2025 season, noting that some deserving beneficiaries were denied inputs while unscrupulous individuals reportedly took them.

He said he had already informed Minister of Community Development, Doreen Mwamba, and called for auditors or independent investigators to be dispatched to the constituency to ensure that all culprits, regardless of their status, were held accountable.

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