By 
Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Gift Sialubalo, has expressed disappointment over reports of alleged misuse of council machinery in Lufwanyama District, Copperbelt Province.
Sialubalo warned that the government would not tolerate any form of abuse of public resources intended to accelerate local development.
According to a statement issued in Lusaka on Friday by Ministry Principal Public Relations Officer Liseli Kanyanga, the Minister made the remarks after conducting a fact-finding mission to the district alongside Copperbelt Provincial Minister Elisha Matambo.
The visit followed reports that some councillors in Lufwanyama walked out of a full council meeting in protest, alleging that management had redirected machinery meant for the 36.1-kilometre Fungwele Road project to grade approximately 2.7 kilometres of a private road.
The councillors reportedly viewed this as possible abuse of office and a failure to prioritize public service delivery.
Sialubalo assured residents of Lufwanyama and the nation that the Ministry would institute thorough investigations and take appropriate disciplinary action against any officers found wanting.
“Government will not allow public resources to be misused at the expense of development. Council machinery and funds must be used strictly for the benefit of the people. We expect the highest levels of integrity, transparency, and accountability from all local authority officials,” he said.
The Minister also called on citizens to remain vigilant in safeguarding public resources, stressing that communities play a vital role in promoting transparency and accountability at the local level.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening local governance systems and ensuring that the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and other decentralization initiatives deliver tangible development outcomes.
Sialubalo further urged councillors, council management, and stakeholders to work harmoniously and uphold the principles of good governance to foster trust and meet the aspirations of the people.
“The Ministry will release the findings of the investigation once the ongoing review process is concluded,” he said.
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