By Burnett Munthali
Blantyre City Council (BCC) has taken drastic action against the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Offices at Chichiri in Blantyre, closing them down due to outstanding city rates. The move is part of BCC’s efforts to recover millions of kwachas owed by various buildings and offices in the city.
Mayor for Blantyre Isaac Jomo’ Osman led the charge, accompanied by his deputy and a swarm of councilors, to claim the outstanding rates from the MCP Offices. The mayor emphasized that BCC is undertaking a task to close all offices that are not complying with “pay rates”, highlighting the council’s determination to address its financial struggles.
Osman revealed that BCC is struggling financially, despite buildings and offices owing millions of kwachas in rates. He stressed that the council cannot continue to provide services while being owed such significant amounts, and that it is time for those owing to pay up.
The crackdown on MCP Offices is not an isolated incident, as BCC has also closed Central East African Railways (CEAR), Malawi Housing Corporation (MHC), and Pacific Limited, among other buildings and offices. The move demonstrates the council’s commitment to recovering the owed debt and addressing its financial woes.
“We are seeking to recover the owned debt amount and we will work with relevant authorities to resolve the matter,” Osman said, emphasizing the council’s determination to collect the outstanding rates. The move is likely to send a strong message to other buildings and offices that are owing rates, and serves as a reminder of the importance of complying with payment obligations.
The closure of MCP Offices has sparked a heated debate, with some questioning the timing and motives behind the move. However, BCC remains resolute in its efforts to recover the outstanding rates and address its financial struggles.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the MCP and other affected parties will respond to the council’s actions. One thing is certain, however – BCC is taking a tough stance on unpaid rates, and those owing are likely to face the consequences.
