Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Dr. Ben Malunga Phiri, on Tuesday, November 25, carried out an unannounced inspection of ministry offices at Capital Hill in Lilongwe.
Dr. Phiri, who was accompanied by the Secretary for Local Government, Reverend Moses Chimphepo, visited several departments where he interacted with staff and received updates on ongoing projects.
The surprise inspection forms part of the minister’s broader push to strengthen accountability, improve service delivery, and promote professionalism within the ministry.
However, the visit also exposed lapses in office management. Dr. Phiri expressed concern after finding some offices closed without the knowledge of the Secretary for Local Government.
He has since ordered a detailed report on the whereabouts of the officers assigned to the affected offices.
Dr. Phiri further stated that he will engage supervisors of the concerned departments to determine the reasons behind the absenteeism and ensure that appropriate administrative measures are taken in line with government regulations.
