The Malawi Local Government Association (MALGA) has thrown its weight behind a proposal by Malawi Congress Party (MCP) running mate, Vitumbiko Mumba, to shift executive powers in councils from chief executives to mayors and council chairpersons.

MALGA’s executive director, Hudrod Mkandawire, told Zodiak on Tuesday that the move is in line with progressive decentralization trends already being implemented in countries such as Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia, and South Africa.

“These reforms are the right direction for Malawi,” Mkandawire said. “However, they must be handled with caution. There is a need to review election laws to clearly set qualifications for those aspiring to be mayors and chairpersons. This will require amending the Presidential, Parliamentary and Local Authority Act.”

He further noted that the reforms are timely, considering that some political parties, including the DPP and UTM, plan to channel significant development funds directly to councils.

“Transferring powers to elected leaders is important if these resources are to be managed transparently and in line with the needs of the people,” he added.

But governance analyst, Dr. George Chaima, has opposed the proposal, warning that it could undermine professionalism in council management.

“These reforms risk creating chaos and politicizing local authorities,” Chaima argued. “Ultimately, this would disadvantage citizens, which is why the proposal should be abandoned.”

Meanwhile, MCP running mate Vitumbiko Mumba has defended the reforms, stressing that they are meant to strengthen decentralization and inclusivity in local governance.

“We want to recognize ward councilors, chiefs, and mayors as integral members of councils,” Mumba explained. “The CEOs and DCs will take up new roles as clerks of councils, ensuring they continue to provide technical support while elected leaders drive development priorities.”

The proposal has ignited debate among governance stakeholders, with proponents touting it as a bold step toward deepening decentralization, while critics caution it could blur lines between politics and administration at local government level.