A parliamentary debate for Thyolo-Thava constituency turned tense on Friday when three candidates clashed over the implementation of campaign pledges and the management of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Taking to the podium, UTM Party aspirant George Kauma said poverty continues to plague the constituency, stressing that “the area needs real change” before pledging to end hunger, support small businesses and promote the establishment of agricultural clubs.

However, the atmosphere soured when independent candidate Benjamin Kachikho Simeon accused Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Mary Navicha of mismanaging the CDF.

While responding to a question on prudent use of the funds, Simeon alleged that Navicha was letting her husband handle constituency projects — remarks that angered Navicha’s supporters.

"I will make sure that I use the development structures when implementing the CDF not as what the incumbent has been doing to use her her husband," he alleged, adding that "The constituency needs a change of leadership to address water challenges and push for life-changing projects".

The accusations sparked tension among supporters, but organizers swiftly intervened to calm the situation and guide the candidates back to order.

Dalitso Chiwayula, Executive Director of Chipembere Community Development Organization (CCDO), one of the organizers, urged candidates to stick to the rules of engagement and development issues.

“Candidates must adhere to the debate guidelines and, more importantly, advise their supporters to respect one another. As CCDO, we will continue providing civic education so that aspirants can counter their opponents’ points constructively,” said Chiwayula.

On his part, Moses Kaunda, Programs Officer for the National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Trust, commended Navicha for maintaining composure despite the verbal attacks.

“We applaud Navicha for standing strong in the face of personal attacks. We also thank all candidates and supporters for showing up and engaging. This what is call debate, we were ready for such situation. These debates are important because they help people make informed choices as they head to the polls on September 16,” said Kaunda.

On her part, Navicha told Zodiak after the debate that she has done a lot in the area warranting a fresh mandate. She gave examples of Thyolo-Thekerani road, construction of school blocks, bridges, drilling boreholes and paying school fees for the needy.

"Once voted again, my priority will be lobbying for food support. This is the hunger constituency. I will ask various organizations to help us with food so that I should start distributing by October," she pledged.

The debate, jointly organized by NICE Trust and CCDO, is part of ongoing efforts to promote issue-based politics, women participation and strengthen democracy in Thyolo.