In a recent court ruling, three Ward Councillors from Karonga have been found guilty of committing offenses related to abuse of office, theft, and fraud. They were accused of unlawfully pocketing K2.4 million from 80 Karonga market vendors in exchange for land plots. The incident took place in December 2019.
The convicted Councillors are Steven Simsokwe (MCP) representing Chilanga Ward, Ngasalayumo Mwangonde (UTM Party) representing Kaporo Ward, and Smart Mwakayira (DPP) representing Rukulu Ward.
First Grade Magistrate Julius Kalambo, in his ruling, declared the trio guilty after carefully reviewing the evidence and arguments presented by both the State and Defense. The State, represented by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) lead counsel Chikumbutso Harawa, urged the court to impose a significant sentence to serve as a deterrent to potential future offenders.
However, the defense lawyer for the three Ward Councillors, Lughano Mwabutwa, indicated that he had an extensive submission to present to the court. Consequently, Magistrate Kalambo adjourned the case until 2 pm for the sentencing phase.
Notably, Steven Simsokwe, aged 30, hails from Mwenekawe village; Ngasalayumo Mwangonde, aged 48, is from Mwakasangira village in Senior Chief Kilupula’s jurisdiction; and Smart Mwakayira, aged 43, originates from Mwamalopa village within Paramount Chief Kyungu’s domain in Karonga district.