GEITA: GEITA Regional Commissioner Alexander Mnyeti has ordered an investigation into Chato District Council’s spending following complaints from suppliers and retired public servants over unpaid debts.
Mnyeti directed the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) to begin the investigation on October 19, 2026, examining payments made by the council as well as its outstanding financial obligations.
He issued the directive during a public meeting in Chato Ward, saying the move followed repeated complaints from suppliers and retirees who claimed they had yet to receive their payments despite earlier instructions for the council to settle the debts.
Mnyeti said he would provide the investigators with clear guidance on where to begin and what to cover, and directed them to report back on their progress within two weeks.
“I will give you the starting point and where to conclude the investigation at my office. After two weeks, report back to me on the progress,” he said.
He added; “These are my directives to Chato, and I want you to thoroughly scrutinise this district so that we can honour the legacy of the late John Magufuli, who rests here.”
Mr Mnyeti also directed the council to submit a detailed report on debt payments by October 16, 2026, specifying the amounts paid and the individuals or entities that received the money.
He cited cases involving amounts ranging from 200,000/- to 2.8mil/-, accusing the council of failing to settle some outstanding payments.
“I told you that there are people owed money by your council. Some are owed 200,000/-, others 700,000/-, while another is owed 2.8mil/-, but you have refused to pay them,” he said.
RC Mnyeti warned that he would take action against council leaders if he returned and found that the debts remained unpaid.
He urged public servants to take responsibility for their duties, respond to citizens’ complaints and ensure that grievances were addressed fairly.
“You have been entrusted with the responsibility to serve the citizens, listen and serve them accordingly. You have been given the responsibility of resolving their grievances; resolve them,” he said.
Mr Mnyeti criticised officials who prioritise personal interests or favour wealthy individuals, saying such conduct undermines public confidence in government institutions.
He called on public servants in Chato to uphold integrity and protect the public interest, noting that the district holds historical significance as the home district of the late President Magufuli.