Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Times News
Published on 2024-04-13 04:45:51
Former Blantyre City Council (BCC) mayor, John Chikwakwiya, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service to his community. He served as mayor from 2001 to 2004 and was known for his commitment to developing the city of Blantyre. His family announced that he will be laid to rest on Monday at HHI cemetery in Blantyre.
Chikakwiya’s death, which occurred on Thursday night at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre after a battle with stroke, has been described as a heavy blow to his family. His relative, Chitani Chigumula, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Chikakwiya’s role as a pillar of support and source of wise counsel for the family. Chigumula also revealed that Chikakwiya had been struggling with health issues, particularly stroke.
Minister of Local Government Richard Chimwendo Banda expressed the government’s sadness at the passing of the former mayor. He praised Chikakwiya’s dedication to his work and his contributions to the development of Blantyre. Chikakwiya’s impact extended beyond his mayoral role; he also served as the United Democratic Front regional governor for the South from 2003 to 2005 and had a brief stint as a teacher-in-charge at Nyambadwe MCDE centre (now CDSS) from 1980 to 1981.
In a poignant moment in August 2021, Chikakwiya welcomed former students to his home in Ndirande Township and shared memories of his time as a teacher. He recounted a challenging period in 1981 when he was arrested on suspicions of exam malpractice after a significant number of his students performed well in national examinations. Despite facing adversity, Chikakwiya was eventually exonerated and reinstated by the government in 1984, where he was reassigned to Lumbila in Chilomoni.
Born in 1949, Chikakwiya leaves behind a wife and four children, who will continue to cherish his memory and uphold his legacy of service and resilience. His passing marks the end of a chapter in Blantyre’s history, but his contributions and impact on the community will be remembered for years to come.
As Blantyre prepares to bid farewell to a beloved leader, the community reflects on the lasting influence of John Chikakwiya and the mark he has left on the city he served with dedication and passion. His absence will be deeply felt, but his spirit and commitment to public service will continue to inspire all those who knew him. May he rest in peace.
Read the original article on The Times
