Workplace discipline has come under renewed scrutiny in Mzimba after Emmanuel Bulukutu, the District Commissioner for Mzimba District, issued a strong rebuke to public servants over poor time management, warning that laxity threatens effective service delivery and public confidence.
Speaking during a full council meeting, Bulukutu expressed concern over reports that some council officials were arriving late for duty and leaving their offices earlier than required.
He cautioned that such conduct risks weakening government operations and undermining trust in public institutions.
“I have observed that some officers are reporting for work very late. I therefore call on all directors and heads of department to advise their subordinates to keep time. We are not here to play, but to serve the public. As civil servants, we are paid by the people, and they deserve quality service from us,” said Bulukutu.
The District Commissioner stressed that discipline and professionalism are central to improving efficiency, arguing that civil servants bear a direct responsibility to the citizens who rely on government services.
The remarks have drawn support from governance advocates. Christopher Melele, Executive Director of the Mzimba Institute for Development Communication Trust, described the warning as both timely and necessary, noting that punctuality has a direct impact on service delivery.
“I agree with the District Commissioner. He has made an important observation. Some officers are indeed reporting for duty late, and this affects service delivery. Addressing this issue is crucial for the benefit of the public,” said Melele.
Governance expert Griffin Maruwasa said the intervention highlights growing concern over workplace discipline within public institutions.
Observers say the development is likely to prompt authorities to strengthen supervision and reinforce accountability measures across departments in the district.
