As angry customers demand answers over plots they say they paid for but never received, Citizen Real Estate owner Rodwell Lumbe has surfaced from China to insist that his absence from Malawi is for training, not escape.
In a statement posted on his social media page, Lumbe said he travelled to Guangdong, China, several weeks ago to attend a four-month training programme.
He, however, maintained that he remains in control of Citizen Real Estate’s operations despite being outside the country.
“Some weeks ago, I travelled to Guangdong, China, to attend a Community of Impact Leadership Programme,” he said We have not disappeared, we have not abandoned our obligations, and we are working, every day, to make things right
Lumbe said the company is now working to ensure customers who have paid for land are invited to collect their plots, with the process expected to begin this week.
The announcement comes amid growing complaints from people who claim they handed money to the company for plots but have yet to receive what they paid for.
Some of the complainants have reportedly taken the matter to police, further intensifying pressure on the company and its owner.
A K1 million reward has also been offered for information that could lead to Lumbe’s whereabouts.
But Lumbe says the allegations that he fled are misplaced.
He disclosed that he instructed company employees to close all Citizen Real Estate offices.
*I have done so because some of the recent social media commentary caused unnecessary panic, and unfortunately a few individuals took it upon themselves to suggest that confiscating office furniture was somehow a solution. But that is not what needs to happen,” he wrote.
The move has added another layer to the controversy surrounding the company, as customers continue pressing for answers over their payments and the plots they say remain outstanding.
