The Chairperson of Namalulu Village in Simanjiro District, Manyara Region, Marumai Kirikai, has been temporarily suspended for 28 days as authorities investigate allegations of abuse of power.
District Commissioner (DC) Fakii Raphael Lulandala announced the formation of a seven-member committee tasked with conducting the probe within 24 days.
He said the Chairperson will resume his duties if cleared of any wrongdoing after the 28-day period.
Speaking to residents, DC Lulandala emphasized that the suspension is procedural. “The Chairperson is not dismissed; he is set aside temporarily while the investigation proceeds. During this period, Village Executive Officer Sarafina Olotu will manage village affairs,” he said.
The committee includes the Council Land Officer, an officer from the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (TAKUKURU), a District Security Office official, the Ward Executive Officer of Naberera, a police investigations officer, and the Community Development Officer of Naberera Ward.
DC Lulandala instructed the committee to examine all records and summon anyone suspected of land grabbing, including the sub-village chairperson of Ormot, who reportedly refused allocated land.
He urged impartial investigations, regardless of an individual’s position, religion, or status.
“If TAKUKURU officers find criminal activity, the probe should start immediately,” he said.
Residents have accused the Chairperson and some village officials of allocating themselves 30 acres each, including land reserved for the local school.
“The Chairperson and his team divided 30 acres among themselves, but the Ormot sub-village chairperson declined to take any,” said Mosses Malamia, a villager.
Before the suspension, Kirikai defended his decade-long leadership, insisting he acted with integrity. “I asked for votes only during my first election. In subsequent terms, I requested the community to re-elect me if they were satisfied with my work,” he said.
He added that his land was acquired legally and denied any misuse of power. Kirikai highlighted his contributions to village development, including water projects and schools in every sub-village, while acknowledging that political rivalries exist.