Chipata City Council is today expected to hold a special full council meeting to consider selling some of its properties to clear its huge debt amounting to K111.6 million.
The local authority is, reportedly, failing to pay retirees and statutory obligations as a result of the debt.
Diamond TV investigations have revealed that assets to be disposed of include an industrial plot along Kawalala Road, Cherise House of the Disabled, some land near old civic centre, a tavern in Chimwemwe Township and a building at town centre currently occupied by Professional Insurance.
The local authorities believe the sale of these properties would raise an estimated K9 Million to pay off retirees.
This decision has, however, raised divisions among councilors as the sale of the properties will not offset the whole debt.
Section 23 of the local government act provides for selling of council properties after the approval of the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development.
By Samuel Khwawe