The Katima Mulilo Town Council has accused the Minister of Urban and Rural Development of fostering tribal division and spreading misinformation.

Minister James Sankwasa allegedly said in a closed-door meeting with councillors during his recent visit to the Zambezi Region that the Masubia people dominate the local council and that he wants to see that hegemony dismantled.

Speaking on behalf of the town council during a media briefing on Tuesday at which he appeared alone, Mayor John Ntemwa claimed that the minister is not only tribal in his pronouncements but disregards the principles of good governance. 

Sankwasa allegedly pledged to change what he termed "tribal dominance" in both the town and the regional council.

Minister Sankwasa, when approached for comment, said he will not engage in a tribal spat with the major, asking what tribal affiliation has to do with exchanging land for vehicles.

This was in reference to the council having exchanged land for vehicles, which the minister condemned and instructed that the vehicle be returned and the transaction cancelled. 

The mayor clarified that the town's transport challenges prompted the decision to accept vehicles instead of monetary payment for the land. 

Sankwasa further stated that he will not compromise and added that the council will be held accountable for the exchange of land for vehicles.