Village Chief Sosola of Balaka has explained the erection of a fence around the mausoleum of late music icon Lucius Banda at Sosola Village.
The traditional leader says the fence has been put up to protect the mausoleum and graves at the site following concerns over the conduct of some visitors.
Chief Sosola says some people have been visiting the site, taking pictures while drinking alcohol, while others have been stepping on graves located behind the mausoleum.
He says such behaviour is disrespectful to Malawi’s cultural values and traditions.
“People come to this house without proper order, taking pictures while drinking alcohol, and some step on the graves behind the house. This is disrespectful to our culture, and that is why I have built the fence,” said Chief Sosola.
Zodiak Online visited the site on Friday together with Chief Sosola.
The chief said although the family and the committee that oversaw the construction of the mausoleum did not consult him on how the structure should be built, he did not take offence and attended its official unveiling.
The mausoleum was unveiled on August 22, attracting hundreds of people to Sosola Village.
Chairperson of the Mausoleum Project Committee, Allan Esau Phiri, said the late Banda deserved the memorial because of the legacy he left behind.
Phiri also announced plans to transform the mausoleum into a museum where members of the public would be able to learn about Banda’s life, music career and legacy.
According to Phiri, K31 million was spent on the project.
Zembani Band leader Sam Simakweli said during the unveiling ceremony that the band continues to miss Banda, but added that it is making progress with Johnny Banda as lead vocalist.
The late Lucius Banda, popularly known as Soldier, was a celebrated musician and politician who died in June 2026.
The family has not yet commented on the erection of the fence.
Meanwhile, Balaka Police spokesperson Gladson M’bumpha says police have not received any complaint regarding the matter.
