Mbangu Says Councillor Salary Should Function as a “Social Fund”
Newly re-elected Rundu Rural Constituency Councillor, Paulus Mbangu, says the monthly salary earned by councillors should not be viewed as personal income, but as a “social fund” meant to support vulnerable community members.
Speaking during an interview, Mbangu said his approach to leadership is shaped by the lessons he learned during his first term. He explained that he intentionally sets aside a portion of his earnings for people who may need urgent assistance.
“A salary for a councillor is not a salary. It’s a social fund. You must share it with the community,” he said. “It can’t be right that you are getting a salary while one of your residents is starving at home.”
Mbangu said he has created a routine where he allocates part of his monthly income specifically for community needs, including food assistance.
“I already have a budget that goes straight to the community,” he explained. “If a person calls me and says they have nothing to eat, I will not hesitate. I will just go and buy because it’s already budgeted. I don’t feel stressed. That’s what I do and I will continue doing that.”
He emphasised that this practice has become a normal part of his service, adding that it strengthens trust between his office and the residents of Rundu Rural.
The interview also featured newly elected Mashare Constituency Councillor Petrus Kashumali, who reflected on his journey as an independent candidate, saying the experience taught him the value of community endorsement and personal accountability.
Both leaders enter their new terms with a message centred on service, responsiveness, and returning value directly to their constituencies.
