By Suleman Chitera
President Peter Mutharika has commenced a critical review of a newly passed law governing the management of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) resources, a move that could determine the future direction of grassroots development and accountability in the country.
The law, which was approved by Members of Parliament in the National Assembly, introduces significant changes to how CDF funds are managed — most notably granting legislators a direct role in the implementation and utilisation of development resources in their constituencies.
Confirming the development, spokesperson for the Office of the President, Cathy Maulidi, said the President has formally received the bill and that a detailed assessment is currently underway.
“Once the review process is completed, the Office of the President will decide whether the bill meets the required standards for assent or whether it should be withheld,” Maulidi said.
The proposed law has already ignited debate among governance experts and civil society organisations, who warn that increased involvement of Members of Parliament in fund implementation risks blurring the line between oversight and execution, potentially opening doors to abuse and political interference.
CDF has long been designed to empower communities through locally driven development projects.
However, critics argue that allowing MPs to directly handle implementation undermines transparency and weakens existing accountability structures at district level.
As the President weighs whether to sign or reject the bill, all eyes are now on State House, with the decision expected to either reinforce checks and balances or entrench political control over public resources.
The outcome of the review will not only shape the future of CDF management but also serve as a defining test of the administration’s commitment to good governance, accountability, and the rule of law.
