By Staff Reporter
RUMPHI — UTM shadow Member of Parliament for Rumphi Central, Mathews Ntumbuka, has sharply criticised Second Vice President Chakufwa Chihana over what he describes as “shocking neglect” of the main access road serving Rumphi District.
In a strongly worded statement, Ntumbuka accused the Second Vice President of failing to intervene as a key stretch of the district’s primary road network continues to deteriorate, warning that the situation risks isolating Rumphi from the rest of Malawi.
“This is the only road through which our people connect to the rest of Malawi and beyond. At this rate of degradation, Rumphi risks being completely cut off,” Ntumbuka said.
The affected 2–3 kilometre stretch, described by residents as nearly impassable, serves as the district’s main economic lifeline. Transporters, farmers and small-scale traders say the worsening road conditions have significantly disrupted the movement of goods and access to markets, particularly during the rainy season.
Ntumbuka questioned why urgent remedial action has not been taken, noting that both the Second Vice President and the Minister responsible for Roads originate from Rumphi.
“It is unacceptable that leaders who hail from this district would allow such a strategic road to collapse under their watch,” he said.
The UTM shadow MP further alleged that resources and political focus are being diverted toward campaign activities ahead of an anticipated by-election, rather than addressing pressing infrastructure concerns. He claimed that influential figures from the constituency are allegedly being transported to Lilongwe and provided with daily allowances ranging between MK100,000 and MK300,000.
“That money, if redirected to development priorities, could have long rehabilitated the damaged portion of the road,” Ntumbuka argued. “Our people deserve sustainable infrastructure, not short-term handouts.”
Attempts to secure an immediate response from the Office of the Second Vice President proved unsuccessful by press time.
Political observers say the remarks underscore a growing contest in Rumphi Central, where infrastructure development is increasingly shaping the campaign narrative.
Residents interviewed echoed frustrations over the road’s condition, calling for swift and decisive intervention.
“We are tired of promises. We want the road fixed,” said one local business operator.
Ntumbuka has urged all stakeholders to place development above partisan considerations, maintaining that Rumphi’s road connectivity is an economic imperative rather than a political bargaining chip.
“The people of Rumphi deserve better,” he said.
