MZIMBA NAYO YATI CHUMA CHATHU OSACHITA NACHO ZOPUSA

Mwaziva? Mzimba si ya anthu ogona ayi. Akana zokuti ndalama za CDF azisunga ndi anduna. Nkhani ikuti, Citizens and civil society groups in Mzimba have welcomed the recent constitutional court decision that strips Members of Parliament (MPs) of direct control over the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). The ruling is being praised as a progressive move that could finally bring order, transparency, and fairness to how public development funds are used in local communities.

Geoffrey Laverge Nyirenda, a strong advocate for good governance, called the ruling a “major win for decentralisation.” He noted that too often, these funds were treated as personal political tools by some MPs, with little regard for the real needs of the people. With control now shifting away from politicians, Nyirenda believes communities will have a stronger voice in deciding how the money should be spent — a change that could lead to more meaningful and people-centered development.

Christopher Melele, who leads the Mzimba Institute for Communication Development Trust, also expressed support for the decision. He pointed out that this change is long overdue, especially given the number of scandals involving MPs misusing the CDF. The lack of transparency in how funds were managed had led to widespread distrust, and the ruling is seen as a necessary correction to restore public confidence.

The court’s decision doesn’t just remove MPs from managing the CDF—it also affects the water resources fund, another crucial area for grassroots development. While the ruling has been broadly welcomed, it also raises important questions: How will the new system ensure local needs are met? Will there be strong community involvement, or will the funds simply shift to another layer of bureaucracy? If implemented carefully, this reform could serve as a powerful example of what accountable, participatory governance looks like.