President Peter Mutharika has withheld consent of the constituency Development Fund CDF bill of 2025 which seeks to allow members of parliament take part in the management of the funds.
The bill was passed in parliament during the 2025-2026 mid-year budget review meeting despite high court ruling against it.
According to state House Press Secretary Cathy Maulidi, Mutharika has directed ministers of Justice and Finance to formulate guidelines for the management of CDF.
Maulidi said this will ensure that development projects at the constituency level continue to progress without compromising financial integrity.
She therefore reaffirmed the president’s commitment to ensuring that management of public funds, particularly CDF meets highest standards of accountability, transparency and fiscal responsibility.
Meanwhile, Civil society organizations have commended President Prof Peter Mutharika for not assenting to the bill.
Speaking during a press briefing, executive director for National Advocacy Platform Benedicto Kondowe said the decision is clear and essential victory for constitutionalism and public interest.
He the president’s action strengthens rule of law and affirms respect for the separation of powers and refrain from pre-emptying the matter before the supreme court of appeal judgement.
The CSO’s have therefore proposed that the guidelines must be drafted in a transparent and inclusive manner, in line with procurement laws and decentralization principles
In a separate interview, Human Rights Consultative Committee HRCC also welcomed the move describing it as protection of the people’s interests.
HRCC executive director Robert Mkwezalamba said although he had initially requested the president to assent to the bill, he now says the president’s decision demonstrates his willingness to follow due procedures and ensure accountability.
Mkwezalamba however, says will wait to see the contents of the write up from the president to parliament with the stipulated time frame of 21 days.
About The Author
