Members of Parliament must always remember why Malawians elected them. They were chosen to represent the interests of the people, not to pass laws that allow the misuse of public funds.
Over the years, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) has become known more for abuse than for meaningful development. Numerous reports, audits, and public observations show that some MPs have treated the CDF as personal money. Instead of benefiting communities, the funds have at times been used for personal or political gain.
Because of this history, many Malawians strongly oppose any attempt to reintroduce the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Constitutional Amendment Bill, which President Peter Mutharika declined to sign into law.
The rejection of the bill reflected serious public concerns about accountability and transparency. MPs are expected to oversee government spending, not to manage projects or directly control large sums of public money.
Malawians do not want this bill to return to Parliament. The public interest must always take precedence over political interests. MPs must understand that they represent millions of citizens. Power belongs to the people, not to Parliament.
If the sponsor of Bill No. 2 of 2025, Emmanuel Chambulanyina Jere of Mzimba South Constituency, intends to rely on Section 73 of the Constitution to reintroduce the bill, he must also respect the broader spirit of the Constitution.
While the law allows a bill to be reintroduced, it does not silence citizens or prevent them from expressing their views.Ignoring the clear voice of the people would be futile. It may be legally permissible, but it would be politically and morally wrong like writing on water while frogs are reading.
MPs must remember that the Constitution gives power not only to Parliament but also to citizens. Every Malawian has the right to seek justice through the courts. If people believe the bill threatens accountability or puts public funds at risk, they may ask the courts to stop the process.
Democracy does not end at the doors of Parliament.The duty of MPs is to legislate, represent citizens, and provide oversight not to directly control development funds that have often been abused. Genuine development comes from strong institutions, transparent systems, and responsible leadership.
Until MPs demonstrate a real commitment to protecting public resources, Malawians are justified in rejecting any constitutional amendment that gives Parliament greater control over the CDF.
Other countries offer important lessons. In Kenya, MPs sought to expand their control over public funds, leading to widespread public protests. Today, Kenya’s CDF is managed by local councils, an approach that reduces political interference and strengthens accountability.
The era when leaders could ignore public opinion is over. Citizens are now informed, vigilant, and ready to defend their constitutional rights.
Malawians do not expect MPs to be arrogant or dismissive by forcing this bill through Parliament. Such actions would only deepen public anger and mistrust.
The message from the people is clear: respect the Constitution, safeguard public resources, and above all, respect the will of Malawians.
