By Isaac Salima:
Thyolo District Commissioner (DC) Hudson Kuphanga complained Monday to Vice President Michael Usi that some parliamentarians in the district take too long to utilise their Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocations.
Kuphanga said this hampers the implementation of development activities.
The DC also raised concerns that certain members of Parliament (MPs) bypass established procurement procedures when disbursing these funds.
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Kuphanga took advantage of Usi’s surprise visit to the council to explain the challenges being experienced.
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“Some MPs keep the money for longer periods without allocating it to projects, claiming they are occupied with other matters. I always remind them that the funds are intended for the benefit of the people,” he said.
Kuphanga also lamented MPs’ alleged failure to adhere to prescribed procurement procedures.
“As the controlling officer, it is my responsibility to ensure that everything is conducted in accordance with the law. However, the conduct of some MPs leaves much to be desired. I do not wish to see anyone arrested for flouting procedures,” he warned.
Usi arrived at the council at 7:13am and found almost all workers in their offices.
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This visit followed a recent tour of government offices by the Vice President in Chikwawa District.
He proceeded to hold a meeting with Kuphanga, during which he questioned council officials about their operational practices.
For instance, he queried administrators on their failure to conduct appraisals and properly plan their duties.
Usi also expressed disappointment with MPs for delaying the implementation of development activities.
“This is concerning because these funds are meant to benefit the people. Rural communities are suffering while the funds remain unused. I have instructed the DC to engage with MPs to resolve this issue,” he said.
During the meeting, Kuphanga also informed Usi that the council faces a significant outstanding balance of over K200 million owed by the District Health Office to Escom.
