LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi Parliament on Thursday, December 4, 2025 passed the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Bill with amendments, marking a major step in reshaping how development funds are managed across the country.
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Mzimba South, Chambulanyina Jere presented the bill to the august house.
Dedza Kasina constituency lawmaker Joshua Malango seconded the motion and waved all standing orders to allow the house to pass the bill.
Legislators celebrated the approval, with some breaking into songs in support of the bill as it was officially adopted.
Before the vote, a roll call was carried out to confirm that the House had the required 195 number of Members of Parliament present to lawfully pass the amendment with only 30 absent.
The passing of the bill has sparked mixed reactions across various platforms.
On social media, many users welcomed the move, saying it would help speed up development projects at community level. Others, however, expressed concern that the changes could strengthen political influence over local projects instead of empowering local councils.
Some civil society organisations continued to raise questions, arguing that the amendment could conflict with previous court rulings restricting MPs from directly managing the fund. They called for clear guidelines to ensure transparency and prevent political interference.
Meanwhile, the Malawi Local Government Association (MALGA) reiterated its earlier concerns, urging government to uphold the principle of separating political oversight from administrative implementation.
Despite these concerns, parliamentary leaders insisted the amendments were necessary. They argued go that the changes would improve coordination, reduce delays, and bring clarity to the roles of MPs in community development.