The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has expressed deep concern about the possible negative effects of political interference in the implementation of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) if left unchecked.
The Centre notes that prior to the UPND Government assuming office in 2021, there was minimal political interference, possibly due to the relatively low allocation of funds to the CDF, which stood at K1.6 million.
JCTR Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, and Child Safeguarding Focal Person Gibson Mwila Chilyobwe points out that the involvement of the District Commissioner who is politically appointed is purely for political interests rather than the interests of the community members while the Constituency Development Fund Committee (CDFC) has been compromised from the word go, particularly through the direct nomination of five committee members by Members of Parliament (MPs) which influences their decisions.
Mr. Chilyobwe notes that this political interference has the potential to impede the successful and effective implementation of CDF as well as to undermine the tenets of accountability and transparency.
JCTR has since called on the government to take immediate action to address political interference in the implementation of CDF and to ensure strict adherence to the CDF guidelines by all stakeholders.
