Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Dr. Ben Malunga Phiri, has issued a stern warning to contractors in the northern region, urging them to refrain from corrupt practices as government prepares to roll out the MK5 billion Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
Speaking in Mzuzu on Wednesday during an engagement with contractors, Dr. Phiri expressed concern that several contractors had not yet shown interest in participating in the upcoming CDF projects, despite being key partners in the development process.
He criticized the tendency among some contractors to offer bribes in an attempt to secure work, saying such behavior compromises project quality and undermines public trust.
“Do not come to me with bribes when you know you lack the capacity to deliver,” he warned. “I will not hesitate to expose anyone who attempts to influence us so that we overlook substandard work.”
The minister reaffirmed that the ministry is fully prepared for the CDF implementation phase, noting that qualified engineers have already been deployed to councils to monitor and guide project execution.
He stressed that government remains committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and value for money in all publicly funded projects.
Dr. Phiri’s remarks come as authorities strive to ensure that CDF initiatives are completed to high standards and bring meaningful development to local communities.
