A consortium of 166 local organizations, Movement for Community-Led Development has urged government to develop CDF guidelines that are grounded on transparency and accountability to ensure that there is meaningful participation and inclusion. 

Its National Coordinator, Aubrey Mbewe, in a joint statement Friday commended the government for the renewed commitment in advancing community led development through the K5 billion CDF.

However, Mbewe says the core question is not only how much money is allocated, but how communities are engaged in decision making to translate policy into meaningful development. 

"MCLD is calling on the government to ensure that the reform is aligned with key recommendations, including meaningful engagement of women, youth, and marginalized groups, and building capacity for local councils to manage projects independently," he said.

He added: "We are urging the government to develop guidelines that prioritize transparency, accountability, and meaningful participation".

He has again supported the constitutional ruling declaring that parliamentarians should not play a management role in the administration of the fund.

"This decision represents a significant step forward in strengthening constitutional governance," he added.

Recently, a consortium of Mzuzu-based anti-corruption stakeholders also called for stringent guidelines to ensure the CDF is free from plunder.