Lurambi MP Bishop Titus Khamala has advised Kenyans to prepare for life without the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). Khamala highlighted the growing hostility faced by MPs who defend the fund, which has been crucial for various community projects, particularly in education.
“Many MPs have faced insults for defending the fund, with the assumption that they benefit from it,” Khamala stated. He emphasized the importance of the CDF, particularly its role in providing bursaries for students from low-income families. Without the CDF, he warned, many students could struggle to continue their education, and the development of local infrastructure might be adversely affected.
During a recent demonstration in Nairobi, several Gen Z participants criticized the fund’s management, accusing MPs of misusing the resources. However, Khamala defended the fund’s integrity, arguing that it has been instrumental in improving educational access and local development. He acknowledged that some mismanagement cases had occurred but insisted that the majority of the fund’s usage has been beneficial to the constituents.
The impending removal of the CDF, a decision influenced by various legal and administrative challenges, has raised concerns among many Kenyans about the future of local development initiatives. The fund, established in 2003, has been a vital tool for MPs to address the immediate needs of their constituencies, from building schools and hospitals to providing scholarships and bursaries.
Khamala urged the government to consider alternative mechanisms to ensure that the progress made through the CDF is not lost. He called for a transparent and accountable system that would continue to support local development and education without the controversies that have plagued the CDF.
In his address, Khamala highlighted several success stories from his constituency, where the CDF has funded the construction of classrooms, health centers, and water projects. He expressed concern that the cessation of the fund would halt many ongoing projects, negatively impacting the lives of many Kenyans.
“Education is the cornerstone of our society. Without the bursaries provided by the CDF, many bright but needy students will have their dreams shattered,” he remarked. He also pointed out that the fund has been a critical source of employment for local contractors and workers involved in various development projects.
The MP called on his colleagues in Parliament to engage in constructive dialogue with the government to find sustainable solutions. He emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to ensure that the gains achieved through the CDF are preserved and enhanced.
Khamala’s remarks come amid growing uncertainty about the future of the CDF and its impact on local development. As the debate continues, many Kenyans are looking to their leaders for solutions that will ensure continued support for education and community projects.
By Newshub