By George Mponda

Karonga, April 24, Mana: Board Chairperson for the National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC), Richard Chapweteka, has cautioned councils against awarding contracts to politically connected contractors, saying there is need for merit based and transparent procurement practices.

Chapweteka said this in Karonga during a visit by the NLGFC board to appreciate some of the projects being implemented by Karonga District Council.

Chapweteka said; "Councils should not give project contracts to politically connected contractors because if the funds are misused, the council will be held accountable and it will be sanctioned.

“We need to deliver quality services for Malawians by looking beyond politics and use these public funds appropriately, instead of filling the pockets of greedy politicians who want to enrich themselves at the expense of Malawians."

Chapweteka also reminded councils that failure to complete Cycle 3.0 of the Governance to Enable Service Delivery (GESD) projects by June 30, 2025, will result in withheld funds for 2025-26.

He also said contractors abandoning or delaying projects will face contract termination and potential reporting to the National Construction Industry Council (NCIC).

Chairperson for Karonga District Council, Bellium Msukwa, hailed the visit by the NLGFC, saying it gave them insights on how to utilize resources made available by government and other donors.

"It is important to ascertain whether there is value for money, accountability and transparency in project execution and as a council we have positively taken on board the guidance which they have offered us," Msukwa said.

“As a council, we ensure development works are happening according to plan and in line with budgeted for resources without excesses and abuse. Today's sharing of experiences, ideas, and challenges is a progressive engagement which will further ensure fiscal prudence and management," he added.