Governance expert, Wesley Miyanda, has opposed calls to suspend the loan component under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), warning that such a move would negatively impact the livelihoods of many Zambians.
This follows a recent directive by Vice President, Mutale Nalumango to the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Gift Sialubalo, to consider suspending the CDF loan component due to high default rates among beneficiaries.
But Speaking in an interview with RCV News in Lusaka today, Mr. Miyanda said suspending the loans is not a viable solution, stressing that government should first take action against defaulters to ensure repayment.
“This is a revolving fund that must be accessed and repaid in order to benefit more people,” said Mr. Miyanda.
He further noted that the loan component has not been effective due to political interference and corruption, adding that many beneficiaries lack viable businesses.
Mr. Miyanda has since called on government to introduce robust monitoring and accountability mechanisms to ensure the fund serves its intended purpose.
By Christabel Kamunu.
