ABOLISHING CDF: WHO WANTS TO BE MP WITHOUT THE MONEY?
Opinion 𝐁𝐲 𝐃𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐬 𝐖𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐞 Following a recent ruling by a three-judge bench declaring the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) unconstitutional, widespread concerns have arisen regarding the future of the fund, which is scheduled to cease operations by June 30, 2026. The court ruled that the NG-CDF violates the principle of separation of powers, as the management of development funds by MPs directly infringes on the mandate of the executive. For over two decades, the CDF has played a critical role in shaping development at the constituency level. Some good MPs have used the fund to drive infrastructural improvements, build schools, health centers, and roads, and provide bursaries to needy students, particularly in marginalized regions. This has made the CDF’s contributions to grassroots development undeniable, as it allowed more direct and localized development compared to relying solely on the central government. However, the fund has no