The Ministry of Rural Development has issued a serious statement outlining the penalties for ministers and officials found to be abusing the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
The new guidelines emphasize accountability and integrity, stipulating that any misuse of funds will result in severe repercussions, including fines, suspension, or even legal action. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and ensure that CDF resources are utilized effectively for community development, reinforcing the government’s commitment to uphold ethical standards in public service.
The MRD in a statement this week says after the start date will subject to penalties adding this does not only apply to constituents but Members of Parliament (MPs) and Public Officers are also subject to legal consequences if they commit an offence (s).
Here are the penalties for those who abuse CDF FUNDS stated by MRD
In summary the CDF Act 2023 specific penalties are as follows;
A Member of Parliament (MP), or a Public officer or a fund (CDF) recipient commits an office if he or she:
a. Misappropriates any funds or assets from the fund; or
b. Advances materials and cash from a supplier without prior approval from the responsible ministry; or
c. Fraudulently converts project assets or materials to his own use or to the use of some other person; or
d. Deliberately victimises non-voters by excluding them from receiving Constituency Development Funds projects and funds without justifiable grounds; or
e. Assists or causes a person to misappropriate or apply the funds otherwise than in the manner provided in this Act and Regulations.
The CDF Act 2023 also indicates maximum penalties as follow;
• For a Member of Parliament – $100,000 penalty units or 5 years imprisonment, or both.
• For a public officer – $50,000 penalty units or 3 years imprisonment, or both.
• For a fund recipient – $5,000 penalty units or 3 years imprisonment, or both.
