Tensions flared in Parliament Tuesday afternoon as Members of Parliament raised alarm over persistent delays in the disbursement of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) and the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), accusing the National Treasury of frustrating grassroots development.
The visibly agitated lawmakers threatened to paralyze parliamentary proceedings in protest, citing the adverse impact of the delays on critical projects in their constituencies.
According to the MPs, key initiatives—particularly in the education and infrastructure sectors—have stalled, with thousands of needy students yet to receive bursaries as schools reopen for the new term.“The future of our children is at stake. We cannot continue to sit idly while Treasury continues to sabotage development at the constituency level,” one MP remarked during the heated afternoon sitting.
The MPs claimed that the continued delay in releasing the funds is not only jeopardizing service delivery but also eroding public trust in elected leaders. They accused the National Treasury of deliberately undermining the objectives of the CDF and affirmative action initiatives meant to uplift marginalized communities.
As the calls for boycotting parliamentary business intensified, Speaker of the National Assembly Rt. Hon. Moses Wetang’ula condemned the move, describing it as “an act of cowardice unbecoming of leaders elected to serve.” Wetang’ula urged the lawmakers to uphold their constitutional duties and seek constructive engagement to resolve the matter.
In response to mounting pressure, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi is expected to appear before the National Assembly tomorrow to address the delays and present a clear disbursement plan.
