By Zakeyu Mamba
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Members of Parliament (MPs) have expressed growing concerns over being barred from attending and speaking at local council meetings, raising questions about oversight and accountability at the local government level.
MPs Yona Dadawisa Nkandawire and Richard Chimwendo Banda brought the matter to Parliament on 20th November 2025, during ongoing deliberations in Lilongwe.
They highlighted instances where some local councils have imposed restrictions on MPs, limiting their ability to participate fully in council proceedings.
Banda reported that, although he was allowed to attend a council session, he was denied the right to speak, which he described as a challenge to Parliament’s role in ensuring transparency in local governance.
He emphasized that such restrictions undermine MPs’ ability to monitor the activities of local councils effectively.
Responding to the concerns, Local Government Minister Ben Phiri stated that MPs do have the right to inquire about the use of council funds, stressing that oversight by Parliament is essential to promote accountability.
However, he clarified that a court ruling currently prevents MPs from participating in voting during council meetings, which limits their direct influence over council decisions but does not negate their oversight functions.
Speaker of Parliament Sameer Sulemani confirmed that Parliament is actively addressing the matter.
He indicated that measures are being considered to ensure MPs can carry out their oversight responsibilities effectively without infringing on the legal frameworks governing local councils.
The debate underscores ongoing tensions between Parliament and local councils regarding transparency, governance, and the monitoring of public funds.
MPs’ concerns reflect a broader demand for strengthened accountability mechanisms, particularly in ensuring that local authorities operate openly and in line with legal standards.
As the discussions continue, the issue highlights the delicate balance between local council autonomy and parliamentary oversight, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between different arms of government to protect public interest and maintain good governance practices.
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