By Burnett Munthali

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Member of Parliament for Thyolo Central, Ben Phiri, has expressed frustration in Parliament over the continued collection of the fuel levy, which is intended for road maintenance, despite the lack of visible improvements on the country’s roads. Phiri questioned the government’s use of the levy, accusing it of failing to channel the funds for their intended purpose.

Phiri made his remarks during a heated debate in Parliament yesterday, addressing concerns over the “missing” road maintenance that the levy is supposed to finance. He argued that it makes no sense for Malawians to keep paying the fuel levy if the funds are not being used to improve the deteriorating road infrastructure.

“It’s either we stop paying the levy, or roads should be maintained,” Phiri said, emphasizing that Malawians are being short-changed. He further stated that the government must be held accountable for the misuse of public funds, calling for transparency and action to ensure that the funds collected through the fuel levy are properly allocated to road maintenance projects.

Phiri’s remarks resonate with widespread public frustration over poor road conditions across the country, which continue to worsen despite the fuel levy being in place. The MP’s comments have sparked debate on how the government handles infrastructure development and the need for urgent reforms in how road maintenance funds are managed.