A contractor involved in the rehabilitation of the M1 Road from Kasungu to Jenda in Malawi, Mota Engil, has warned that it may halt construction work starting Friday if the government does not pay overdue arrears amounting to K2.4 billion (about €1.2 million). The situation has become critical as these outstanding debts have reportedly been pending since October 2025, severely affecting the contractor's ability to operate and adhere to project timelines.

During an inspection tour by a Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) delegation, Pythias Mpofu, the consulting engineer for the project, confirmed that the government has been officially informed about the contractor's potential suspension of work. If the situation remains unresolved, Mpofu emphasized that Mota Engil would be compelled to stop all activities and withdraw their machinery from the site, which could have broader implications on the project’s progress.

The threat to suspend construction not only jeopardizes the rehabilitation efforts of a key roadway that is vital for transportation and connectivity in the region but also raises concerns regarding the government's ability to meet its contractual obligations. Delays in this project could result in extended periods of poor infrastructure maintenance, affecting local economies and daily commuters who rely on this route.