Soldiers tearing ‘Mapatizya formula’ marriages apart
….as HH promises formal investigation into conduct of his troops
By DAVID KANDUZA
A STANDARD presidential address in Mapatizya District, Southern Province today July 26, 2026, took an unexpected detour into the battlefield of romance.
Local residents lamentations informally reached out to the Commander-in-Chief about army officers stationed in the area allegedly interfering with civilian marriages.
President Hakainde Hichilema said he had listened intently, promising a formal investigation into the conduct of his troops.
However, the mood quickly shifted from disciplinary to delightful.
The President revealed that the romantic tension cut both ways.
Turning his attention to the local civilian men, the President could not hide his amusement at their sheer bravery.
He marvelled at how the locals were actively trying to court highly trained, armed female soldiers.
“You guys have no fear,” Mr Hichilema laughed, addressing the crowd. “How do you propose to women in uniform? You are not scared?”
The crowd erupted into cheers and laughter as the Head of State questioned the survival instincts of local suitors attempting to woo women who handle heavy weaponry for a living.
While the comedic interlude stole the show, the underlying message remained clear.
The Commander-in-Chief assured the community that discipline would be maintained within the ranks.
He emphasised that the military’s role was to protect the community, not disrupt its domestic bliss.
Still, for the young men of Mapatizya, the presidential advice was simple: look for love, but perhaps look away from the frontlines. (Photo used for illustration)