Her seat was declared vacant while her father was still not buried.
By: Mulundika Mukelebai
A daughter mourning. A family dragged through courts. A body lying cold in a mortuary. And a nation told to move on.
The Government took Tasila Lungu Mwansa, her mother, and her siblings to court not allowing them space to grieve, not allowing them dignity, not allowing them peace. Because of that, she could not freely return home. She could not bury her father. She could not close the chapter of grief that every human being deserves to close.
Yet somehow, in the middle of this cruelty, she was expected to return to Zambia, walk into Parliament, take her seat, and listen as if nothing was wrong to sit there while Ba Deputy Second speaker curtailed debates “Honorable Member for Mpika take your seat”, while Ba Speaker shouted her “order Honorable Members”, while Ba First Deputy Speaker said “Mr Mpundu conclude” as if her heart was not breaking, as if her father’s body was not waiting in a mortuary.
What kind of pain asks for such performance?
How do you ask a daughter to debate policy when her father has not been laid to rest?
How do you measure attendance registers against a daughter’s tears? How do you punish absence when absence itself was forced by power?
Tasila did not abandon her seat NO Grief was weaponised against her.
She chose humanity over hypocrisy. She chose mourning over make-believe. She chose to stand with her family when the State decided otherwise.
And for that, her seat was vacated.
But let the truth be told plainly and painfully: No seat is more important than burying one’s father. No parliamentary order outweighs a daughter’s right to mourn. No political threat should ever silence grief.
They vacated her seat, yes. But they exposed something far deeper and uglier a system willing to strip titles from a grieving daughter while her father still lies unburied.
History will not remember attendance records. History will remember cruelty.
it will remember that the ruling party failed to get the seat even after allegedly over 3000 PF supporters defected to UPND.
It will remember how all of a sudden loadshedding returned during voter counting.
MORNING WIRE | Chawama Chooses Memory Over Machinery as FDD Clinches Shock By-Election Win
It is a wet Friday morning in Chawama. The rain that fell through the night quieted the streets, but it did not wash away the political signal delivered at the ballot box.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia has declared Bright Nundwe of the Forum for Democracy and Development FDD as the winner of the Chawama parliamentary by-election. Nundwe secured 8,085 votes, defeating Morgan Muunda of the ruling United Party for National Development UPND, who polled 6,542 votes. A total of 18,096 votes were cast, with 290 ballots rejected.
The result hands the opposition a symbolic victory in a constituency that has been politically and emotionally charged since the death of former president Edgar Chagwa Lungu, whose legacy loomed large throughout the campaign.
This contest was never only about party machinery or local development promises. It evolved into a referendum on grief politics. The Tonse Alliance and Patriotic Front aligned behind the FDD ticket, framing the race as an act of remembrance and resistance in a community closely associated with Lungu’s final political home. This message resonated with enough voters to tilt the outcome.
UPND entered the race with a visible, disciplined campaign. It leaned on social protection gains, a calm security environment, and a strong ground operation that included high-profile defections from the opposition. The party also pushed back firmly against pre-election claims of rigging, repeatedly endorsed by the Electoral Commission and observers as unfounded.
Still, the numbers show that organisation alone could not fully neutralise emotion.
Celebrations by Tonse Alliance and PF supporters began soon after polls closed on Thursday evening, even before official tallies were announced. By midnight, steady rainfall dispersed crowds and dampened what might have become a prolonged street moment.
By morning, the declaration formalised what supporters had already assumed.
For the UPND, the loss is contained but instructive. It does not alter parliamentary arithmetic in a decisive way, but it exposes the limits of policy messaging when confronted with unresolved political grief. For the opposition, the win offers momentum and narrative leverage, though it also revives questions about coherence, leadership, and whether emotion can be converted into a sustainable national strategy ahead of 2026.
The by-election itself was peaceful. Voting opened and closed on time across all polling stations. Security presence was high but restrained.
Observers and the Electoral Commission described the process as orderly, dismissing social media claims of midnight voting and manipulation.
Chawama has spoken. Not in anger. Not in chaos. But in a quiet, rain-soaked verdict shaped as much by memory as by the present.
HAKAINDE Hichilema is unfit and has disqualified himself to be president of Zambia beyond August this year because of his continuous efforts to divide the country, opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party president Nason Msoni has said.
Recently, Hichilema told the people of Southern Province at a rally in Choma District that if they did not give him one million votes and he lost power in August they would be beaten at Lusaka Intercity Bus Terminus for speaking Tonga as was the case during the Patriotic Front (PF) administration.
Msoni told The Mast in an interview Hichilema and the United Party for National Development (UPND) should not be allowed to govern the country because they lacked sensitivity.
.
“If you are deeply attached to your region, then the office that he wants to keep is not for that kind of politics. He may well find something else of interest that he can do in the region where he hails from if he is so deeply entrenched in regional politics,” Msoni said.
He said Hichilema did not qualify to be the president of Zambia because he had taken the country for granted and had total disregard of what the country’s forefathers worked hard to unite the country.
“He [Hichilema] is not fit to be president in the sense that he lacks sensitivity. He’s not politically sensitive in terms of how to sustain peace. He has no idea what it takes or what it took our founding fathers to bring about durable peace in our country,” Msoni said.
He said Hichilema had been politically clumsy such that he did not care what other people thought or what other regions felt about his exclusionist approach to governance.
“And when he goes on a platform. Some of the things that he says are completely insensitive and provocative. A president must be one that makes a deliberate effort to bring everybody together,” Msoni said.
He reminded Hichilema that many Zambians were hating his leadership style of dividing the country.
“A lot of Zambians are hurting. He doesn’t know that a lot of Zambians are hurting his style of politics, his exclusion of citizens from national governance,” Msoni said.
He urged the Zambian people not to squander the opportunity to retire Hichilema and the UPND in August.
“We should not afford to squander the opportunity to retire Mr Hichilema with dignity in August. It will be the greatest mistake for Zambians to vote for Mr Hichilema back in office,” he said.
Msoni warned Zambians that the conduct of Hichilema would be worse than the conduct he had shown just in one term.
“if a President can divisively conduct himself like that just in one term, what more allowing him the second term? He must be stopped before citizens start fighting among themselves,” he said.
Msoni said a leader who pits one group of people against another group of people in a single country is a bad leader. He said the Zambian people will never thank Hichilema for dividing the country.
“He is not the kind of leader that we want. And certainly we will never thank Mr. Hichilema for dividing us with our brothers and sisters in the southern, western, and the northwestern region. We love our brothers and sisters in these regions,” he said.
He urged fellow political leaders to quickly get on the ground and sensitise the Zambian people on the dangers of retaining Hichilema.
“It is our role as political leaders to start talking to our people and sensitizing our people on the dangers of retaining Mr. Hichilema for his second term of office. We would rather get a president who is incompetent but is determined to keep our country together in one piece,” he said.
We extend our congratulations to the Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD), and in particular to the winning candidate, Mr Bright Nundwe, for emerging victorious in the Chawama Constituency parliamentary by-election after a tightly contested race.
In a democracy, every election must ultimately produce one winner; yet its deeper purpose is to strengthen harmony, peace, and unity among all citizens.
For this reason, we commend the UPND, all participating candidates, and, above all, the people of Chawama, whose collective commitment ensured that the democratic process functioned as it should.
We also express our appreciation to the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) and law enforcement agencies for conducting a transparent, orderly, and secure election. Their professionalism contributed to an environment in which the will of the people could be freely and peacefully expressed.
Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia
… as he congratulates the FDD for winning the Chawama constituency seat.
LUSAKA, FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026 [SMART EAGLES]
DEMOCRATIC Union president Ackim Anthony Njobvu says crying has started for the UPND following the humiliating defeat in the Chawama parliamentary by election by the FDD and Tonse Alliance.
In a Facebook posting, Mr. Njobvu said the UPND’s loss in Chawama demonstrates that the real opposition the ruling party has are the Zambian people.
The DU leader further congratulated the FDD’s candidate Bright Nundwe and the Tonse Alliance.
“As the Democratic Union, we extend our congratulations to the Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD), Mr Bright Nundwe and Tonse Alliance for emerging victorious in the Chawama Constituency parliamentary by-election after a tightly contested race and comfortable defeat against evil actions and inhumane treatment of Hon. Tasila LUNGU,” he said.
Mr. Njobvu also thanked the Zambia Police for their professional conduct during the by election adding that the UPND should use the remaining months to exit.
“Thank you to the people of Chawama and the Zambia Police for maintaining peace during the period of election. Ba UPND, imisowa has started. The great opposition the people of Zambia have spoken. Like I have said before, use the remaining months to exit,” Mr. Njobvu said.
SIMUUWE COMMENDS MORGAN MUUNDA FOR CONDUCTING A PEACEFUL, ISSUE-BASED, AND DISCIPLINED CAMPAIGN IN CHAWAMA
Details in the statement……
The United Party for National Development (UPND) has received and noted the official results of the Chawama Parliamentary by-election.
On behalf of the UPND, we wish to congratulate the winner of the Chawama by-election, Mr. Bright Nundwe of the Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD), for emerging victorious and scooping the seat. We equally acknowledge the people of Chawama for exercising their democratic right and making their voices heard.
His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema, has stated that this by-election is a clear demonstration of Zambia’s entrenched democratic dispensation, in which elections are held strictly as prescribed by the Constitution whenever a seat falls vacant. It is also a reaffirmation that institutions charged with managing the electoral framework, particularly the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), are operating in a free, fair, and credible environment, supported by law enforcement agencies that are able to execute the law fairly but firmly.
In this regard, we wish to commend the Zambia Police Service and the ECZ for the professional manner in which they discharged their duties. Their conduct ensured an environment that guaranteed the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens to vote peacefully and without fear.
We further thank the electorate of Chawama for the confidence they demonstrated in the UPND. In every political competition, there is ultimately one winner, and the outcome of this contest reflects that democratic reality. For us as a party, elections, whether won or lost, are opportunities for learning, reflection, and renewed mobilisation.
A review of the results compared to the 2021 General Election shows that the UPND has improved in percentage terms, despite the low voter turnout. However, we must be candid; there is no excuse for losing a by-election. Whether one improves in percentages or not, failure to win must trigger serious reflection. For the UPND, this moment marks a critical point of introspection as we re-examine our strategies, structures, and mobilisation mechanisms in Chawama and beyond, even where seats were previously held by the opposition.
https://youtu.be/I7AlGVrABFg?si=ObdDFon-J_rcvuG6
We commend our candidate, Mr. Morgan Muunda, for conducting a peaceful, issue-based, and disciplined campaign, and we thank all our members and supporters who worked tirelessly throughout the process.
As a party, we are fully aware that we now have approximately four months before the 2026 General Election. The UPND will therefore intensify mobilisation across all constituencies, strengthen party structures, and prepare adequately to present ourselves as a responsive, united, and people-centred movement.
We urge the winning candidate to serve the people of Chawama with humility, diligence, and a spirit of unity, putting the interests of the residents above partisan considerations.
The UPND remains committed to peaceful politics, inclusive governance, national unity, and the delivery of development for all Zambians, including the people of Chawama, regardless of political affiliation.
Issued by: Mark Simuuwe UPND Media Director #SunFmTvNews
Gaddafi’s daughter send a strong cautious message to Iranians, warning them on trusting US.
Aisha Gaddafi sent a blunt warning to the people of Iran, saying that don’t trust the West especially the United States and if you trust the west (America) you will end up like Libya.
“Negotiating With the Wolf Won’t Save the Lamb” in her words, and the wolf is USA
She reminds everyone that her father gave up Libya’s nuclear program after America and its allies promised peace for his country.
But what did Libya get in return from them after that?
~ US and NATO drop BOᗰBS in Libya . ~ Executed regime change which goes away with Gaddafi life.
Libya is now a destroyed state, full of slave market everywhere, with permanent chaos and crisis daily.
According to her, Libya did not fail, but it was betrayed by America.
The US shake hands with Gaddafi, praised his nuclear power disarmament… then pulled the bombing trigger on him when he was defenseless, no nuclear power to retaliate.
Dear Iranians, here is Aisha Gaddafi message to you,
~ Your ability to survive sanctions pressure for years is the real sovereignty.
~ Trusting the US is like signing your own death warrant by yourself.
DON’T DO IT!!!
It was a lesson to learn from history, any deal with US empire is addicted to wars fuelled broken promises, you only buys time before the next betrayal and bombing on top your houses.
My dear Iranians I want you to remember, It is the same US that did these…
~ Turned Libya into a failed state today
~ Support Israel genocide , while preaching morality to other nations like yours.
For them they’re normalizing to calls sanctions DIPLOMACY and bombing a nation as PEACEKEEPING.
Again he stated “I warn you not to fall for the false words and slogans of Western imperialists.”
No where US put her leg and peace continue being there present.
Where ever you see US it’s over, only one word replicate and sound there is WAR
The wolf will always talks about peace… right before it eats the lamb.
Comrades! Remember that Copperbelt & Lsk are the two determining factors to either keep or change the govt.
It’s been like that always. These two urban Provinces are crucial in Zambian Politics, meaning if an opposition political party doesn’t get accepted by Lsk and Copperbelt voters forget about forming govt.
The same goes the other way. If the ruling Party desires to return power it must be able to convince the said two Provinces as a matter of priority while the votes from the rest of the Provinces becomes an addition. Failure to which forget.
When you check the history you realize that it took Micheal Sata and PF to get hold of Lusaka and Copperbelt in terms of securing Members of Parliament for in order for him to form govt in 2011 and yet he had been performing well in other Provinces all along.
https://youtu.be/I7AlGVrABFg?si=ObdDFon-J_rcvuG6
Fast forward in 2021 President HH and the UPND ensured they got hold of the two Provinces by winning a good number of seats at Parliamentary level and that is when they formed govt. This is despite the fact that the President HH and the UPND were performing very well in other Provinces along.
I repeat, Luskala and Copperbelt Provinces defines the future of Zambia therefore, don’t mess up with them. Oh my Africa!!! #IP Journalist, Broadcaster & Pan- Africanist
THE Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has described as misleading and unfortunate social media posts in which Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa accused it of having established a fake polling station on Lilayi road for yesterday’s Chawama parliamentary by-election.
In a statement last evening, chief electoral officer Brown Kasaro demanded that Mr Sampa should apologise for the false allegations, failure to which legal proceedings will be instituted against him.
Mr Kasaro said ECZ is committed to a transparent, credible and inclusive electoral process and urged all stakeholders to act responsibly in the interest of peace and democratic integrity.
And earlier after visiting the alleged fake polling stations, Mr Kasaro said the centres Mr Sampa referred to have existed for a long time and are gazetted for the commission.
He said Mr Sampa’s statement was misleading, false and unfortunate as it had potential to endanger the lives of polling staff operating there.
“The commission wishes to categorically state that we have two polling stations along Lilayi road and, as we speak, I am standing right beside them and these are duly gazetted polling stations,” he said.
https://youtu.be/I7AlGVrABFg?si=ObdDFon-J_rcvuG6
“This is not the first time they have been used for an election and these are duly gazetted and operational [polling stations],” Mr Kasaro said.
He said Chawama Constituency had 111 polling stations for the by-election, and that those Mr Sampa referred to are part of the number.
“So the allegations attributed to Mr Sampa are totally false and misleading, and also very unfortunate to the extent that they are endangering the lives of our polling staff,” Mr Kasaro said.
FORMER Minister of Home Affairs Dr Katele Kalumba says an illegal National Registration Card (NRC) Centre has been established in Matero, producing fraudulent national identity cards aimed at artificially inflating voter numbers in certain areas.
Dr Kalumba expressed doubts about the possibility of a peaceful general election if the government continued to exhibit undemocratic tendencies ahead of the August 13 general elections.
Dr Kalumba, in an interview with The Mast Monday that he had intelligence information indicating that a centre was set up in Matero where illegal NRCs were being produced and given to individuals so that they could vote in various polling centres.
“I have even alerted the intelligence system about this issue and I’m sure they have even confirmed my assertions. They know about this and I will be shocked if they play it down. This is a serious matter of national concern,” he said.
Dr Kalumba said some people had been given the same NRCs and if left unchecked, people would be able to vote in more than one polling station such as in Chawama and Chilenje on different NRC cards.
Dr Kalumba warned that if not stopped, the activities could potentially lead to the rigging of elections manually.
He said it could happen in Zambia where the system was not electronic like in other advanced countries.
“We even carried out a test, the real NRCs and the fake ones look similar. It was very difficult to tell the difference. I have intelligence, and I did inform the system about this development, and they promised to investigate the matter,” Dr Kalumba said.
He said his intelligence informed him about the clandestine issuance of NRCs happening in Matero, which started way before the official government process began.
“Actually, it began in places that were not designated but were sanctioned by the powers that be, and this had raised eyebrows because only a few individuals knew about it. It was not official,” he said.
Dr Kalumba said the clandestine undertaking started with Southern Province before Lusaka.
He described the matter as a serious national and security concern, adding that action should be taken address it as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, Dr Kalumba has expressed doubts that a peaceful election will be possible in August if the United Party for National Development (UPND) continues to stifle citizens’ rights and freedoms.
He warned that restricting freedoms of assembly, movement, and expression was a recipe for anarchy in a democratic society.
“If left unchecked, violence can erupt and would be of huge magnitude. This is what we need to avoid as a people by allowing people to speak freely, to mobilise and associate in a manner supported by the law,” he said.
Dr Kalumba said the current UPND regime was practicing the Machiavelli type of politics and that there was need to level the playing field.
He said politics did not require anger but reasonableness in order achieve national objectives.
“There is no need for politicians to insult each other. This is uncalled for, and the Constitution did not allow such trends. We need to promote unity,” he said.
He urged both the opposition and ruling party to exercise maturity when conducting their politics.
Dr Kalumba warned that creating fear in people was a time bomb, and a danger to society.
https://youtu.be/I7AlGVrABFg?si=ObdDFon-J_rcvuG6
And when contacted for a comment, Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, principal public relations officer Mwala Kalaluka expressed ignorance about the matter.
Kalaluka said any such activity pertaining to the issuance of NRCs was always done within the confines of the law and in public glare, with regular updates.
“The Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security is not aware of that issue, as alleged by your source. The 2025 first-ever countrywide issuance of NRCs through mobile registration is the best example of what we are talking about. If anything, if the activities you are talking about are true, those who are aware should promptly report to law enforcement agencies so that appropriate action is taken in accordance with the law,” said Kalaluka.
“WASHINGTON VS PRETORIA: US WARNS SOUTH AFRICA OVER IRAN NAVAL DRILLS – ‘THIS IS NOT NON-ALIGNMENT, IT IS TAKING SIDES WITH A REGIME ACCUSED OF TERROR AND REPRESSION’”
Tension between the United States and South Africa is rising after reports that Iran was allowed to take part in naval exercises involving the South African National Defence Force, allegedly in defiance of concerns raised within government structures.
From Washington’s point of view, Iran is not just another country. It is viewed as a major destabilising force in the Middle East, accused of sponsoring militant groups, threatening shipping lanes, and violently suppressing its own citizens who demand basic freedoms. Allowing Iranian military forces to operate alongside South African forces, or in South African waters, is therefore seen by the US as a direct contradiction to the values of democracy, human rights, and international security.
The anger is not only about warships. It is also about symbolism. At a time when Iranian security forces are accused of shooting protesters, imprisoning activists, and torturing political opponents, South Africa – a nation that fought a long and painful struggle for freedom – is perceived to be rolling out the red carpet to the very type of repression it once resisted.
To the Americans, this looks like hypocrisy: How can South Africa speak loudly on justice, human rights, and international law, yet stand shoulder to shoulder with a government accused of crushing peaceful dissent?
How can it claim to be “non-aligned” while conducting military cooperation with a state that much of the Western world regards as a sponsor of terror?
This is why Washington argues that hosting or training with Iranian forces is not neutral diplomacy. In their view, it sends a message that Pretoria is drifting away from the Western democratic bloc and moving closer to countries openly challenging the US-led global order.
What could happen next?
• Diplomatic pressure: The US may formally protest, summon South African diplomats, and demand explanations at high level. • Cooling of relations: Cooperation on security, intelligence, and defence could become more cautious. • Economic implications: While not immediate, political tension can influence investor confidence, trade negotiations, and access to strategic partnerships. • Global positioning: South Africa risks being increasingly grouped with Russia, China, and Iran in a new geopolitical bloc, rather than seen as a neutral bridge between East and West.
Supporters of the government will argue that South Africa has the sovereign right to choose its partners and that non-alignment means engaging with all sides. Critics, however, say there is a difference between diplomacy and military solidarity, and that inviting forces from a regime accused of brutal repression crosses a moral line.
The big question now is: Is South Africa truly non-aligned, or is it quietly choosing a side in the growing global confrontation between the West and the emerging Eastern power bloc?
“All of Us Collect” – Davido Reacts After Losing $348K Bet on Super Eagles
Afrobeats superstar Davido has publicly reacted following a massive financial loss tied to the Nigerian Super Eagles’ exit from the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations. The singer missed out on a potential payout of $348,000 (approximately N495 million) after the Nigerian team was defeated by Morocco in the semi-finals.
The $50,000 Gamble
Before the high-stakes match, Davido revealed he had placed a wager of $50,000, banking on Nigeria to secure a spot in the final. However, his hopes were dashed on Wednesday night when host nation Morocco triumphed 4–2 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw, with goalkeeper Yassine Bounou sealing Nigeria’s fate.
Sharing his ticket prior to the game, Davido had written:
“Nigerians to make the finals and I’ll double my stake on my slip,”
Moving On
Despite the heavy loss, the “Timeless” crooner appeared to take the defeat in stride. Shortly after the match, he shared a photo of himself unwinding with a meal of grilled fish as he prepared to fly out of Morocco.
Netizens React
The incident has sparked a debate on social media. While some users felt the loss was a shared pain, others speculated that the bet was merely a promotional stunt for the betting platform, or criticized the singer for gambling such large sums.
@martinsafrikan.ng criticized the financial decision:
“If he has used the money to build shelter homes for the homeless people, generations to come will forever appreciate him. There is no difference between our celebrities and the yeye misleaders politicians. There is money but they do not know what to use the money to do.”
@spaceonn_ expressed skepticism:
“It’s all for promo for STAKE Lol believe it at your own risk”
“Suddenly It’s Five” – Anu Adeleke Challenges Davido’s Claims of Multiple DNA Tests
The controversy surrounding Anu Adeleke, the teenager claiming to be Davido’s biological daughter, has taken a new turn as she publicly questions the singer’s consistency regarding paternity tests.
The Discrepancy
In an emotional rebuttal to Davido’s recent outbursts, Anu highlighted a significant contradiction in his narrative. She questioned how the singer went from claiming two DNA tests were conducted to now asserting that five separate tests returned negative results. She insisted that, to her knowledge, the rigorous testing history Davido describes never happened.
“It Was Fake”
Anu went a step further to allege foul play regarding the only test she acknowledges. She claimed that her mother maintains only one test was ever administered facilitated by Davido’s father, Dr. Deji Adeleke and alleges that the result was doctored.
She wrote:
“At first, he said there were two. Now suddenly it’s five. He even said the last one happened on my 10th birthday. According to my mom, we only went for one test, which Chief Dr Deji Adeleke took us to, and it was fake.”
Emotional Distress
The teenager also expressed her devastation at the singer’s harsh response. She noted that she never expected to be “cursed out” or bullied by the man she believes is her father, nor did she anticipate his public threats to have her mother imprisoned. She reiterated that her initial demand for a test was born out of a desperate need to stop the bullying she endures from classmates who mock her identity.
‘We took 5 negative DNA tests’ — Davido fires back at girl claiming he’s her dad
David Adeleke, the Afrobeats star better known as Davido, has issued a rebuttal after an online paternity claim by a teenager.
The controversy began when an Instagram user Anu Adeleke posted an open letter pleading with the singer to take a DNA test.
The young lady, who said she was about to enter her teenage years, claimedthat not knowing her father had led to severe bullying and mental anguish throughout her school life.
She stated she was seeking to establish her identity and respectfully requested the test from “Mr David Adeleke”.
Breaking: Canada Is Repairing Ties With China and Here Is Why ->
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney didn’t go to China on a whim. This visit is about reality setting in.
For years, Canada was told to treat China as a problem to be managed rather than a partner to engage. That advice didn’t come from Ottawa. It came from Washington. And Canada paid the price for following it.
China is not a marginal economy. It’s the world’s largest trading nation, a manufacturing superpower and central to global energy, supply chains and growth. Cutting yourself off from that doesn’t make you principled. It makes you poorer and more dependent.
Meanwhile, what did Canada get in return for loyalty to the US? Tariffs slapped on Canadian steel and aluminium.
Threats to tear up USMCA. Economic pressure used openly as leverage. And constant reminders that allies are disposable when US domestic politics demand it.
This is the part that rarely gets said out loud: Canada didn’t “pivot” to China. It was pushed there by American behaviour.
When the US uses trade as a weapon, undermines partners and treats agreements as temporary inconveniences, countries adapt. They don’t do it out of ideology. They do it out of survival.
Re-engaging with China is Canada acting like an adult in a multipolar world. Diversifying trade. Reducing vulnerability. Repairing damage that was never in Canada’s interest to begin with.
And let’s be honest about the moral posturing too. Canada trades with plenty of countries it disagrees with. So does the US. Values suddenly becoming a barrier only when China is involved has always rung hollow.
This visit is simply a quiet acknowledgment: the tired old playbook doesn’t work anymore. Blind alignment hasn’t protected Canada’s economy, its sovereignty, or its leverage.
This isn’t betrayal, it’s a course correction.
And it’s happening not because China forced anything, but because the US showed, repeatedly, that even close allies are expendable when power is on the line
In a world like that, repairing ties with China isn’t radical, it’s completely rational.
What do you think, is this the start of Canada reclaiming strategic independence, or just a temporary pause before more pressure from Washington?
ONE BAD MOVE FROM WAR? IRAN CLAIMS HYPERSONIC MISSILES AIMED AT ISRAEL
Fears of a dangerous new escalation erupted last night after claims from Iranian-linked intelligence sources suggested Tehran has hypersonic missiles “locked on” to eight Israeli military targets. According to the unverified reports, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is allegedly prepared to deploy next-generation missiles capable of striking key Israeli air bases and strategic installations.
While neither side has confirmed the claims, the mere suggestion has sent shockwaves through security circles. Hypersonic missiles travel at extreme speeds and can change direction mid-flight, making them notoriously difficult to detect or intercept with existing defence systems.
Military analysts warn that even rumours of such weapons entering the equation dramatically raise the stakes in an already volatile region. One miscalculation, one order given too quickly, could trigger consequences far beyond the Middle East.
For now, the world watches nervously hoping this is brinkmanship, not a countdown.
UGANDA: CDF Gen. Muhoozi has congratulated the Ugandan people for voting peacefully and commended the security team for maintaining peace and order across Uganda.
He however mentioned that the trending video clip of unknown persons seen marking ballot papers in the bush are Bobi Wine’s desperate supporters whose mission is well known.
He added that the security apparatus are on high alert monitoring the situation closely after some reports reached him that the same people are planning to sneak in the marked ballot papers today midnight.
He said that even if they’ll bring the marked ballot papers through spirits they won’t manage to enter any polling station in Uganda.
Meanwhile Museveni is in his rural home waiting for the official announcement of the winner come Saturday 5PM in the evening.
UPND’s TREVOR MWIINDE DEMANDS APOLOGY FROM MILES SAMPA OVER ECZ ‘ILLEGAL POLLING STATION’ CLAIM.
By: Justin Banda
United Party for National Development UPND youth deputy chairperson for politics and mobilisation Trevor Mwiinde has demanded an apology from Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa for accusing the electoral commission of Zambia(ECZ)for setting up an illegal polling station during the Chawama by election.
Speaking at Chawama primary school which was the totaling center for the elections Mr. Mwiinde urged politicians to be factual whenever they make reports.
He also expressed gratitude that the elections were held without any violence.
Mr. Mwiinde called on Zambians to conduct themselves the same way during the August polls. #SunFmTvNews
It is critical for us to conduct a post election strategic review and conduct an institutional assessment of chawama by-elections.
“He who refuses to look at his footprint cannot know where the road bent.”
This review sets out a candid, structured, and non-adversarial assessment of the factors that materially contributed to the loss of the Chawama Parliamentary By-Election. The objective is corrective governance, not retrospective blame.
Here are the 10 reasons why we lost Kabwata.
Weaponisation of Collective Emotion by Opponents
PF and FDD successfully prosecuted a campaign grounded not in policy alternatives or developmental propositions, but in emotive symbolism, leveraging the image and memory of a late Head of State as a mobilising device.
“Emotion often defeats reason where reason fails to speak loudly.”
While legally permissible, this strategy exposed a vulnerability: where our message did not sufficiently counter sentiment with substance, emotion prevailed. No alternative policy framework was offered by our opponents yet sentiment saying Tulelosha bane ( we are mourning) filled the vacuum.
Strategic Under-Resourcing of a High-Risk Constituency
Chawama constitutes a historically sensitive and politically symbolic constituency for PF and ECL Legacy. The deployment of limited financial, logistical, and human resources into such terrain amounted to strategic miscalculation. You can not go to bweengwa as an opposition political party with a just a K100 and expect to win an election in a stronghold of UPND.
“You do not send a canoe to cross a river known for crocodiles.”
Political realism dictates that strongholds of former leadership require over-investment, not austerity.
Candidate Selection Misalignment
The principle of community proximity was insufficiently weighted. We need a resident of Chawama like the way Potipher Tembo was a house hold name in Kabwata . Constituencies of dense social networks, such as Chawama, respond strongly to residential familiarity and lived experience.
“The drum sounds sweetest in the village where it was carved.” You can’t import a candidate from somewhere and PF and FDD all they lied the electrolates is that don’t vote for someone from Garden Compound.
Future selection frameworks must privilege residency, local legitimacy, and organic social capital.
Inadequacy of Campaign Materials
Campaign visibility was compromised by insufficient branding, messaging collateral, and ground-level materials. Elections are fought not only in speeches, but in symbols, colours, and repetition of messages of what you want to do for the people .
“What the eye does not see, the heart does not follow.”
Demotivation of Foot Soldiers
Foot soldiers constitute the operational spine of any campaign. Inadequate logistical support, food, transport stipends, and morale-boosting incentives resulted in visible fatigue and disengagement of our people . There was no money.
“An army that marches hungry will retreat before the enemy appears.”
Absence of a Clear, Localised Campaign Narrative
Messaging failed to sufficiently crystallise around specific, lived challenges in Chawama, including: • Overcrowding and informal settlements • Housing insecurity • Youth unemployment • Survival-level economic pressures on the urban poor
“A man drowning does not need a lecture on swimming; he needs a rope.” We failed to give Chawama people a rope.
Policy achievements at national level must be translated into ward-level relevance.
Leadership Apathy and Strategic Absences
The absence of senior party figures and recognised mobilisers weakened momentum and voter confidence.
“When elders stay away from the fire, the children assume the house is cold.” Where was ba Garry Nkombo? His absence pained us.
Visible leadership presence is not ceremonial it is electoral currency.
Logistical Failures on Polling Day
Inadequate coordination of voter transportation and mobilisation on polling day materially suppressed turnout among known supporters.
“Winning the argument means nothing if your supporters never reach the ballot box.”
Underestimation of Structurally Weak Opponents
The defeat by a party with minimal organisational structures underscores a critical lesson: structure does not always defeat sentiment.
“A man without a spear can still kill if the opponent sleeps.”
FDD our opponents offered no manifesto, no development plan only a message of exclusion and emotional appeal. That message was not sufficiently countered.
Insufficient High-Level Political Reinforcement
Given the symbolic weight of the constituency, strategic deployment of top executive leadership including the President and Vice-President may have altered perceptions, turnout, and momentum.
“When the lion roars, even the forest listens.”
CONCLUDING OBSERVATION
This outcome does not reflect rejection of governance performance, but a failure of campaign translation, coordination, and emotional counter-narrative.
“Elections are not lost at the ballot box; they are lost in planning rooms.”
The lesson is clear: emotion must be met with empathy, strategy with resources, and leadership with presence.
FDD’s Bright Nundwe has been declared winner of the much anticipated Chawama Parliamentary By Election.
Nundwe polled 8,085 votes against his closest rival Morgan Muunda from the ruling UPND who got 6, 542 votes.
Muunda entered “early campaigns” in Chawama and was seen as a front runner by his supporters while Nundwe was adopted under the FDD ticket after the seat was declared vacant following the prolonged absence of Lawmaker Tasila Lungu.
Nundwe was backed by the Given Lubinda Led PF Faction and some Tonse Alliance members.
Other notable results saw the opposition Citizens First candidate Davison Mulenga getting 1,534 while an Independent Candidate George Mwenya supported by the “Ichaibaiche Movement” was fourth with 466 votes.
The New Congress Party led by Peter Chanda despite campaigning vigorously including using the portrait of Former Republican President Edgar Chagwa Lungu on campaign materials saw their candidate Mutete Mohammed settle for sixth Position with only 319 votes.
Nundwe B. Bright of the FDD has won the Chawama parliamentary by-election.
With results from 98 of the 111 polling stations announced, FDD’s Nundwe is leading with 7,150votes, while UPND’s Morgan Muunda has 5,556 votes.
BREAKING: CONSOLIDATED RESULTS FROM 30 POLLING STATIONS
Preliminary results from 30 polling stations in the Chawama by-election show a tight contest, with the FDD taking an early lead. Results so far: FDD – 1,942 UPND – 1,507 CF – 364 Independent (George) – 133 Independent (Elijah Siatwambo) – 93 EPPP – 91 NCP – 75 LM – 21 NDC – 17 Rejected ballots – 75 Total votes cast: 4,318 The outcome remains subject to change as more polling stations submit their returns.
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: ZNS 1
POLLING STATION: TWATASHA PRIMARY SCHOOL 1
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 14 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -0 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 2 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 58 Mwenya George -IND : 6 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 0 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 48 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 5
REJECTED: 2 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 135
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: LITUNGA 1
POLLING STATION: CHIMWEMWE PRIMARY SCHOOL 1
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 17 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -0 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 6 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 52 Mwenya George -IND : 2 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 3 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 80 PHIRI James -NDC: 1 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 3
REJECTED: 2 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 166
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: EYE CLINIC 1
POLLING STATION: AFRICAN METHODIST 1
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 10 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -1 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 4 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 87 Mwenya George -IND : 8 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 1 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 74 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 3
REJECTED: 4 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 193
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: EYE CLINIC 1
POLLING STATION: AFRICAN METHODIST 1
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 10 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -1 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 4 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 87 Mwenya George -IND : 8 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 1 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 74 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 3
REJECTED: 4 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 193
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: MWAZIONA 1
POLLING STATION: WORLD WIDE CHURCH 1
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 11 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -1 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 3 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 53 Mwenya George -IND : 2 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 7 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 31 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 8
REJECTED: 2 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 118
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: CHAWALILA 8
POLLING STATION:CHAWAMA PRIMARY SCHOOL 8
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 10 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -0 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 2 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 52 Mwenya George -IND : 3 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 1 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 69 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 2
REJECTED: 9 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 148
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: CHITIMBA 2
POLLING STATION: DILI SECONDARY SCHOOL
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 09 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -0 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 0 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 57 Mwenya George -IND : 7 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 13 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 49 PHIRI James -NDC: 1 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 2
REJECTED: 1 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 139
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: NDIZKO NI ANTHU 1
POLLING STATION: UCZ 01
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 11 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -03 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 0 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 61 Mwenya George -IND : 0 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 0 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 54 PHIRI James -NDC: 2 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 3
REJECTED: 2 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 136
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: CHIMACHE A3
POLLING STATION: WORLD WIDE CHURCH 03
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 08 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -02 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 3 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 47 Mwenya George -IND : 1 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 4 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 38 PHIRI James -NDC: 2 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 5
REJECTED: 1 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 111
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: EYE CLINIC 3
POLLING STATION: AFRICAN METHODIST CHURCH 03
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 06 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -0 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 8 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 88 Mwenya George -IND : 8 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 1 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 91 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 5
REJECTED: 4 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 211
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: CHIMACHE B1
POLLING STATION: WORLD WIDE CHURCH 1
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 20 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -0 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 3 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 73 Mwenya George -IND : 3 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 8 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 47 PHIRI James -NDC: 1 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 7
REJECTED: 3 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 165
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
: CHAWALILA 2
POLLING STATION: CHAWAMA PRIMARY SCHOOL 2
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 12 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -0 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 1 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 42 Mwenya George -IND : 4 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 1 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 74 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 3
REJECTED: 2 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 139
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: CHAWALILA 7
POLLING STATION: CHAWAMA PRIMARY SCHOOL 7
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 17 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -0 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 0 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 33 Mwenya George -IND : 6 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 0 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 87 PHIRI James -NDC: 1 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 3
REJECTED: 1 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 148
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
: CHAWALILA 2
POLLING STATION: CHAWAMA PRIMARY SCHOOL 2
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 12 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -0 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 1 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 42 Mwenya George -IND : 4 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 1 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 74 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 3
REJECTED: 2 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 139
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: MWAZIONA 5
POLLING STATION: WORLD WIDE CHURCH 01
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 9 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -01 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 1 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 36 Mwenya George -IND : 1 Ndiweni Alfred -EPPP : 0 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 24 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 5
REJECTED: 4 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 81
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: MOTOMOTO A2
POLLING STATION: CHAWAMA PRIMARY SCHOOL 2
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 14 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -01 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 6 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 54 Mwenya George -IND : 1 Ndiweni Alfred M-EPPP : 0 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 56 PHIRI James -NDC: 1 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 1
REJECTED: 1 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 135
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: MWAZIONA 5
POLLING STATION: WORLD WIDE CHURCH 01
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 9 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -01 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 1 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 36 Mwenya George -IND : 1 Ndiweni Alfred -EPPP : 0 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 24 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 5
REJECTED: 4 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 81
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: MWAZIONA 5
POLLING STATION: WORLD WIDE CHURCH 05
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 16 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -01 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 2 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 40 Mwenya George -IND : 2 Ndiweni Alfred -EPPP : 1 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 58 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 7
REJECTED: 5 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 132
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: MOTOMOTO A1 POLLING STATION: CHAWAMA PRIMARY SCHOOL 1
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 9 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -01 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 1 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 32 Mwenya George -IND : 3 Ndiweni Alfred -EPPP : 0 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 81 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 3
REJECTED: 1 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 139
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: CHAWALILA 5 POLLING STATION: CHAWAMA PRIMARY SCHOOL 5
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 15 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -2 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 1 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 34 Mwenya George -IND : 7 Ndiweni Alfred -EPPP : 0 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 76 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 1
REJECTED: 2 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 138
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: BASOPO POLLING STATION: TWATASHA PRIMARY SCHOOL 2
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 11 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -0 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 1 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 45 Mwenya George -IND : 5 Ndiweni Alfred -EPPP : 0 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 80 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 4
REJECTED: 1 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 147
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: MAZUNZO B2 POLLING STATION: TWATASHA PRIMARY SCHOOL 2
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 14 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -1 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 1 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 46 Mwenya George -IND : 5 Ndiweni Alfred -EPPP : 1 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 33 PHIRI James -NDC: 1 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 3
REJECTED: 5 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 110
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: LUBWA 1 POLLING STATION: CHIMWEMWE PRIMARY SCHOOL 1
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 11 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -0 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 5 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 42 Mwenya George -IND : 4 Ndiweni Alfred -EPPP : 1 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 81 PHIRI James -NDC: 2 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 5
REJECTED: 3 TOTAL VOTES CAST : 154
CHAWAMA CONSTITUENCY BY ELECTION RESULTS
POLLING DISTRICT: CHIMACHE A1 POLLING STATION: WORLD WIDE CHURCH 1
Mulenga Davison K CF-: 08 Musukuma Ntazana M LM -01 Mutete Muhammad -NCP : 02 Muunda Morgan – UPND : 49 Mwenya George -IND : 2 Ndiweni Alfred -EPPP : 1 Nundwe Bright B -FDD : 40 PHIRI James -NDC: 0 Siatwambo Elijah-IND : 8
Voting has closed peacefully in the Chawama parliamentary by-election, capping a day marked by order, heavy security presence, and competing narratives over credibility and turnout.
All 111 polling stations opened around 06:00 hours and closed on schedule, with early morning queues giving way to slower mid-day traffic before activity picked up again in the afternoon. Election officials and observers reported no incidents of violence, disruption, or intimidation across the constituency.
Electoral Commission of Zambia chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis, who toured several polling stations, described the process as “free, peaceful and orderly,” praising both voter conduct and the work of polling staff. By mid-day, ECZ said more than 150 voters on average had cast ballots across polling centers, a figure the Commission said reflected steady participation rather than apathy.
The ballot featured a crowded field, including Morgan Muunda of the United Party for National Development, Bright Nundwe of the Forum for Democracy and Development, Davison Mulenga of Citizens First, Musukuma Ntazana of the Leadership Movement, Mohammad Mutete of the New Congress Party, James Phiri of the National Democratic Congress, alongside three independents.
While the field has been broad, the contest is widely viewed on the ground as a tight race shaped more by local sentiment and political symbolism than ideology.
As voting progressed, the ECZ moved to counter online claims of “midnight voting” and pre-poll manipulation. Zaloumis warned against election misinformation, urging the media and political actors to report responsibly.
An observer from the Exodus Party for Peace and Prosperity confirmed that voting began at 06:00 hours, dismissing social media speculation that ballots had been cast overnight.
Some residents raised concerns about eligibility, particularly among voters who recently transferred polling stations. The ECZ clarified that the by-election is being conducted using the 2021 voters’ register, meaning newly registered voters will only participate in the 2026 general elections.
Despite the calm on the ground, the political temperature has remained high online. PF figures including Miles Sampa, Ichabaiche Movement leader Binwell Mpundu, and sections of opposition-aligned media have continued to push rigging allegations through the day, claims the ECZ firmly rejects
With ballot boxes sealed and counting underway, attention now shifts to the tally centers.
Results are expected by midnight or in the early hours of Friday, setting the stage for what could be a decisive moment in Chawama’s post-Lungu political chapter and an early test of trust ahead of the 2026 election cycle.
From ZERO to HERO and Back to ZERO: The Case of President Hakainde Hichilema and the faked Kwacha/$ Rate.
By Kasonde Mwenda, C-EFF President 15 January 2026
“You cannot rig an economy.” This long-standing economic maxim has survived every attempt at manipulation, spin, and propaganda — and Zambia’s recent currency episode once again proves its enduring truth.
In early January, the Zambian kwacha briefly became the subject of international attention after recording its strongest level in over 18 months. Sections of the United Party for National Development (UPND) quickly converted this temporary movement into a political victory parade. Headlines and party rhetoric portrayed President Hakainde Hichilema as a global economic champion who had “resurrected” a dying currency and engineered one of the world’s best-performing exchange rates.
But economic reality is far less theatrical.
The Illusion of Recovery
On 8 January, Reuters quoted Access Bank in an article titled “Most currencies under pressure from dollar demand.” The report provided the real explanation:
“Zambia’s kwacha is likely to see volatility next week due to an anticipated rise in demand for hard currency and dwindling supply… The kwacha made strong gains this week as corporates offloaded dollars after the central bank’s late-December directive curbing foreign currency use in domestic transactions.”
In simple terms, the appreciation had little to do with improved productivity, export expansion, foreign investment inflows, or structural reform. It was driven by a temporary regulatory shock that forced corporates to release dollars into the market — creating an artificial shortage of kwacha and a momentary excess of foreign currency.
This is not economic recovery. It is a liquidity distortion.
No Fundamentals, No Foundation
A genuine currency turnaround is anchored in economic fundamentals:
rising domestic production,
export diversification,
increased foreign exchange earnings,
improved fiscal balance,
and sustainable debt management.
None of these have meaningfully improved.
Zambia remains heavily constrained by an IMF program whose austerity measures continue to compress domestic demand and weaken local industry. At the same time, the government has granted expansive tax holidays to multinational corporations — costing the country billions of dollars in foregone revenue while enabling aggressive profit externalisation.
This policy mix does not strengthen a currency. It hollows it out.
The Collapse of the Narrative
As the saying goes, you cannot rig an economy.
Within two weeks, the kwacha had surrendered nearly all of its artificial gains, plunging sharply in just three days. The same political machine that had crowned itself a global economic miracle fell silent.
The “hero” moment dissolved as quickly as it had been manufactured.
What remained was the structural truth: a fragile currency, a weakened fiscal base, rising debt obligations, shrinking public confidence, and an economy still searching for real productive transformation.
Conclusion
The episode stands as a textbook case of political theatre colliding with economic law.
President Hichilema’s government mistook a regulatory-induced fluctuation for structural success. The market, as it always does, delivered its verdict.
From Zero, to Hero, and back to Zero — not by political judgment, but by the unforgiving mathematics of economics.
Wherever we want to go our feet will take us there.
Written and Issued by: Kasonde Mwenda C, President, Economic Freedom Fighters-EFF.
BRIAN Mundubile has challenged the Electoral Commission of Zambia to clearly state and disclose which constituencies across the 10 provinces have been delimitated amid growing fears that it has conducted the process in a secretive manner.
Mr. Mundubile, the Patriotic Front presidential candidate says the delimitation of constituencies, was nearing its finalisation as was announced by the ECZ yet stakeholders had not been informed of which constituencies were affected.
“Do you know any of the constituencies that are being delimited now? Have you seen the delimitation report? There is no delimitation report that anyone knows about,” he said.
In an interview yesterday, Mr. Mundubile, the PF Mporokoso Member of Parliament recalled that recommendations arising from the 2019 process proposed an equitable distribution of constituencies across provinces.
“Our minimum expectation is that Government will follow the recommendation from the select committee, which was that there should be a minimum of seven constituencies per province,” Mr Mundubile said.
“That is why the number was upgraded to 70, so that every province could get seven.”
He stressed that the exercise should be uniform and fair and that the ECZ should endeavour to inform Zambians which of the 150 constituencies had been delimitated.
“We don’t expect some constituencies to receive 10 while others receive three,” he said. “There is supposed to be a uniform and equitable distribution of these constituencies.”
Mr. Mundubile expressed concern that the ECZ appeared to be concluding the delimitation exercise without engaging stakeholders.
“So far, it looks like the ECZ is finalising the delimitation exercise without stakeholders knowing which constituencies are being delimited. There is no stakeholder engagement whatsoever. They are relying on their limited wisdom and knowledge to do everything to the end,” Mr Mundubile said.
He described the secretive delimitation process as alarming, noting that constituency delimitation was a sensitive national issue that needed broader stakeholder consultations.
“It’s very disturbing indeed. You can’t do a delimitation exercise in that fashion,” Mr Mundubile said. “This is a highly contentious matter that must be discussed with stakeholders at local level. But in this particular case, it’s just being done. The delimitation is being done from State House.”
And Mr Mundubile has accused the ECZ of turning a blind eye to what he described as blatant electoral malpractices, including the buying of voters’ cards in highly populated areas by the UPND in the Kasama Mayoral by-election.
“They are turning a blind eye to these clear electoral malpractices. That is the only issue we have,” he said. “We want the ECZ to move in and do the right thing. We can’t be in a country that is full of lawlessness.”
PRESIDENTIAL WORDS CAN DIVIDE A NATION, WARNS Dr MUSUMALI.
Socialist Party and People’s Pact General Secretary Dr Cosmas Musumali has warned that careless or divisive presidential rhetoric poses a serious threat to Zambia’s long-standing tradition of national unity, following controversial remarks attributed to President Hakainde Hichilema during a recent visit to Choma..
In a strongly worded analysis circulating in the public domain, Dr Musumali argues that words spoken by a sitting president carry constitutional and moral weight far beyond ordinary political speech, especially in a multi-ethnic country like Zambia.
“The president does not speak as a private citizen or as a party leader. He speaks as the embodiment of the nation,” Dr Musumali said. “When presidential words are perceived as tribal or exclusionary, they do not merely offend they legitimize division and weaken the foundations of our democracy.”
Dr Musumali cautioned that Zambia’s reputation as one of Africa’s most peaceful and cohesive nations should not be taken for granted. He noted that history across the continent shows how quickly ethnic rhetoric, once normalized by leaders, can escalate into instability and violence.
“African history is replete with painful lessons,” he said. “From Rwanda to Kenya and Côte d’Ivoire, we have seen how political leaders who mobilize along ethnic lines open doors that cannot easily be closed. Words spoken at the top can, and often do, translate into real suffering on the ground.”
He stressed that Zambia’s post-independence unity anchored in the founding principle of One Zambia, One Nation was the result of deliberate leadership choices, not coincidence.
“Our unity has survived because past leaders understood that national cohesion must be protected every day,” Dr Musumali said. “Once a president departs from that ethic, the entire national project is put at risk.”
On accountability, the Socialist Party and People’s Pact General Secretary said the issue goes beyond partisan politics and speaks directly to constitutional responsibility..
“The constitution demands that the president represents all Zambians equally, regardless of tribe or region,” he said. “If presidential conduct undermines that principle, then Parliament has a duty not a favour to interrogate it seriously.”
Dr Musumali also called on President Hichilema to issue a clear and unambiguous apology, warning that vague expressions of regret would not be sufficient.
“A genuine apology must acknowledge what was wrong, why it was wrong, and recommit the presidency to inclusive and unifying leadership,” he said. “That is the minimum required to begin repairing the damage.”
He further questioned whether leaders who engage in divisive rhetoric retain the moral authority required to seek national office again.
“Leadership is about uniting people, not energising divisions,” Dr Musumali said. “A leader who exploits tribal sentiment, even once, must seriously reflect on whether they are fit to preside over a diverse nation.”
Dr Musumali urged civil society, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens to reject tribal politics in all its forms, warning that silence or justification today could set a dangerous precedent for the future.
“This is a defining moment,” he said. “If Zambia excuses this kind of rhetoric, it will invite more of it. But if Zambians stand firm across party and ethnic lines, they will reaffirm that unity is non-negotiable.”
As debate over the Choma remarks continues, Dr Musumali’s message is clear: in Zambia’s fragile but proud democracy, presidential words matter and the nation’s future depends on how they are used.
CHIENGE MP QUESTIONS STATES DECISION TO APPEAL HER ACQUITTAL
Chienge Member of Parliament Given Katuta has questioned the State’s decision to appeal her acquittal in a matter in which she was accused of threatening violence against Times of Zambia photojournalist Henry Chunza.
Ms Katuta, who was accused of threatening violence and spitting on the Lusaka photojournalist was acquitted by the Lusaka Magistrate Court on 22nd December, 2025.
Speaking in an interview with KBN TV news, she says the appeal against her acquittal does not make sense and that she will wait to see the grounds on which it has been lodged.
Ms Katuta has also alleged that her announcement to stand as a presidential candidate for the 2026 August Elections has unsettled the ruling UPND.
Ms Katuta claims that the UPND party knows that if a woman enters the race with force, it will not stand a chance in election.
SINKAMBA DEFENDS ARCHBISHOP BANDA OVER VEHICLE DONATION
People’s Pact Vice President-Strategy and Green Party President Peter Sinkamba has come to the defence of Archbishop of Lusaka Dr. Alick Banda, stating that the Catholic cleric should not be harassed for receiving a donated motor vehicle, as clergy have historically received gifts from individuals and institutions.
Mr. Sinkamba said Archbishop Banda is not the first church leader to benefit from donations, noting that such gestures are common and have been publicly acknowledged in the past.
“Archbishop Banda is not the first clergyman in this country to receive a gift from people. Churches and priests have, over the years, benefited from donations by well-meaning citizens, including politicians, without any controversy,” Mr. Sinkamba said.
He cited former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Kwacha Member of Parliament, Mr. Joseph Malanji, who openly donated several vehicles to Churches, Cooperatives and Police Stations in Kitwe.
According to records, Mr. Malanji donated 30-seater Rosa buses to Kitwe’s United Church of Zambia (UCZ) Kwacha East Congregation and St. Peter’s Ipusukilo Parish.
Additionally, Our Lady of Africa Parish Priest, Fr. Benedict Ng’andwe, received and blessed another 30-seater Rosa bus donated by Mr. Malanji.
Mr. Malanji further donated a Mercedes-Benz S350 saloon Car to Fr. Ng’andwe, with the vehicles officially handed over after church services at the respective congregations.
Mr. Sinkamba said the precedent shows that donations to churches are not unusual and should not be politicised.
“To single out Archbishop Banda for receiving a Toyota Hilux is unfair and misleading. If we did not question such donations in the past, there is no justification to harass him now,” he said.
He urged the public to respect the autonomy of the Church and refrain from dragging religious leaders into unnecessary controversy, adding that receiving a donation does not compromise a clergyman’s moral or spiritual authority.
🌍🔥 EUROPE DEPLOYS TROOPS AGAINST AMERICA: FRANCE & GERMANY RUSH SOLDIERS TO GREENLAND AS TRUMP THREATENS TAKEOVER—IF THIS CAN HAPPEN TO THE WEST, WHAT ABOUT AFRICA?🇫🇷🇩🇪🇬🇱
Let that sink in: European NATO allies are deploying troops to DEFEND against the United States.
France sent 15 soldiers. Germany sent 13. Sweden, Norway, Finland, and the Netherlands followed. Not to fight terrorists. Not to fight Russia. To send a MESSAGE to President Donald Trump: Greenland is NOT for sale.
Trump said he wants Greenland “one way or the other” after his military intervention in Venezuela. Denmark warned that any U.S. attack on Greenland would END NATO. So Europe showed up with boots on the ground.
If America can threaten to TAKE a European territory in 2026, what makes Africa think we’re safe? If wealthy, white, NATO-allied Denmark needs troops to protect its land from Washington, what chance does Africa have without UNITY and STRENGTH?
This is the world we live in: empires don’t retire they just find new targets. Yesterday it was Africa’s resources. Today it’s Greenland’s minerals and strategic position. Tomorrow? It’s us again.
Wake up, Africa. Sovereignty isn’t given. It’s DEFENDED.
U.S. STRIKE ON IRAN REPORTEDLY CALLED OFF AT LAST MINUTE
Trump apparently almost green-lit a strike on Iran late last night, then pulled the plug minutes before execution.
Iranian airspace has reopened and forces scrambled from Al-Udeid were told to stand down.
Sources say Trump halted it because advisers couldn’t promise a decisive regime-toppling blow and warned Iran could hit back hard, and the U.S. might not have enough regional assets ready to cope.
Right now, tensions are still high, but war didn’t start tonight.
France Sends Troops to Greenland as Denmark Strengthens Security Amid Growing U.S. Interest and Regional Concerns 🌍 Global Tensions in the Arctic
Why this is happening: In an unexpected move, French troops are now deploying to Greenland at the request of Denmark as part of a joint military exercise dubbed Operation Arctic Endurance. This comes amid growing international attention on the Arctic region, which is becoming increasingly strategic due to natural resources, shipping routes, and military significance. Denmark, which is responsible for Greenland’s defense, has asked NATO allies to participate in exercises to ensure the island’s security and sovereignty.
Who is involved and who is to blame:
Denmark: Leading the exercise and coordinating allied support to protect Greenland.
France: Sending soldiers, including specialized mountain and cold-weather troops, to support Denmark.
Other NATO allies: Participating in Arctic readiness exercises to signal that Greenland’s security is a shared responsibility.
U.S.: Former President Trump’s repeated interest in Greenland, including controversial suggestions about purchasing the territory, has intensified regional concern. While the United States remains a NATO partner, its proposals have alarmed Denmark and prompted European allies to demonstrate their commitment to Greenland’s sovereignty.
What this means: The presence of international troops is not an invasion, but a clear demonstration that Greenland is not for sale, not for grabs, and will remain under Danish sovereignty. Operation Arctic Endurance is focused on military readiness, cold-weather training, and strategic coordination among allied forces. Experts warn that the Arctic is rapidly becoming a zone of geopolitical tension, with competition over resources, influence, and military presence increasing.
The bigger picture: This development shows how global politics and past U.S. ambitions are directly influencing local territories. Ordinary Greenlandic residents, Danish authorities, and European allies are now working together to ensure that their island remains safe, secure, and fully under the control of its legitimate government. The deployment of French troops is a symbolic and practical response to growing threats and uncertainties in the Arctic region.
🇿🇲 BRIEFING | Mundubile Claims Plot to Arrest Him on Return to Lusaka
Brian Mundubile has issued a public statement alleging that state agents, working with unnamed individuals, are planning to have him arrested upon his return to Lusaka on Friday, January 16.
In a statement released from Kasama on January 15, Mundubile said his team had intercepted what he described as “credible information” pointing to a plan to lodge a complaint against him at Woodlands Police Station. The alleged complaint, he said, would accuse him of involvement in a land matter in which the Patriotic Front was previously an interested party.
“These known individuals have been paid and instructed to file a complaint against me… as part of a grand scheme to derail the momentum that our Movement is enjoying across the nation,” Mundubile said.
He dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated, arguing that the move was intended to disrupt the growing profile of the BM8 Movement. At the same time, he appealed to his supporters to remain calm should any action be taken against him.
“As much as these allegations are baseless, I consider it my duty to alert supporters of our movement and appeal for calm in an event that this evil plan is executed,” he said.
Mundubile stated that he would cooperate with law enforcement if summoned, but stressed that he would insist on due process and the protection of his constitutional rights.
“I am a law-abiding citizen with an impeccable record in public service,” he added, saying he would not be distracted by what he termed mudslinging.
He said his team would continue to update the public as the situation develops.
PUBLIC STATEMENT ISSUED BY HON. BRIAN MUNDUBILE, MP
Kasama/January 15th 2026-I wish to inform supporters of the BM8 Movement and the rest of the nation that our team has intercepted credible information of a plan hatched by State agents in collusion with some known elements to have me arrested tomorrow, Friday, January 16th 2026 upon my return to Lusaka.
These known individuals have been paid and instructed to file a Complaint against me at Woodlands Police Station on allegations that I played a role in a land matter in which the Patriotic Front was an interested party. I am aware that this is part of a grand scheme to derail the momentum that our Movement is enjoying across the nation as we move to restore Zambia to normalcy.
As much as these allegations are baseless, I consider it my duty to alert supporters of our movement and appeal for calm in an event that this evil plan is executed. I plan to cooperate with law enforcement agencies if called upon but will also insist that my fundamentals rights and freedoms are protected and the due process followed.
I am a law abiding citizen with an impeccable record in public service and no amount of mudslinging will push my eyes off the ball.
My team will keep updating the nation on any new developments.
PATRIOTIC Front faction leader Robert Chabinga has joined the United Party for National Development (UPND) alliance and has endorsed President Hakainde Hichilema ahead of the August 13 General Elections.
Mr Chabinga said the ruling UPND was the only credible party capable of meeting the developmental needs of Zambians.
Speaking in a walk-in interview, Mr Chabinga stressed that he has decided to endorse President Hichilema because of the good leadership the Head of State has exhibited since assuming office in 2021.
The PF faction leader said the deeply-rooted wrangles in the former ruling party have prompted him to join the UPND alliance.
He said the wrangles that have rocked the PF have made the former ruling party uninspiring.
He noted that President Hichilema meant well for the country and deserved to be given another five-year mandate to continue presiding over national affairs.
Mr Chabinga said he was a man who believed in continuity and urged other opposition leaders to rally behind President Hichilema as the country heads towards this year’s elections.
CF, SP AND PF DISCUSSED FIELDING ONE CANDIDATE IN CHAWAMA BUT TALKS BROKE DOWN – KALABA
CITIZENS First President Harry Kalaba says he met with PF’s Given Lubinda and SP’s Dr Fred M’membe to unite and field one candidate for the Chawama by-elections but talks had broken down.
And Kalaba says he believes that opposition not working together does not give advantage to the UPND.
Meanwhile, Kalaba has advised Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa to consider applying to be adopted under Citizens First for the Choma Central seat in the August polls as he will not be adopted in the UPND.
Speaking when appeared on Diamond TV, Tuesday, Kalaba said his party believed in unity.
“The Citizens First has always believed in unity, because we believe that there is strength in unity. The English adage goes ‘united we stand, divided we fall’ and we in the Citizens First have always believed that unity is strength that is the reason why the Citizens First sought to be part of UKA, you remember?
We were in UKA for one year three months all because we were seeking unity of purpose. Before the Chawama by-elections filing in took place, I personally went to the home of the PF President Honourable Lubinda and I sat with him and I said ‘look we would want to see how we can collaborate and work together’. And in that meeting was my brother Fred M’membe as well, we said we work together, things never worked out,” he said.
Asked why it couldn’t work, Kalaba pointed out that the timeliness set for the selection of the candidate couldn’t be met.
“That is the time that we had Bill No. 7 coming out on the floor of the house. The timelines we had given each other I think could not be adhered to strictly. Central committee members of individual political parties were meeting and they had to make decisions because the filing in of nominations was happening on a Tuesday.
So, think time was not an ally of that endeavour, we wanted to pursue but I think also there was an issue of agreeing on a candidate. What is important is that an attempt by the CF was made and I believe this attempt didn’t end just at the by-elections, comrade Lubinda and I still talk and I’m confident that even as we go in the future, the people will tell us that you people this is what you put to do,” Kalaba responded.
“The CF will always reach out but when things don’t work out don’t you come to CF and tell them CF you didn’t want unity. We in the Citizens First have always been the ones reaching out and we will continue reaching out to people. But when we see it’s not working, the CF is not going to remain dormant, we have a manifesto, we have an agenda for this country, that agenda has to be fulfilled. And this myth of saying ‘no you are giving advantage to the UPND’, let’s wait and see. We are not giving advantage to the UPND, I don’t think we are giving any advantage to the UPND because in 2021 we stood as how many candidates? 16 candidates. The incumbent the late Edgar Lungu tumbled to an opposition leader despite being 16 because the people had zeroed in on one candidate”.
Kalaba said he understood the challenges of the people.
“The people will choose, the Zambian people know Harry Kalaba is there. We have traversed this country selling our message of unity, selling our message of working together, selling the message of coercion. So the people have come to know us, we have come to know them, we understand the challenges across the country and we are extremely confident that if it comes to that the people will make the right call,” Kalaba said.
Meanwhile, when asked on why he and Mweetwa seem to always be exchanging words, Kalaba advised Mweetwa to send his CV to the CF Secretary General for possible consideration under the party.
“Cornelius Mweetwa is not a serious person and it’s you people who are taking him seriously. Mr Mweetwa is Chief Government Spokesperson but he has been overtaken by those young guys who are calling themselves media directors right, left and centre. He should have sat down to see ‘why are all these people excited and hungry for my job?’ And as I advised him last time, Mr Mweetwa if you are listening to me, please there is a young man there, I heard that there is a young guy called Trevor Mwiinde. This Trevor Mwiinde guy, a deputy youth chairman of UPND. He’s now the one Mr Hakainde is supporting, he’s giving him money giving him materials to go and remove Mr Mweetwa [from his parliamentary seat]. But Mweetwa is busy talking about Harry Kalaba and yet his boss is busy talking to that kama deputy youth chairman,” said Mweetwa.
“And people love that boy in Choma, Mweetwa stands no chance. This is his last term, the last three in that office. So you should understand him, he’s got that issue of saying ‘I’m going, I don’t know where I’m standing’. We wish him well, for us in the CF, if Mr Mweetwa is not adopted in the UPND in Choma, the CF might consider looking at his CV. He better see Mr [Vincent] Chintu, the SG. The earlier he does that, the better”.
CHAWAMA BY-ELECTION SEEN AS TEST OF POLITICAL MATURITY, AS JERE HAILS PRESIDENTIAL RESTRAINT
Political analyst and lawyer Dickson Jere has described the Chawama parliamentary by-election taking place today as a positive indicator for Zambia’s democratic growth ahead of the August General Election, saying the process has reflected notable progress in political conduct.
Mr. Jere said the by-election outcome, regardless of who emerges victorious, would not undermine the gains made in the country’s political environment, noting that the campaigns had been conducted in a peaceful manner.
He observed that, unlike the 2001 Chawama by-election which was marred by violence, the 2026 contest had stood out as “one of the most peaceful in recent history.”
He noted that political parties freely conducted roadshows and interacted without incidents, stating that there were no reports of vehicles being damaged by rival groups.
Mr. Jere said the conduct of parties, particularly the ruling UPND, deserved praise, adding that such an environment would encourage more women and credible candidates to participate in future elections.
“This is the kind of politics Zambians have always wanted,” he said, commending the electorate of Chawama for upholding peace.
Mr. Jere further praised the Zambia Police for professional conduct during the campaign period.
He said police officers provided security to all parties and did not cancel opposition meetings under the guise of protection.
According to Mr. Jere, the police had demonstrated similar professionalism recently during the appearance of Lusaka Archbishop Dr. Alick Banda at the Drug Enforcement Commission.
“The police did a professional job and deserve commendation,” he said.
Commenting on President Hakainde Hichilema’s approach to parliamentary by-elections, Mr. Jere said the Head of State had taken a commendable step by staying away from most by-elections and allowing party functionaries to campaign.
“He has recently stayed away from parliamentary by-elections after he campaigned in Kabwata, Kabushi and Kwacha. The rest of the by-elections (Kawambwa, Pambashe, Lumezi, Petauke, Mfuwe, Chawama), he has allowed his party functionaries to do the work. This is commendable. He is probably one of the first Presidents to stay away from parliamentary by elections. This allows fair play.”
He noted that this had helped to create a fair playing field, as presidential visits often lead to heightened security that can restrict opposition activities.
“The President is for all the people, including the MP elected regardless of party,” Mr. Jere said, adding that the approach differed appropriately from general elections where the President would be a candidate.
Meanwhile, Mr. Jere wished the people of Chawama peaceful voting and called for the best candidate to win.
However, he questioned why by-elections in rural areas often experience violence, wondering whether such disturbances were caused by cadres imported from urban centres.
“Rural people are generally peaceful, yet by-elections there are frequently marked by skirmishes,” he observed, calling for reflection on the issue as the country moves toward the general elections.
A Cry for Unity in the Patriotic Front: Time to Rise Above Division
_By Michael Zephaniah Phiri Political Activist_
This is not an article written in anger, but one written with a heavy heart and a deep love for the Patriotic Front. It is a cry meant to touch the conscience of our leaders, to awaken their sense of responsibility, and to remind them why the PF was formed in the first place: to serve the people of Zambia as one united national movement.
Today, the PF stands at a painful crossroads. What is dividing them is not ideology, not vision, and not leadership capacity. What is dividing them is ego, hidden agendas, and the dangerous poison of tribalism. Some among them have chosen to loudly use the name of late President Edgar Chagwa Lungu (ECL), yet their actions are the complete opposite of what he stood for. ECL preached unity, reconciliation, and collective strength. What we are witnessing today is distraction, fragmentation, and self-interest.
Let us speak honestly. Unity cannot be achieved through isolation. Any leader who believes they can work alone, build parallel structures, or create movements within the party while claiming loyalty to PF is slowly eroding their own national character. Leadership is not about personal survival or positioning; it is about sacrifice, humility, and the ability to bring people together, even those you disagree with.
If unity is to truly progress in the PF, they must courageously remove the toxic tag of tribalism. This is the silent enemy tearing the party apart. It is dishonest to accuse one individual of dividing the party while, in reality, regional groupings are forming behind the scenes. Northerners aligning with Northerners, Easterners aligning with Easterners, and even those from Southern Province being casually lumped together with Western Province as if they are the same, all with the sole intention of blocking fellow Zambians from leadership. This mindset is dangerous and unpatriotic. This is not leadership; this is betrayal of the PF’s founding values and the spirit of One Zambia, One Nation.
There is no genuine leadership crisis in the PF. Zambia itself was created by God as a peaceful nation, often described as the Israel of Africa, not because of conflict, but because of its calling to be a light of peace and unity on the continent. Our country is globally known as a land of peacemakers. Yet today, our leaders are failing to dialogue, failing to listen, and failing to reconcile. What exists is a crisis of acceptance and humility. Some leaders, especially those with long-standing influence, must accept that unity cannot be built on exclusion. President Given Lubinda has consistently demonstrated efforts to bring the party together, yet others choose to manufacture confusion and distractions instead of strengthening the common front.
The story from the Bible of Prophet Samuel in the house of Jesse speaks directly to PFs situation today. Jesse presented seven strong sons, men of stature, experience, and visibility. Samuel, like many of us today, assumed leadership must surely come from among them. But God reminded Samuel that He does not look at appearance or status; He looks at the heart. David, the youngest, tending animals in the field, was the chosen one.
PF leaders have failed to agree on who should be our David, not because David does not exist, but because everyone wants to be David. That is their tragedy. In the PF today, we have many who desire the crown but few who are willing to stand together, support one another, and fight the real battle for the people of Zambia.
King Saul feared David and tried in every way to block his rise. In the same way, it is clear that the current political environment is hostile to the PF’s return to the ballot. Yet the ground is fertile. Zambians are tired. They are watching. They are waiting. They know what must be removed, and they still believe that the PF can rise again if only its leaders can conclude, agree, and unite.
What is required now is one final, honest meeting. A meeting not driven by ambition, but by conscience. If disagreement remains, then allow the people to choose who to follow. Let clarity replace confusion. Let truth replace manipulation.
It is painful to see all PF presidential hopefuls and opposition leaders repeatedly invoking the name of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu while walking a path he would never have approved. We proudly declare Zambia a Christian nation, yet division and tribalism now sit at the top of the political agenda. Christianity without dialogue, humility, and reconciliation is empty rhetoric. His vision was to unite the opposition, not to scatter it. One cannot claim to honor ECL while nurturing division. Even in death, his legacy calls for unity, not chaos.
Our leaders must humble themselves. Zambia does not need many Davids fighting each other; it needs brothers who are willing to stand together until Goliath is defeated. Only then can leadership naturally emerge.
This is a solemn appeal: stop the tribal calculations, stop the parallel agendas, stop hiding behind ECL’s name while betraying his spirit. Unite the Patriotic Front, liberate the people of Zambia from division, and rise to the responsibility history has placed upon you.
*The people are watching. Time is running. Unity is no longer an option, it is a necessity.*
*This is the final warning.*
History will not be kind to leaders who saw the danger and chose silence, who knew the truth and chose convenience, who claimed to love the Patriotic Front and Zambia yet sponsored division behind closed doors. God will not ask how many factions you built, how many vehicles you controlled, or how cleverly you positioned yourself. He will ask whether you united His people or scattered them.
The people of Zambia are watching, and their patience is not endless. If PF leaders fail to humble themselves now, to confront tribalism openly, to dialogue honestly, and to stand together as one, then they will bear full responsibility for handing victory to those who thrive on division. This is the hour to choose legacy over ego, unity over ambition, and nation over self. Fail this moment, and history, and God, will record that you were warned.
The State has argued that after the Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 was assented into law on 18th December 2025, no State organ or forum can challenge or question its validity.
This is in a matter in which lawyer Makebi Zulu has petitioned the Constitutional Court, seeking a declaration that Constitutional Amendment Bill Number Seven (Bill 7) of 2025 became legally null and void and ceased to be a valid legislative instrument, following the judgment in the case of Munir Zulu and Celestine Mukandila vs Attorney General.
Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha has submitted that upon assent, the Bill became law and now forms part of the Constitution of Zambia pursuant to Article 79(5)(a) of the Constitution.
Mr Kabesha is urging the Constitutional Court to dismiss the petitioner’s claim that Bill No. 7 of 2025 was declared invalid and that the Court should order the legislative process to start afresh without considering previous decisions.
He contends that the procedural concerns raised by Munir Zulu were lawfully addressed through the establishment of the technical committee and the undertaking of a consultative process.
He further argues that the present petition has been overtaken by events, as it seeks to impugn a Bill that is now law.
The Attorney General has implored the Court to dismiss the petition with costs, citing an alleged abuse of court process.
WE WON’T TAKE PART IN ANY ELECTION UNTIL MADURO IS RELEASED BY THE AMERICANS – M’MEMBE
Socialist Party owner Fred M’membe says his party is not taking part in the Chawama by-election today because of lack of funds.
And M’membe has disclosed to Koswe that until his funder and sponsor, arrested Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is released, his party will not take part in any Zambian election.
He says from the time Maduro was arrested, the Socialist Party is struggling financially.- Koswe
