UPND WILL STRUGGLE TO ACCOUNT FOR ITS CHIPANTE-PANTE LEADERSHIP AFTER AUGUST 2026 – NJOBVU
…as he claims government is robbing civil servants and farmers of a decent life
Democratic Union president Ackim Antony Njobvu says there has been widespread manipulation, deception, and poor planning during the tenure of the UPND Government.
And Njobvu has lamented that civil servants and farmers, which are “pillars of the nation” have endured one of the worst leadership crises in the country’s history.
“Under UPND rule, civil servants and farmers have been neglected and pushed to the margins. Their welfare has clearly not been a priority. It is now January, yet civil servants remain uncertain about whether they will receive a salary adjustment—an adjustment that should have taken effect by the end of this month,” he said.
Njobvu who recently observed that public service workers had been surviving on loans, appealed to government to consider increase salaries to at least a K10,000 in a bid to help civil servants cope with the high cost of living and reduce dependence on exploitative survival loans.
“Instead of prioritising its workers, the government seems more comfortable offering generous incentives to foreign investors while ignoring the suffering of Zambian employees,” he said.
The opposition leader further wondered why Zambians would grant a second term to a government that he said, has failed to manage the agriculture sector, adding that the DU is the alternative party which can redeem the country.
Njobvu said failure to settle farmers on time amounts to lack of seriousness by the government.
“I have never seen a government that pays farmers for their produce as late as January. Even now, there is no sign of payments reaching farmers, only empty assurances,” he said.
Meanwhile, Njobvu has challenged government to explain whether they have diverted grants for some government ministries, or whether they were used to finance Bill 7 constitutional amendment.
“Zambians must unite under the Democratic Union, a party that respects the civil service. Appointments must be based on merit, not political affiliation or tribe. Only then can we restore dignity to public service and hope to our farmers,” he added.
SOME MPs IN EASTERN BECAME “AKAMTENGA MALIRO”, TIME HAS COME FOR PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT – CARITAS CHIPATA
As the August general election approaches, Caritas Chipata has disclosed that it is conducting a performance assessment of all elected leaders in the province, particularly Members of Parliament (MPs), council Chairperson, Mayors, and Councillors.
Caritas Chipata Director John Mthadziko Zulu says most MPs in the province have underperformed during their tenure and that the assessment will help citizens better understand how their lawmakers have served them.
Mr. Zulu says many MPs neglected their primary legislative and developmental roles and instead became what he termed “akamtenga maliro,” meaning funeral carriers.
He also noted that MPs in the province voted for Bill 7 without consulting their constituents and disregarded guidance from traditional leaders and the church.
Mr. Zulu emphasized that the report is not intended to de-campaign the current crop of MPs, but to help constituents make informed decisions as they choose their leaders in August.
He has encouraged citizens to step forward and contest in the coming elections, saying the organisation is open to orient aspiring candidates on leadership and prioritising the needs of the people.
SYRIA’S AL-SHARA REPORTEDLY INJURED IN PALACE CLASH, ISRAEL WARNS IRAN PLANNING ASSASSINATION
Syria’s Ahmed al-Shara was reportedly lightly wounded in a recent clash at the Presidential Palace in Damascus, according to rumors circulating in the region.
Israel has warned al-Shara that Iran is planning to assassinate him, adding another volatile element to the Middle East’s rapidly escalating tensions.
Israeli military sources speaking anonymously said they’re preparing for Iran to launch an attack somewhere across the Middle East, with al-Shara potentially being a target.
The warning comes as Iran faces its worst domestic crisis in decades, with nationwide protests and a collapsing economy.
Tehran may be looking to strike externally to distract from internal chaos or to demonstrate strength as its regime teeters.
Al-Shara leads Syria’s transitional government after Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia following his regime’s collapse in 2024.
Iran had been Assad’s primary backer and maintained significant influence in Syria for years.
The situation adds urgency to reported Israeli strike plans that could launch within 48 hours.
DELTA FORCE OPERATORS WHO CAPTURED MADURO NOW REPOSITIONING TO MIDDLE EAST AS IRAN CRISIS ESCALATES
The same elite special operations units that captured Nicolás Maduro days ago are now allegedly moving to the Middle East.
.
Over a dozen U.S. strategic airlifters have crossed the Atlantic to Britain and then eastward, many carrying helicopters operated by the Night Stalkers, the elite unit that flew Delta Force commandos into Caracas.
Delta Force has reportedly pivoted to the Middle East, with Army Rangers and Air Assault Forces from Europe being repositioned rapidly.
Delta Force operators are reportedly taking positions along Iraq’s borders with Syria and Jordan, possibly targeting Iran-backed militias refusing to disarm.
.
Flight tracking shows US and British refueling tankers headed into the region.
An unexplained blackout across Greek and Cypriot airspace Monday may have masked US asset movements.
American intelligence aircraft are operating continuously off Iran’s coast.
The CENTCOM commander just made the long journey to Bahrain.
Trump warned last week that if Iran killed “peaceful protesters,” the US was “locked and loaded and ready to go.”
That was when the death toll was single digits. It now stands at 35.
AFRICAN UNION DEMANDS ISRAEL REVERSE RECOGNITION OF SOMALILAND
The AU’s Council for Political Affairs, Peace and Security issued the call on Tuesday, condemning what it described as a unilateral and illegitimate move. In a statement posted on X after a ministerial meeting, the AU said it “strongly condemns the unilateral recognition of the so-called ‘Republic of Somaliland’ by Israel.”
The announcement comes as Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar visited Somaliland, just ten days after Israel formally recognized the self-declared region as an independent state. Somalia has strongly denounced the visit, calling it unacceptable interference in the internal affairs of a United Nations member state and warning that it violates the UN Charter, the AU’s founding act, and international norms governing relations between sovereign states.
During his trip, Sa’ar met with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, holding a joint press conference at the presidential palace.
The developments have sparked diplomatic tensions in the Horn of Africa, highlighting the contentious status of Somaliland and raising concerns over unilateral recognition of self-declared states.
As the AU and Somalia push back, the situation underscores the fragile balance of regional politics and the challenges of navigating international recognition in contested territories.
“It Is War” – Pastor Chris Okafor Storms Bush with Gun to Hunt Demons
Nigerian cleric Pastor Chris Okafor has ignited a firestorm of controversy on social media following the release of a dramatic video where he is seen “hunting” for the devil in a bush.
Spiritual Warfare in Camouflage
The viral clip features the founder of Grace Nation International (Mountain of Liberation and Miracle Ministry) dressed in full army camouflage. To vividly depict the concept of spiritual warfare, the pastor is captured wielding a rifle, firing shots, and chanting in tongues as if engaging in a literal shootout with evil spirits.
The Call to Battle
After the display of firepower, the cleric turned to the camera to declare his stance against satanic forces. The stunt served as a visual invitation for believers to join his ministry for deliverance and to battle their own spiritual obstacles.
He declared:
“It is war,”
Public Reactions
The theatrical display has sparked a heated debate online. While Pastor Okafor is known for his aggressive style of ministry and battle metaphors, this literal interpretation complete with military gear and weapons has left netizens divided. Some have questioned the methods used to demonstrate faith, while others expressed concern for his followers.
Lubinda is a weak leader, he has failed PF – Ibrahim Mwamba
PF cadre Ibrahim Mwamba says acting party faction president Given Lubinda is a weak leader who has failed to hold the former ruling party together.
Mwamba said political battles continue to go against Lubinda while the party steadily loses relevance.
He warned that frustrated youths are ready to take over PF and Tonse if they fail to choose a substantive leader ahead of the 2026 general election.
“We need a mature and well-mannered leader capable of dismantling the UPND. Lubinda is a weak leader. Everywhere he goes, people are winning against him and stealing from him politically. We need to ask ourselves where he is going wrong as an organisation,” he said.
“You have failed us. If you have failed to choose a leader, just tell us so that we know whether to vote for UPND. If by the end of January there is no leader, we will take over,” Mwamba said.
Mwamba explained that PF’s prolonged failure to settle on a presidential candidate has also exposed deep-seated bad blood, tribalism and selfish interests within the party, leaving it disorganised and incapable of mounting any meaningful challenge to President Hakainde Hichilema.
He said the confusion within the party has been worsened by its removal from the Tonse Alliance, a development he described as shocking and embarrassing for a party that once governed the country.
According to Mwamba, the opposition has completely lost focus, spending more time fighting internal wars than addressing issues affecting ordinary citizens such as unemployment and the high cost of living.
He said PF lost power in 2021 and has since been weakened further by leadership wrangles and court battles, warning that the party risks total collapse if it continues on the same path.
He warned that if the opposition, particularly Tonse and PF, fail to produce a credible presidential candidate to challenge President Hakainde Hichilema, youths will take matters into their own hands.
He issued an ultimatum to the PF leadership, demanding that a leader be chosen by the end of January, failing which youths would move in to reclaim the party.
“PF is full of bad hearted people. Everyone wants to be a president. There is no way that can happen. Just unite and give us presidential candidate, we have no time,” stated Mwamba at a press briefing.
Vatican Considers Recall of Lusaka Archbishop Amid Zambian Investigation
By Theunis du Plessis
Multiple well-placed sources within the Catholic Church have disclosed that deliberations are either planned or already under way within the Vatican’s Secretariat of State, the Holy See department responsible for foreign relations, over the possible recall of Archbishop Alick Banda, the Archbishop of Lusaka.
The discussions are reportedly being handled at senior diplomatic level within the Secretariat of State, which is headed by the Holy See’s chief diplomat, Cardinal Pietro Parolin. While no formal decision has been announced, sources indicate that the matter is being treated with urgency and sensitivity, given its wider ecclesiastical and geopolitical implications.
The development follows an investigation by the Zambian authorities into the Archbishop over alleged money laundering and abetting of criminal activity, claims that, if substantiated, would pose a serious reputational challenge to the Catholic Church at a time when its influence and growth across Africa are expanding at an unprecedented pace.
Archbishop Banda, a known associate and confidant of the former administration of President Edgar Lungu, recently appeared before Zambia’s Drug Enforcement Commission for questioning. The inquiry centres on his possession of a government-issued sport utility vehicle, which investigators suspect may have been unlawfully transferred to him as an inducement or reward.
According to officials familiar with the proceedings, the Archbishop exercised his constitutional right to remain silent during questioning. Observers within both ecclesiastical and diplomatic circles interpret this development as potentially opening the door for a Vatican-managed resolution, including a recall to Rome under ecclesiastical discipline rather than a protracted public confrontation.
Should the Holy See proceed with recalling Archbishop Banda, possibly under sabbatical or administrative leave, he would become the second Zambian Catholic prelate to be withdrawn from active diocesan leadership following controversy. The first was Emmanuel Milingo, who was recalled by Pope John Paul II after long-running doctrinal disputes linked to his healing ministry.
For the Vatican, the case presents a delicate balancing act: safeguarding the moral authority of the Church, respecting the sovereignty of a democratic state pursuing legal accountability, and preserving ecclesial stability in a region central to Catholicism’s future. How Rome ultimately resolves the matter may well signal how the Church intends to navigate the increasingly complex intersection between faith, power, and public accountability in the Global South.-ZWD
HH DECLARES 2026 ELECTIONS A MUST-WIN, UNVEILS FIVE-POINT MESSAGE AT CHOMA RALLY
Choma – President Hakainde Hichilema has delivered a five-point message at his first major public rally this year ahead of the 2026 General Elections, declaring the polls a “must-win” to safeguard and accelerate the development gains recorded during his first term in office.
Addressing a massive crowd in Choma, President Hichilema said his message to the nation is anchored on love, care, unity, sustained development, and electoral victory on 13th August 2026 to ensure continuity of the UPND government’s development agenda.
The Head of State said his decision to seek office was driven by a deep love for Zambia and its people, noting that even before the 2021 elections he was determined to “take the bull by the horns” in order to change the country’s development trajectory.
President Hichilema said it is this love for the nation and every citizen that has guided his administration’s focus on delivering development and restoring dignity to the people.
He explained that caring for citizens has translated into tangible policies such as free education, the provision of desks to create a conducive learning environment, and the recruitment of over 42,000 teachers since his government took office.
The President urged Zambians to defeat hatred with love, stating that his administration remains focused on uniting the country and delivering results despite criticism from some quarters.
He said the mining sector has been revived, creating jobs for young people, increasing copper production, and contributing to the recent strengthening of the Kwacha against major convertible currencies, including the US dollar.
President Hichilema also announced continued support to traditional leadership, including the construction of chiefs’ palaces and the empowerment of their retainers through the provision of motorbikes.
Quoting economic ‘scripture’ the President said, “Seek ye economic growth and all other things shall fall into place,” noting that Zambia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has grown from US$18 billion in 2021 to nearly US$36 billion, translating into more jobs, business opportunities, and increased treasury revenue to fund free education and the recruitment of teachers, nurses, and other public servants.
He stressed that despite persistent hostility from some sections, he remains undistracted and committed to delivering free education, job creation, and inclusive development.
On governance reforms, President Hichilema said Constitution Amendment Act No. 13 of 2025 (formerly Bill No. 7) was enacted out of love for democracy and the desire to bring women, youths, and marginalised groups into decision-making spaces. He thanked UPND, PF, and Independent Members of Parliament for supporting the Bill.
The President said his administration has, for the first time, facilitated the entry of 20 women, 15 youths, and five marginalised persons into Parliament through the mixed-member proportional representation system, strengthening inclusivity in governance.
He reaffirmed that his government serves all Zambians regardless of region, and will continue to care for the welfare of every citizen.
President Hichilema further highlighted achievements such as the NAPSA partial withdrawal, successful debt restructuring, and the restoration of law and order in the country.
He acknowledged the challenges posed by the worst drought in living memory, apologising for prolonged load shedding, but assured the nation that the situation is improving steadily. He said government is investing in alternative energy sources to reduce reliance on hydroelectric power and permanently end load shedding.
The President also apologised to farmers for delays in payments for maize supplied to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA), assuring them that all outstanding payments will soon be settled.
He explained that government initially planned to purchase 500,000 metric tonnes of maize, but revised the target to 1.6 million metric tonnes to ensure farmers receive a fair and rewarding price for their produce.
President Hichilema said government has secured export markets in neighbouring countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola, and will continue to increase mealie-meal exports, creating more opportunities for farmers and millers.
He concluded by stating that the work of transforming Zambia has only just begun, and called on citizens to unite and support the UPND in the 2026 General Elections to consolidate and expand the development gains achieved so far.
MWANZA CONDEMNS FALSE CLAIMS OVER PRESIDENT HICHILEMA’S HEALTH
Lusaka – Democratic Party President Antonio Mourinho Mwanza has condemned falsehoods and malicious rumours claiming that President Hakainde Hichilema is sick, warning that such narratives undermine democratic discourse and weaken the credibility of the opposition.
In a statement, Mr. Mwanza said the sustained use of rumours, personal attacks and misinformation as a substitute for policy-based debate projects an image of bitterness, lack of direction and desperation among some opposition players.
He said such conduct does not inspire public confidence nor offer Zambians viable political alternatives, but instead alienates well-meaning citizens from constructive political engagement.
“Our duty, as the Opposition, is to engage the UPND government and President Hakainde Hichilema on substantive issues that affect the lives of our people, economic management, governance, accountability and national development,” Mr. Mwanza said.
He stressed that while robust criticism of government is both acceptable and necessary in a democracy, it must be grounded in facts, sound ideas and a genuine commitment to the national interest.
Mr. Mwanza noted that Zambia deserves principled leadership and a mature opposition that elevates public debate rather than degrades it through unsubstantiated claims and personal attacks.
“When you have nothing constructive to say, it is sometimes best to keep quiet. After all, a closed mouth can be mistaken for wisdom,” he said.
The Democratic Party leader warned that the strength and relevance of the opposition will ultimately be judged by the quality, seriousness and integrity of its political engagement.
Mr. Mwanza called on opposition leaders to refocus their energies on issue-based politics that advance national development and strengthen Zambia’s democratic culture.
THERE’LL BE VOTER APATHY IF OPPOSITION DOESN’T UNITE – SP
SOCIALIST Party General Secretary Dr Cosmas Musumali says there is a good chance of voter apathy if the opposition do not come out strongly.
Musumali adds that the opposition is working to ensure that Zambians vote for change, warning that the UPND government can underrate them at their own peril.
Recently, UPND Lusaka Province Chairperson Obvious Mwaliteta said the UPND would undergo an introspection if it failed to get over 2.8 million votes in this year’s general election.
In an interview, Tuesday, Dr Musumali said his party, through the People’s Pact, an opposition alliance led by SP leader Dr Fred M’membe, was doing everything possible to mobilise people ahead of the general election.
“The Socialist Party is on the ground. Its working hard [and] we are now part of the People’s Pact and we are doing everything possible to mobilise our people. The UPND will not see those targets that they are talking about, they can only underrate us at their peril because we are there and we are talking to the Zambian masses and they are the final stage. So, there is a good chance of voter apathy if the opposition political forces do not come out strongly. The 2026 elections will not be as expected. The voter turnout might be much less than in the previous general elections, but we are working to ensure that many Zambians go and vote for change and we hope we are going to achieve that momentum, then voter apathy will not be there and the UPND will not get those figures that they are planning to get,” Dr Musumali said.
“There is one big issue here, and that’s the economy. The economy is the elephant in the room and if you look at the cost of living, it has not worked for most of the Zambians. Not just the consumers, the ordinary people, but even the Zambians that are running businesses today, if you ask them how is business, they will tell you their business is bad. Government policies have not worked for Zambian businesses, it has worked more for multinational corporations and it has worked more for the President himself. So, he has created a policy that works for himself, for the multinationals and for his friends. The UPND economically has been a disaster, a failed project and if a failed project tells you it’s going to win by millions and millions, its wishful thinking. Actually, it’s a lot of ignorance and maybe arrogance also”.
Meanwhile, commenting on the UPND’s 2.8 million vote target, Dr Musumali described the target as wishful thinking, arguing that many Zambians were not happy with the ruling party.
“Maybe the first thing to say is that the first inspection that Mr Mwaliteta and his party can do is to get the true opinion of average Zambians and UPND is not the best suited agency to conduct a survey. A scientific, objective survey is what has to be undertaken and that will inform them better than them just conducting an inspection of a survey of their own structures. We have enough capable organisations in this country that could undertake this task and without pre-empting anything.
The mood on the ground is very different, Zambians are not happy, they are not exactly the people that he is describing. What he is saying is a lot of wishful thinking. If the opposition political forces do not come up and encourage the people to go and vote, as I said, it will lead to a voter apathy. So, a low voter turnout will definitely mean Mr Mwaliteta and his group are not going to meet the target or the figures that they are talking about,” said Dr Musumali.
“In any electoral process, when you start bragging about what you are going to achieve, how you are going to achieve [it] and how much of it you have done, already it shows a weakness. Let the voters speak, empty propaganda, empty rhetoric is not the way to go. You can do it for the sake of psychologically putting yourself in a better position of feeling good, but that feel good moment will soon disappear and he should know that better [than anyone]”.
PF SAYS SYMPATHY VOTE EXPECTED FOR OPPOSITION IN CHAWAMA
By Chamuka Shalubala
Patriotic Front Deputy Secretary General in Charge of Administration Celestine Mukandila says a sympathy vote is expected to favour the opposition alliance as voters head to the polls in the Chawama parliamentary by-election next week.
Mr. Mukandila has however acknowledged the effort the opposition alliance has put into campaigning for its candidate ahead of the polls.
He tells Phoenix News that the ruling UPND does not stand a chance of scooping the seat, citing what he described as the mistreatment of former late President Edgar Lungu and his daughter Tasila, who previously held the seat.
Mr. Mukandila notes that this has generated public sympathy, which he believes will play a decisive role in the outcome of the election.
We are tired, Lungu family must humble itself, talk to government over burial – SASYDA
SOUTHERN African Students and Youth Development Association (SASYDA) president who also doubles as a PF cadre Ibrahim Mwamba says former First Lady Esther Lungu, her children and aunt Bertha must humble themselves and engage government over the possible burial of former President Edgar Lungu.
On Monday, the former Head of State’s body clocked seven months in a South African mortuary after his death.
Mwamba, who claims to have a personal relationship with the former first family, said the former ruling party is now tired of the drama and wants its former leader to be brought back home and laid to rest.
He explained that the delay had become emotionally draining for PF members and sympathisers who believe the late president deserves a dignified send-off.
“I want to appeal to the former first family, my mother Esther Lungu, my sister, Tasila Lungu and my brother, Dalitso Lungu, these are people I share a personal relationship with. Find time and sit with government, and see how you can bury the former president,” he pleaded.
“Approach the President and see how best you can bury the former president. It pains me that it’s now seven months of failing to bury the former president.”
Meanwhile, Mwamba took a swipe at the opposition leadership, saying the current crop of opposition leaders just want to be presidents without offering solutions.
He said the opposition lacked seriousness and maturity, arguing that what the country needs is a well-mannered and focused leader capable of presenting a credible alternative to the ruling UPND ahead of the next general election.
Mwamba said unless the opposition reorganises itself and begins to address real national issues, it will remain disjointed and unconvincing to the electorate.
THE FAILED ATTEMPT TO EMBARASS THE CATHOLIC CHURCH IN ZAMBIA ON THE 5TH OF JANUARY 2026.
BY KAPEMBWA SIMBAO (President and member of the Zambia We Want)
Machiavelli makes a general rule which he says rarely fails, and it goes like this: ‘whoever is the cause of another becoming powerful, is ruined himself; for that power is produced by him either through craft or force; and both of these are suspected by the one who has been raised to power’.
5th January 2026 marks the most ignominious day for the Catholic Church and all God-loving people in the history of Zambia. ‘Mu chibemba tutila icha muselu icha chitika ilelo’. The whole episode, for some of us who witnessed it, was totally nauseating. While this was expected, most of us knew it was coming, but still hoped that maybe this time things would just be allowed to fizzle out; we were wrong. The man responsible for this ignominious thing had a big bone to chew with the Catholic Church. I keep on talking about the Catholic Church, and some people think I am probably mistaken. It is about Bishop Dr. Alick Banda, but no, I mean the Catholic Church. Some of you might recall what happened to the SDA Pastor, Mr. Chabe on the Copper belt. Just for sharing his fears about the chances of the government losing the 2026 elections, he was punished and demoted. Sent into the abyss to suffer, but the target was not Pastor Chabe; the big fish was the SDA Church itself! And the rest is history. So when I talk about the Catholic Church, I mean just that. The man is after destroying the church and some members, ‘baletamfya Mumbwe ne nsenko’, like I heard some people boasting, I am catholic and yet being used to destroy the very church they pretend to be proud of, it will be too late for them.
Bishop Dr. Alick Banda was today badly bruised as a Zambian and as a servant of God. His name was dragged in the mud, treated like a criminal, according him no respect whatsoever in summoning him to the office of the DEC. Let this be very clear: Bishop Dr. Alick Banda is the head of the Catholic Church in Zambia. He superintends the biggest diocese in Zambia. He is the Pope of Zambia.
Whether one likes it or not, that is his rightful position. He is supposed to be dealt with respectfully, even when he errs. Correcting a mistake does not mean disrespecting anyone, for that matter. ‘Tepapa nomba mwaimya ifishilumbulwa’. The insult that has been levelled against him will not be taken lying down by the catholic laity.
All the Catholics, no matter what, will take revenge on the voting day, come rain or hellfire. Believe me. I saw it today, the people at the Cathedral were annoyed, and going to DEC was a very welcome move for them. As far as they are concerned, the countdown to the 2026 elections has begun, and make no mistake.
They can barely wait for the day; they want it now so that they can put an end to this debacle. Make no mistake, this is not an empty threat; the Catholics are the biggest Christian population in Zambia. ‘Baka fikilisha’. They account for about 6.64 million, or almost 36% of the total population. They will make sure they avenge their bishop and reclaim the respect they have always enjoyed. The Bishop did not receive a stolen vannette, he received a clean vehicle gifted to him by a friend and admirer. All the Catholics know that, and there is no contrary view, so what is the fuss? Persecution?
What has happened to the bishop and other strong supporters of the man is not new. According to Michiavelli the people who believe are supposed to be the closest to the man in power, because they made him what he is, become his victims, because he fears that left unchecked they will kick him out of power too, just like they did to his predecessor. So he has to deal with them decisively. And this is what we have seen.
On flimsy grounds, he has gotten rid of some of his party stalwarts. He has gotten rid of some of the best people on the bench. He has tried to manipulate the diplomatic postings. He has gotten his fingers into the hapless parliament, oxidizing even the ones thought to be solid; now they are worthless individuals, in his sight and our sight.
Now he wants to deal with the Catholic Church. And if the congregants see this as Bishop Dr. Alick Banda’s fight, then the Catholic Church will go like the other institutions have gone, ‘njila ya chona’, Parliament, Judiciary, Executive, DEC, ACC, and counting. He has been after all those who made him who he is because he believes they are a threat to his life in power.
Let us be fair here; it is a very obvious truth that the Catholics put the present government in power, and the most instrumental clerics were Bishop Dr. Alick Banda and Emeritus Bishop Telesphore Mpundu. These two bishops rallied the Catholics for this government like no other.
All the other churches were just mere spectators, many of them hiding under the false statement of the ‘government of the day’. These churches will never be for the people. And so it remains for the Catholic Church to undo the mistake and correct things. As they did it in 2021, it is time to perform a repeat, and fortunately, we won’t have to wait for a long time to see it happen right before our eyes. This is the high expectation of the many Zambian people, and the Catholics have been favored to take the penalty.
The lesson from this experience is that don’t support people on their own perceived importance or values; many of them are fake, so support people on your values and what you believe must be done for the country. The selection of who should lead the next government is therefore very important; people should reflect deeply and pick the right candidate, for a change.
PUBLIC RALLIES AND LANGUAGE – CALLING YOUR OPPONENTS HYENAS
By Kellys Kaunda
Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa called Brian Mundubile, Makebi Zulu and Emmanuel Mwamba Hyenas.
“These crooks must not be allowed to rule again”, he added.
This was in Choma yesterday at a public rally.
Ordinarily, this language wouldn’t be a problem because, as Zambians, we draw object lessons from animal behavior.
It means it’s not meant to be understood in the literal sense.
However, the question I wish to pose is this: is UPND ready to be referred to similarly by the opposition without claiming hate speech?
Generally, there’s a spirit of intolerance in the current political atmosphere in which opposition figures have gone to jail for figures of speech that are well documented in our cultural exchanges.
Nakachinda’s case is an eloquent illustration of what I am saying.
Fairness means what’s good for the goose is also good for the gander.
As the election season opens up, every one of you taking to the microphone to address crowds must check both your emotions and your language.
Excitement when crowds are before you and cheering could lead to saying hurtful things and possibly libelous.
PF CONDEMNS DAVISON MUNGANDU FOR PEDDLING FALSEHOODS AT HICHILEMA’S CHOMA RALLY
..Mung’andu keeps on making wild and unbelievable allegations to attempt to impress President Hichilema…
Lusaka-Thursday, 8th January 2026
We wish to express utter shock at the extent of falsehoods peddled by expelled Chama South MP, Davison Mung’andu.
Mung’andu made startling lies that the Patriotic Front deliberately destroyed the economy so that President Hakainde Hichilema could find it difficult to govern and consequently fail.
It is ridiculous to attribute President Hichilema’s monumental failures and misgovernance to the Patriotic Front.
His failure to govern and improve the lives of our people is as a result of gross incompetency, inexperience, corrupt decisions, pro-foreign, and pro-multinational companies policies that benefit a few greedy people.
Mungandu also claimed that an official from the Patriotic Front carried $9million cash a week before Hichilema’s swearing-in on August 24th 2021.
Mungandu made these startling falsehoods to desperately attempt to impress President Hakainde Hichilema at his rally held at the Choma Sports Club on Wednesday 7th January 2026.
It must be noted that this is not the first time Mung’andu has uttered such unbelievable falsehoods.
During the Ncwala Traditional Ceremony, Mung’andu issued similar falsehoods that the crippling and extensive Load-shedding that the country was experiencing would have been worse under a government run by the Patriotic Front.
Clearly Mung’andu has been ignored despite making such wild allegations and he has become worse each time, making worse manic remarks than before to impress his new masters.
Mung’andu stood and won in Chama South on the Patriotic Front ticket because of a wonderful national record of the Party and the historical infrastructure and development initiatives made by the Party.
In 2011 the Patriotic Front found national electricity installed capacity at 1,600 megawatts and uprated it to 3,500 megawatts.
The Patriotic Front built schools, colleges, universities, power stations, health centers, clinics, hospitals, dams, airports, roads and bridges.
The development strides made ny the Patriotic Front remain historical and unparalleled.
The Patriotic Front also managed the cost-of-living crisis far better than the UPND, despite the country suffering persistent droughts in 2015, 2017 and 2019 and the evonic economic debilitating Covid-19 pandemic crisis, as could be seen by the price of basic essential commodities such as mealie-meal, cooking oil, fuel, electricity and others during the said period.
If the PF is so repulsive to the shamefully opportunistic Mung’andu, why doesn’t he resign and join the UPND?
If he has evidence that any person took am amount of $9million to Europe why doesn’t he report such a crime to Law Enforcement Agencies?
It is now an indisputable fact that the UPND won the 2021 elections based on campaigm lies as the Party now in government has failed to fulfill any of its campaign promises.
It therefore appears that Mung’andu has a found a suitable home in the UPND going by the type and kind of falsehoods and lies that he is peddling where lies are an established culture practiced by President Hakainde Hichilema and his followers.
We must state that upto the last minute, President Edgar Lungu believed they would win the elections but as democrats, he and the Party accepted the elections results as represantive of the decision and will of the people of Zambia.
However, this is no longer guaranteed as President Hichilema is engaged in harmful activities that have threatened our democracy, the rule of law and is destroying the possibility of the country having credible, transparent, free and fair elections.
This is a big lesson for our people and action should be taken against desperate, immoral and political opportunists like Mung’andu by punishing them at the polls for their shameful display of dangerous opportunism, disloyalty, lies and the treacherous decision to commercialise parliamentary seats by making them a commodity to be sold to the highest bidder.
Issued by:
Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba
Chairperson for Information and Publicity Member of the Central Committee
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema says the 2026 general election is a must win for him and the UPND if the ruling party is to continue delivering development programmes aimed at improving the lives of Zambians
Addressing residents of Southern Province in Choma yesterday, President Hichilema said the UPND needs another term to consolidate ongoing reforms and complete projects meant to benefit ordinary citizens.
The Head of State urged voters to judge his administration by its work, citing free education, increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocations and meal allowances for students as tangible achievements that should guide voters’ decisions.
“If you want free education, CDF and meal allowances, go and vote. Vote for love, care, delivery and more work to be done,” President Hichilema said.
He explained that his leadership style was centred on service rather than politics, adding that his focus has been on working for the people rather than external interests.
“I chose to work for the people of Zambia internally. We work for you because we love you, just like you voted for us because you love us,” he said.
President Hichilema also defended government’s push for constitutional reforms through Bill 7, stating that the proposed changes were driven by the need to increase representation of women, youths and persons with disabilities in Parliament.
He explained that his administration remains committed to inclusivity, as more women, youths and differently abled persons must be part of national decision-making.
“That is how we show love to our women. If they are not in Parliament, who will speak for them? I am the first President to bring 20 women to parliament through proportional representation. Come 2026, the differently abled will go to Parliament with or without winning an election. Youths will also go to Parliament and 20 women will also see themselves in the house, isn’t that a good thing?,” he said.
On economic and social challenges, President Hichilema said government policies were guided by concern for citizens, including reforms to pension withdrawals under NAPSA.
Addressing the ongoing electricity challenges, President Hichilema acknowledged the impact of load shedding and appealed for patience as government implements long-term solutions.
“Yes, on electricity, I say give me time. I have been saying sorry about load shedding. Haven’t you heard my apologies? Now things are getting better,” he said.
He said progress is being made at Maamba Power Station, with Phase Two nearing completion.
“Maamba Phase Two is now 60 percent complete and soon we will switch on 300 megawatts. Water or no water, electricity will be there,” he said.
The President added that government also plans to expand coal-powered generation to reach 2,500 megawatts, while also investing heavily in solar energy.
“We have work to do. More coal power stations are coming, and more solar is coming,” said the Head of State. https://kalemba.news/politics/2026-is-a-must-win-hichilema/
LEADER of one of the PF factions Given Lubinda, has rejected the legitimacy of his group’s expulsion from the Tonse Alliance, telling members and supporters to ignore what he described as a purported and unauthorised announcement of their removal.
Yesterday, while Lubinda and his PF comrades were drumming up support for FDD candidate Bright Nundwe in Chawama, Tonse Alliance vice chairperson Danny Pule sailed the Given Lubinda-led boat out of the alliance.
Lubinda said the so-called meeting, convened by Tonse Alliance co-chairperson Pule, was illegal, unauthorised and deliberately timed to coincide with a PF-organised political rally in Chawama, effectively excluding key stakeholders from discussions.
He accused certain alliance colleagues of bad faith and political mischief, saying their actions undermined the very principles of collective leadership and mutual respect that the Tonse Alliance was built upon.
The PF faction leader insisted that his party cannot be reduced to a non-entity in an alliance it helped form and sustain.
Lubinda further said, illegal resolutions were passed at the meeting convened without their presence, including attempts to amend the Tonse Alliance Constitution through a virtual meeting.
He said the action was in direct violation of an earlier resolution that all constitutional amendments would only be addressed at a duly convened physical meeting scheduled for January 20, 2026.
“Accordingly, any documents, statements or materials circulating on social media purporting to be resolutions of the Tonse Alliance are hereby disowned in their entirety, are illegal and illegitimate and must be ignored with the contempt they deserve. For the avoidance of doubt, the status quo within the Tonse Alliance remains unchanged,” Lubinda said.
He added that the Tonse Alliance would soon convene a proper, lawful and duly constituted meeting at a date to be announced, where all outstanding matters would be addressed strictly in accordance with the Alliance Constitution and agreed procedures.
RBZ PLOTS ZIMDOLLAR COMEBACK BY 2030, BUT CAN ZIMBABWEANS EVER TRUST IT AGAIN?
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe says it now has a clear roadmap to restore the Zimbabwean dollar as the country’s sole currency by 2030, marking yet another bold attempt to revive a unit many citizens have long abandoned. In its new Five-Year Strategic Plan (2026–2030), the RBZ claims businesses are pushing hard for a return to a mono-currency system, now branded Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), which replaced the Zimdollar in April 2024.
The plan promises stability, better-quality banknotes, wider use of ZiG for taxes and government payments, lower bank charges, and clearer rules to protect US dollar savings during the transition. The RBZ also says it wants to end “currency discrimination” that favours the US dollar and to make local borrowing more affordable.
But beneath the glossy roadmap lies a deep trust crisis. After decades of hyperinflation, demonetisation and policy U-turns under ZANU-PF, many Zimbabweans simply do not believe the central bank can safeguard any local currency now or in the future.
The Trump administration will withdraw the United States from dozens of international organizations, including the U.N.’s population agency and the U.N., as the U.S. further retreats from global cooperation.
President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed an executive order suspending U.S. support for 66 organizations, agencies, and commissions, following his administration’s review of participation in and funding for all international organizations, including those affiliated with the United Nations, according to a White House release.
Many of the targets are U.N.-related agencies, commissions and advisory panels that focus on climate, labor, migration and other issues the Trump administration has categorized as catering to diversity and “woke” initiatives. Other non-U.N. organizations on the list include the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation, the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, and the Global Counterterrorism Forum.
“The Trump Administration has found these institutions to be redundant in their scope, mismanaged, unnecessary, wasteful, poorly run, captured by the interests of actors advancing their own agendas contrary to our own, or a threat to our nation’s sovereignty, freedoms, and general prosperity,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement.
Trump’s decision to pull the United States out of international organizations that promote cooperation on global issues comes as his administration has taken assertive foreign policy actions that have unsettled both allies and rivals, including a controversial operation that removed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and renewed interest in acquiring Greenland.
The administration previously suspended support for agencies like the World Health Organization, the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees known as UNRWA, the U.N. Human Rights Council, and the U.N. cultural agency UNESCO. It has taken a larger, à la carte approach to paying dues to the world body, picking which operations and agencies it believes align with Trump’s agenda and those that no longer serve U.S. interests.
“I think what we’re seeing is the crystallization of the U.S. approach to multilateralism, which is ‘my way or the highway,’” said Daniel Forti, head of U.N. affairs at the International Crisis Group. “It’s a very clear vision of wanting international cooperation on Washington’s own terms.”
US Energy Secretary, Chris Wright has said Washington will control the sale of Venezuelan oil “indefinitely,” following President Donald Trump’s announcement that Venezuela’s interim leadership had agreed to US-managed marketing of between 30 and 50 million barrels of crude
Speaking on Wednesday, January 7 at a Goldman Sachs energy event in Miami, Wright said the United States would oversee the sale of Venezuela’s crude oil, starting with stored supplies and continuing into the future.
“We’re going to market the crude coming out of Venezuela, first this backed-up stored oil, and then indefinitely, going forward, we will sell the production that comes out of Venezuela into the marketplace,” he said.
His comments came days after the US-led removal of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, which left his deputy and other allies in control of the government. Wright indicated that sanctions on Venezuela’s oil sector could be eased to enable exports.
He added that the United States would supply the diluting agents required to process Venezuela’s extra-heavy crude for shipment. According to him, cooperation with the interim government would also allow the importation of parts, equipment and services needed to prevent a collapse of the oil industry, stabilize production and eventually increase output.
Wright, a former oil and gas executive, said restoring Venezuela’s oil production to historical levels of more than three million barrels per day would require tens of billions of dollars and significant time, but insisted it was achievable.
In the short to medium term, he said production could increase by several hundred thousand barrels per day with relatively modest investment, spare parts and efforts to revive existing facilities.
Venezuela claims to hold roughly a fifth of the world’s oil reserves, though analysts note that any rapid increase in output would be constrained by aging infrastructure, low prices and ongoing political uncertainty.
Trump said on Tuesday that between 30 and 50 million barrels of Venezuelan crude would be shipped to US ports, with the proceeds estimated at more than $2 billion at current prices, placed under his control.
Maduro and his wife were captured in Caracas on Saturday and flown to New York to face drug-related charges.
It remains unclear whether Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, formally agreed to the arrangement, how the plan would be implemented, or the legal basis for US control of the oil sales.
“Think about where Venezuela was a week ago,” Wright said. “It’s a little different today, but everything else is largely the same. This is going to require cooperation and pressure between the United States and Venezuela.”
IS THE TONSE ALLIANCE IN FREE FALL – AND WHO IS TO BLAME?
Political Commentary | Lusaka, Zambia
What we are watching is not confusion. It is consequence. The Tonse Alliance is not collapsing because of enemies outside. It is fracturing because of failures within. This week did not create the crisis. It merely exposed it, brutally and in daylight.
Within hours, the country was served three irreconcilable realities. A formal withdrawal letter from Patriots for Economic Progress. A public disowning of an “illegal” Tonse Alliance meeting by the Patriotic Front. And a sweeping declaration by Prof. Danny Pule announcing constitutional changes, interim leadership, and a fast tracked presidential selection process. These positions cannot all be true at the same time. Yet they exist together. That is the point. That is the problem.
At the centre of this wreckage sits Honourable Given Lubinda.
Leadership is tested in moments of uncertainty. Tonse Alliance has been uncertain since the death of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu. Under Lubinda’s watch, that uncertainty has hardened into paralysis. Meetings are contested. Authority is disputed. Allies are alienated. Parties are exiting. This is not bad luck. It is failure to lead.
You cannot preside over an alliance where one hand issues directives while another nullifies them. You cannot call for unity while allowing chaos to become the organising principle. Tonse is sliding, and it is sliding under Lubinda’s stewardship.
Then there is Chris Zumani Zimba.
He must be confronted with a hard truth. The ECL legacy does not belong to him. It never did. He holds no moral, political, or historical mandate to speak for President Lungu posthumously. The public knows this. The party knows this. Continuing to posture as the custodian of that legacy is not only dishonest, it is destructive.
President Lungu’s name is not a tool for factional leverage. It is not a shield for political manoeuvres. And it is not a licence for impunity. Zumani Zimba has become a dent in that legacy, not a defender of it. The honourable thing would be to step back and stop dishonouring a name that belongs to the nation.
The PF’s deeper wound, however, remains unresolved.
Honourable Miles Sampa lit the match in 2023 when he convened an illegal convention. That act fractured the party, opened the door to endless litigation, and handed the ruling establishment a permanent weapon of interference. Since then, the PF has refused to deal honestly with that original sin.
This is the part many want to skip. You cannot heal what you refuse to acknowledge. Miles Sampa must own his role in this mess and do whatever it takes to repair it. Pride has already cost the party too much.
The ruling party did not create this disorder, but it has certainly exploited it. The continued confusion around Robert Chabinga is not accidental. It is strategic. And it works only because the PF keeps handing over ammunition.
Then came the shock.
Rev Dr. Danny Pule’s actions are not merely controversial. They are a betrayal of process, trust, and collective discipline. Convening a virtual meeting that purports to dissolve PF’s standing within Tonse, amend the constitution, and install interim leadership while court matters remain unresolved was reckless.
The result was predictable. Mr Sean Tembo walked. His letter is not emotional. It is clinical. It cites bickering, paralysis, and loss of public confidence. That is not the language of a man looking for drama. It is the language of someone cutting losses.
And let us be clear. Pastor Peter Chanda’s earlier exit was not accidental either. The vehicle President Lungu left for electoral participation was the NCP. Internal manoeuvres, particularly by Lubinda, strangled that option. The cost of that miscalculation is now obvious.
This is no longer about Tonse versus PF versus personalities. It is about maturity.
The PF presidential hopefuls need to snap out of this stupor. Ego has replaced strategy. Narcissism has replaced calculation. No one beats Hakainde Hichilema in 2026 while compromised, divided, and litigated into paralysis..
Reality is unforgiving.
Only Counsel Makebi Zulu can legitimately claim and represent the ECL legacy. That is not sentiment. It is fact grounded in loyalty, consistency, and political posture.
Honourable Chishimba Kambwili remains the only figure with raw, organic crowd pulling power, regardless of venue or circumstance. Ignore that at your peril.
And Mr. Willah Mudolo flirting with Robert Chabinga is not strategy. It is tragic comedy. Chabinga will take the money, leave the wreckage, and move on. History is not subtle about this.
As for Honourable Brian Mundubile, the truth is uncomfortable but necessary. You cannot fight Hakainde Hichilema while compromised. You cannot posture as opposition while entangled in contradictions that sap credibility.
What is unfolding now is not a temporary storm. It is a reckoning.
The question is simple. Will the PF and its allies confront reality, clean their house, and think rationally? Or will they continue this slow, public unravelling while pretending it is strategy?
History is watching. Voters are watching. And unlike internal meetings, they do not accept null and void excuses.
We destroyed everything so Hichilema could fail, PF Chama South MP confesses
PF CHAMA South member of parliament Davison Mung’andu has openly confessed that the former ruling party deliberately destroyed the country’s economy and institutions so that President Hakainde Hichilema could fail once his administration took over.
Speaking during President Hichilema’s public engagement in Choma, Mung’andu likened PF’s exit from government to a defeated army resorting to scorched-earth tactics in war.
He said in warfare, when one side realises it is about to be defeated, it destroys everything so that the victors inherit ruins and fail to govern effectively.
Mung’andu told the gathering that this was exactly what PF did when it lost power to the UPND in 2021.
“I want you to carry this message. This is the country that President Hakainde Hichilema inherited. Everything, as PF, we destroyed so that the ones that had triumphed should not succeed, just in case we could come back and fight them,” Mung’andu said.
“Just one example, we carried US$ 9 million. This is the biggest heist in Europe by an African man, carrying US$ 9 million in bags, when we knew that Hakainde Hichilema would be sworn in the next week.”
Addressing UPND members who may be disappointed that life has not instantly become luxurious under the new administration, the PF MP said the suffering was a result of the huge debt burden deliberately left behind.
He explained that the PF government left a debt mountain so huge that it was impossible for the new administration to enjoy public resources the way PF leaders allegedly did.
Mung’andu further made a startling confession that PF members expected Zambians to quickly turn against President Hichilema and even prayed for calamities to befall the country so that he could fail.
He admitted that PF celebrated disasters such as cholera outbreaks and drought, believing they would weaken the President politically.
“We were very sure that those who voted for Hakainde Hichilema would rise against him in five years time. We continued to pray for all sorts of bad things to happen to him. When cholera came, we celebrated. When drought came, we celebrated,” he said.
The Chama South lawmaker also said ‘PF inclined’ media are spreading false reports about President Hichilema’s health, claiming that PF members were still praying for his downfall.
“Even now, check the media, they are saying Hakainde Hichilema is in hospital on the drip. We are still praying,” he said.
However, Mung’andu said their plans failed because, according to him, President Hichilema prays to a “Supreme God” who has protected the country from total collapse.
He expressed shock that despite the economic sabotage, no Zambian died of hunger and instead development funds started flowing into constituencies.
TONSE ALLIANCE COUNCIL OF LEADERS MEETING: THE FACTS, NOT PROPAGANDA
Former PS Elias Kamanga shares..
Credible sources within the Tonse Alliance Council of Leaders have confirmed that yesterday’s virtual meeting, chaired by Prof. Danny Pule, commenced at 18:00 hours and ran well past 22:00 hours, with 23 members fully logged in and participating.
It is important to place facts on record.
The quorum requirement for a valid Tonse Council of Leaders meeting is 15 members plus the Chairperson. Yesterday’s meeting exceeded this threshold by a wide margin. Therefore, any attempt to label the meeting “illegitimate” is factually incorrect and an act of political6 dishonest.
Below is the verified list of constituent members and organisations that attended and participated in the meeting:
Prof. Danny Pule – CDP President & Tonse Vice Chairperson (Chair) Mr. Chifumu Banda – Acting President, FDD Mr. Nason Msoni – President, All People’s Congress (APC)
Mr. Kelvin Fube Bwalya (KBF) – President, ZMP Dr. Cosmo Mumba – President, NRP Mr. Francis Shafwepa – Acting President, EEP Hon. Stephen Kampyongo – PF MP & Tonse Member Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya – PF MP & Tonse Member
Hon. Brian Mundubile – PF MP & Tonse Member PS Bernard Chomba – PF Tonse Member Mr. Kennedy Chanda – Executive Director, GEI Mr. Ibrahim Mwamba – President, SASYDA Mr. Shadrick Mumba – President, ZAYEF Dr. Cephas Mukuka – Former Trade Unionist
Rev. Mwape – Former Diplomat & Senior Citizen Mr. Gregory Chisha – Executive Director, CCONLEJ Mr. Debby Kambwa Aongola – Tonse Legal Counsel & Acting Legal Chairperson Dr. Chris Zumani Zimba – National Coordinator & Lead Consultant
Apostle Simon Mwanza – Chairperson, Apostolic Prophetic Council Jason Mwanza – Gen Z President Mr. Thomas Sipalo – Comedian & Politician Hon. Davies Mwila – PF Tonse Member Chanoda Ngwira – Spokesperson, Umodzi Kumawa
If this does not constitute legitimacy, then one must ask: what does legitimacy look like?
The meeting was duly convened in accordance with Tonse governing instruments and lawfully chaired by Prof. Danny Pule, who is the legally recognised leader to preside over Council of Leaders meetings in the absence of it’s Founder, President Edgar Chagwa Lungu
Consequently, all resolutions passed at this meeting are constitutionally binding on the Tonse Alliance.
What also emerged clearly from the deliberations is a growing fatigue and impatience among Alliance partners with the internal contradictions, obstructionism, and political paralysis associated with the Given Lubinda faction of the Patriotic Front.
The Alliance has made a strategic choice: to move forward—with or without PF.
From both the breadth of attendance and the diversity of organisations represented, it is evident that Tonse is consolidating, while PF as a party is still recklessly fantasizing.
Unless there is a drastic and immediate course of correction, PF as we know it, risks sliding into political irrelevance and possible oblivion beyond August 2026.
Tonse Alliance logo designer and founder Sean E. Tembo has with immediate effect ditched the the Alliance.
WITHDRAWAL OF THE PATRIOTS FOR ECONOMIC PROGRESS (PeP) FROM THE TONSE ALLIANCE
1. Seasonal greetings to you sir. We write with reference to the matter captioned above, as well as the several happenings of the past few months, within the TONSE ALLIANCE.
2. It is with profound sadness and regret that we hereby inform you that our party has resolved to withdraw from the TONSE ALLIANCE with immediate effect.
3. When we founded the TONSE ALLIANCE in June 2024, coined its name and designed its logo, we never thought a day would come when we would have to walk away from our own creation. But here we are.
4. The main reason for our departure is the constant squabbles, bickering and procrastination among senior members of the Alliance, which has had the overall effect of undermining public confidence in not only the Alliance as a collective, but also in its individual members, including ourselves.
5. With barely 7 months before the general election, we in the Patriots for Economic Progress have decided to replace bickering, quarrels and uncertainty with focus, certainty, and resoluteness. Hence our decision to depart from the TONSE ALLIANCE.
6. As we leave however, we shall obviously miss the warmth and brotherliness that we shared with yourself and our other comrades in the TONSE ALLIANCE, during the good times. I am also forever indebted to the TONSE ALLIANCE and the late Chairman and 6th Republican President; Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, for the trust placed in me, through my being appointed as the TONSE ALLIANCE Spokesperson and Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee. I will always be thankful.
7. I wish to emphasize that even as we depart from the TONSE ALLIANCE, we shall forever consider the Alliance as our brothers in arms, as we aspire to deliver a better nation to the Zambian people.
8. I thank you.
Yours In Service of the Nation:
Sean E Tembo (SET) PARTY PRESIDENT PATRIOTS FOR ECONOMIC PROGRESS (PeP).
🇿🇲 EXCLUSIVE | Hichilema Reclaims the Political Stage
The first major public engagement of Zambia’s 2026 election year did not begin in Lusaka. It began in Choma, deep in Southern Province, where politics is not merely contested but inherited. At the Choma Cricket Club grounds on Wednesday, a sea of supporters drawn from all 15 districts gathered to receive a President returning from deliberate political quiet into full view.
Cabinet Ministers, ruling party lawmakers, opposition figures, independents, civic leaders and traditional authorities stood shoulder to shoulder as Hakainde Hichilema made his first major electoral-era appearance of the year.
Security was visibly heightened, not as spectacle, but necessity. The crowd was large, expectant, and unmistakably at home.
The President arrived to traditional drums and dances heavy with ancestral symbolism. Dancers waved wooden spears and cow tails, invoking cattle wealth and heritage. The address that followed was delivered predominantly in Tonga, the dominant local language, reinforcing both cultural proximity and political ownership of the space. It was not accidental.
It was calibrated.
Hichilema spoke with confidence, framing his first term as a period of repair after what he described as one of the most severe economic depreciations in Zambia’s recent history. He pointed to stabilising macroeconomic indicators, including the strengthening of the Kwacha against major currencies, revived mining operations, and reforms in agriculture and energy.
Free education featured prominently, presented not as policy rhetoric but as an irreversible social investment.
On mining, the President said reforms were now “trickling down” to ordinary citizens, linking sector recovery to household-level impact. Mines and Minerals Development Minister Paul Kabuswe echoed this, citing the training of over 1,000 small-scale miners on the Copperbelt in safe and legal practices as part of a broader effort to formalise the sector and stimulate local economies.
The political undertone sharpened as the rally progressed. Southern Province Members of Parliament collectively endorsed Hichilema as the sole presidential candidate of the UPND for August 2026, presenting a unified front from a region that has been the party’s strongest base since the era of Anderson Mazoka. The President reminded the crowd that the province holds close to 1.2 million registered voters and urged turnout discipline, warning against what he described as the return of cadreism, political violence, and tribal mobilisation under a divided opposition.
What distinguished this rally was not only message but mood. Hichilema appeared hyper, animated, even dancing on the platform, evoking memories of the 2021 campaign trail. The difference now is status. He enters this cycle as an incumbent, with state authority, institutional reach, and a party that has governed its way through crisis into relative stability.
Behind the scenes, aides describe the President’s recent low profile as intentional. While public discourse has been consumed by church–state tensions and opposition mobilisation around symbolic issues, UPND operatives have been active in less visible terrain.
Northern Province, long considered PF heartland since the days of Michael Sata, has become a strategic focus. Political adviser Levy Ngoma has been camped in the region, quietly consolidating support, engaging local leadership, and testing the durability of green strongholds.
With Parliament now expanded to 226 constituencies under the amended framework, the 2026 contest is shifting from noise to arithmetic. Multiple sources familiar with ruling party strategy say UPND believes it can secure upward of 140 parliamentary seats if current opposition fragmentation persists. The objective, they say, is not domination through rhetoric but accumulation through structure.
As dusk settled in Choma, the message from the ground was unmistakable. The President had not been absent. He had been preparing. Southern Province provided the safest place to re-enter the arena, but the campaign logic extends far beyond home ground.
The contest ahead will not be fought only on timelines or pulpits, but ward by ward, language by language, and number by number. The storm is no longer forming. It has begun to move.
Lunte Member of Parliament Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya writes:::
Archi-bishop Dr. ALECK BANDA – YOUR FIGHT IS NOT CARNAL.
—————————–
It is spiritual to the pulling down of strongholds.
And we all know or ought to know the conduct of strongholds.
Your being branded Lucifer is not enough. Cordoning your Cathedral in prevention of prayer is not by police is also not enough.
We were told by a government minister that government will start isolating the clergy from it sheep and handle them politically. We are now witnessing the manifestation of what we thought were mere threats.
Your personal case is really special because we do not know to what extent politics are willing to play. Those driving them appear determined to extend bounds beyond reasonableness.
But be sure that in this world you shall have tribulations. Because even the one who called you; our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ suffered tribulations here on earth.
The fortunate part even in this world is that Eklesia is planted on the Rock spoken of by Saint Peter.
Imagine what would become of Eklessia if it was planted on CDF, cash for work or social cash transfer –
Blessed be God who revealed the rock upon which Eklesia is planted.
Those who recognise the attack on the bloody road to Jerico. And as Martin Luther King Jr would put it; “project me into thou.”
I therefore thank all those who found it fit to support our shephard on that spiritually dark day. May God consider you well according to his loving kindness.
HICHILEMA’S CATTLE – A CONSTRUCTIVE APPROACH TO THE QUESTION OF TRIBE IN ZAMBIAN POLITICS
When I first saw a picture of Hichilema and his cattle, some significant thoughts ran through my mind.
One of these is the importance of Zambia’s diverse tribal landscape.
Our tribes represent value systems that, if interrogated closely, constitute indigenous economic and cultural systems necessary and primary in national development.
Let’s take for instance Tongas since I am talking about the President.
Most Tongas I have known upclose and personal have a piece of land and animals no matter what ever else they may be doing.
Secondly, Tongas will not kill their animal willy-nilly because they are the economic basis for future generations.
So, when a Tonga President is pictured alongside his animals, it helps expose an indigenous economic system that must inspire others to engage with their respective traditional systems.
Each tribe in Zambia has a traditional economic system unique to themselves.
What is required is a knowledge system that gathers together these indigenous systems for purposes of systematically exploiting them for national development.
It’s noteworthy that Hichilema spends most of his vacations at his farm.
It’s helpful if an appropriate narrative accompanies the images that are taken of him.
We have had leaders in this country who took their vacations in places only akin to white folks – in the Caribbean Islands and lodges in national game parks!
Now that there’s a leader who takes his vacation in his traditional homestead, may the talk of tribe assume a more constructive narrative.
POVERTY BITES AS POLITICIANS ABANDON RESIDENTS — CHANDA
United Prosperous and Peaceful Zambia (UPPZ) leader Charles Chanda has sounded the alarm over worsening living conditions in Kasama, Northern Province, warning that many residents are trapped in poverty while political leaders only show interest during election periods.
Speaking on Radio Mano on Wednesday, Chanda said the reality on the ground paints a grim picture of daily survival for many families, with basic needs such as food, shelter and decent livelihoods increasingly out of reach.
“In Kasama, people are suffering every day. Families are failing to meet their most basic needs,” Chanda said. “It is painful that politicians come here during elections with promises of change, but once the votes are counted, the people are forgotten.”
He described the situation as a clear sign of leadership failure, arguing that development cannot be seasonal or tied to campaign periods alone.
Chanda emphasized that poverty in Kasama requires consistent, people-centred leadership and long-term solutions rather than political rhetoric.
The UPPZ leader said his party remains committed to working with communities regardless of whether it is in power, adding that true leadership is measured by service, not slogans.
“We will not wait for elections to act. UPPZ believes in standing with the people every day and working towards real change,” he said.
Chanda further urged residents of Kasama to rally behind the UPPZ mayoral candidate in the upcoming elections, stating that local leadership is key to improving service delivery and addressing the high cost of living.
“If Kasama is to move forward, residents must choose leaders who genuinely care about their welfare and are ready to work beyond election time,” he said.
He also called for unity among the people of Kasama, encouraging them to speak with one voice in demanding better living conditions and accountable leadership.
Chanda’s remarks come amid growing public frustration over rising poverty levels, unemployment and limited access to basic services in Kasama, reflecting broader economic challenges facing many Zambian communities.
The powerful image of the Catholic nun challenging the police officer finds deep resonance within Biblical narratives where divine mandates necessitate bold, often confrontational, action against entrenched injustice.
The nun went to the DEC offices to demonstrate solidarity with Archbishop Dr Alick Banda after the Catholic Church declared that the Archbishop’s summons constituted an attack on the church.
From Jesus’ overturning of tables in the Temple to the unwavering challenges issued by Old Testament prophets, scripture offers a clear template for moments when moral clarity demands an active, visible opposition to wrongdoing.
The nun’s stance, far from being a deviation from Christian ethics, can be understood as an appropriation of this tradition of righteous intervention, asserting that sometimes, the holiest duty involves disrupting the status quo in defense of justice and human dignity.
DU PRESIDENT ACKIM ANTHONY NJOBVU PAYS A COURTESY CALL ON VJ MWAANGA
… says the meeting culminated in a constructive conversation with the veteran statesperson.
LUSAKA, WEDNESDAY 07,JANUARY 2026 [SMART EAGLES]
DEMOCRATIC Union president Ackim Anthony Njobvu today paid a courtesy call on veteran politician Dr. VJ Mwaanga at his residence in Lusaka.
Mr. Njobvu said the meeting with Dr. Mwaanga culminated into a constructive conversation.
“I paid a courtesy call on Hon. Dr VJ Mwaanga. It was a privilege to engage in a constructive conversation with him, a seasoned statesperson and prolific author,” Mr. Njobvu said.
The DU leader said the discussion centered around the intricacies of Zambian politics, offering valuable insights into the nation’s governance and development trajectory.
“Dr Mwaanga graciously presented one of his five published works, a testament to his dedication to public service and literary contribution.l,” Mr. Njobvu said.
OPPOSITION IN WESTERN PROVINCE SUFFER MAJOR SETBACK AS MEMBERS DEFECT TO UPND
The opposition parties have experienced another major setback as a total of 47 members dumped their political parties to join the governing UPND in Mongu Central constituency at a colorful event held at the Party Secretariat in Mongu this afternoon.
Citizen First’s Provincial Chairlady, Loveness Chingumbe, along with her Vice Utakela Maluke, and other members, have made the decision to join the mighty UPND. Notably, PF Provincial Chairlady Namatama Kafuma and Secretary for Women’s Affairs, Agatha Kamizhi, also joined the ruling party citing the recently enacted Bill 7 into law that will include marginalized groups like Women, the Youth and People living with disabilities into the governance system.
Additionally, Namaa Kayombo, the Provincial Chairlady of the Socialist Party, led a group of members in their transition.
Upon receiving the new members, a visibly elated Provincial Chairman Kapelwa Mbangweta welcomed them warmly, encouraging them to integrate into the party and contribute to its growth in readiness for the 2026 general elections.
The Chairman praised the President for his outstanding leadership, which prioritizes the welfare of all citizens, particularly those in the Western Province, historically marginalized by past administrations. He urged all members to propagate the positive message of President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership.
Norway ‘foolishly’ chose not to award me Nobel Peace Prize despite ending eight wars — Trump
United State president Donald trump whose country who deny Nigerian citizens visa if intent is to go give birth in the country, calls for ceasefire between ThaILAND, cAMBODIA, US: Two-thirds of Justice Department unit quits amid Trump’s legal battles
United States President, Donald Trump, has criticised Norway for not awarding him the Nobel Peace Prize, insisting that his actions on global security and diplomacy merited the honour.
In a post on his Truth Social on Wednesday, Trump said his administration compelled NATO members to significantly increase their defence spending, arguing that many countries were previously failing to meet their financial obligations while the United States bore the burden.
He maintained that his intervention pushed allies to raise defence contributions to five per cent of their gross domestic product, a move he described as previously thought impossible.
The president also claimed that his involvement prevented Russia from fully taking over Ukraine, adding that his absence from global affairs would have emboldened Moscow.
He further asserted that he single-handedly brought an end to eight wars, a record he said was overlooked by the Nobel committee in Norway, which is a NATO member.
PLOT TO KILL BURKINA FASO LEADER FOILED, SAYS JUNTA
A plot to kill Burkina Faso’s military leader, Capt Ibrahim Traoré, has been thwarted, the West African nation has announced.
The sophisticated plan had been hatched by Lt Col Paul Henri Damiba, the military officer ousted by Traoré in September 2022, the security minister said in a late-night broadcast.
“Our intelligence services intercepted this operation in the final hours. They had planned to assassinate the Head of State and then strike other key institutions, including civilian personalities,” said Mahamadou Sana, further alleging that the plot had been funded from neighbouring Ivory Coast.
There has been no comment from either Col Damiba or Ivory Coast.
Since seizing power, Capt Traoré has faced at least two coup attempts and is also grappling with growing jihadist violence that has forced millions from their homes.
Despite these challenges and his authoritarian reputation, the 37-year-old military leader maintains strong popular support and has gained a following across the continent for his pan-Africanist vision and criticism of Western influence.
According to the security minister, the authorities uncovered a leaked video showing the plotters discussing their plans.
In the footage they allegedly spoke about how they intended to assassinate the president either at close range or by planting explosives at his residence just after 23:00 local time on Saturday 3 January.
Afterwards they allegedly planned to target other senior military and civilian figures.
Sana alleged that Damiba had mobilised both soldiers and civilian supporters, secured foreign funding most significantly 70m CFA francs ($125,000; £92,000) delivered from Ivory Coast and planned to knock out the country’s drone-launch base before foreign forces could intervene.
“We are carrying out ongoing investigations and have made several arrests. These individuals will be brought to justice soon,” the minister said on national television.
Sana insisted the situation was under control and urged citizens “not to be misled, out of naivety, into dangerous schemes”.
It is not clear how many people have been arrested.
Critics, both local and foreign, have accused Traoré of authoritarianism and say his government suppresses dissent – including arbitrary arrests of military officers and restrictions on the media.
It is not the first time the junta has pointed the finger of blame about foreign interference in its affairs at Ivory Coast.
These continuing internal power struggles will further heighten regional tensions.
Col Damiba served as Burkina Faso’s leader from January-September 2022 after seizing power from an elected government.
After being ousted he went into exile in neighbouring Togo and said in a message published on social media that he wished his successor every success.
U.S. seizes Russian-flagged oil tanker in North Atlantic, captures second vessel in Caribbean
U.S. forces have seized a Russian‑flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic after a weeks‑long pursuit and captured a second sanctioned vessel in the Caribbean, officials said Wednesday, marking a major escalation in Washington’s enforcement of oil sanctions linked to Venezuela and broader geopolitical tensions.
The tanker, now named Marinera and formerly the Bella‑1, was intercepted between Scotland and Iceland following refusal to comply with a U.S. blockade and boarding attempts last month in the Caribbean.
The vessel was on a U.S. sanctions list for allegedly smuggling cargo tied to groups linked to Iran, and its crew had reflagged and repainted the ship with Russian identifiers in an apparent bid to evade capture.
U.S. European Command said the operation was executed under a warrant from a U.S. federal court and involved coordination between the Department of Justice, Homeland Security, the Coast Guard and military assets.
The move underscores Washington’s commitment to enforcing oil‑related sanctions “anywhere in the world,” according to Pentagon officials.
In a related action, U.S. forces also took control of a second oil tanker, M/T Sophia, in the Caribbean Sea. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the vessel had been either docked in Venezuela or en route to it and was likewise linked to sanctions violations.
Moscow has condemned the North Atlantic seizure as “illegal” and a breach of maritime law, with Russian officials decrying it as “piracy” and demanding the crew’s protection and repatriation. The incident coming amid heightened U.S. pressure on Venezuela’s oil sector could further strain U.S.‑Russia relations.
This developing situation is part of a broader U.S. campaign targeting oil shipments viewed as evading sanctions and destabilising regional and global markets.
VENEZUALA OWES OVER 150BILLION DOLLARS TO VARIOUS CREDITORS – NO WONDER THE WORLD IS CAUTIOUS IN ITS RESPONSE TO THE US INVASION
In a complex web of debts – commercial bonds, arbitration claims, and oil-based loans/sovereign loans, behind the scenes a race is underway to untangle the web and restructure the debt.
Since the economic sanctions of 2019, Venezuela has been in a debt limbo.
But the US capture of Maduro has, ironically, given renewed hope in the investor and creditor community that perhaps the Trump Administration could provide a solution to the uncertain economic situation thus unlocking that country’s ability to service its debts.
It is hoped that US oil companies may be encouraged to go in and invest thus unlocking the potential economic resources that could enable Caracas meet her debt obligations.
But the political uncertainty may hold them back.
If you think the Chinese government would do anything rush, think again – there is over 13 billion dollars at stake that Venezuala owes her!
And Beijing, prioritizing money over politics, wants to collect what she is owed.
While the IMF often plays a pivotal role in debt restructuring, instead, analysts see the US playing a key role in this regard.
Perhaps this explains why the Trump Administration is talking more of access to Venezuelan oil resources than the drugs that were used as a pretext to snatch Maduro.
Whether the interim President will play ball remains to be seen.
Perhaps she should, after all, it’s not her Uncle Sam has beef with but her former boss.
If she doesn’t, who knows what the unhinged Trump could do next?
President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday night that he will meet with his Colombian counterpart at the White House after threatening to arrest him over the flow of drugs into the United States.
Trump posted on Truth Social that he plans to meet with Colombian President Gustavo Petro at the White House. Just two days ago, Trump called Petro a “sick man” who “likes making cocaine and selling it to the United States” following the arrest of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro.
“And he’s not going to be doing it very long. Let me tell you,” Trump said at the time.
On Wednesday, Trump said he appreciated the “tone” of Petro’s call with him.
“It was a Great Honor to speak with the President of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, who called to explain the situation of drugs and other disagreements that we have had,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “I appreciated his call and tone, and look forward to meeting him in the near future.”
Former U.S. Ambassador to Denmark Rufus Gifford blasted President Donald Trump’s escalating threats to seize Greenland — even by military force — warning on MS NOW that such a move would run directly counter to NATO’s mission and could force the alliance to defend Denmark against the United States.
The threats, which have even a number of Republicans in Congress up in arms, come despite years and years of Danish officials making clear they have no interest in selling or giving Greenland to the United States, which has some military presence on the island for global security purposes.
“Do you think anyone in this administration understands that if a shot is fired towards Greenland by the United States of America, that our NATO allies are no longer in that moment, our allies, Article 5 would be invoked by the other members to protect that one neighbor,” said “The Weeknight” host and former Republican Party chair Michael Steele. “Please help us understand and contextualize the severe dynamics involved here about any military action against a fellow NATO alliance member.”
“Yeah, it is. It’s extraordinary, Michael,” said Gifford. “I mean, I would make the argument that this foreign policy, if you want to even call it a foreign policy, is not only reckless, which it is, but it’s also clueless.”
“I hear what Stephen Miller said the other day. I see even what Secretary Rubio said today … It’s as if they don’t understand how NATO works,” continued Gifford. “They don’t understand how alliances work. In essence, this entire region, NATO, was set up originally to prevent something like this from happening. You actually don’t need to invade another country in order to protect your national security, because NATO is all for one, one for all. Meaning if one ally is attacked, the entire alliance is compelled to respond.”
“So their national security argument, Michael, holds zero water here because honestly, if Greenland were attacked, whether they were independent Danish or anywhere else that was NATO ally, all of us, as the alliance, would be compelled to respond,” he added. “And so the national security argument is just completely bogus here.”
Footballers protesting for unpaid bonuses during the African tournament has become the new normal, even though it exposed the poor leadership of various football Associations.
Read Also: Victor Osimhen’s Hat-trick Against Benin, not enough to take The Super Eagles to World Cup 2026 Directly
Before tournaments, leaders of countries and football presidents go into an agreement with the players’ represented country that they will be given a handsome reward if they get to the knockout stage of the tournament or win the ultimate.
This gesture is to motivate them to play their hearts out, but unfortunately, the FAs keep on disappointing the players after they get what they want.
The latest victim of the empty promises from their Football Federation is the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
They were to train ahead of the knockout clash against Algeria in the African Cup of Nations in Morocco, after recording a 100% record by winning all 4 of their matches, but unfortunately, the players have refused to train due to unpaid bonuses.
The two parties agreed on a $30,000 bonus as a qualification fee to reach the Round of 16, which they did, $5,000 for each goal scored since the commencement of the AFCON, and some daily undisclosed allowance after training sessions.
The inability of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, to fulfil their promises has plunged the football fans into sadness, as they do not know if the Super Eagles will fully prepare for the game or play abysmally and exit the tournament.
Fans are pleading with the Leadership of the Nigerian Football Federation to do the needful before it’s too late.
