BOMBSHELL WAR VET VOWS: “MNANGAGWA MUST GO, 2030 PLOT WILL DIE!”
War veterans’ leader and Vice President Chiwenga ally Blessed “Cde Bombshell” Geza has launched a blistering end-of-year broadside, declaring that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s days are numbered and that the much-talked-about 2030 Project is “dead before birth”.
In a fiery message to Zimbabweans at home and abroad, Geza said 2025 had been a year of suffering, truth-telling and political awakening, as corruption deepened and ordinary citizens were pushed to the brink. He accused Mnangagwa and what he called Zvigananda elite looters masquerading as leaders of hijacking the liberation movement to protect stolen wealth and evade accountability.
Geza insisted his stance is driven by duty, not ambition, warning that constitutional manipulation and third-term ambitions threaten the nation’s soul. He revealed he was forced into hiding for speaking out, as war veterans and citizens were arrested for demanding their rights.
But defiant to the end, Cde Bombshell vowed that 2026 would be a turning point, declaring: “Power that fears the end has already failed. Zimbabwe will rise again.”
War veterans’ leader and Vice President Chiwenga ally Blessed “Cde Bombshell” Geza has launched a blistering end-of-year broadside, declaring that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s days are numbered and that the much-talked-about 2030 Project is “dead before birth”.
In a fiery message to Zimbabweans at home and abroad, Geza said 2025 had been a year of suffering, truth-telling and political awakening, as corruption deepened and ordinary citizens were pushed to the brink. He accused Mnangagwa and what he called Zvigananda elite looters masquerading as leaders of hijacking the liberation movement to protect stolen wealth and evade accountability.
Geza insisted his stance is driven by duty, not ambition, warning that constitutional manipulation and third-term ambitions threaten the nation’s soul. He revealed he was forced into hiding for speaking out, as war veterans and citizens were arrested for demanding their rights.
But defiant to the end, Cde Bombshell vowed that 2026 would be a turning point, declaring: “Power that fears the end has already failed. Zimbabwe will rise again.”
DStv Saves 12 Popular Channels After Last-Minute Deal
DStv has confirmed that 12 popular television channels will remain on its platform after a last-minute deal was struck to prevent their removal at the end of December 2025.
The channels had been scheduled to go off air at midnight on New Year’s Eve before the agreement was finalised.
New Deal Saves Discovery and Warner Bros. Channels According to Phil Mphela, the eleventh-hour turnaround follows the finalisation of a new multi-year agreement between Canal+ and Warner Bros. Discovery.
The deal ensures the continued broadcast of channels such as Discovery Channel, TLC, Cartoon Network, Cartoonito, CNN International, Food Network, HGTV, Investigation Discovery, TNT, The Travel Channel, Discovery Family, and Real Time.
Entertainment analyst Phil Mphela confirmed the development on social media, revealing that negotiations were concluded just hours before the previous agreement expired.
HBO Content and Streaming Expansion Planned Beyond keeping the channels on DStv, the newly signed agreement also opens the door for expanded premium content across the platform. HBO programming will continue airing on M-Net, while plans are underway to introduce the HBO Max streaming service in Africa in 2026, marking a significant expansion of Warner Bros. Discovery’s footprint on the continent.
Not All Channels Spared Despite the positive news, not every channel avoided removal. Several services linked to Paramount Africa and CBS AMC Networks will still exit the DStv lineup.
CBS AMC Networks confirmed that CBS Reality and CBS Justice were shut down on 31 December 2025, while Bet_Africa, MTV Base Africa, and other affected channels will also no longer be available to subscribers.
Mixed Outcome for Viewers While the loss of some channels remains a blow for certain audiences, the retention of key international brands offers relief to millions of DStv households heading into 2026, easing fears of a major content blackout.
RUSSIA LAUNCHED 54,000 DRONES, 44,782 GUIDED BOMBS, AND 2,000 MISSILES AT UKRAINE IN 2025
Russia reportedly carried out an enormous aerial campaign against Ukraine throughout 2025.
The figures show 54,000 one-way attack drones, 44,782 guided aerial bombs, and 2,000 missiles launched over the course of the year, reflecting near-constant pressure across Ukrainian airspace and front-line areas.
Ukraine’s air defenses absorbed the brunt of this assault.
The Ukrainian Air Force successfully intercepted approximately 46,000 drones and 1,100 missiles, limiting damage to major population centers, energy infrastructure, and military targets.
While many weapons still reached their targets, interception rates remained high despite sustained saturation attacks.
Air raid sirens across Ukraine screamed at least 19,033 times, effectively turning daily life into a relentless struggle for survival under a permanent canopy of threatLAUNCHED 54,000 DRONES, 44,782 GUIDED BOMBS, AND 2,000 MISSILES AT UKRAINE IN 2025
Russia reportedly carried out an enormous aerial campaign against Ukraine throughout 2025.
The figures show 54,000 one-way attack drones, 44,782 guided aerial bombs, and 2,000 missiles launched over the course of the year, reflecting near-constant pressure across Ukrainian airspace and front-line areas.
Ukraine’s air defenses absorbed the brunt of this assault.
The Ukrainian Air Force successfully intercepted approximately 46,000 drones and 1,100 missiles, limiting damage to major population centers, energy infrastructure, and military targets.
While many weapons still reached their targets, interception rates remained high despite sustained saturation attacks.
Air raid sirens across Ukraine screamed at least 19,033 times, effectively turning daily life into a relentless struggle for survival under a permanent canopy of threats.
As all Ghanaians were planning to enter 2026 with happiness, Ebo Noah was arrested by the Ghana Police on December 31, 2025, for his fake prophecy.
After the Ghana Police arrested self-acclaimed prophet Ebo Noah, who prophesied there would be a global flood, he appeared before the Adenta Circuit Court.
The content creator switched from comic content to religious after he reportedly received a divine vision from God about a Global flood on December 25, 2025.
The Modern-day Noah started cautioning people to prepare to enter his ark before the date above.
His message went viral to the extent that the international media started talking about him in the US and the UK.
A few days before the expected flood, Ebo started saying in his videos that he was interceding for mankind so that the flood would be postponed, but unfortunately, his videos had sunk in the minds of most gullible people, especially kids.
Ghanaians were waiting for a drizzle just to get a sign, but that did not happen because a global weather forecaster disclosed after research that the chance of a flood happening globally is not up to 1%.
People started calling for his arrest, which finally happened.
Content creator and self acclaimed prophet, Evans Eshun, aka, Ebo Noah has been remanded into police custody for two weeks, following the adjournment of court proceedings at the Adentan Circuit Court.
The court has also ordered for a psychiatric evaluation of the suspect at the… pic.twitter.com/0F1Bp9l4wA
He appeared before the Adenta Circuit Court, being charged with false communication, intentionally misleading the public, and publishing false information intended to incite fear and panic.
During the first hearing, the accused’s real identity was revealed to be Evans Eshun, but he chose the name “Ebo Noah” to reflect his new genre of content.
Ebo Noah has been remanded into police custody for two weeks, following the adjournment of court proceedings at the Adentan Circuit Court.
The Adenta Circuit Court has also ordered a psychiatric evaluation of the suspect at the Pantang Psychiatric Hospital, before his next appearance in court.
Hollywood star Will Smith has been hit with a sexual harassment lawsuit filed in Los Angeles just before the New Year.
According to Fox News, the suit was filed by Brian King Joseph, a professional violinist and former America’s Got Talent finalist, who alleges that the actor and musician deliberately groomed him during Smith’s 2025 music tour.
According to court documents, Joseph said his professional relationship with Smith began after a performance in December 2024 and later extended to Smith’s “Based on a True Story: 2025 Tour.” He claimed the relationship became increasingly personal, with Smith allegedly telling him they shared a “special connection.”
Joseph further alleged that while on tour in Las Vegas, he discovered signs that someone had entered his hotel room without permission. Items reportedly found in the room included a handwritten note addressed to him, personal belongings, and medical-related items belonging to someone else. He said the incident left him distressed and fearful, prompting him to alert hotel security and authorities.
The violinist claimed that instead of receiving support, he was later accused of lying about the incident and was dismissed from the tour. He also alleged that another violinist was quickly hired to replace him.
In the lawsuit, Joseph accused Smith of grooming, emotional distress, loss of income, and reputational harm. He is seeking damages for the alleged impact on his mental health and career.
As of the time of reporting, representatives for Will Smith have not publicly responded to the allegations.
Donald Trump has warned that the United States military is “ready to go” if Iranian authorities violently kill protesters, as nationwide demonstrations in Iran enter their fifth day.
The protests were sparked by rising living costs and a collapsing currency. At least five people have reportedly been killed during clashes with security forces, who have responded with tear gas and live ammunition.
Trump issued the warning on his Truth Social platform, writing: “If Iran shots [sic] and violently kills peaceful protesters, which is their custom, the United States of America will come to their rescue. We are locked and loaded and ready to go. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”
Demonstrators in several cities have called for an end to the rule of Iran’s supreme leadership, with some openly demanding the return of the monarchy. Videos circulating online show crowds marching through Tehran chanting “Rest in peace Reza Shah,” a reference to the founder of Iran’s former royal dynasty overthrown in the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
The unrest has been described by some commentators as Iran’s “Tiananmen moment,” with protests breaking out across the country. Observers say the scale is the largest since demonstrations erupted after the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody in 2022, when authorities imposed internet shutdowns and violently suppressed dissent.
In an effort to curb the unrest, schools, universities, and other public institutions were closed on Wednesday. Heavy police deployment has been reported around Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, where the protests are believed to have started. Arrests have also been reported in multiple locations.
Protests have spread beyond the capital to cities including Isfahan, Yazd, Zanjan, and Fasa, where footage showed demonstrators attacking a government building.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Tuesday, December 30, that he had instructed the government to listen to the “legitimate demands” of protesters. A government spokesperson added that a dialogue mechanism would be created to engage with leaders of the protest movement.
Despite these assurances, tensions remain high as international attention grows over how Iranian authorities will respond in the coming days.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that Israel will open a “new front” focused on protecting Christian communities in parts of Africa and the Middle East, including Nigeria.
Netanyahu disclosed this in his New Year’s message published on his official YouTube channel.
Speaking to an audience of Christian Zionists, Netanyahu said Israel was expanding its engagement beyond military confrontations to address growing global threats to Judeo-Christian values.
He also stated that Israel recently fought a “seven-front war” and emerged largely victorious, adding that an additional challenge had now arisen.
According to him, the new front is centred on influencing public opinion, particularly among young people, which he described as a battle for “hearts and minds.”
“I see the battle against us and the battle against our Judeo-Christian tradition basically being waged around the globe,” he said.
Netanyahu identified “radical Shiite Islam and radical Sunni Islam” as the main forces waging that battle, pointing to Iran and the Muslim Brotherhood as leading what he described as opposing axes.
He asserted that Israel was unique in protecting Christian communities and ensuring their growth and safety.
The PM further announced that Israel was joining efforts to establish a coalition of countries, similar to a United Nations (UN) framework, to support Christian communities worldwide, particularly those under threat.
“I see the battle against us and the battle against our Judeo-Christian tradition, basically being waged around the globe. And it’s waged primarily by two forces — radical Shiite Islam and radical Sunni Islam,” he said.
“That means the axis that is led by Iran, much battered, admittedly, but still there, and the Sunni axis led by the Muslim Brotherhood, which permeates everything.
“They go to Europe, the United States, Africa and Nigeria. And we are conscious of the fact that Christians are being persecuted — across the Middle East, in Syria, in Lebanon, in Nigeria, in Turkey and beyond.”
The Israeli leader described the gesture as payback.
“Just as you are helping us, we want to help back, and we’re capable of doing this. In Africa, with intel, in the Middle East, with a lot of means that I won’t itemise.
“This is what our agenda is; it’s a main part of our agenda,” he explained.
Lily Philips announced her retirement from the adult film industry after being baptised in late 2025.
The English OF content creator is known for her daring stunts in her content, her unique perspective on the industry she is in, and what she aimed to achieve before venturing out.
She recently disclosed that at age eleven she started watching that content on the internet, so despite her parent owning a successful cleaning company, Lily had already decided her future as she was studying nutrition at the University of Sheiifield.
Philips had a huge presence on Instagram during her university days, and as someone who used to get intimate with her colleagues for free, she decided to monetize her “talent” by creating an OF account.
Read Also: American OF Content Creator,Rubi Rose, says she can’t fathom why she has no man with her hot body
Lily Philips, who had sex with 1,113 men in 12 hours, turns to Christ and gets baptized pic.twitter.com/zril5JZflw
The numbers kept increasing, but the money she wanted was not trickling in, so she finally got gigs to feature in movies in the adult industry, where she shot explicit content.
In 2024, the actress announced her intention to sleep with 100 men as prelims towards her 1000 men challenge in her quest to break her colleague, Bonnie Blue’s record.
The 100 men were quite hectic, according to her interview after the shoot, but as a go-getter, she was willing to prepare and go for gold.
A news was circulating in the latter middle of 2025 that Lily had carried out her challenge and surpassed her goal by finishing 1,113 in 12 hours. She interacted with each for 39 seconds.
After being intimate with approximately 3000 men, Lily Phillips has decided to get baptised due to her newly found faith.
The video of her getting baptized has caused a massive uproar, with the majority of the criticisms coming from men. They claim women can’t keep leveraging religion as their retirement plan after “exploring” the world and expect people to forget their past, even though it will be on the internet forever.
Some believers are also saying Lily should be pampered in order not to push her away into her previous actions again.
The German government has promised to increase the number of deportations in 2026, but so far, deportation attempts are often thwarted, and new asylum applications are only increasing.
More than a year after the end of the civil war in Syria, over half a million refugees have returned home from Turkey alone.
In Germany, however, the number of asylum applications continues to rise, while deportations have not increased.
In a policy document from the CSU parliamentary group in the Bundestag, lawmakers called for deportations to be carried out via regular flights, including to Syria and Afghanistan.
In practice, deportations are often disrupted if the individuals resist or go into hiding on the day of removal. Experts are calling for stricter measures from lawmakers, as well as additional programs to make voluntary return more attractive.
Since the end of 2024, Turkey has reported roughly 550,000 departures of Syrian citizens, while Germany recorded nearly 25,000 new asylum applications from Syrians in 2025 alone.
🇨🇳 China’s BYD Is About to Overtake Tesla for the First Time Globally
China’s BYD is set to overtake Tesla as the world’s top pure EV seller for the first time, selling about 2.25 million EVs compared to Tesla’s 1.65 million.
Western media will focus on BYD’s slowing growth at home in China and frame it as weakness, but that misses the true story entirely.
China’s EV market is brutally competitive, when growth slows, it’s not stagnation, it’s saturation and optimisation. Dozens of capable domestic rivals, insane price pressure and rapid tech cycles. This is what a mature industrial ecosystem looks like.
What actually stands out is where the growth is coming from: • Europe • Southeast Asia • Latin America • Africa • The UK (BYD’s biggest overseas market, up 880%)
All while facing tariffs, political pressure and active exclusion from the US market.
Meanwhile, Tesla has pivoted away from affordable EVs toward AI, robotaxis and humanoids, with Elon Musk juggling politics, X, SpaceX and Washington. Investors are noticing and sales are starting to slip.
Step back and see the big picture, things become even clearer: China is on track to become the world’s largest auto seller overall, overtaking Japan, not just in EVs, but across the entire industry.
This isn’t about one company winning, it’s about scale, supply chains, pricing power and industrial strategy.
For years we were told Chinese cars couldn’t compete, but now the debate has quietly shifted to whether anyone ekse can catch up.
The uncomfortable truth for legacy automakers is this: China isn’t copying anymore, it’s setting the pace and many cannot keep up.
How long do you think Western brands can maintain premium pricing once Chinese EVs are everywhere?
Burna Boy Breaks Record with Nearly 2 Billion Spotify Streams in 2025
Grammy-winning Nigerian superstar Burna Boy has set a monumental new benchmark for African music, finishing 2025 as the most streamed African artist on Spotify with a record-breaking total.
Top of the Charts
The “Ye” crooner amassed an impressive 1.986 billion streams throughout the year, surpassing his peers to claim the number one spot.
https://youtu.be/2lGq6PdSsw4?si=iXwm-_gPlXAWx8-Q
The Top 5 Leaders
Following closely behind is fellow Nigerian icon Wizkid, who secured the second position with 1.81 billion streams. South African sensation Tyla took the third spot with 1.67 billion streams, while Rema and Davido rounded out the top five with 1.63 billion and 1.58 billion streams, respectively.
The Top 10
The data for the year under review also highlighted other top performers who completed the top 10 list:
Victoria Jones, the daughter of Hollywood icon Tommy Lee Jones, was found de@d at a California hotel early on New Year’s Day. She was 34.
Police arrived at the Fairmont San Francisco hotel around 3:14 a.m. on Thursday after a report of a medical emergency, the San Francisco Police Department told The Post.
Bystanders were given instructions to conduct CPR, but she was de@d by the time authorities arrived on scene, the San Francisco Fire Department said.
Jones was the daughter of “The Fugitive” actor and his first wife, Kimberlea Cloughley.
The Medical Examiner will investigate the cause of her de@th.
Jones acted when she was younger, appearing alongside her father in “Men in Black II.” She also had a role in the TV show “One Tree Hill.”
She also had a role in the 2005 film “The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada,” which was directed by and starred her father, according to her IMDB profile.
Jones ran into some trouble with the law earlier this year as she was arrested at least three times, according to records obtained by The Post.
Back in April, she was collared in Napa County for obstructing a peace officer, being under the influence of a controlled substance, and possession of a narcotic controlled substance, court documents show.
The following month, she was arrested in Santa Cruz County, and in June, back in Napa County, she was busted on domestic battery and domestic violence/elder abuse charges and was later released on bail.
Jones pleaded not guilty in both cases out of Napa County, according to court records.
The government of Malawi, through the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, has introduced free secondary education in all public secondary schools, abolishing key school-related fees with effect from January 1, 2026.
In a media statement signed by secretary for education, science and technology, Dr Ken Ndala, under the policy, examination and identification fees charged by the Malawi National Examination Board (MANEB) in public primary and secondary schools have been abolished with immediate effect.
School Development Fund (SDF) and other user fees have also been removed in all public day secondary schools, meaning learners will no longer be required to pay any fees.
Dr Ndala said the policy is expected to improve access to education and support national development.
🇮🇱 A NEW HOME FOR GAZA’S 2 MILLION? ISRAEL’S RECOGNITION OF SOMALILAND MAY BE MORE THAN A STRATEGIC MOVE
While the world was distracted by Red Sea shipping chaos and UN theatrics, Israel quietly dropped a geopolitical bombshell: it became the first country to officially recognize Somaliland as an independent state.
It’s a move that has enraged Somalia, alarmed Egypt and Turkey, and triggered threats of war from the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. But beneath the outrage lies something far more significant, a radical reconfiguration of regional power and strategy, and possibly, a long-term play with implications as far-reaching as Gaza itself.
Let’s start with geography: Somaliland is prime real estate. Situated at the southern mouth of the Red Sea, right across from Yemen, it controls access to Bab el-Mandeb, the maritime chokepoint linking Europe and Asia. Whoever influences that corridor holds leverage over a huge slice of global trade, and over the flow of military assets into the region.
With Houthi missiles flying and Western ships rerouting, Israel securing a foothold on the African side of the strait is a direct answer to Iranian-backed instability in the north. It’s not just symbolic, it’s strategic.
But that may not be the whole picture.
What if this is also about Gaza?
With the war dragging on, pressure building, and talk of “post-Hamas arrangements” intensifying, Israel faces an unsolvable dilemma: what to do with 2 million Palestinians in a territory that has become both a battlefield and a global political trap.
Now imagine this: Somaliland, relatively stable, underpopulated, and desperate for international legitimacy, opens its doors under the banner of humanitarian partnership. A population transfer isn’t officially discussed, but incentivized migration, “voluntary relocation,” or temporary resettlement deals suddenly become feasible.
Is this far-fetched? Maybe. But it wouldn’t be the first time states have used distant territories as political pressure valves, or as quiet instruments of demographic engineering. And Israel, outmaneuvered on narrative but unmatched on survival instinct, knows how to play the long game.
Even if no such plans exist, the mere possibility gives Israel leverage. It sends a message to the UN, to Arab capitals, and to Europe: we have options. We’re not boxed into Gaza. We don’t need permission to reshape the map.
Of course, the backlash is real. Somalia has called it a violation of sovereignty. Egypt sees it as a challenge to its Red Sea dominance. The Houthis now threaten to target any Israeli presence in the Horn of Africa. But this may suit Israel just fine.
Because chaos in the region gives cover for moves that would otherwise be too controversial to attempt.
In recognizing Somaliland, Israel didn’t just acknowledge a breakaway state, it carved out a future platform for military positioning, strategic influence, and possibly, a long-term solution to one of its most explosive challenges.
If Gaza becomes unsustainable, Somaliland could become the release valve.
And the world, as usual, might only understand what happened once it’s already done.
IRAN PROTESTS TURN DEADLY: SECURITY FORCES OPEN FIRE, AT LEAST 2 KILLED
Things are heating up fast in Iran as cost-of-living protests spill into rural spots like Lordegan.
Security forces there cracked down hard, opening fire on crowds and killing at least 2 people in clashes, per state media.
Rights group Hengaw’s calling it higher, with several dead and wounded from direct shots.
Footage hit social media showing protesters hauling bodies off the streets and storming a local courthouse in rage.
This marks the first civilian deaths since the demos kicked off over the weekend, fueled by a tanking economy, skyrocketing prices, and folks fed up with the regime’s grip.
Protesters chucked stones, forces responded with live rounds, and now a Basij volunteer from the Revolutionary Guard was killed too in the mix.
Unrest’s spreading, with reports of more rallies nationwide.
Eyes on how far this goes, echoes of past uprisings?
Source: Reuters, AFP, Ynet, Hengaw via social media
Victor Osimhen challenges Senegal, Morocco, Egypt, South Africa; says Nigeria not scared of any team at AFCON 2025
Osimhen : “Yes, I would count my country as one of the favourites. We are one of the most feared teams in this tournament. Any team can come and play us.
“If they are good, they can scale through, but if they are not, we can trample on any team because this team has got the quality to do damage to any big team, any good team in this tournament.
“We respect every team that progresses to the next round, and anyone we meet in the next round, they are going to see the fighting spirit of Nigeria.
“The round of 16 is going to be even tougher than the group stages, so the boys are ready to give everything. But the team is ready to face any opponent.
“We respect any team that scales through, but we are not scared of anybody. It will mean a lot, not just to me, to the whole team, but to Nigeria.
“It has been a long time since this trophy came to Nigeria, and the boys, every training, we are passing a clear message that we came here to get the trophy.
“I want it as badly as every other country that came to win it. Just like the rest of my teammates, that is why we come together to try to make sure that we achieve this objective.”
Yo Maps pays school fees for 10 medical students, targets 20 this year
CHART-TOPPING music star Elton ‘Yo Maps’ Mulenga has sponsored 10 medical students at Royal Medical University on a full bursary.
The singer, who has often spoken about his rough upbringing, said the gesture was part of a personal promise he made to himself during his struggling days that once God blessed him, he would always reach back and uplift others.
On the last day of 2025, he decided to end the year by stretching out his hand to the community through what the Yo Maps 100% Bursary, fully covering tuition for 10 medical students.
“When I was growing up, life was never smooth,” the artiste wrote.
“But I promised myself that when God blesses me, even from the little I make, I would always help others.”
The singer, through his brand Olios, disclosed that the initiative is set to grow this year, with plans already in place to sponsor 20 students under the same full bursary programme this year.
“As Olios, this year we are believing God for 20 students on Yo Maps 100% bursary,” he said.
The multi-award-winning artiste further challenged fellow Zambians with capacity to support education to do so, stating that many young people have big dreams but lack access to school.
“There are thousands of young people out there with dreams but no access to school. If you can help even one or two get an education, please do so,” he urged.https://kalemba.news/entertainment/yo-maps-pays-school-fees-for-10-medical-students-targets-20-this-year/
It is a crucial element by the thief that during the act of stealing, he slips in quietly, avoids raising alarms, and escapes without being noticed.
Alrhough the thief desires silence to avoid detection during the act of theft, and often hopes for no reaction from the victim, and afterward, to evade consequences, he is also ready to use violence to enforce this silence or during escape.
President Hakainde Hichilema planned to establish the tyranny and dictatorship from the very first day he assumed office.
In October 2021, he implemented a statutory instrument, Gazette Notice No. 1123 of 2021, and placed several key institutions and law enforcement agencies, including financial intelligence agencies under the authority of the President and State House.
This was the beginning to immediately obtain and assume total control of state institutions and rapidly erode their autonomy independence as they were obliged to report to him despite their constitutionally guaranteed independence and established boards and reporting structure.
HIJACKING DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS
He appointed the entire securocrat, key ministries, constitutional office-holders, and state agencies based on tribal and regional basis.
He purged the civil servants he found by accusing then of being members of the former ruling party or accused them of bearing loyalties to the former leaders.
He especially targeted democratic institutions and placed UPND party cadres at the helm of Parliament (Speaker Nelly Mutti) Electoral Commission of Zambia (Mwangala Zaloumis) and Judiciary (Dr. Mumba Malila).
He proceeded to ban all political activities and opposition public rallies and meetings.
He wanted silence so that he could steal in silence and in peace.
Then, things began to shift into high gear.
They killed Mwense Council Chairperson, Humphrey Kapapula, and dumped his body at a nearby lodge in the area.
A by-election was held, and the UPND grabbed the seet., their first foray in the North.
Kapapula’s murderers have never been pursued or arrested or prosecuted.
They illegally barred both Joseph Malanji and Bowman Lusambo and proceeded to literally steal Kwacha and Kabushi seats.
The Constitutional Court re-affirmed that the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) acted illegally and demonstrated blatant disregard for the Constitution when it barred Malanji and Lusambo.
President Hakainde Hichilema had earlier diregarded an order of court that banned all campaigns in Kabushi and Kwacha constituencies.
Realising that there was no force or entity or public pressure that was capable to stop him, he conducted the most daring raid. He stole the largest political party in Zambia and imposed stooges to run it.
Todate, President Hichilema is the defacto president of the Patriotic Front and has since 2023 not allowed the Party to participate in by-elections, a preparatory scheme to prevent the PF from participating in the upcoming 2026 general election.
Nixon Chilangwa, Kalumba Chifumbe, and Ronald Chitotela were jailed despite strong evidence that they were not at the scene of crime where a UPND vehicle was burnt.
Further, despite the evidence that the presiding magistrate had engaged himself in dishonorable conduct as laid in a detailed complaint to the Judicial Comlaints Commission, Resident Magistrate Martin Namushi rwfused to rwcuse himself and proceeded to jail the group.
The trio were denied bail pending appeal, and despite obtaining court injunction against any by-election, Mwangala Zaloumis’ team proceeded to hold by-elections and the UPND grabbed the 3 seats.
President Hichilema set up a Financial and Crimes Court targeting former Patriotic Front officials and gazetted a five-month period in which all prosecution must conclude( where the subjects should all be put in prison).
REALSING TOO LATE
It became clear that this fight was beyond the earlier assertions that was tussle between Edgar Chagwa Lungu amd Hakainde Hichilema and in fact an attack democracy and the rule of law to make Zambia a rule by a man.
First the Patriotic Front leaders thought with a lot of naivety, that they could get redress and justice through lawful and judicial means.
All their press conferences, all their reports to the Zambia Police and all court actions were met with prompt rejections, delay and ridicule.
The doors were closed, Justice shut, and was denied due process and the good governance gates were sealed against them.
When President Hichilema passed oppressive laws that criminalises speech, that grants the state legal surveillance of private citizens and introduced severe punishment for online expression.
Hichilema has refused to repeal the Public Order Act, and instead, relived the use of old laws such as Sedition and the Witchcraft Act of 1914!
It was too late.
At this stage, he was extremely confident that he could strike a deadly blow to Zambia’s democracy without much ado to guarantee his second term and entrench himself in power.
And that was the last domino to fall.
He amended the Constitution illegally, and against court orders and guidelines and, against established procedures and the law.
To demonstrate how much he had cowed the country into fear, a single statement from the Zambia Police stating that it would not tolerate any protest or public gathering against Bill 7 , was obeyed with dangerous keenness!
President Hichilema has managed to overturn the democratic and multi-party character of the country without a whimper or without facing a single act of public protest or show of discontent against such a dangerous maneuver.
So the summoning and impending arrest of the Catholic foremost leader, Lusaka Archbishop, Dr Alick Banda is but just another ruse, another event, a cog in the wheel to steal the 2026 general elections in silence, with silence.
Lubinda yet to reflect on next action if he loses PF convention
PF faction leader Given Lubinda says if his party members reject him at the convention, he would have to ask himself whether there is another leader within the party with comparable experience and whether he would be comfortable serving under such leadership.
Lubinda said he would be forced into deep personal reflection if members decide they no longer want him at the helm.
Speaking during an appearance on Showstar’s House, the former Justice minister was asked whether he would support another candidate if someone else emerged victorious at the PF convention.
“If the people of the Patriotic Front do not see value in me as president, then I will have to ask myself what position they want me to hold,” Lubinda responded.
He explained that he currently sits in a difficult position, having accumulated years of political experience and presently leading the party, making it hard to immediately imagine serving under someone else.
Lubinda said the thought of losing the convention had not crossed his mind before, but admitted that it now forced him to think deeply about his role going forward.
“I am in a very awkward position because of the experience I have and the responsibility I currently carry,” he said.
Lubinda stressed that the issue is not one he has fully resolved yet, adding that he needs time to reflect before making any public position known.
“Let me reflect upon it and I will make it known pretty soon,” said Lubinda.
ANTONIO MWANZA QUESTIONS TIMING OF DEC SUMMON FOR ARCHBISHOP BANDA
By Chamuka Shalubala
Opposition Democratic Progressive Party President Antonio Mwanza has questioned the timing and manner in which the Drug Enforcement Commission –DEC- has summoned Lusaka archbishop Alick Banda, saying the move raises serious public concern.
Speaking on Phoenix FM’s Let the People Talk programme, Mr. Mwanza notes that the issue involving the alleged vehicle gift had already been before the courts nearly two years ago, with other individuals prosecuted.
He argues that the renewed action against the archbishop appears poorly timed, especially given the strained relations between the catholic church and government.
Mr. Mwanza stated that the long delay in summoning the catholic leader has created a perception of political motivation, adding that law enforcement agencies must be mindful of context, history, and public trust when handling sensitive matters involving respected national figures.
Meanwhile, Mr. Mwanza says his party remains open to forming alliances ahead of the 2026 general elections and is already in discussions with existing groupings.
He has however stressed that the party would only join an alliance with a clear and credible economic agenda, focusing on economic growth, job creation, and improved livelihoods for Zambians.
Granting Court Bail to Former ZRA Commissioner Kingsley Chanda; ZRA’s Seized or Obsolete Vehicles and the Alleged Abuse of Office
ZRA has never gifted Archbishop Alick Banda Any Vehicle, it was an Employee who did
A review of Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) records shows that all 68 obsolete vehicles disposed of between 2017 and 2020 were sold to ZRA employees, with payments duly receipted by the Authority.
Some employees retained the vehicles, others sold them, while some transferred them to third parties.
The former Commissioner General was later prosecuted over 22 vehicles and wrongly convicted on 3 of them accused of not following procedure.
The vehicle donated by a ZRA employee to Archbishop Alick Banda was not forming part of the case.
The defence has maintained that a forged ZRA Asset Disposal Policy was relied upon during prosecution.
In granting bail, the convicting magistrate stated that the appeal had strong prospects of succeeding in a higher court and that the appellant had fully cooperated and was not a flight risk.
He was granted an unconditional bail with two sureties. Those were the only conditions.
On 28th Novemeber 2025- FORMER Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) Commissioner General Kingsley Chanda was yesterday granted K50, 000 bail pending appeal following his conviction and six-year sentence with hard labour for abuse of authority of office.
Chanda was convicted with former ZRA Director of Administration, Callistius Kaoma, who received a nine-year sentence.
The two were found guilty of failing to follow procedure in the disposal of 22 government vehicles, which were allegedly donated to the Patriotic Front (PF) for campaign activities.
Delivering her ruling, Lusaka Chief Resident Magistrate Sylvia Munyinya-Okoh granted both men bail in the sum of K50, 000 each, to be executed in their own recognisance.
Socialist Party (SP) President Dr Fred M’membe has announced he will escort Archbishop Alick Banda to the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) on Monday.
Dr M’membe explained that he will do so because he is a Member of the Catholic Men’s League, St Peter’s Parish, Garden Compound, Lusaka.
“We will accompany our Shepherd to Hakainde Hichilema’s Calvary and help him carry his cross. He will carry Hichilema’s cross alone,” he declared.
Dr M’membe questioned why, if every time Hichilema was summoned to appear before law enforcement agencies he was accompanied by huge numbers of UPND cadres, His Grace should not be accompanied by his flock.
“It is said that what’s good for the goose is good for the gander. This means that rules, treatment, or benefits should apply equally to everyone, regardless of gender or individual differences, and is often used to call out hypocrisy or double standards, suggesting that fairness should be universal. The phrase comes from an older version, ‘what’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander,’ highlighting that if a certain treatment (like being served the same sauce) is acceptable for one, it must be for the other (male/female),” he elaborated.
Dr M’membe argued that what used to happen to UPND must also happen to others now.
“Haven’t these people heard of ‘do unto others as you would have them do unto you’? The core ‘do unto others’ verse, also known as the Golden Rule, is found in Matthew 7:12: ‘So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.’ A similar teaching is in Luke 6:31: ‘Do to others as you would have them do to you.’ Both emphasise treating people with the same kindness and respect you desire for yourself, forming the basis of ethical conduct in Christianity,” he explained.
“Matthew 7:12: ‘In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.’ Luke 6:31: ‘Do to others as you would have them do to you,’ he quoted.
Dr M’membe emphasised that the principle encourages empathy, kindness, and reciprocity, guiding believers to act in ways that benefit others as they would wish to be treated.
He criticised Drug Enforcement Commission Director General Nason Banda for referring to the Archbishop’s flock as “cadres,” calling it an insult.
“When did the faithful become cadres?” he asked.
Dr M’membe, therefore, issued a clarion call to all Catholics and Zambians of goodwill to turn out in huge numbers and accompany the Archbishop to the Drug Enforcement Commission.
“Come in your various Catholic lay groups’ uniforms. Come rain, come sunshine we will be there!” he urged.
NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW – WHY THIS CLAIM IS CONTESTED IN ZAMBIA: THE SUMMONING OF BISHOP ALICK BANDA
By Kellys Kaunda
In principle, the statement that no one is above the law is a moral imperative that no one must dispute.
It upholds the eternal truth that all human beings are created equal.
It promotes a sense of justice and fairness irrespective of social status.
However, the Zambian experience, from colonial days to this day – 2026, the claim that no one is above the law rings hollow.
In fact, it is an insult to the collective intellect of the Zambian people.
Despite lofty claims of the rule of law, no single government in Zambia has played fair.
The record of each government is filled with pages and pages of men and women whose rights were trumped upon with impunity.
In full view of a helpless public, those in power have openly confessed the use of imingalato to desecrate the democratic space clearly daring anyone to raise the voice of protest at the pain of losing their freedom.
Consequently, citizens have been so afraid, their voices are only confined to social media spaces and phone-in radio, television and live social media programs.
Those who have dared take to the streets or gates of parliament to raise a placard have swiftly been hauled into police vans and driven to police stations.
The laws of sedition and hate speech are largely applicable to government critics.
Against this backdrop, the statement by the DEC that the summoning of Bishop Alick Banda was a demonstration that no one was above the law rings very hollow.
When I heard the words, I said to myself, “are you being serious right now?”.
To DEC I must say, “if you find it hard to believe that there are Zambians that don’t believe in your claim of professionalism, it’s because they have seen too many cases of double standards and clear favoritism informed by political considerations”.
So, you can’t blame Zambians for seeming to politicize what ordinarily would be accepted as normal criminal investigative work.
Especially when it involves a high profile individual like Alick Banda who is publicly detested by those in power, no amount of claim of professionalism will be accepted by the public.
Until the UPND government convincingly levels the playing field (which is very unlikely), interviews or interrogations of known government critics will always be political and the public will react accordingly.
ADVENTISTS, UCZ PREPARE TO ACCOUNT FOR HH’S DONATIONS – MUMBI
By Mubanga Mubanga Former PF deputy secretary general Mumbi Phiri says churches that are receiving donations from President Hakainde Hichilema should be ready to be accountable when the time comes, because a precedence has been set by the Drug Enforcement Commission’s summoning of Catholic’s Archbishop of Lusaka Alick Banda.
And Vicar General at the Archdiocese of Lusaka Fr Andrew Simpasa urged the faithful to wait for further directives on how to respond to the “wild boar that had strayed into the vineyard of the Lord.”
In an interview with Daily Revelation yesterday, Phiri said President Hichilema was making donations to churches whose source https://dailyrevelationzambia.com/adventists-ucz-prepare-to-account-for-hh-donations-mumbi/
MANSA BISHOP SAYS PASSAGE OF BILL 7 LEAVES MUCH TO BE DESIRED, PRAYS FOR PEACE AHEAD OF 2026 ELECTIONS
Catholic Bishop of Mansa Diocese, Rt. Rev. Patrick Chilekwa Chisanga, has cautioned political leaders against intolerance to criticism, warning that leaders who refuse correction and instead attack those who speak the truth risk dividing the nation and failing the people they serve.
Speaking during a New Year’s Mass on Thursday, Bishop Chisanga urged political leaders to abandon stubbornness and pride, and to embrace humility, honesty and respect for differing views as they discharge their leadership responsibilities.
The Bishop said leaders should avoid surrounding themselves only with praise and approval, noting that true leadership requires openness to constructive criticism without fear of insult, intimidation or retaliation.
“Leadership is strengthened, not weakened, when people are allowed to point out mistakes in good faith,” Bishop Chisanga said, adding that accountability is essential for effective governance.
He further called for genuine and sincere dialogue rooted in humility, stressing that intolerance to opposing views only deepens political and social divisions. According to the Bishop, peace among political leaders is critical, as it naturally filters down to the wider Zambian society.
Commenting on national governance, Bishop Chisanga observed that the adoption and passage of Bill 7 in Parliament leaves much to be desired. He urged leaders to approach matters of national importance in a manner that unites the country rather than creating divisions.
As Zambia prepares for the 2026 General Elections, the Bishop prayed for peace to prevail across the political landscape, calling on leaders to exercise restraint, wisdom and a genuine commitment to the common good.
He concluded by entrusting the nation and its leaders to God’s guidance in the New Year, encouraging them to govern with humility, openness and a sincere desire for unity and lasting peace.
Report PF aspirants dishing out money to LEAs, Mwamba challenges CK … than scandalising PF and its leadership
PF chairperson for information and publicity Emmanuel Mwamba has challenged the party’s presidential aspirant Chishimba Kambwili to report to the Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) if he has evidence of party candidates dishing out illicit acquired funds to the party structures.
Kambwili, in a recent interview with Daily Revelation, wondered where some PF presidential aspirants were getting money from as they had too much of it when everybody in the country was complaining about lack of money.
He said he was still trying to find answers over the source of the money some PF presidential aspirants were spending in the campaigns.
Kambwili said he still had not gotten answers in that regard from the time he made revelations that some candidates were leaving K25,000s, K30,000s and K40,000s in structures they were visiting, and wondering how much they had spent in a country which currently had 156 constituencies.
But Mwamba in an interview with Daily Revelation challenged Kambwili to name the same people and follow that up by https://dailyrevelationzambia.com/report-pf-aspirants-dishing-out-money-to-leas-mwamba-challenges-ck-than-scandalising-pf-and-its-leadership/
Rwanda Shuts Down Thousands of Churches Amid Tough New Regulations
Rwanda has closed more than 10,000 evangelical churches for failing to comply with a 2018 law that regulates places of worship, citing issues related to safety, financial transparency, and theological training for preachers.
President Paul Kagame has strongly criticised the rapid growth of evangelical churches, describing many as exploitative and questioning their contribution to national development, while insisting the closures are necessary for order, accountability, and alignment with national values.
The move has sparked debate in a predominantly Christian country, with supporters arguing it prioritises social infrastructure and security, and critics raising concerns about access to worship and religious freedom.
His Grace Archbishop Alick Banda will not walk alone to the Drug Enforcement Commission on Monday. We will accompany our Shepherd to Hakainde Hichilema’s Calvary and help him carry his cross. He will carry Hichilema’s cross alone.
If every time Hichilema was summoned to appear before law enforcement agencies, he was accompanied by huge numbers of UPND cadres, why shouldn’t His Grace be accompanied by his flock?
It is said that what’s good for the goose is good for the gander. This means that rules, treatment, or benefits should apply equally to everyone, regardless of gender or individual differences, and is often used to call out hypocrisy or double standards, suggesting fairness should be universal. The phrase comes from an older version, “what’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander,” highlighting that if a certain treatment (like being served the same sauce) is acceptable for one, it must be for the other (male/female).
Haven’t these people heard of “do unto others as you would have them do unto you “? The core “do unto others” verse, also known as the Golden Rule, is found in Matthew 7:12: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets”. A similar teaching is in Luke 6:31: “Do to others as you would have them do to you”. Both emphasize treating people with the same kindness and respect you desire for yourself, forming the basis of ethical conduct in Christianity.
Matthew 7:12 : “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets”. Luke 6:31: “Do to others as you would have them do to you”.
This principle encourages empathy, kindness, and reciprocity, guiding believers to act in ways that benefit others as they would wish to be treated.
It is an insult for Drug Enforcement Commission Director General Nason Banda to refer to the Archbishop’s flock as “cadres.” When did the faithful become cadres?
We therefore make a clarion call to all Catholics and Zambians of goodwill, to turn out in huge numbers and accompany the Archbishop to the Drug Enforcement Commission. Come in your various Catholic lay groups uniforms.
Come rain, come sunshine we will be there!
Fred M’membe Member of the Catholic Men’s League, St Peter’s Parish, Garden Compound, Lusaka
BISHOP ALICK BANDA IS NOT JESUS CHRIST TO BE SPARED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES
The Catholic Church has been one of the religious institutions that has stood firm against the abuse of power and public resources in our nation. Its voice has always been loud and clear where national wellbeing, development, and the fight against poverty are concerned.
Between the struggles of 2016 and 2021, I had the honour and privilege of interacting with many Catholic leaders in our quest to hold the PF administration accountable after it had turned its back on the laws of Zambia. This is why I have a lot of respect for the Catholic Church.
Even after the 2021 transition, some of you may recall that I wrote an official letter to the Catholic Church urging it not to ignore the Milingo Lungu saga involving over USD 20 million. I specifically called upon voices such as Bishop Alick Banda, who is on record stating that “a wrong is a wrong and cannot be ignored.” Law enforcement agencies later established that some government properties, allegedly stolen or criminally obtained, were in his possession. The matter is now before the courts, and for that reason, I will not delve into details.
However, let us be clear: one Catholic leader found wanting under the laws of Zambia cannot and should not be used as a reference point for judging all Catholic leaders or members in Zambia. That is absolutely wrong. Those attempting to frame this matter as a government fight against the Catholic Church are misguided unless one has a criminal mindset. Let us be realistic and focus on actions that will help build our nation. There’s no foreigner nom matter how they can sweet talk us will build Zambia apart from we the Zambians ourselves.
The Catholic Church has consistently updated the nation on rising poverty levels and the struggles families face to feed themselves. This is commendable. But how can poverty end if some individuals are beneficiaries of the looting of public resources, as this case appears to suggest? Where is leadership in such circumstances?
The narrative that President Hakainde Hichilema will lose elections because his government is pursuing those who stole public resources is irrational. If leadership requires protecting individuals accused of corruption, then I would rather support a government that loses elections for standing on integrity and accountability. There is honour in that.
Since 1964, a clique of individuals has feasted on public resources. As long as they thrive, they care little about ordinary citizens. Today, we see dilapidated road networks, floods in Lundazi washing away old bridges, and poor infrastructure in Katombola and Sichifulo Constituencies. Millions of Zambians continue to live undignified lives while a few elites enjoy stolen wealth. This situation demands clearer and firmer communication from Catholic Church leadership in Zambia.
The Catholic Church must clearly state its position rather than allowing this issue to be reduced to political theatrics. Is it morally right for individuals to be receiving vehicles when our rural farmers use ox carts to ferry their beloved ones to the clinics?
I have never seen, nor do I recall, Bishop Alick Banda publicly condemning PF-era corruption and brutality as a religious leader. The PF regime presided over the killing of citizens such as Lawrence Banda and sheltered individuals like Shebby Chilekwa at State House where Bishop Alick Banda was known to visit. In contrast, leaders like Bishop Mpundu openly condemned these crimes. Why, then, has DEC or ACC not summoned Bishop Mpundu? These distinctions matter and help us understand individual conduct.
I have also noted Bishop Alick Banda’s persistent hostility towards President Hakainde Hichilema, despite efforts by the current government to rebuild a country damaged by individuals associated with him. Bishop Alick Banda is an individual actor, and as far as public record shows, he was driving the alleged stolen Hilux as an individual.
Had the vehicle been officially given to the Catholic Church, I would have had no objection. Churches play a vital role in national development, operating schools, health facilities, and other essential services. Such institutions deserve lawful government support.
We must build a Zambia where hard work not privilege or corruption is the pathway to success. It is painful to see individuals acquire wealth freely while others labour all year without achieving meaningful progress. Public resources must be acquired transparently and lawfully. A crime must remain a crime.
You cannot turn the alleged wrongdoing of one individual into a confrontation between the HH government and the innocent Catholic Church. That is misleading and unfair. Bishop Alick Banda allegedly received the gift alone, used it alone, and therefore must answer for it alone.
The Catholic Church is on record in other parts of the world including Vatican City where courts of law have sentenced high-profile Catholic Church leaders for abuse of authority or involvement in wrongdoing. Bishop Alick Banda is therefore not the first, nor a special case, to be summoned.
These revelations compel one to ask whether they were the very motivations that blinded Bishop Alick Banda to the brutality and corruption of the Lungu-led administration. Were these the ‘gifts’ that bought his silence so complete that he failed to condemn the moral outrage of sheltering a murderer at State House by former president Mr. Lungu? History will judge, but the questions will not go away.
Sikaile C. Sikaile Good Governance and Human Rights Activist Aspirant Member of Parliament, Sichifulo Constituency – 2026
Protect your voters’ cards, priest urges Catholics after Alick Banda’s summons
A CHINGOLA-based Catholic priest has urged Catholics across the country to take care of their voters’ cards ahead of this year’s general election, saying they should use the ballot to protest the summoning of Archbishop Alick Banda to the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC).
Fr Augustine Mwewa, who is also president of the Local Catholic Clergy in Zambia, said Catholics angered by the move against Archbishop Banda should channel their frustration through voting.
Fr Mwewa charged that the UPND administration had decided to ‘declare war’ on Catholics by summoning the Archbishop.
He claimed the summons was another form of mingalato (tactics) by the government aimed at silencing voices critical of its leadership.
“We will not allow anyone to intimidate us. It is a pity the government has chosen to declare war against the Catholic Church. The government has been saying that it will be using different mingalato, this is the mingalato we are seeing,” he said.
Fr Mwewa further rated the UPND administration’s performance at one out of 10 since it assumed office in 2021.
“The government doesn’t want divergent views because it has not performed as promised. Out of 10, I can give them one or two but they are claiming that they have performed,” he stated.
He warned that government could use the cyber law against Christians but they should not be shaken.
MOVEMENT FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE ICHABAICHE OPEN LETTER
1 January 2026
To: His Grace the President Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) Catholic Secretariat – Kapingila House Lusaka, Zambia
**Through:** The Secretary General, ZCCB **Cc:** His Excellency the Apostolic Nuncio to Zambia and Malawi , Nunciature, Lusaka, His Grace the Metropolitan Archbishop of Lusaka, The President, Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA), The President, Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM)
RE: APPEAL FOR ECCLESIAL INTERVENTION IN THE TREATMENT OF ARCHBISHOP ALICK BANDA
Your Graces,
With profound respect and concern, this letter is addressed to you regarding the treatment of Archbishop Alick Banda by State investigative agencies.
The recent summons issued to him over a donated motor vehicle has created a widespread perception that State institutions are being used, not for impartial justice, but for the targeted intimidation of a Catholic shepherd who has spoken boldly on matters of governance and morality.
This appeal therefore seeks your moral and pastoral intervention so that the dignity of the Church’s mission and the freedom of its ministers are safeguarded.
At issue is a vehicle allegedly donated to Archbishop Banda during a previous administration. Receiving a gift, in itself, does not constitute a crime. The Church’s life and mission depend on offerings and donations made in good faith by the faithful and well-wishers. If pastors are now expected to investigate the full legal and economic history of every donation before accepting it, the Church would be forced to abandon its primary pastoral work and become an investigative body. This standard has not been applied consistently, especially given that successive leaders, including the current Head of State, have made donations to churches and charities without similar scrutiny of the recipients.
If there were procedural irregularities in disposing of public property, accountability should rest first with those officials responsible for that process, not with Church leaders who received a donation in good faith. Singling out one Archbishop for such treatment inevitably raises questions about motive.
Many of the faithful perceive a pattern in which institutions of the State are used against those who “speak truth to power.” When law-enforcement bodies focus on clergy and critics while appearing less visible in tackling large-scale corruption and economic crimes, confidence in their impartiality is weakened. This creates a climate of fear, shifts attention away from pressing national issues, and undermines belief that the fight against corruption is genuine rather than selective. When the Church’s prophetic voice is intimidated, the poorest, who rely on that voice, are the most harmed.
In this context, the following is respectfully requested of the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops:
1. A clear public statement affirming the right and duty of the Church and its leaders to receive legitimate gifts in good faith and to speak openly on governance, justice, and human dignity without fear of reprisal.
2. A united pastoral stance declaring that the harassment or selective targeting of one bishop on account of his moral teaching or pastoral witness is an attack on the Church’s mission as a whole.
3. High-level engagement with the State, through firm but fraternal dialogue, to express concern over the treatment of Archbishop Banda and to urge that investigative institutions act with impartiality, proportionality, and respect for the Church’s work.
4. Guidance to the faithful encouraging support for their shepherds through prayer, lawful solidarity, and peaceful expression of concern, while avoiding violence or disrespect for legitimate authority.
History shows that the Church is often tested by pressures that seek to silence its prophetic witness, sometimes through legal or administrative means.
If the intimidation of one Archbishop passes without a clear and united response, future Church leaders may inherit a public space where the Church’s voice is tolerated only when it is silent on painful truths. Conversely, a firm, measured, and pastoral response today can strengthen the Church’s moral authority for years to come.
It is in this hope that this appeal is made—that the Catholic Church in Zambia, in communion with the wider Church in Africa and the Holy See, will respond with unity, clarity, and courage, defending both the integrity of its shepherds and the welfare of the people they serve.
Respectfully submitted, Hon. Binwell Mpundu Nkana Member of ParliamentBinwell Mpundu President, Movement for Good Governance Member of Parliament, Nkana Constituency MGG HQ, Plot No 2, Mpasa Street, Jesmondine, Lusaka, Zambia binwellmpundu@yahoo.com +26097793315
🇿🇲 VIEWPOINT | Church, Law & the False Absolutes Risk
The summoning of Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda by the Drug Enforcement Commission has triggered an emotional reaction across opposition platforms, with claims of “persecution,” “war against the Catholic Church,” and political suppression dominating the discourse. This framing, however, collapses under scrutiny once facts, law, and historical precedent are placed side by side.
First, the facts. The DEC summons is issued under the Anti-Money Laundering Act. It relates to motor vehicles seized during investigations into illegally disposed Zambia Revenue Authority assets, some of which were later found in Archbishop Banda’s possession. DEC Director General Nason Banda has been explicit: this is not a charge, not a finding of guilt, and not an attack on the Church.
It is a routine call-out to allow an individual named in official records to explain their side before conclusions are drawn. As he put it, “It was not me who mentioned his name. He was mentioned in court.”
Second, the core error in the opposition narrative is the deliberate conflation of a cleric with an institution. Archbishop Banda is being summoned as an individual citizen, not as “the Catholic Church.” Treating him as inseparable from the Church is both legally wrong and historically dishonest.
Around the world, Catholic priests, bishops, and even cardinals have faced investigation, prosecution, and conviction without this being framed as persecution of the faith itself. The Vatican itself convicted Cardinal Angelo Becciu for financial crimes in 2023. The Church did not collapse. Faith was not criminalised. Accountability was enforced.
Third, the political framing ignores context. Archbishop Banda is not a neutral cleric operating in isolation. He has been an outspoken critic of the government, openly opposed Bill 7, maintained visible proximity to PF figures, officiated politically sensitive events, and previously forfeited a Toyota Hilux linked to irregular ZRA disposals. None of this proves wrongdoing, but it does explain why investigators may reasonably seek clarification.
Scrutiny is not persecution.
Fourth, the claim that this is an election-year plot to “silence the Church” overstates both motive and effect. Zambia is entering a high-stakes electoral cycle with expanded constituencies, rising campaign costs, and intensified monitoring of illicit financial flows. Law enforcement scrutiny of money, assets, and transfers will increase across the board. This reality applies to politicians, business figures, NGOs, and yes, religious leaders who appear in financial records.
Equality before the law is not selective morality.
Fifth, the public reaction itself is divided, a fact often omitted by those shouting suppression. Online commentary shows three clear camps: those who see political victimisation, those who insist no one is above the law, and those demanding facts before judgment. This division alone undermines claims of a unified Catholic or national outrage.
Finally, DEC’s conduct matters. The Commission has stated it expected the Archbishop to appear quietly and alone, that the summons was never meant for social media, and that many such cases are resolved once explanations are given. This is not the language of a political hit squad. It is the language of procedure.
The danger in the current rhetoric is not to government, but to public reasoning. When accountability is branded persecution, when investigation is equated with oppression, and when institutions are shielded by moral absolutism, society loses its ability to separate faith from facts.
At The People’s Brief, our position is simple and consistent:
– The Church must retain its prophetic voice. – The State must enforce the law without fear or favour. – Individuals, regardless of robe or rank, must answer lawful questions.
Truth is not anti-faith. Accountability is not anti-church. And justice does not collapse because a bishop is summoned.
ACCOUNTABILITY IS NOT PERSECUTION — SEPARATING FAITH FROM THE RULE OF LAW
By Chilufya Kasonde
Father Augustine Mwewa’s reaction to the summoning of Archbishop Alick Banda by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) raises serious concerns, not only about accuracy but also about the dangerous conflation of faith with personal accountability.
To begin with, the DEC did not “arrest” the Archbishop, nor did it summon the Catholic Church. It invited an individual, Archbishop Alick Banda, to appear before its Anti-Money Laundering Unit. In a constitutional democracy governed by the rule of law, such an action is neither extraordinary nor hostile. It is standard procedure when questions arise that require clarification. To frame this as “persecution” or a “war against the Catholic Church” is misleading and unnecessarily inflammatory.
The law in Zambia does not exempt clergy from scrutiny. Titles, collars, or ecclesiastical offices do not place anyone above the law. If anything, leaders entrusted with moral authority should welcome transparency, as it reinforces public trust. Accountability does not negate faith; it strengthens it.
Father Mwewa’s assertion that the Government has declared war on the Catholic Church is unsupported by facts. The Church continues to operate freely, speak openly, preach, publish pastoral letters, and critique government policy without restriction. Disagreement with government performance, whether on mealie meal prices, fertiliser, fuel, or load shedding, is a legitimate civic right. However, such policy debates must not be weaponised to shield individuals from lawful inquiry.
Equally troubling is the attempt to rally Catholics into a siege mentality. Encouraging believers to interpret a lawful summons as an attack on their faith risks polarising the nation and undermining institutions meant to protect all citizens, including church members. Zambia’s democracy thrives when institutions function independently, not when they are intimidated by public pressure or religious sentiment.
Prayer and unity are noble virtues, but they should never be presented as substitutes for accountability. One can pray and still cooperate with investigations. One can speak prophetically and still respect the law. These are not mutually exclusive.
Furthermore, invoking “cyber laws,” “mingalato,” and warnings of an impending crackdown creates fear rather than fostering truth. Such rhetoric shifts the conversation away from the real issue: a simple request for clarification by a lawful authority.
The Church has historically played a vital role in Zambia’s moral and social development. That role is best preserved not by politicising legal processes, but by upholding integrity, humility, and respect for the rule of law. Defending the Church does not mean defending every individual action taken by its leaders without question.
In the end, the strength of both the Church and the State lies in their willingness to submit to truth. Accountability is not persecution. Transparency is not intimidation. And justice, applied equally, is not an enemy of faith.
The UPND has scooped all FOUR local government by-elections held yesterday in Central and Western Provinces.
IN Muchinka ward of Chitambo District, SHADRICK CHOLA of the UPND polled 597 votes against his only rival JONATHAN CHILUFYA of the United Prosperous and Peaceful Zambia -UPPZ- who polled 297 votes.
And in Western Province, the by elections were held in Litawa and Mutondo in Nalikwanda Constituency of Mongu District, and Liangati ward in Senanga. ZNBC
Catholic Priest Urges Families to Uphold African Values
By:John M’kandawire & Augustine Kapambwe
A Catholic priest in Ndola has urged families to uphold African values, respect for elders, and responsible parenting.
St Peter the Apostle Parish priest in Mushili, Fr Ackhim Musenge, said the family remains the foundation of society and plays a key role in shaping children’s morals.
Mr Musenge called on youths to respect elders and work hard so they can support their parents in old age.
He also cautioned parents against over-pampering children, saying discipline and moral guidance begin at home.
The message was delivered as the Church marked the Feast of the Holy Family.
The Drug Enforcement Commission of Zambia has summoned Archbishop Alick Banda of the Archdiocese of Lusaka to appear before its Anti-Money Laundering Investigations Unit.
The Catholic Church has a principle that historically shielded ordained ministers from the jurisdiction of civil courts, thereby preventing them from being persecuted by secular authorities for many common crimes.
This doctrine, known as privilegium fori, was rooted deeply in canon law and theological understanding, asserting that clerics, as servants of God, belonged to a distinct, sacred order answerable primarily to ecclesiastical tribunals.
The basis for clerical immunity rested on the concept of the distinct spiritual vocation of the priesthood.
Catholic theology posits that ordination confers an indelible spiritual mark, elevating the cleric to a status separate from the lay population. This separation implied a unique relationship with God and, consequently, a specific legal standing.
Canon law, the internal legal system of the Church, codified this status. The early Church frequently argued that judging priests belonged solely to the Church, fearing that subjecting them to secular courts would compromise their spiritual mission and subject the sanctity of the Church itself to profane judgment.
Despite fervent defense, clerical immunity faced constant erosion as secular states centralized power.
While the Church could usually prevent outright execution or torture by secular means, the threat of being tried by an ecclesiastical court was often mitigated by the possibility of simple deposition or confinement within a monastery, punishments frequently viewed as too lenient by the state.
In many cases, particularly for severe crimes, secular rulers pushed for “defrocking” the cleric—a process called laicization—whereby the Church stripped the individual of holy orders, thereby handing them over to secular justice without violating the technical letter of the law regarding ordained priests.
By the Enlightenment and the rise of modern nation-states, the extent of clerical immunity had significantly diminished, as monarchs asserted sovereignty over all persons within their territories, leading to the gradual abolition of the extensive privilegium fori by the nineteenth century.
My person of the the year, of the last few years actually, is Minister of Finance and Planning, Situmbeko Musokotwane!
What a professional! What a hard worker! What a skilled human being!
He has managed to keep an economy, that barely had a pulse, alive.
Found money for social spending – free education, meal allowances for students, social cash transfer – when he could have been excused for throwing up his hands in the air and saying – muganiza nizazichosa kuti ndalama.
He has made the Ministry of Finance a proactively informative entity – publishing all information on the economy that citizens need.
I love that he steers clear of our mind numbing political drivel.
We are yet to feel the results of his hardwork in our pockets, but I am sure we will.
MONDE DESCRIBES 2025 AS DIFFICULT YEAR FOR ZAMBIANS
Patriotic Front (PF) Presidential Aspirant Greyford Monde has described the just-ended year 2025 as one of the most difficult periods in Zambia’s recent history.
Mr Monde cited economic hardship, governance challenges, and national tragedies.
In a New Year’s address, Mr Monde reflected on what he termed “a year etched in our national memory as one of profound trials and heartache,” as the country heads into a pivotal election year.
He noted that deepening poverty had left millions of Zambians struggling to afford basic necessities, while the health sector faced severe strain.
Mr Monde highlighted the withdrawal of approximately K1.4 billion in annual USAID funding for essential medicines and medical supplies, attributing the move to alleged corruption in the supply chain.
He said the funding cut had also led to the loss of thousands of jobs among health workers.
In the agriculture sector, Mr Monde pointed to persistent electricity shortages and delayed payments from the Food Reserve Agency (FRA), which he said had crippled farmers’ ability to purchase inputs for the 2025/2026 planting season.
“As of 31st December 2025, many farmers had not received payment for maize supplied to the FRA, raising fears of reduced output and rising mealie meal prices,” he said.
He also referenced the February 2025 environmental disaster at the Sino-Metals Leach Zambia copper mine, where a tailings dam collapse released 50 million litres of toxic effluent into the Mwambashi River.
“The incident caused widespread ecological damage, including fish kills, crop destruction, and water contamination affecting hundreds of thousands of residents,” he said.
Turning to education, Mr Monde cited the 2025 Primary School Leaving Examination results, which saw over 154,000 pupils fail to progress to Form One.
He attributed the poor performance to systemic issues such as high teacher-pupil ratios and the rising cost of living, which he said contributed to absenteeism and educational inequality.
Mr Monde also criticised the government’s strained relationship with the Church, particularly over controversial constitutional amendments.
He called for renewed dialogue and mutual respect between the state and religious institutions.
Mr Monde expressed concern over what he described as a shrinking democratic space, citing politically motivated arrests, restrictions on assembly, and harassment of opposition figures.
He also called for a dignified resolution to the ongoing standoff over the burial of the late Sixth Republican President, Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
Addressing PF members, Mr Monde urged unity and mobilisation ahead of the 2026 general elections.
“The time for slumber is over. Rise up in defence of our constitutional right to associate freely,” he said.
He further appealed to opposition leaders to set aside personal ambitions and form a united front to challenge the ruling party.
Mr Monde called on citizens to demand an impartial Electoral Commission and commit to peaceful, issue-based campaigns.
“The ballot in 2026 is your most powerful weapon,” he said. “Use it wisely to break the shackles that bind us—to poverty, to fear, to stagnation.”
Mr Monde reaffirmed his commitment to national service, pledging to restore hope, unity, and prosperity if elected.
Govt takes issue with Tabloid calling Mweetwa a ‘cadre’ The government has take issue with Choma Tabloid for referring to Information and Media minister Cornelius Mweetwa as a cadre.
In a statement, Southern Province principal public relations officer Wisdom Himanteka stated that it was improper to refer Mweetwa as a cadre as he welcome President Hakainde Hichilema to the area in his capacity as member of parliament for Choma.
Himanteka described as unprofessional and unethical reporting by Choma Tabloid over the reference. https://dailyrevelationzambia.com/govt-takes-issue-with-tabloid-calling-mweetwa-a-cadre/
