CHIPOLOPOLO players have exuded confidence ahead of their crucial Group A clash against Morocco in the AfCON 2025, insisting that the North African giants, though formidable on paper, are beatable.
Midfielder Wilson Chisala spoke candidly to the press, saying the team is well-prepared and has no fear of the hosts despite the intimidating atmosphere expected at the King Mohammed V Stadium.
“Morocco is an overrated team but it’s a beatable team and we are ready for that. The game is tough but we are prepared to face them and we have nothing to fear. Realistically, the pressure is there but we are ready; there is nothing to fear,” said Chisala.
Meanwhile, midfielder David Hamansenya was equally optimistic, stating that Zambia will compete fiercely regardless of the home crowd advantage.
“We are here to compete, no matter how many supporters Morocco will have. It will be a tough game but we have no pressure, we are ready to play against Morocco. We are well prepared,” said Hamansenya.
Zambia enters the match tonight needing a win to keep their round of 16 hopes alive.
The team currently sits on two points after a goalless draw against Comoros, while Morocco leads the group with four points.
Mali is also in contention with two points, meaning that the outcome of this fixture could be decisive in determining which teams advance.
Tonight, all eyes will be on Zambia as they attempt to punch above their weight and secure victory against one of Africa’s traditionally strongest sides.
According to Forbes, her net worth is now estimated at over $1 billion, after she concluded her successful Cowboy Carter Tour in 2025, which grossed over $407 million, after dropping her mega-hit studio album, Cowboy Carter, in 2024.
The 44-year-old superstar received lots of opportunities after the release of Cowboy Carter, including “new commercial opportunities,” her world tour, which was the highest-grossing of the year, and more in 2025, according to Forbes.
The magazine reports that the singer earned $148 million in 2025 alone. The last estimate of her net worth had her at $780 million.
At just 44, the mother of three has cemented herself as a financial powerhouse.
Beyoncé’s journey began in the late 1990s with Destiny’s Child, the girl group that sold over 60 million records and laid the foundation for her solo career.
She broke out with her 2003 solo debut, Dangerously in Love, eventually selling over 200 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling artists in history.
https://youtu.be/A3Mj1It4uLQ?si=3ruP6oAkHpbJyjDm
She is renowned for her electrifying live performances, bringing dance and choreography to a whole new level. Her 2023 Renaissance World Tour grossed a staggering $579 million across 56 shows, averaging S$10 million per night, becoming one of her highest-earning tours ever.
Her 2024-2025 Cowboy Carter Tour defied country music barriers, debuting at No. 1 with hits like “Texas Hold ’Em.” Forbes initially valued her net worth at $780 million in 2025 among self-made women.
Beyoncé’s business ventures have also been lucrative. She co-launched Ivy Park with Adidas in 2016, regaining full control in 2022, and launched a luxury haircare line Cécred in 2024, which sold out instantly and is projected to earn Sh13 billion ($100 million).
Her husband, business mogul Jay-Z, whose net worth is reportedly $2.5 billion, and the couple’s combined fortune exceeds $4 billion.
Beyoncé is the fifth musician to have joined the billionaire club, after her husband, Jay-Z, Taylor Swift, Rihanna, and Bruce Springsteen.
ANTHONY JOSHUA HAS BEEN INJURED IN A CAR CRASH IN NIGERIA THAT KILLED TWO PEOPLE
Joshua, 36, sustained minor injuries when the Lexus SUV he was travelling in collided with a stationary truck, Ogun State Police Command said.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said the Lexus was suspected to be travelling in excess of the speed limit and lost control while overtaking.
The collision happened around 11am in Makun, around 30 miles from Lagos.
Footage on social media shows Joshua in pain as he is helped out of the wrecked vehicle.
The British former world heavyweight champion was in the rear of the vehicle – which was carrying four other adult males – before being helped out of the wreckage by a crowd of onlookers.
Joshua, who is conscious in the footage, is seen wincing in pain.
Police have confirmed that Joshua has been taken to hospital and they are investigating the cause of the accident.
Two people were pronounced dead at the scene. Their details are yet to be released.
The other two passengers were unhurt, according to the FRSC.
FASHION SAKALA RUSHED TO HOSPITAL IN RABAT, RULED OUT OF MOROCCO CLASH
Chipolopolo Boys captain Fashion Sakala was rushed to a hospital in Rabat this afternoon after falling ill.
Team doctor Wesley Ngongo confirmed that Sakala was taken to the medical facility at around 12:30 local time after he complained of abdominal discomfort, dizziness and general weakness during a routine medical check.
Dr. Ngongo said Sakala was taken to Hôpital Universitaire International Mohammed VI in the Moroccan capital.
“This morning Fashion complained of experiencing abnormal pain, feeling weak and dizzy during my routine check on the players. We have rushed him to the hospital,” said Dr Ngongo.
Following the incident, Sakala has been officially ruled out of this evening’s decisive AFCON 2025 Group A fixture against hosts Morocco, a setback for the Copper Bullets.
As head coach Moses Sichone finalises his starting XI and substitutes, the Saudi Arabia–based striker will not be available for selection.
WHEN PARLIAMENT’S VOTES ARE FOR SALE, DEMOCRACY IS ON AUCTION
In a constitutional democracy, Parliament is meant to be the final shield between state power and the people. It is where conscience should outweigh convenience and public interest should prevail over private inducement.
Yet the controversy surrounding inducements allegedly offered to MPs during the passage of Bill 7 forces a blunt question: what happens when Parliament itself appears negotiable?
A parliamentary seat is not personal property. It is a public trust. MPs are not hired contractors executing instructions from financiers or party hierarchies; they are elected to exercise independent judgment on behalf of citizens. When a vote is traded for money, favours, or promises, it is not merely a position that is sold, it is the sovereignty of the people.
Defenders of inducements often hide behind phrases like “party discipline” or “political reality.” But constitutional amendments are not routine business. They reshape the balance of power, representation, and accountability. Such decisions demand the highest ethical standards. To induce votes on constitutional matters is not pragmatism; it is constitutional erosion.
The damage does not end with one bill. When MPs are seen as purchasable, debate becomes performance, oversight weakens, and Parliament risks becoming an extension of executive will rather than a check upon it. A short-term legislative win achieved through inducement produces long-term institutional decay.
Public trust, once broken, is hard to rebuild. In unequal societies, democracy survives largely on belie; belief that votes matter and representation is real. When citizens conclude that MPs can be bought, elections lose moral weight, and political participation gives way to apathy. The poor pay first and pay most.
Some argue that no laws were broken. But legality is not legitimacy. The absence of prosecution does not equal integrity. Parliamentary records and public memory endure longer than political excuses.
Accountability may be delayed, but it is rarely denied. Constituents will one day demand explanations, without envelopes, protection, or rehearsed justifications. Leadership requires sacrifice, not convenience. An MP who fears those in power more than the voters has already abandoned representation.
When Parliament becomes a parley of inducements, democracy is placed on auction. And when democracy is sold, it is never the powerful who suffer most, it is the ordinary citizen whose voice is discounted and whose future is bargained away. Zambia deserves a Parliament guided by conscience, not receipts.
The Struggle Continues
Sensio Banda Former Member of Parliament Kasenengwa Constituency Eastern Province
IF PF DOESN’T FIX ITS ISSUES, IT SHOULD PREPARE FOR PROLONGED COURT BATTLES – DR NEVERS MUMBA
29th December 2025
NEW Nation Party leader Nevers Mumba has urged the PF leadership to engage its MPs and attempt to resolve its internal rifts, particularly with those who currently enjoy legitimacy with the Registrar of Societies.
Mumba says PF risks losing the next election and surrendering its position entirely if it continues on its current path of fragmented leadership.
Speaking in a Facebook video recently, Mumba said if a resolution proved impossible, the PF should be prepared for prolonged court battles. “The emergence of multiple candidates within the PF is not in itself a problem. In fact, it is democratic.
The real danger lies in whether the various factions and leaders will support the single candidate who eventually emerges victorious.
PRESIDENT HAKAINDE HICHILEMA’S GLOBAL RECOGNITION A TESTAMENT TO ZAMBIA’S NEW DAWN TRANSFORMATION
PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lusaka, Monday, 29 December, 2025 – The United Party for National Development (UPND) has received with great pride and honour the international recognition accorded to Republican President, His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, by the respected British newspaper The Telegraph, which has named him among the world’s top leaders of 2025 alongside other distinguished global figures.
This recognition is not accidental. It is a direct reflection of President Hichilema’s transformative leadership, bold reforms and unwavering commitment to delivering tangible results for the people of Zambia.
Firstly, The Telegraph’s recognition speaks to Zambia’s groundbreaking social sector reforms, particularly the introduction of free education from Grade One to Grade Twelve. Zambia became the first country in Southern Africa to implement free education at this scale, unlocking opportunities for millions of children regardless of their socio-economic background. Complementing this is the revitalised and fully sustained school feeding programme, which, although initiated in earlier years, lacked consistency. Under President Hichilema, the programme has been stabilised and expanded to all 116 districts, significantly improving school attendance, retention and nutrition outcomes.
Secondly, the President’s decisive leadership has revived a mining sector that had virtually collapsed under the previous administration, operating at below 30 percent capacity and resulting in the retrenchment of over 20,000 mine workers. In just three years, President Hichilema has restored investor confidence, reopened closed mines and repositioned the sector towards a production target of one million metric tonnes of copper by 2025, with an ambitious long-term vision of three million metric tonnes annually. Zambia has since emerged as one of the most stable and attractive mining and investment destinations globally.
Thirdly, policy realignment in the tourism sector has yielded remarkable results. Through relaxed visa regimes, improved marketing and enhanced investor confidence, tourist arrivals have surged from about 500,000 to over 2.2 million in under three years. This growth has translated into jobs, foreign exchange earnings and community development.
Fourthly, President Hichilema’s leadership during the devastating drought demonstrated resilience and effective governance. After declaring the drought a national disaster, the Government implemented timely interventions that ensured no Zambian died of hunger. Remarkably, within twelve months, the country recorded a bumper harvest, underscoring strong coordination, planning and agricultural reforms.
Fifthly, Zambia’s macroeconomic recovery has attracted global admiration. The Kwacha has stabilised and rebounded two to three times, making it one of the best-performing currencies globally in recent years, an achievement rarely witnessed on the African continent. Foreign exchange reserves have increased from below one billion United States dollars to over five billion dollars in approximately three years, restoring confidence in the economy.
Sixthly, revenue mobilisation has significantly improved. The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has consistently surpassed its targets, notably exceeding the 2024 annual goal by K5.6 billion to collect K130.9 billion. In early 2025, ZRA collected K77.8 billion in the first half alone, outperforming projections and demonstrating enhanced efficiency even amid challenges such as drought.
Seventhly, prudent fiscal management has seen Zambia’s national budget become over 80 percent locally financed, a clear indicator of growing domestic resource mobilisation and reduced dependency.
Eighthly, within just three years, Zambia has witnessed the recruitment of over 42,000 teachers and more than 25,000 health workers, an unprecedented feat globally. During the same period, the European Union resumed direct budget support to Zambia, reflecting renewed international confidence in governance and financial discipline.
Above all, President Hichilema has restored political stability and the rule of law. The UPND Administration has decisively ended the culture of extra-judicial killings, gun violence and machete attacks that characterised the previous era. Judicial reforms have been strengthened, including the establishment of a fast-track Economic and Financial Crimes Court, which has resulted in significant asset recovery and forfeitures.
Press freedom has flourished, with no media house closed under the UPND Administration. The long-awaited Access to Information law has been enacted, the death penalty removed from the Penal Code, and Bill No. 7 passed into law to enhance inclusion of women, youth and marginalised groups in governance, marking a major milestone in Zambia’s constitutional reform journey. Further, the Government instituted a forensic audit at the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMSA) to decisively end the pilferage of medicines and medical supplies.
The UPND further notes that this is not the first time President Hichilema has received international acclaim. Former President of Botswana, His Excellency Mr. Ian Khama, once described President Hichilema as the “best man” to lead Zambia through challenging times. Afrobarometer has also ranked Zambia as a standard-bearer for a stable and democratising country globally.
This recognition by The Telegraph affirms that Zambia is firmly back on the global stage, under principled, visionary and people-centred leadership.
INTERNATIONAL ACCOLADES ARE ECONOMIC SIGNALS, NOT EMPTY PRAISE – CHANDA
Kanchibiya… Monday December 29, 2025
Kanchibiya Member of Parliament Sunday Chanda has argued that Zambia should embrace balanced recognition of progress while continuing to confront persistent socio-economic challenges, saying political maturity lies in acknowledging achievements regardless of political affiliation.
Mr Chanda said recent criticism surrounding The Telegraph’s recognition of President Hakainde Hichilema reflected genuine frustrations among citizens arising from poverty, high fuel prices, unpaid farmers and power challenges.
However, he maintained that dismissing international recognition as irrelevant or disconnected from local realities created a false divide between progress abroad and hardship at home.
He explained that The Telegraph did not commend the President arbitrarily, but based its assessment on measurable macro-economic indicators, including Zambia’s successful restructuring of more than 90 percent of its external debt, renewed economic growth following the 2020 default, and improved investor confidence in key sectors such as mining, agriculture and energy.
Mr Chanda emphasized that acknowledging such progress did not amount to ignoring ongoing struggles, but rather reflected a mature approach that allowed both critique and recognition to coexist.
He warned that rejecting all external validation risked undermining Zambia’s global reputation and its ability to attract investment, strengthen diplomacy and leverage international partnerships.
He further stated that global recognition should be viewed as an opportunity rather than complacency, noting that it could open diplomatic doors, encourage foreign direct investment and reinforce confidence among lenders and development partners.
Mr Chanda asserted that Zambia’s progress should be understood as a continuum, adding that while challenges remained severe, international recognition signaled that structural reforms were beginning to yield results.
He urged citizens to use such recognition as motivation to demand improved service delivery while safeguarding accountability.
CHONGWE DISTRICT WELCOME MORE THAN THAN 300 DEFECTORS FROM PATRIOTIC FRONT TO UPND
In a significant political shift, over 300 members of the Former Ruling Patriotic Front (PF) from the Kampekete area of Manyika Ward have officially joined the United Party for National Development (UPND). This event marks a notable moment for both the defectors and the UPND as they seek to strengthen their presence and influence in Chongwe District.
The defectors were warmly welcomed by the District Chairman Mr Lenard Chilima and his committee members, Constituency Chairman Mr Katite and his committee members,And also Present was Mr. Martin Chasha and Mr. Joseph Mwalite prominent members of UPND in Chongwe. Mr. Lenard Chilima, the UPND District chairperson, who highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving developmental goals for the community. In addition Mr. Katite expressed his gratitude, noting that these defections signal a growing confidence in the UPND leadership and its vision for a better future for all citizens.
Accompanying The District and Constituency Leadership during this pivotal moment was Mr. Frederick Sashi, who played a crucial role in mobilizing and encouraging the candidates to make this transition. Mr. Sashi’s efforts were instrumental in fostering an environment where individuals felt empowered to pursue a political alignment that they believe better aligns with their aspirations and values.
The defectors cited a lack of effective leadership within the PF as a key reason for their departure. They expressed their admiration for UPND’s President Hakainde Hichilema, particularly praising his policies such as the cash-for-work initiative and the prompt distribution of farming inputs. They believe these policies directly contribute to community development and agricultural productivity, ultimately improving the livelihoods of many in the region.
The sentiment among the defectors reflects a broader desire for accountable leadership and progressive governance. Their decision to align with the UPND is rooted in a belief that the party is better equipped to address the challenges faced by the community and provide sustainable solutions.
As the UPND continues to expand its base in Chongwe District, the reception of these new members serves not only to bolster its ranks but also to demonstrate the party’s appeal to citizens seeking change. The unity and enthusiasm displayed at the event indicate a committed collective effort to drive progress and development in the region.
In conclusion, the integration of over 300 former PF members into UPND in Chongwe District underscores a significant realignment in the political landscape, driven by the pursuit of effective governance and community-focused policies. As the UPND moves forward, it will be crucial to harness this momentum to address the needs and aspirations of the constituents effectively.
If I didn’t know God, I would have died from depression – Wyclif
FAME often comes with a price, and for renowned Zambian filmmaker Wyclif Mwamba, that price hit hard just as his career began to soar.
The success of his film ‘City on Fire’ was deafening and brought recognition but behind the applause and bright lights lurked jealousy, lies and betrayal, the challenges he said almost broke him.
City on Fire, a hit drama on Zambezi Magic, captivated audiences with its intense tale of a serial killer preying on taxi drivers.
The series showcased strong performances from Leo Simukoko as Bernard, alongside Zodwa Khumalo, Bridget Kashiba, and Bizwell Mudenda, offering viewers a gripping glimpse into Zambian urban life and complex, unforgettable characters.
Appearing on Diamond Tv programme dubbed ‘On The Table,’ Mwamba recounted how false allegations of sexual harassment were levelled against him, targeting a close friend’s girlfriend.
“We were just sitting and playing while in a group not knowing I was being recorded. The person who accused me was a girlfriend to my close friend but the gospel truth is that I never touched her, not even once,” he said.
However, this accusation was only the beginning.
According to him, while working on a project for Zambezi Magic, false emails began circulating, claiming that he had not paid his crew who featured in the said series, designed to sabotage his career and spread distrust among his collaborators.
“The lies, betrayal and constant pressure could have destroyed me. The film industry can be cruel, some people smile with you while sharpening knives behind your back,” stated Mwamba.
For Mwamba, these attacks were not just professional, they were personal and cut him deep.
“If I didn’t know God, I would have died from depression because the struggles I endured were severe enough to have driven others in depression or even caused strokes,” he stated.
Yet, despite the scars, Mwamba’s faith and vision became his shield.
“I am a man of vision. I rose from ashes to where I am today. My back is full of wounds the industry has given me, but I survived,” he added.
“I survived betrayal, navigated falsehoods, and continued to create art despite the odds.”
Mwamba also warned about the precarious state of the Zambian film industry.
High cinema costs, distribution challenges, and a lack of support from TV stations, he said, threaten the survival of local filmmaking.
Zelensky and Putin may speak by phone for the first time in more than 5 years
Sunday’s talks between President Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky could pave the way for the first call between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin in over five years, Fox News reports.
The difficulty is that Putin has refused to speak with Zelensky since July 2020, when they last communicated over the Wagner scandal and the failed operation to detain Russian militants.
Since then, Zelensky has repeatedly attempted to contact Putin, but Putin has refused, a Fox News source said.
Nigerian music star Tiwa Savage was visibly emotional while performing her hit single “Somebody’s Son.”
Last night, Tiwa got her fans in their emotions while she was performing the hit at the WeLoveYa Festival at Cotonou.
Video from the event shows Tiwa pausing mid-song, her voice cracking as the heartfelt lyrics begin to hit her .
At one point she wiped her eyes before finishing the performance to roaring applause and chants of her name.
Fans were visibly touched by how emotional Tiwa got while performing a song they all love and adore.
It is not clear why Tiwa got emotional over the song. Some believe it’s because she has been waiting on love for a long time and she got her heartbroken in the past.
Tiwa has always been big on love. She recently opened up about looking for a relationship and how she won’t mind being involved in a polygamous marriage.
Why South Africa Should Be Worried About Facing Zimbabwe In Crucial Match As the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations group stage reaches its decisive moment, South Africa’s final Group B clash against Zimbabwe in Marrakesh is being framed by many as a formality. On paper, Bafana Bafana only need a draw to progress. Zimbabwe, by contrast, must win to keep their tournament alive.
However, history, form, psychology and tournament dynamics all suggest this is precisely the kind of match South Africa should fear. When pressure collides with desperation, African football has a habit of punishing complacency.
A Rivalry That Refuses To Follow The Script Although this will be the first meeting between Zimbabwe and South Africa at the AFCON finals, the rivalry itself is anything but new. The two sides have faced each other 19 times before this tournament, with South Africa edging the head-to-head record: eight wins to Zimbabwe’s six, alongside five draws.
Yet, numbers alone conceal an uncomfortable truth for South Africa. Zimbabwe have repeatedly proven capable of frustrating, stalling and psychologically unsettling their neighbours. Most recently, on 10 October 2025, the Warriors forced a 0–0 draw in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier played in Durban. That match saw South Africa dominate possession and chances, only to be denied repeatedly by Washington Arubi and a resilient Zimbabwean backline.
That result mattered. It delayed South Africa’s World Cup qualification and reinforced a familiar pattern: Zimbabwe may not always win, but they often deny South Africa momentum when it matters most.
Tournament Pressure Changes Everything Group B’s dynamics heighten the tension. Egypt have already secured top spot after beating both Zimbabwe and South Africa, including a controversial 1–0 win over Bafana on 26 December 2025. Mohamed Salah’s penalty ensured Egypt’s qualification, leaving South Africa vulnerable to the fine margins of AFCON’s tie-breaker rules.
Zimbabwe sit bottom of the group with one point, following a narrow 2–1 loss to Egypt on 22 December and a hard-fought 1–1 draw with Angola on 27 December. However, a single victory over South Africa would dramatically reshape the table and potentially propel the Warriors into the round of 16 for the first time in their AFCON history.
In contrast, South Africa face the burden of expectation. A draw is enough, but AFCON history repeatedly shows that teams playing for a draw often pay the ultimate price.
The Warriors’ Matchday Three Curse — And Blessing Zimbabwe’s AFCON record reveals an intriguing trend. All three of their AFCON victories have come on matchday three: against Algeria in 2004, Ghana in 2006, and Guinea in 2021. Conversely, they have never won either of their opening two group games at the finals
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This pattern matters. According to CAF statistics, Zimbabwe’s record in third group matches stands at three wins from five. More importantly, these wins often arrive when expectations are lowest and pressure is highest.
South Africa, meanwhile, have not won their final group match at AFCON since 2002. In their last seven tournaments, they are winless in matchday three fixtures, drawing four and losing three. That psychological scar should concern coach Hugo Broos and his technical team.
Knowledge Musona: Experience Still Matters At the heart of Zimbabwe’s belief stands Knowledge Musona. Now 35, the former Kaizer Chiefs and Anderlecht forward remains the Warriors’ emotional and tactical leader. His equaliser against Angola made him Zimbabwe’s oldest AFCON goalscorer and only the second player, alongside the late Peter Ndlovu, to score three AFCON goals for the nation.
Musona’s influence goes beyond goals. Against Angola, he attempted five shots, underlining his willingness to shoulder responsibility. A goal against South Africa would see him surpass both Shaun Bartlett and Ndlovu as the highest scorer in this fixture.
In tournament football, such experience can outweigh youthful energy, especially in moments of chaos and fatigue.
South Africa’s Control Has Not Converted Into Comfort Statistically, South Africa have impressed in patches. Against Egypt, they recorded 63.8% possession, their highest at AFCON since 2013. Teboho Mokoena completed 72 passes at a 90% success rate, while Aubrey Modiba registered 94 touches.
Yet, dominance has not translated into goals. South Africa have failed to score in their final group match at the last two AFCON tournaments, and they have won just one of their last five AFCON matches in open play.
As Daily Maverick reports, Hugo Broos himself admitted frustration after the Egypt defeat, urging his players to “forget” the result and refocus. However, emotional carryover is difficult to erase in such a compressed tournament.
Zimbabwe’s Defensive Blow — And The Hidden Opportunity The Warriors will be without Teenage Hadebe, ruled out on 29 December 2025 after sustaining an injury against Angola. According to The Herald, Hadebe described his absence as “heartbreaking.”
At first glance, this appears a decisive blow. However, Zimbabwe have already shown an ability to reorganise defensively under pressure. Washington Arubi, now 40, continues to deliver commanding performances, frustrating elite forwards with calm authority.
Sometimes, adversity sharpens collective resolve. Zimbabwe will not arrive in Marrakesh believing they are beaten.
Why South Africa Should Truly Be Worried This match is not about form alone. It is about psychology, stakes and timing. Zimbabwe arrive with nothing to lose and everything to gain. South Africa arrive knowing that a single mistake could undo months of progress.
AFCON history is ruthless to teams that play not to lose. If Zimbabwe score first, panic will spread. If the match remains goalless deep into the second half, tension will suffocate South Africa’s fluidity.
That is why Bafana Bafana should be worried. Not because Zimbabwe are favourites — but because they are dangerous when desperate.
DA deploys Zille in bid to seize Joburg as ANC fights for urban survival in 2026 local government elections
South Africa’s 2026 municipal elections are shaping up as a critical battleground for control of the nation’s major economic hubs, with the ANC battling to reverse its decline and a fragmented opposition seeking to consolidate gains.
The contest in Johannesburg has taken centre stage, with the DA deploying former leader Helen Zille to challenge ANC Mayor Dada Morero. The high-stakes race, framed as “From Dada to Gogo,” sees the DA leading in polls, capitalising on deep public frustration over service delivery and corruption.
The campaign features an unprecedented element: the Ukrainian Association of South Africa (UAZA) is mobilising resources to support the DA in key metros. This first-of-its-kind diaspora involvement is raising questions about political funding regulations.
Elsewhere, the political landscape is fracturing. The uMkhonto weSizwe Party is aggressively targeting eThekwini (Durban) to take it from the ANC. In Ekurhuleni, ActionSA is promoting crime-fighter Xolani Khumalo to build its profile. The DA, meanwhile, is defending its long-held Cape Town stronghold and promoting its governance as a national model.
Coalition instability remains a wild card. In Tshwane and Nelson Mandela Bay, neither the ANC nor the DA appears poised for an outright majority, setting the stage for volatile post-election negotiations influenced by smaller parties.
Following historic losses in the 2024 national elections, analysts describe the upcoming municipal vote as an existential fight for the ANC. Its ability to reclaim urban ground is seen as crucial to halting a further erosion of its political dominance.
Event organisers threaten legal action after no-show by influencer Cyan Boujee
Local lifestyle brands Katchane Lifestyle & KANAAN have issued a public apology to their supporters and a legal threat following the non-appearance of popular influencer Cyan Boujee at a paid event on 27 December 2025.
In a press release, the organisers stated they had honoured a R28,000 booking agreement in full, paying deposits in November and December.
They also covered the influencer’s flights and accommodation. Cyan Boujee’s team had reportedly confirmed her attendance, and she had even listed the Upington event on her public gig guide.
Despite this, the influencer failed to appear, with organisers alleging all attempts to contact her and her management were unsuccessful.
“We will be dealing legally with Cyan Boujee and her team as this basically means they stole and ran off with our money,” the statement read. The brands apologised to their supporters for the cancellation and vowed to pursue the matter legally.
No public statement has yet been issued by Cyan Boujee or her representatives regarding the allegations.
“He Treated Me Like a Baby-Making Machine” – Pastor Chris Okafor’s Alleged Ex-Wife Breaks Silence
The controversy surrounding Pastor Chris Okafor has deepened as a woman identified as Agnes Bessem Okafor, claiming to be his former wife, has come forward with a list of damaging allegations.
The Marriage
Amidst the ongoing drama involving actress Doris Ogala, Agnes released a statement asserting that she legally married the cleric when she was just 18 years old. She insisted that the union was conducted by individuals who are still alive to testify and that the marriage produced four legitimate children. She slammed the pastor for allegedly attempting to deny the existence of their union and their children.
The Secret Discovery
In a shocking revelation, Agnes claimed that shortly after their wedding, she stumbled upon a marriage certificate hidden under the bed. The document allegedly proved that Pastor Okafor had been married previously, a fact she says he concealed from her. She noted that when she confronted him with the evidence, he denied it.
Why She Left
Refuting any narrative that she was cast out, Agnes maintained that she left the marriage of her own volition. She cited his conduct, which she described as a “disgrace to the body of Christ,” as the primary reason. She further accused him of emotional abuse and exploiting her youth, stating she felt used merely as a vessel to bear children rather than a partner.
On the Recent Apology
She also dismissed his recent public apologies as a performative strategy to garner public sympathy rather than genuine repentance.
She stated:
“My name is Agnes Bessem Okafor. I got married to Chris when I was 18 years. The people that conducted that marriage are still very much alive. The marriage produced four beautiful children. This man took me in my prime, in my youth, as a wife, not as a side chick, or a side whatever.
We had a marriage and everyone that conducted that marriage is still alive. They’re are ashamed of the things he comes out to say about his own children. It is a shame to the body of Christ. If I left this man, I left him because I could not match and operate in his own ways. I left him. He did not leave me. I left you because of the shame and disgrace you brought to the body of Christ for so many years.
Nigerians, when I couldn’t take it anymore was when this !d!ot, this so-called pastor that is apologizing to gain public sympathy, this g00d for noth!Ng human standing on the altar to lie. After the wedding, I discovered under the bed a wedding certificate which revealed that he was once married. I cried. I asked him, he denied.
The marriage certificate is still available. You’ll go to jail for that. You lied to me, married me and kept me in your house just to be a baby-making mach!ne.” https://www.instagram.com/reel/DS1e-IpCOUw/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=399c4915-5fc4-437b-8d0e-2b8bf3a537a1
EAST AFRICA READY TO ROAR! AFCON 2027 STADIUMS REVEALED
East Africa is gearing up for a football spectacle as Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda prepare to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations and the stadium lineup promises drama, passion and packed terraces.
🇹🇿 TANZANIA will showcase its football power through the iconic Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, alongside Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium, Dodoma Stadium and the historic Amaan Stadium, setting the stage for unforgettable clashes.
🇰🇪 KENYA brings a strong arsenal of venues, led by the much-anticipated Talanta Stadium, football fortress Kasarani, Nyayo Stadium, Bukhungu Stadium, and the legendary Kipchoge Keino Complex, blending modern ambition with sporting heritage.
🇺🇬 UGANDA completes the trio with Mandela National Stadium, Hoima Stadium, and Akii Bua Stadium, ready to welcome Africa’s finest.
With world-class venues spread across three nations, AFCON 2027 is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious and electrifying tournaments in African football history. The countdown has begun and East Africa is ready.
ACROW BRIDGE INSTALLATION AT WASHED AWAY SECTION OF THE GREAT EAST ROAD COMPLETED
The Road Development Agency (RDA), in collaboration with the Zambia National Service (ZNS), has successfully completed the installation of an ACROW Bridge across the washed away section of the Great East Road at Kankumba Stream, approximately 87 kilometres from the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport KKIA) Roundabout. The installation is aimed at restoring and facilitating the smooth flow of traffic along this critical route.
The ACROW Bridge installation works were completed today at 06:00 hours, and the bridge has since been opened to traffic. In addition, the team on site successfully completed the construction of a detour yesterday, further enhancing traffic flow at the affected location.
The affected section of the Great East Road at Kankumba Stream was washed away on 25th December 2025 following heavy rainfall experienced in the area.
The incident resulted in the loss of approximately five 5) metres of the road embankment due to the failure of an Armco (steel) culvert.
The Agency wishes to thank motorists and the travelling public for their patience and cooperation during the period of disruption.
Issued by: Anthony Mulowa CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS AND CORPORATE AFFAIRS MANAGER Source: RDA
Outrage as video of children drinking alcohol sparks investigation
A viral video showing young children from the Eastern Cape province consuming alcohol in the presence of adults has triggered shock and condemnation across South Africa, with the Eastern Cape Department of Social Development launching a formal investigation.
Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta described the footage in which children believed to be between six and 12 years old drink from bottles while elderly people look on as deeply disturbing and unacceptable.
She emphasised that the safety and welfare of children must be a priority, especially during festive periods when substance abuse risks increase.
Fanta said social workers have been deployed to identify those responsible and to assess the circumstances surrounding the video’s origin.
The department aims to safeguard the affected children and ensure appropriate interventions are implemented.
Authorities have appealed to community members with information about the incident to come forward, saying such cooperation is vital in protecting vulnerable children.
Fanta warned that exposing minors to alcohol not only jeopardises their health and development, but could also have legal consequences for responsible adults.
The incident has reignited broader concerns about child protection and the role of caregivers in preventing underage drinking, a problem that authorities say needs urgent, collective action.
The phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump was held at the initiative of the US side and took place ahead of Trump’s meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky, Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov said.
The call lasted 1 hour 15 minutes.
Key points:
▪️The call was initiated by the US president
▪️Trump wanted to discuss a number of issues ahead of his meeting with Zelensky
▪️The tone was described as friendly, constructive and business-like
▪️Trump strongly promoted the idea of ending the conflict as soon as possible
▪️Trump said he was convinced Russia seeks a political and diplomatic settlement
▪️Ukraine should make a quick decision on ceding the Donbass region, taking into account the front-line situation
▪️Putin and Trump agree that a temporary ceasefire under the pretext of holding a referendum on territorial concessions would only prolong the conflict
▪️A final end to hostilities depends on the Kiev regime’s decision on Donbass
▪️Trump also raised prospects for US economic cooperation with Russia and Ukraine
▪️Putin agreed to continue peace efforts through two specially-created working groups
▪️The two leaders exchanged Christmas and New Year greetings
BETWEEN PERCEPTION AND REALITY: WHY ZAMBIA SHOULD WELCOME BALANCED RECOGNITION
In democratic societies, political maturity is not measured by partisanship, but by the ability to recognise progress when it occurs, regardless of political affiliation. It requires acknowledging achievements that elevate the nation’s standing, whether economic, diplomatic, or reputational and also confronting challenges honestly and constructively.
The recent critique of The Telegraph’s recognition of President Hakainde Hichilema reflects deep frustrations felt by many Zambians, frustrations born from real socio-economic struggles across the nation. It is entirely legitimate for citizens to hold their leaders to account and to demand that policy translates into tangible improvements in daily life. However, the argument that international recognition is inherently misplaced, irrelevant, or disconnected from reality deserves careful reframing.
Critics argue that the accolade reflects “foreign applause divorced from lived experience,” or that it amounts to “decorative bouquets” in contrast with fuel price hikes, persistent poverty, and utility outages. Such frustrations are understandable. Yet by dismissing the accolade outright, the critique falls into a false dichotomy: recognition abroad versus reality at home, as though the two cannot coexist. This is neither accurate nor productive.
Below are sound reasons to defend the legitimacy and value of external recognition, while still committing to rigorous self-evaluation.
1. International Recognition Is Not Detached From Economic Progress; It Reflects It
The Telegraph did not praise President Hichilema on a whim. Its editorial cited macro-economic turnaround, fiscal discipline, and restored confidence among global investors as reasons for his inclusion among influential global leaders in 2025. This is not simply symbolic language; it is grounded in observable economic shifts:
(a) Zambia successfully restructured over 90 % of its external debt, offering breathing room for new investment and stability.
(b) After a period of turmoil and default in 2020, the government has overseen a return to economic growth, with forecasts projecting higher GDP expansion in 2025 and 2026.
(c) The macroeconomic climate has stabilized sufficiently to attract renewed investor interest, particularly in mining, agriculture, and energy sectors.
These are not abstract diplomatic handshakes, they are measurable indicators that influence Zambia’s creditworthiness, investment inflows, and long-term prospects.
2. Acknowledging Progress Does Not Mean Ignoring Persistent Challenges
One of the more dangerous rhetorical traps is to treat all recognition as mutually exclusive from all criticism. A mature political discourse does not say:
“Because poverty persists, no progress counts.”
Rather, it says:
“Yes, challenges remain and they must be urgently addressed. At the same time, let us objectively evaluate what has improved.”
International praise does not eliminate hardship as no award ever could. But dismissing external validation entirely limits our national self-confidence and ignores the fact that Zambia’s policymakers are operating in a landscape is less constrained. This is worth acknowledging.
3. Recognition Signals Opportunity, Not Complacency
Global accolades like those from The Telegraph matter because they:
(a) Open diplomatic doors, strengthening Zambia’s voice in international forums.
(b) Encourage foreign direct investment, creating jobs and economic multipliers.
(c) Provide confidence to multinational partners and lenders that Zambia is a reliable partner.
In a globalised world, reputation influences capital flows, trade partnerships, tourism, and geopolitical alliances. To outright reject external recognition is to weaken Zambia’s ability to leverage the global community for domestic benefit.
4. Criticism Must Be Anchored in Solutions, Not Just Rejection
The critique emphasizes issues like poverty, unpaid farmers, fuel prices, and power concerns. These are real, serious, and deserving of robust policy responses. But the argument’s underlying implication that international praise is a smokescreen masking failure, is mistaken.
International commendation for macroeconomic reforms does not contradict the need to improve social services, expand access to electricity, or expedite payments to farmers. It complements it by affirming that the country is moving in the right direction, while recognising that there is still work to do.
This is a more holistic and productive framing.
5. Zambia’s Progress Should Be Interpreted as a Continuum; Not an Either/Or
Let us be clear:
(a) Yes, poverty remains a deep and enduring challenge.
(b) Yes, infrastructure deficits and social service gaps persist.
(c) Yes, many Zambians yearn for faster visible improvements in daily life.
But acknowledging these facts does not negate the reality that Zambia’s macroeconomic trajectory has improved since 2021.
In fact, it is often precisely when reforms take root when confidence returns, debt is restructured, inflation stabilises, and investor trust recovers, that a country lays the foundation for sustained job creation, food security, and higher living standards.
Recognition by respected international observers is an indicator that structural reforms are bearing fruit. It is evidence of progress, not an illusion.
CONCLUSION
President Hichilema’s inclusion in The Telegraph’s list reflects a broader shift in how Zambia is perceived globally. Just a few years ago, Zambia made headlines for its economic struggles, including becoming the first African country to default on its sovereign debt in 2020.
Mature politics therefore demands two things, simultaneously:
1. Unflinching critique of areas where citizens suffer, and
2. Respectful acknowledgement of genuine progress, wherever it occurs.
Rejecting external recognition outright, branding it as naïve or irrelevant, serves only to shrink Zambia’s global standing and dismiss measurable gains.
Instead, Zambians should see The Telegraph’s recognition as:
(a) Affirmation of economic credibility,
(b) A diplomatic asset, and
(c) A reason to demand more, not less, from national leadership.
Foreign praise does not solve problems, but it can reflect real achievements that create opportunities to solve those problems.
Let us recognise strides when Zambia makes them but never allow that recognition to replace accountability on the ground.
Those pushing to delay the PF Conventions are Benefiting from the K20million dished out from State House to destabilize the Patriotic Front and Opposition in general.
Former Petauke Central Member of Parliament Emmanuel Jay Banda has made startling claims in a live Facebook broadcast that State House released K20million to ensure that the Patriotic Front does not hold its scheduled Conference or holds it too late for a candidate to have adequate time to campaign for the 2026 General Elections..
Responding to a statement issued by PF Acting Deputy Secretary General Celestine Mukandila who stated that the PF will hold its elective conference by April 2026, Banda accused those delaying the General Conference as actively collaborating with expelled Mafinga MP, Robert Chabinga.
He said Chabinga has publicly assured President Hakainde Hichilema that the PF will not host a General Conference until 2027.
Banda claimed that State House had set aside K20million to destabilize the Opposition ahead of the 2026 General Elections.
🇿🇲 EDITORIAL | Imperialism for Applause, Amnesia for Accountability
The backlash from sections of the opposition to President Hakainde Hichilema’s recognition by The Telegraph has followed a familiar script: dismiss the praise, invoke imperialism, and recast foreign engagement as betrayal. Brian Mundubile calls the accolade a “bouquet” that wilts in the face of domestic hardship.
Saviour Chishimba brands it a “national disgrace,” arguing that Western approval signals exploitation rather than progress. Both rely on a famous warning attributed to Samora Machel: “If one day you hear the Europeans praise me, know that I have betrayed you.”
The rhetoric is emotive. The history is selective.
Mundubile writes, “The Telegraph may see a statesman; Zambians see a salesman of hope who forgot to deliver.” Chishimba adds that foreign praise “confirms how imperialistic entities are praising HH for the benefits that their countries are getting from our country on the blood and sweat of poor citizens.” These claims land because economic pain is real. High living costs, tight liquidity, power cuts, and delayed payments weigh heavily on households.
But an honest assessment requires confronting the economic record that precedes the current administration and the contradictions embedded in the opposition’s critique.
The Patriotic Front built its economic model on external borrowing from the very “imperialists” it now condemns. Under Michael Sata, Zambia issued Eurobonds into European markets.
Under Edgar Lungu, debt expanded rapidly through Chinese financing. Those decisions culminated in Zambia’s 2020 default, the first African country to do so during the pandemic. That collapse did not come from Western praise. It came from unsustainable fiscal choices, weak controls, and a political culture that treated borrowing as revenue.
Today’s international recognition is not a lifestyle award. It reflects specific policy moves: restoring relations with creditors, restructuring debt, tightening fiscal controls, and stabilising the macro framework after default. These are the conditions that reopened budget space. They are also the conditions that enabled large-scale public sector recruitment, including tens of thousands of teachers and health workers, and expanded education financing.
One can argue, legitimately, that social outcomes lag. One cannot credibly argue that the fiscal turnaround is imagined.
There is another contradiction. While condemning Western “imperialism,” PF figures have repeatedly sought Western platforms when it suited their politics. Miles Sampa and Raphael Nakacinda petitioned the United States Embassy with allegations against the Zambian government. Emmanuel Mwamba resides in the United States. Harry Kalaba has engaged the British Embassy. None of these interactions have been framed as betrayal at the time.
The label appears only when engagement produces outcomes the opposition dislikes.
Chishimba’s economic prescriptions underline the literacy gap. He promises to scrap PAYE outright and replace it with unspecified tariffs on natural resource exports while “streamlining” government. There is no costing, no transition path, no explanation of revenue replacement in a country where PAYE remains a core, predictable income stream. This is not a plan. It is a slogan.
Mundubile’s essay leans on vivid metaphors but avoids policy detail altogether. Neither addresses how to finance health systems, pensions, energy expansion, or debt service without destabilising the budget again.
By contrast, Hichilema’s acclaim abroad rests on integration into global financial frameworks that PF governments struggled to navigate. This difference is not ideological. It is technical.
PF politics has historically thrived on populist mobilisation and street credibility. Its founder, Michael Sata, was an effective campaigner with limited engagement in international financial regimes. That legacy shaped a party comfortable with rhetoric and impatient with constraints. UPND, for all its shortcomings, has invested in technocratic engagement and creditor diplomacy. That is why markets listen, even as voters remain unconvinced.
None of this absolves the government of unmet promises or daily hardship. Foreign headlines do not lower mealie meal prices. They do not end load shedding. They do not clear arrears. Voters will judge outcomes, not editorials. But dismissing international recognition as betrayal while ignoring the debt wreckage left behind is not accountability. It is evasion.
The truth sits between applause and anger. Zambia’s recovery is fragile. Pain persists. Yet the fiscal space that exists today was rebuilt, not inherited. Opposition leaders are free to reject praise. They are not free to rewrite history.
Economic credibility is earned through numbers, not noise. And literacy, not indignation, is what turns critique into an alternative.
MWEETWA URGES CITIZENS TO JUDGE GOVT’S 2025 PERFORMANCE IN NEXT YEAR’S POLLS
By Nelson Zulu
Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa has urged Zambians to rate government’s performance in 2025 through the ballot next year.
Mr. Mweetwa has highlighted several achievements that citizens should consider when evaluating the administration’s performance, among them, debt restructuring efforts, introduction of free education policies, and steps taken to settle long-outstanding terminal benefits for retirees.
In an interview with Phoenix News, Mr. Mweetwa has further pointed to the restoration of student meal allowances at public universities and government interventions aimed at reviving stalled mines and related infrastructure as part of broader economic recovery efforts.
He also cited other achievements such as reported gains in agricultural exports and completed projects delivered at reduced costs.
Mr. Mweetwa has assured that government will continue to pursue policies intended to foster growth and service delivery as it looks ahead to the new year.
Patriotic Front Acting Deputy Secretary General Celestine Mukandila has rejected assertions that he and some of the senior members of the Party were beneficiaries from bribe money from State House.
Mukandila was responding to former Petauke Central Member of Parliament, Emmanuel Jay Banda.
Mukandila stated that his mission was to help save the country from the tyranny and dictatorship being perpetrated by President Hakainde Hichilema.
Those pushing to delay the PF Conventions are Benefiting from the K20million dished out from State House to destabilize the Patriotic Front and Opposition in general.
Former Petauke Central Member of Parliament Emmanuel Jay Banda has made startling claims in a live Facebook broadcast that State House released K20million to ensure that the Patriotic Front does not hold its scheduled Conference or holds it too late for a candidate to have adequate time to campaign for the 2026 General Elections.
Responding to a statement issued by PF Acting Deputy Secretary General Celestine Mukandila who stated that the PF will hold its elective conference by April 2026, Banda accused those delaying the General Conference as actively collaborating with expelled Mafinga MP, Robert Chabinga.
He said Chabinga has publicly assured President Hakainde Hichilema that the PF will not host a General Conference until 2027.
Banda claimed that State House had set aside K20million to destabilize the Opposition ahead of the 2026 General Elections.
Zambia’s Justice System Being Politicised Lubinda warns selective law enforcement undermines democracy and intimidates political opponents
Acting Patriotic Front (PF) president Given Lubinda has accused the UPND-led government of politicising Zambia’s justice system, warning that selective application of the law is undermining democracy and disadvantaging ordinary citizens. He made the remarks in a recent interview, addressing governance, accountability, and the rule of law.
In the interview held by *Change Makers online*, Mr. Lubinda said Zambia’s institutions are increasingly being used to intimidate political opponents while alleged wrongdoing involving individuals linked to the government remains unaddressed.
“When people have cases, they are neither investigated nor taken to court,” he said. “This does not help the electorate, and it does not help the country.” Mr. Lubinda argued that allegations publicly raised by President Hakainde Hichilema against certain individuals have yet to result in investigations or prosecutions, raising concerns about selective justice and the politicisation of legal processes.
He stressed that Zambia’s justice system is founded on the principle that one is innocent until proven guilty and warned against public accusations unsupported by legal action. He said political leaders should allow institutions to function independently rather than relying on public statements.
The PF acting president also criticised what he described as a climate of fear and intolerance surrounding government projects, claiming that critics are often treated as enemies of the ruling UPND.
“Can people not question government projects simply because they are associated with UPND?” he asked, calling for greater transparency and accountability in the implementation of initiatives announced by the President. Citing his personal experience, Mr. Lubinda said he was previously subjected to police harassment and brutality, while others in similar circumstances were allegedly treated differently, reinforcing his argument that the justice system is being politicised.
He warned that unresolved allegations and untested claims would eventually be scrutinised, if not under the current administration then by a future government.
“If these matters are not tested now, they will be tested by the next government,” Mr. Lubinda said. On opposition cooperation, Mr. Lubinda confirmed that a decision had been made within the alliance framework to use the Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) as a political vehicle, stating that the move was collectively agreed upon and communicated publicly.
He urged citizens to remain engaged, defend democratic space, and resist intimidation, stressing that political participation should serve the interests of ordinary Zambians, particularly the poor. The UPND government has not yet responded to the allegations raised by the PF acting president.
Antonio Mwanza Criticises Opposition Alliances Lacking National Interest
Democratic Progressive Party Leader Antonio Mwanza says any alliance formed solely to remove the UPND does not advance the interests of the Zambian people.
Mr. Mwanza observed that such alliances amount to little, as politicians are often focused on sharing offices, allowances, contracts, and alleged corrupt business opportunities, while the hardship faced by ordinary citizens continues unabated.
He stressed that a meaningful alliance must speak directly to the lived realities of Zambians and offer practical solutions to their daily challenges.
In a statement today, Mr. Mwanza said the failure of opposition alliances is largely self-inflicted, undermined by dishonesty, lack of principle, and absence of strategic clarity.
He added that short-term political calculations have replaced national interest, while greed, personal ambition, and the scramble for positions take precedence over policy coherence.
Mr. Mwanza further noted that supporters are often misled, internal agreements hidden, and leadership structures left weak and undefined.
Kaunda Square man drills different women in parents’ house, siblings take him to court
A 48-YEAR OLD anti-pork advocate and sabbath keeping man of Lusaka’s Kaunda Square Stage One komboni has been ordered to vacate his parents’ house for feasting on different women in the very house he was born in, despite failing to renovate it.
This is in a matter in which Robert Siame, 56, of Chibombo District, on behalf of his five other siblings, dragged his younger brother, Vincent Siame, to court for failing to maintain the house left to them by their parents, despite paying no rent.
The siblings complained to the Matero Local Court that Vincent had been living in the house since he was still in nappies in 1977, but was unwilling to renovate it, even though he had been using it extensively to showcase his romantic pleasuring skills on women.
“We want him to leave the house because he doesn’t maintain it. He has a sense of entitlement, saying he cannot vacate the house because our mother gave it to him. When mum died, we called a meeting and agreed that he should leave, but he refused,” explained Siame on behalf of the other siblings.
They complained that Vincent, whom many of his SDA fellows could refer to as a Davidian because of his behaviour, had not only seen more wet culverts of sugar than a gynaecologist, but also had a huge appetite for dismantling ridges (imputa) of nshima he did not pay for most of it facilitated by his elder sister who lives in the same family house with him.
The siblings told the court that they had tried everything to convince their brother to leave the house so that the family could earn income from it, but he had flatly refused.
They explained that at one point, the family agreed that Vincent would start paying K1,500 for the two rooms he occupied so they could renovate the house, but he failed to honour the agreement.
Instead, when the time came to pay the K1,500, Vincent could not default and held a secret debt restructuring meeting with his uncle, who allegedly permitted him to pay only K900.
“First we agreed that he should be paying and he accepted. By month-end in November this year, he did not pay and said the money would be ready on December 10. We waited, but up to now, nothing,” Siame lamented.
“After some time, Vincent only managed to give K900, stating that our uncle permitted him to pay that amount because houses in Kaunda Square go for about K850. We were shocked because our uncle was never part of our meeting when we discussed this, so we don’t know how he could have permitted such an amount without our consent.”
The siblings further complained that despite refusing to pay full rent, Vincent had enjoyed the rare privilege of using the family house as a free venue for different women, as he reportedly goes for anything in a skirt capable of spreading their legs for his Ukrainian missile.
“What hurts us the most is that he has no respect for our elder sister whom he stays with. He changes women like football jerseys in her presence, our first born. Even when mum was alive, he married from the same house,” complained Siame.
“We want him to leave so that he can be independent, since he has failed to pay rent. We are tired of his excuses.”
In his defence, the 48 year old Vincent who looked at his siblings like theu had swallowed hundred kilograms of pork told the court that he did not have the kind of money his siblings were demanding for rent when people in the compound pay about K850 per month.
He said he also did not have a stable income, as he only makes about K2,500 per month from his popcorn making business.
“I married while my mother was alive in that same house because she told me, ‘You can even marry from here because you are the one keeping me.’ My ex-wife and I were taking care of my mum. My ex-wife used to bathe my mother, it’s just that my family did not appreciate her,” he said.
“It was my mother who said I could continue living there and even build something in the remaining space, but every time I try to make progress, my siblings interfere.”
He added that it was unfair for his siblings to want him out of the house when they had not taken him to school when he was young.
In his judgment, Magistrate Lewis Mumba ordered that Vincent vacates the house within three months so that everyone could benefit.
Like Zambian football fans after Chipolopolo’s match last Friday, Vincent was left calculating whether he stood any chance of winning the case on appeal.
“That is family property. No one owns it individually, and it should be shared equally. You should put this man in order. Your siblings do not hate you; they just want you to be responsible. I give you three months to vacate the house, starting end of January.
You are old enough to take care of yourself. Sell the property and share it among yourselves. If you put a tenant in that house, everyone, including Vincent should benefit equally, because no one owns that property,” said Magistrate Mumba.
PRINCIPAL PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICERS ARE NOT THE ONLY SOURCES OF GOVT INFORMATION: MY REFLECTIONS ON SC KANGWA’S REMARKS
Recently, Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa addressed Principal Public Relations Officers drawn from government ministries and provincial administration.
His message essentially was that these officers needed to bear in mind that they were official sources of information regarding what government was doing.
The gathering reviewed 2025 and looked ahead to 2026.
Here is what I want to say: Principal Public Relations Officers are NOT the only sources of information regarding what government is doing.
The Zambian people, institutions and visitors are, too. They experience government policy choices, decisions and actions.
In fact, they are a more authoritative, reliable and credible source of government information.
For instance, a government PR officer might say that medicines have been distributed to all the health facilities in the country.
However, the patient admitted or visiting these facilities might report that there were no medicines.
A government spokesperson might announce that government has created a hundred thousand jobs, but somebody might report that they have never been employed since they graduated 10yrs ago.
The street vendor you see every day is a more authoritative source of information regarding policy on poverty and job creation.
This source is raw and unfiltered while PR Officers are engaged in strategic communication which is a different way of saying the information has been sanitized and massaged.
If government wants to lessen massaged messaging, start by getting governance issues and development right.
PR Officers only work with what their bosses produce. No matter how hard they may try to strategically communicate, if witnesses to what government has done wrong are there for all to see, there’s nothing much they can do.
In the era of mass communication, sources of news and information are a myriad.
WHY PERFORMANCE REPORTS MATTER—AND WHY CITIZENS SHOULD CARE
The recent address by the Secretary to the Cabinet, together with the Minister of Finance and National Planning’s call for statutory bodies to publish performance reports, carries one clear message: this is not about new rules—it is about doing what the law already requires.
Zambia’s public finance laws are built on a simple principle: public power is exercised in trust. Whether under the Public Finance Management Act, the Planning and Budgeting Act, the Public Debt Management Act, or the Zambia Public Procurement Act, the expectation is the same—transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership are not optional.
For Controlling Officers and Heads and Chief Executive Officers of Public Institutions, this means something very practical. Public resources must be used efficiently, decisions must deliver value for money, and results must be visible. Planning, spending, and reporting are not box-ticking exercises; they are how leaders show that public funds are delivering real outcomes for citizens.
That is why publishing performance reports matters. It is where promises meet proof. As the Minister of Finance and National Planning has emphasised, every kwacha approved by Parliament must be traceable to results that citizens can see and trust.
This is also consistent with President Hakainde Hichilema’s long-standing reminder that public office is a trust, and leadership is judged by outcomes, not intentions.
The same discipline applies to borrowing and procurement. Debt must be managed transparently so today’s stability does not become tomorrow’s burden. Procurement must be open and fair so public services, infrastructure, and supplies deliver real value. Where integrity is strong, performance improves. Where it weakens, citizens pay the price.
As Zambia implements the 2026 National Budget—with targets for growth, fiscal discipline, and stronger domestic revenue—this transparency becomes even more important. Strong planning, clear reporting, and early identification of fiscal risks help protect funding for priorities like infrastructure, health, education, and social protection.
But accountability does not rest with institutions alone. Citizens also have a role. When the public, civil society, and the media engage with performance reports, procurement disclosures, and service delivery outcomes, they strengthen accountability and help public institutions stay focused on results.
When leaders report honestly and citizens engage constructively, trust grows, discipline improves, and delivery becomes more effective. That partnership—between accountable leadership and informed citizens—is essential to turning the 2026 Budget from numbers on paper into real progress in people’s lives.
THE SCARF THAT NEVER SLEEPS: Mnangagwa’s Christmas Mystery
Even during an intimate Christmas celebration with his wife, Auxillia, and twin sons, Sean and Collin, President Emmerson Mnangagwa kept his now-famous multi-coloured scarf firmly in place. Festive cheer or family comfort made no difference the scarf stayed on.
From scorching heat to cold winds, sunshine or rain, the President is rarely, if ever, seen without it. The constant accessory has fuelled growing public curiosity, with many Zimbabweans asking the same question: why does he never remove it, not even at home?
In a political culture where superstition quietly coexists with power, the scarf has become more than a fashion choice.
Zimbabwean politics has long been associated with spiritual beliefs, with some leaders known to rely on rituals, charms or symbolic items believed to ward off misfortune or evil forces.
Whether personal habit, cultural expression or something more mystical, Mnangagwa’s ever-present scarf has become one of the most talked-about symbols of his presidency and the whispers show no sign of fading.
INFORMATION and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana has appealed to Zambians on social media to exercise empathy and restraint following the relentless roasting of Tianna after her ex- Chile One, unveiled his new bride.
Speaking in Livingstone at a media event, Kawana said the public attacks directed at the young woman were unfortunate and risked inflicting lasting emotional harm, noting that matters of the heart were never easy to navigate.
Over the weekend, social media went into overdrive after ‘fwebakuchaume’ hit maker Chile One, born Obed Chileshe, publicly introduced his bride Angela, whom he described as the woman he prayed for and one who has made him a better person.
In November last year, Chile One had hinted to netizens that he would wed his then lover and songbird Tianna in 2025 and even promised to host what he described as the biggest music festival in the country ahead of the marriage ceremony.
However, while the promise of marriage remains intact, only the bride has since changed, a development that has triggered intense debate online, with a section of netizens turning their focus on Tianna and subjecting her to ridicule and harsh commentary.
Kawana said the trend of roasting individuals on social media was a worrying erosion of empathy, adding that Zambians should remember that those involved were human beings with feelings and families.
“ [We] wish our young lady Tianna well, we know that it is not easy, but I want to take the opportunity to urge all of us in here that as Zambians we must be empathetic,” Kawana said.
He further called on citizens to desist from cyber bullying and instead use social media platforms to encourage and uplift one another, especially during moments of personal loss and transition.
Rapper SLAPDEE says he would do a political song again despite receiving ‘horrible’ backlash that made him lose deals, money, credibility, and awards.
“Looking back, I dont regret it, I’ll do it again, and again, and again,”he said.
Slapdee said he did it after consulting with his family, who encouraged him to ‘do it for his kids.’
■ “It put me in some mini depression,” he said but argued that doing a political song doesn’t imply he shares the same ideology as the party, but it is just business.
The backlash came after releasing ABWELELEPO with fellow label mates BOBBY EAST and NEZ LONG, a PF campaign song in 2021, despite saying he would never do one.
There is a power vacuum appearing in President Donald Trump’s MAGA coalition after the president quietly admitted to his top aide that he knows running for a third term “isn’t possible,” according to a new report.
Trump has told Chief of Staff Susie Wiles “on a couple of occasions” that he knows running for a third term “isn’t possible,” The Los Angeles Times reported on Sunday. Those comments come at a time when MAGA figureheads like Steve Bannon and lawyer Alan Dershowitz are pleading with the president to seek another term in office. Dershowitz reportedly presented a plan to the president in the White House and came away with the impression that Trump would attempt to seek office again.
The 22nd Amendment of the Constitution expressly prohibits presidents from serving more than two terms.
Trump’s decision to back away from running again comes at a consequential time for the MAGA movement. There is no clear successor for Trump once he exits politics. Some people, like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, have emerged as potential successors, although Trump has not officially endorsed either person.
During the recent TPUSA conference in Arizona, Vance offered his vision of party unity, telling every American they are “invited” to join the Trump coalition. Vance also appears to have significant support from Republicans and is polling well with voters, according to the report.
Even so, MAGA appears ready to tear down Vance. Bannon has said the vice president is “not tough enough” to lead the party after Trump, according to the report.
Arguably, one of the biggest streamers in America, Kai Cenat, has reportedly broken up with his girlfriend after he found out there is another man in the picture.
Kai recently opened up about how he almost got depressed due to how big his dreams are.
He advised his followers to take their mental health seriously and also open up to people they trust when there is the need to.
During his speech, he never mentioned his girlfriend or relationship matters, but it seems that was also part of the problem, and he wanted to conceal that.
Cenat uploaded a video on his Snapchat, wailing after finding out there is another man in the picture, so he cannot continue his romantic relationship with Gigi.
They showed the public their relationship in December 2024, and barely a year later, Kai and Gigi had gone their separate ways on December 27, 2025, amid cheating allegations.
He opened up via Snapchat that his woman is having another man. The rumours circulating are that Gigi is secretly dating American Rapper, NBA Youngboy.
“I Forgive You, But I Don’t Lie” – Doris Ogala Responds to Pastor Chris Okafor’s Apology
Nollywood actress Doris Ogala has officially responded after Pastor Chris Okafor issued a public apology to her during a live church service.
The Apology
In a viral video, the clergyman was seen admitting that “mistakes have been made” regarding the scandal that has engulfed them both, offering an apology to quell the controversy.
Doris Fires Back
Taking to her Instagram page to share the clip, the actress made it clear that while she accepts his olive branch, she takes exception to his narrative. She expressed deep concern over his assertion that her claims were false.
She wrote:
“Chris Okafor, I forgive you, but there’s a problem where you said everything is a lie. I have a problem with that because I don’t lie.”
Sticking to Her Story
Ogala emphasized that while forgiveness is key, she refuses to let her integrity be questioned. By insisting that she “doesn’t lie,” she effectively doubled down on her previous allegations, which included claims of marriage betrayal and other disturbing accusations.
Public Reaction
The response has triggered a fresh wave of debate online. While some applauded her willingness to forgive, others are analyzing the conflict between the pastor’s denial and the actress’s insistence on her truth.
A high-profile investigative journalist received quite a shock on Sunday when she discovered her flight itinerary from a trip to Florida in July 2019 tucked in the latest batch of files related to the FBI’s investigation of disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Miami Herald investigative reporter Julie K. Brown posted on X on Sunday that she found her flight information in the newly released files attached to a grand jury subpoena. The trip occurred during Trump’s first administration and happened about a month before Epstein was found dead in the New York Metropolitan Correctional Center.
“Does somebody at the DOJ want to tell me why my American Airlines booking information and flights in July 2019 are part of the Epstein files (attached to a grand jury subpoena)? As the flight itinerary includes my maiden name (and I did book this flight) why (sic) was the DOJ monitoring me?” Brown wrote.
Brown’s post sparked outrage among political analysts and observers toward the administration.
“This is a major scandal in and of itself, beyond whatever else is found in the files about Epstein himself,” Iranian-American writer Alireza Talakoubnejad posted on X.
“Why was the DOJ tracking a journalist covering Epstein?” journalist Chris Bury asked on X.
“Disturbing. Top reporter on Epstein case,” foreign policy reporter Laura Rozen posted on X.
“Oh s—,” journalist Rebecca Lewis posted on X.
“The cover-up is real!” Ed Krassenstein posted on X.
Does somebody at the DOJ want to tell me why my American Airlines booking information and flights in July 2019 are part of the Epstein files (attached to a grand jury subpoena)? As the flight itinerary includes my maiden name (and I did book this flight) why was the DOJ… pic.twitter.com/m1mgP6pdgk
TRUMP TOOK THE INITIATIVE AND CALLED PUTIN: BOTH SIDES AGREE A CEASEFIRE WOULD ONLY PROLONG THE WAR – DONBAS DECISION LOOMS
Trump’s call with Putin before meeting Zelensky signals that the center of gravity in the Ukraine war has shifted decisively toward high-level dealmaking.
By agreeing to specially created working groups, both sides are moving away from vague diplomacy and toward structured negotiations with defined parameters.
The shared rejection of a temporary ceasefire is critical, reflecting a belief that pauses only freeze conflicts rather than resolve them.
Trump’s initiative matters because it forces decisions instead of deferring them, especially as battlefield realities continue to evolve.
Pressure on Kyiv to decide on Donbas underscores how political timelines are now being driven by facts on the ground, not rhetoric.
Geopolitically, this call places Washington firmly at the center of shaping the outcome, rather than outsourcing leadership to multilateral drift.
The agreement to continue talks after Trump meets Zelensky signals a coordinated sequence, not improvised diplomacy.
This is the clearest sign yet that the war is entering an endgame phase defined by leverage, not illusions.
