Patrice Émery Lumumba remains one of Africa’s most powerful symbols of resistance, dignity, and unfinished liberation.
Born in 1925 in what was then the Belgian Congo, Lumumba rose from modest beginnings to become a sharp-minded nationalist who refused to accept colonial rule disguised as partnership. As Congo approached independence, he emerged as a unifying figure, rejecting tribal divisions and demanding true sovereignty—not a handover that left Belgium and Western powers in control of Congo’s vast mineral wealth.
On June 30, 1960, during the independence ceremony, Lumumba stunned the world. Standing beside the Belgian king, he delivered a fiery, unscripted speech that exposed the brutality, exploitation, and humiliation of colonial rule. It was a moment of truth that electrified Africans—and terrified Western interests.
Within months, Lumumba was removed from power, arrested, and on January 17, 1961, brutally assassinated with the direct involvement of Belgian authorities and the complicity of Cold War powers who saw his vision of independence as a threat. His body was destroyed to erase evidence, but his legacy survived. Lumumba became a martyr of African liberation, inspiring generations across Africa and the diaspora. He represents the Congo that dared to stand tall, speak boldly, and demand respect.
It is deeply emotional reading the story of Patrice Émery Lumumba—a freedom fighter unjustly silenced for loving his country too fiercely. And only then does it become clear why the DR Congo fan, Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, popularly known as “Patrice Lumumba,” chose to stand like a statue throughout DR Congo’s AFCON matches.
That silent stance was not random. It was remembrance. It was mourning. It was resistance. A human monument honoring a fallen hero, carrying history into a football stadium.
The gesture—quiet yet powerful—went viral because it blended symbolic protest, historical memory, and raw football passion. In that stillness lived pain, pride, and defiance.
Not just a fan. Not just football. But a nation remembering one of its greatest sons.
GOVERNMENT REQUESTS VATICAN TO RECALL ARCHBISHOP ALICK BANDA
The UPND Government has requested the Vatican to remove embattled Archbishop Dr. Alick Banda from the Lusaka Archdiocese, according to sources.
Foreign Affairs sources have disclosed to KBN TV that the Ministry has raised a diplomatic exchange – note verbal- to the Vatican raising Government’s displeasure with the conduct of Archbishop Dr. Banda whom they have accused of being political.
And yesterday, Vatican representative in Zambia, the Nuncio Archbishop Gian Perici, spoke to President Hakainde Hichilema, sources have further revealed without disclosing the contents of their discussion.
Sources say Government want Dr. Alick Banda recalled from Lusaka as he was deemed to be “disturbing” Government and would not be wanted in his current portfolio in the running up to this year’s elections.
According to sources, an arrest of Archbishop Banda is imminent but Government is willing to stop the process if he is recalled from Lusaka.
PF DISOWNS ‘ILLEGAL’ TONSE ALLIANCE MEETING AS LUBINDA DECLARES PURPORTED RESOLUTIONS NULL AND VOID
The Patriotic Front (PF) formally notifies the general public, its members, and members of the Tonse Alliance that it has been conclusively established that an illegal and unauthorized Tonse Alliance meeting was convened by the Co-Chairperson of the Alliance, Professor Danny Pule.
The Patriotic Front further exposes the mischief and bad faith surrounding this meeting, which was deliberately convened at a time when PF members and Tonse Alliance members were attending a duly sanctioned political rally in Chawama. This conduct was calculated to exclude key stakeholders and undermines the very foundations of collective leadership within the Alliance.
It must be re-emphasised and placed firmly on record that the Patriotic Front is the Party that sponsored His Excellency Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu into the Tonse Alliance, following due consultation and approval by the Central Committee of the Patriotic Front. In this regard, the Patriotic Front cannot and will not be reduced to a façade or treated as a non-existent entity within an Alliance it helped to form and sustain.
At the said purported meeting, illegal, null, and void resolutions were made, including attempts to alter the Tonse Alliance Constitution through a virtual meeting, in clear violation of agreed Alliance procedures and in direct contravention of a binding resolution which resolved that all matters relating to constitutional amendments would only be addressed at a duly convened physical meeting scheduled for 20th January 2026.
The Patriotic Front unequivocally condemns the conduct of certain colleagues within the Alliance, which demonstrates dishonesty, lack of political decorum, and blatant disregard for collective responsibility, consultation, and mutual respect—principles that are indispensable to any credible political alliance.
Accordingly, any documents, statements, or materials circulating on social media purporting to be resolutions of the Tonse Alliance are hereby disowned in their entirety, are illegal and illegitimate, and must be ignored with the contempt they deserve. For the avoidance of doubt, the status quo within the Tonse Alliance remains unchanged.
Consequently, the Tonse Alliance shall soon convene a proper, lawful, and duly constituted meeting, at a date and time to be announced, at which all outstanding matters shall be addressed strictly in accordance with the Alliance Constitution and agreed procedures.
In the meantime, all Patriotic Front members and Tonse Alliance members are directed to intensify campaign activities in Chawama to ensure a Tonse Alliance victory in the upcoming by-election scheduled for 15th January.
Issued by: Hon. Given Lubinda Chairperson – Tonse Alliance A/ President – Patriotic Front
My name was used to fraudulenty give Bishop Alick Banda the Hilux, cries ZRA employee
A ZAMBIA Revenue Authority (ZRA) employee whose name has for years been synonymous with the controversial Toyota Hilux allegedly gifted to Archbishop Alick Banda has cried foul, saying he was framed and used as a pawn in the illegal disposal of government vehicles.
Mulopa Kaunda, the man on paper recorded as the buyer and the ‘Good Samaritan’ who donated the vehicle, said he has never bought, driven or even laid eyes on the automobile that has landed him in endless interrogations and public ridicule.
According to an exclusive story published by the News Diggers newspaper, Kaunda said what started as a strange email in December 2020 quietly turned into a nightmare that dragged his name, family and career into a scandal involving senior ZRA officials and politically connected beneficiaries.
The paper reports that according to records, the Toyota Hilux was allegedly sold to Kaunda before being transferred to Archbishop Banda within 24 hours, a transaction Kaunda said exists only on paper.
“I never bought that vehicle. I never participated in any auction and I don’t know Archbishop Banda,” Kaunda was quoted as saying.
The paper reported that the ZRA employee narrated how he was shocked to receive an internal receipt showing he had paid for a vehicle, prompting him to query the transaction, only to be told it was an error.
However, the matter refused to die, later resurfacing with fresh receipts and documents bearing his name, including ownership records.
Kaunda said the situation worsened after he was asked by his then supervisor to submit his NRC, a request he now believes was used to formalize the fraudulent paperwork.
What followed was a trail of summons by investigative wings, forcing him to travel repeatedly from Ndola to Lusaka to explain himself, while the public narrative painted him as the generous donor to a senior Catholic cleric.
The pressure intensified after documents linking him to the Archbishop were circulated on social media, a development Kaunda revealed pushed him into depression and hospitalisation due to high blood pressure.
“I have been mocked, questioned and treated like a criminal over something I didn’t do,” he said.
The investigations have already claimed high-profile casualties, with former ZRA commissioner general Kingsley Chanda and former director of administration Callistus Kaoma jailed for abuse of office.
The recent summoning of Archbishop Banda over the same vehicle has heightened public interest and anxiety, particularly among the Bishop Banda’s supporters within Catholic church, some of whom see it as political persecution.
But Kaunda said while the nation debates the Archbishop’s interrogation, his own suffering has gone unnoticed.
“For four years, I have lived with this cloud over my head,” he said.
As investigations continue, Kaunda maintains that all he wants is justice and the restoration of his name.
ZRA EMPLOYEE DEMANDS RETRACTION OF ARTICLE AND K20M FROM AMB. MWAMBA AND DAILY NATION NEWSPAPER
A ZRA employee, Mulopa Kaunda has gone for former Zambia’s ambassador to Ethiopia Emmanuel Mwamba and the Daily Nation, demanding that the duo fork out K20 million each for misleading the public that he purchased a Toyota Hilux from his employer and gifted it to Lusaka Archdiocese Bishop Grace Alick Banda.
Kaunda has given Mwamba and the media house three days in which to retract the malicious falsehoods and render a public apology failure to which he will institute legal proceedings against them.
In separate letters of demand with similar wording, served on the two parties by Mulopa’s lawyers of Messers Malisa and Partners Legal Practitioners dated September 23, 2024, the ZRA employee said, the false articles published by Mwamba and Daily Nation are capable of damaging his relationship with his employer.
In attempts to discredit evidence before the Economic and Financial Crimes Court that his Grace Archbishop Banda was a beneficiary of a vehicle that was illegally disposed of, Mwamba on September 13, 2024 published an article on his Facebook page ‘Emmanuel Mwamba’ titled “Toyota Hilux was sold to a staff member, ZRA records show.”
Mwamba in attempts to clear the clerics name, conducted separate proceedings alongside the court case before the EFCC where former top ZRA officials Kingsley Chanda and Calistus Kaoma are being prosecuted for failing to follow procedure in the manner they disposed of 22 vehicles belonging to the Revenue Authority.
He alleged that Kaunda bought the Hilux and gifted it to the priest.
“The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) sold the vehicle, Toyota Hilux, blue in colour, on staff auction to a staff member Mulopa Kaunda.
ZRA records of sale and gate pass show that the vehicle was sold for K50,000 cash on 17th November 2020 and collected on 20th November 2020 by Mr. Mulopa Kaunda…”
And Daily Nation editor Banabas Zulu is also alleged to have authored an article purporting that Kaunda purchased the vehicle on the front page of Vol.10 Issue No. 4,144 dated the September 14, 2024 titled “ZRA EMPLOYEE BOUGHT VEHICLE BEING USED TO MALIGN ARCHBISHOP BANDA”
The said article reads; “.documents reveal that a Mr. Mulopa Kaunda a ZRA employe bought
Toyota Hilux registration number ALF 7734, Blue in colour. The Toyota Hilux vehicle being used to demonise, scandalise and nihilistically malign His Grace, Archbishop Dr Alick Banda was in fact bought by a Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA ) employe who later gifted it to the Archbishop of Lusaka, documents bave revealed.
According to documents from ZRA, which include a receipt and gate pass, the vehicle in question, a Toyota Hilux registration number ALF 734, blue in colour, was gifted to Archbishop Dr Banda Who was in Europe…”
Zulu, alleged that Kaunda purchased and collected the motor vehicle on the 17th and 20th of November 2020 from ZRA at K50,000.00.
“Our Client contends that further to the above, you authored and published the said
article following a wide media circulation of allegations that the subject motor vehicle was suspiciously given to his holiness Archbishop Alick Banda and was ultimately seized by Drug Enforcement Commission,”the demand letters read.
Kaunda contended that he has served in the institution for a good number of years with an impeccable record of good character, and has upheld high levels of professionalism and integrity in line with the ethical standards ZRA expects and maintains among all its employees.
According to Kaunda; he did not purchase the vehicle in question, neither did he gift it to Archbishop Alick Banda nor was he involved in the said deal.
Kaunda said he was not contacted by the duo to get his side of the story but, they proceeded to publish falsehoods without taking into consideration his reputation, which he deems to be malicious and libelous, intended to ruin his relationship with his employer.
He said the words imply that he dubiously acquired the motor vehicle in question and gifted it to the Archbishop, which falls below the standard of conduct and ethics expected of him.
Kaunda said the malicious falsehoods tends to lower him in the estimation of right thinking members of society and his employer, thereby bringing his name into ridicule.
“In this regard, our Client instructs us, which we hereby do, to demand the folowing: That you retract the said article and render an unequivocal public apology within 48 hours of receipt of this letter; and Payment of ZMW 20,000,000 being damages for libellous and malicious publication,” read the letters of demand.
“Our Client remains desirous to settle this matter amicably, however, should we not hear from you within 3 days of your receipt of this letter, we have instructions to seek legal redress for libel, without further recourse to yourselves by whom the attendant costs shall be borne.”
🇿🇲 ANALYSIS | Who Owns Tonse? Pule Moves, PF Revolts
Hell has broken loose inside the Tonse Alliance, and what unfolded late Tuesday night marks the most consequential rupture since the death of former president Edgar Chagwa Lungu. What was designed as a unifying opposition vehicle has now descended into an open power struggle over identity, legality, succession, and control of the 2026 presidential ticket. At stake is not just leadership, but whether Tonse survives as a coherent political force or collapses under the weight of its own contradictions.
At the centre of the storm is a four-hour virtual meeting convened on January 6 by Tonse Alliance Co-Chairperson Prof. Danny Pule, which produced sweeping constitutional changes, dissolved the Patriotic Front’s formal status within the alliance, and set January 2026 as the month to elect a new chairperson and presidential candidate.
Pule’s framing is blunt: Tonse, he argues, has been “held hostage” by PF’s court battles, factionalism, and paralysis following Lungu’s death. His council resolved to recognise only the “ECL PF Political Movement”, a non-registered pressure group loyal to Lungu’s legacy, and to completely disown the PF party structure currently entangled in litigation involving Robert Chabinga.
“The Tonse Alliance has been delayed, disorganised and made to look institutionally chaotic because of PF,” Pule said, arguing that this move was the only way to honour what he described as Lungu’s “Plan B” and political wishes. In one stroke, PF was downgraded from anchor party to outsider, while its loyalists were rebranded into a movement stripped of legal standing but retained for symbolic and mobilisation value. The council further abolished exclusivity around the presidency, opening the 2026 ticket to all council members and scheduling a general congress within weeks.
It was a declaration of political urgency, but also one of war.
The resolutions go further. The concept of an anchor party has been revised downward, cutting the ECL PF Movement’s council representation from 15 to seven, redistributing power to founding and non-founding parties and civil society groups, and reshaping delegate numbers ahead of the congress.
Disciplinary authority was moved from the spokesperson’s office to a legal chairperson, two vice chairperson roles were created, and interim leadership scrapped in favour of Pule as caretaker chair. Dr. Chris Zumani Zimba was appointed the official face of the ECL PF Movement. In effect, Tonse’s internal architecture was rewritten in one night.
PF’s response was immediate and incendiary. Acting PF President and Tonse Chairperson Given Lubinda dismissed the meeting as “illegal, null and void,” accusing Pule of mischief, bad faith, and procedural sabotage.
PF insists it remains the legitimate sponsor of Edgar Lungu into Tonse and cannot be erased by what it calls a rogue virtual meeting held in violation of agreed processes.
“PF will not be reduced to a façade or treated as non-existent,” Lubinda warned, insisting that constitutional amendments can only be handled at a physical meeting scheduled for January 20.
This clash exposes a deeper fracture: Tonse was never a party, but a fragile coalition built around one man. Lungu’s death removed the glue holding together rival ambitions, unresolved mistrust, and competing readings of legitimacy. Pule’s camp argues that survival demands speed, clarity, and decisiveness. PF argues that legality, procedure, and historical centrality cannot be bypassed without collapsing the alliance’s credibility. Both sides claim fidelity to Lungu’s legacy, yet interpret it in opposite directions.
The undertones are unmistakable. This is a succession war disguised as constitutional reform. The push to elect a presidential candidate this month signals fear of irrelevance as elections approach. The demotion of PF reflects frustration with its internal decay.
PF’s rejection reflects anxiety over losing leverage, symbolism, and control of opposition space. Neither side is speaking softly anymore.
Politically, the timing is brutal. With the ruling UPND consolidating structures, expanding constituencies, and campaigning quietly on the ground, the opposition’s biggest coalition is tearing itself apart in public. The Tonse Alliance now risks becoming a courtroom project rather than a campaign machine.
Whether this shake-up produces renewal or total fragmentation will depend on whether legitimacy, unity, and urgency can be reconciled. So far, the signs point to escalation, not settlement.
What is clear is this: Tonse Alliance has crossed a line from internal disagreement into open institutional conflict. Once that happens, outcomes are rarely negotiated. They are imposed. And in politics, the side that spends its energy fighting itself rarely survives the election that follows.
COMPREHENSIVE CONSTITUTIONAL CHANGES TO GUARANTEE PROGRESS AND VICTORY IN AUGUST 2026
YESTERDAY in the evening, 6th January, 2026, the Tonse Alliance Council of Leaders was convened virtually from 18hours to 22hours to review, discuss, respond and make resolutions on a number of constitution amendments following a petition from some of the Alliance members.
The meeting which was chaired by myself, Prof. Danny Pule as Tonse Alliance Co~Chairman was virtually well attended by most leaders from Tonse Alliance political parties, civil society organisations, parliamentarians and renowned citizens.
Based on the petition from our four member organisations, this council of leaders discussed nine key constitutional amendments and made resolutions on each as follows:
1. Tonse Alliance will no longer recognize “PF Party” but only embrace and work with the “ECL PF Political Movement” in order to honour the wishes of Dr. ECL and make progress
The Council of leaders unanimously observed and agreed that the Tonse Alliance has been held at ramson/hostage, delayed to make progress and made to look institutionally disorganized as a result of the leadership crisis, wrangles, court battles, factionalism, divisions, rivalry and chaotic politics in PF as the anchor party for many months especially after the death of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
Hence, the Council resolved that the Alliance shall henceforth only maintain the membership of “ECL PF Political Movement” as per constitution as guided by Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu himself and has officially done away with anyone and anything to do with “PF party” that is in court with Hon. Robert Chabinga.
The Council believes that this is the only way the Alliance shall honour ECL’s Plan B, ECL’s wishes and political legacy since he brought and left “ECL PF Movement ” to Tonse Alliance himself when his party was treacherously taken away from him.
By definition, the council approved that the “ECL PF Movement” is a non registered political pressure group consisting of all former and current PF Ministers, PSs, MPs, DCs, diplomats, council Chairpersons, Mayors, Councillors, party officials, members and structures countrywide loyal to ECL himself as former President and his legacy outside the formal party aligned leadership in court with Chabinga.
As we speak, the council agreed that the gallant PF MPs who openly opposed Bill 7 and patriotically denounced it by not voting for it are a good example of members of the ECL PF Movement as opposed to the PF MPs who voted for it.
As Most Zambians are aware and know, Tonse Alliance was formed in July 2023 as an alternative political platform of Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu and his loyal followers/supporters in PF and outside PF when it was clear that ECL was betrayed by some PF leaders after the “PF party” was officially traded and politically sold to UPND and HH as well as when the UKA project completely failed him. Therefore, Tonse Alliance shall henceforth not entertain any association with PF party.
2. The Constitution has been amended in order to allow all Tonse Council of Leaders Eligible and Free to Contest Any Position including the Chairmanship, 2026 Presidential Candidacy and other electable positions
The Council deliberated and collectively resolved that, since ECL, the Constitutional Chairman and 2026 Presidential candidate is dead, Tonse Alliance has abolished the exclusivity of associating the coalition Chairmanship and 2026 presidential candidature to Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu himself and his “ECL PF Movement”.
The Alliance resolved that from now onwards, anyone who is a member of the Council of Leaders shall be free and eligible to contest any position including the Chairmanship as well as the 2026 presidential candidacy.
3. Tonse Alliance to Democratically elect it’s new Chairman and 2026 Presidential candidate this month, January, 2026
Based on resolution number two above, the Council of Leaders unanimously agreed and resolved that the Tonse Alliance General Congress shall elect it’s new Chairman and 2026 Presidential Candidate within the month of January, 2026 as well as all other key electable positions. The Council reaffirmed that The greatest political crisis and paralysis Tonse Alliance has faced since the death of Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu has been failure to elect a new legitimate chairman and 2026 Presidential Candidate.
4. The Concept of ANCHOR PARTY revised to reflect the Current Political Dynamics & Membership Status in the Council of Leaders
The Council observed that following the death of ECL and continued divisions, wrangles, rivalry, factions, court battles and leadership crisis within PF, the political potency, popularity and standing of the “ECL PF Movement ” has been drastically affected as it no longer enjoys its original VIP and leadership status of anchor organization in the Tonse Alliance.
Hence, the Alliance resolved to effect the following constitutional changes to the Tonse Alliance Council of leaders in terms of the number of official representatives per member organisation :
~ In recognising its countrywide membership, structures and Mobilisational Leadership, the “ECL PF Movement” shall only reduce from it’s current 15 representatives in the Council of Leaders to 7;
~ All Political parties that are Founding members of the Alliance and are recognised in the Constitution shall be represented by 4 officials in the Council of Leaders;
~ All political parties who are currently members of the Alliance but are not founding members shall be represented by 3 officials in the council of leaders ;
~ All civil society organizations that are founding members of the Alliance and are recognised by the constitution shall be represented by 3 officials in the Council of leaders ;
~ All civil society organisations who are members of Tonse Alliance but are not founder members shall be represented by 2 officials in the council of leaders;
~ All political parties that shall join Tonse Alliance after January 2026 shal be represented by the standard one (1) official in the Council of Leaders; and
~ All civi society and non political party organisations upon joining the Alliance shall not be automatic members of the Council of Leaders unless when invited and approved by the Council of Leaders.
5. Membership to the General Congress has been reviewed and revised to reflect the number of officials in the Council of Leaders per member organisation by three
The General Congress is the highest decision making organ of Tonse Alliance. This is what most political parties call the National Convention. As such, it is the Tonse Alliance General Congress that shall convene this month to elect the new Chairman, 2026 Presidential candidate and other important office bearers.
Following the revision to the concept of anchor organisation in Tonse Alliance, the Council of Leaders resolved that the number of officials in the Council per organisation by three shall be the number of delegates each member shall bring and accredit to the Tonse Alliance General Congress.
For example, the ECL PF Movement shall bring 7 by 3 which is 21 delegates. All political parties that are founding members shall bring 4 by 3 which is 12 delegates each. All political parties who are currently members but are not founding members or all civil society leaders who are founder members of Tonse Alliance shall bring 3 by 3 which is 9 delegates per organisation.
6. After a thorough discussion, the Council resolved that all Disciplinary matters, procedures and actions from henceforth shall move from the office of Tonse Alliance Spokesperson to the Tonse Alliance National Legal Chairperson who shall be complimented by the office of National Coordinator. In like manner, the disciplinary committee shall be composed of Chairpersons of Disciplinary Committees from member political parties and shall be report and be accountable to the Council of leaders on all matters.
7. In order to enhance leadership inclusion and diversity, the council thoroughly discussed and consequently resolved that the Alliance shall henceforth have Two Vice Chairpersons ( First Vice Chairperson and Second Vice Chairperson).
To that effect, the Council appointed State Counsel, Mr. Chifumu Banda, Acting FDD President and Mr. Kelvin Bwalya Fube (KBF), ZMP President as Acting First Vice chairman and Second Vice chairman respectively.
8. On the harmonisation of the office of the Tonse Alliance Secretary General and Tonse Alliance National Coordinator, the Council reaffirmed and resolved to keep the Constitutional Position of National Coordinator to be the Chief Executive Officer of the Alliance. The National Coordinator shall independently lead and manage the Secretariat outside political party members under the supervision of the Alliance Chairman.
The council recognised and approved the original provisions in the Tonse Alliance constitution.The council further resolved that there shall a Council of Tonse Alliance Secretary Generals that shall initiate, recommend and implement political programs and campaign activities of the Alliance with it’s own leadership but shall be coordinated by the office of the National Coordinator.
9. Interim Leadership Before General Congress Elections Within January, 2026
Unanimously, the Council of Leaders resolved to abolish the concept of interim co~chairmanship and appointed Prof. Danny Pule, Christian Democratic Party President as the Tonse Alliance CareTaker Chairman until the new Chairman and 2026 Presidential candidate is elected this month.
In like manner, SC Mr. Chifunu Banda, Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) Acting President was appointed Acting First Vice Chairman while Mr. Kelvin Bwalya Fube (KBF), ZMP President was appointed Acting Second Vice Chairman.
Lastly, the Council of Leaders unanimously appointed Dr. Chris Zumani Zimba as the official face and chairman of the “ECL PF Political Movement” as someone who understand the “ECL PF movement” better in the Alliance and as Lead Consultant who brought it to Tonse Alliance with Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu himself its founder leader.
I want to thank you all and may God bless Tonse Alliance and Zambia.
PROF. DANNY PULE TONSE ALLIANCE CARETAKER CHAIRMAN AND CDP PRESIDENT
SINKAMBA WARNS GOVERNMENT OVER ALLEGED PLOT AGAINST ARCHBISHOP BANDA
Green Party President Peter Sinkamba has added his voice to growing concern over what critics describe as an escalating use of State machinery to pursue the arrest of Archbishop Alick Banda, warning that the matter risks undermining public trust in key national institutions and destabilising the country.
Sinkamba was reacting to renewed controversy surrounding a Toyota Hilux vehicle allegedly linked to the Archbishop and the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), a matter that has resurfaced through media reports suggesting fraudulent procurement and disposal processes.
“This whole saga raises serious governance and institutional integrity questions,” Sinkamba said. “If the State is selectively reviving administrative issues to target a senior Catholic cleric, then we are heading into very dangerous territory as a country.”
The Green Party leader questioned why the alleged irregularities were not flagged in any Auditor General’s report since 2021, arguing that the timing of the renewed allegations feeds perceptions of political or institutional manipulation.
“If there was fraud, why was it not detected by the Auditor General? Are we now saying our audit systems are compromised, or is this a case of institutions being weaponised against perceived critics?” Sinkamba asked.
The controversy centres on claims that ZRA vehicles were disposed of through a fraudulent internal process, allegedly involving a former employee, Mulopa Kaunda, who critics say is now being pressured to admit that receipts were falsified in his name to facilitate the illegal sale or ‘gifting’ of the vehicle to Archbishop Banda.
Sinkamba warned that the implications go beyond the Catholic Church and touch the core of public confidence in revenue collection and governance.
“When citizens begin to suspect that institutions like ZRA can generate clean-looking but fraudulent documentation, then tax morale collapses,” he said. “That is how economies begin to choke.”
Catholic faithful and civil society voices have cautioned that continued pursuit of Archbishop Banda could provoke wider resistance, including calls for an independent forensic audit of ZRA operations. Some have warned that eroding trust in revenue institutions could affect tax compliance, triggering liquidity challenges for government and threatening essential public services.
Sinkamba urged the government to de-escalate the situation and prioritise transparency over confrontation.
“The Catholic Church is not an enemy of the State,” he said. “Government must resist the temptation to use coercive power against religious leaders because the political, social, and economic consequences would be severe.”
Authorities have not issued a detailed response addressing allegations of political motivation, while ZRA has previously stated that it operates strictly within the law.
As the matter continues to unfold, observers note that how the State handles the Archbishop Banda issue will be a critical test of institutional independence, democratic maturity, and respect for the role of the Church in Zambia’s public life.
Government expects 60% mining taxes to be paid in USD, 25% in Kwacha, 15% in Yuan
GOVERNMENT has clarified that the decision to allow the payment of some mining taxes in the Chinese currency, Renminbi also known as Yuan, is a strategic and cost-saving measure aimed at improving debt management and reducing foreign exchange conversion costs.
Minister of Finance and National Planning, Situmbeko Musokotwane, says the measure should not be interpreted as a shift away from the Zambian Kwacha, which remains the primary legal tender for domestic transactions.
ZANIS reports that speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka, Dr Musokotwane said the clarification was necessary following widespread public and regional interest after reports emerged that Zambia had begun collecting mining taxes in Renminbi.
The Minister explained that taxes in Zambia are ordinarily payable in Kwacha, but the government may, from time to time, designate other currencies for specific sectors for macroeconomic stability reasons.
He cited the 2018 decision, later expanded in 2020, which required mining companies to pay certain taxes in United States Dollars. Dr Musokotwane said the same strategic logic now applies to the limited use of the Renminbi.
He further disclosed that in 2025, about 75 percent of mining taxes were paid in USD, approximately 25 percent in Kwacha, and about 2 percent in Renminbi.
Dr Musokotwane added that looking ahead to 2026, the government expects around 60 percent of mining taxes to be paid in USD, about 25 percent in Kwacha, and approximately 15 percent in Renminbi.
The Minister stressed that China remains Zambia’s largest bilateral creditor and that most loans contracted from China were denominated in Renminbi and not USD.
“When it is time to service that debt, repayment is required in the same currency that was borrowed. Allowing a portion of taxes to be paid in Renminbi enables the government to avoid unnecessary conversion costs,” Dr Musokotwane said.
He noted that converting USD into Renminbi attracts transaction costs and settlement delays, which the government seeks to minimise through this approach.
The Minister emphasised that the arrangement is limited and targeted, currently applying to a small number of mining companies with strong links to China, and does not compel all mining firms to pay taxes in Renminbi.
“This does not mean that every mining company is being forced to pay taxes in Renminbi. That is not the case,” he clarified.
Dr Musokotwane further assured the public that the policy would have little to no direct impact on ordinary citizens.
“For the common person, there will be no noticeable change. The benefit is that the government saves money, and those savings can be redirected toward public services such as health, education, and social support,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Minister explained that the Renminbi already forms part of Zambia’s foreign reserves, noting that the currency is included in the International Monetary Fund’s Special Drawing Rights (SDR) basket.
He added that reserve management always involves balancing risks, stressing that no currency or asset is completely risk-free.
On monetary policy, Dr Musokotwane said domestic transactions will continue to be settled in Kwacha and that the policy does not undermine the effectiveness of Zambia’s monetary framework.
“This measure does not represent a shift in monetary policy. It simply helps to ease pressure on the foreign exchange market by reducing over-reliance on a single foreign currency,” he said.
And speaking at the same briefing, Bank of Zambia Governor, Denny Kalyalya added that the move also strengthens the stability of the monetary system.
Dr Kalyalya explained that holding Renminbi as part of Zambia’s foreign reserves helps balance pressures in the currency market.
“Having multiple foreign currencies available reduces over-reliance on the USD and other single currencies. It gives the Bank more flexibility to manage liquidity and stabilise exchange rates,” Dr Kalyalya said.
He further clarified that domestic monetary policy remains fully effective because local transactions continue to be settled in Kwacha.
Dr Kalyalya also highlighted that all foreign assets, including reserves, carry some level of risk, and that the Bank continuously monitors these risks to safeguard economic stability.
Meanwhile, Dr Musokotwane concluded by thanking officials from the Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Zambia, and the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) for their role in ensuring prudent economic management.
He reaffirmed that the government would continue engaging stakeholders as circumstances evolve.
ZRA EMPLOYEE DENIES GIFTING A VEHICLE TO ARCHBISHOP ALICK BANDA
I have never seen or touched the vehicle that ZRA claimed I bought from the institution and sold to Archbishop Alick Banda, says Mulopa Kaunda, a man who has suffered over four years of public ridicule for supposedly dragging a high-ranking Catholic priest into a dirty deal.
In this exclusive interview, Kaunda explains how fraudulent receipts and other documents were generated in his name by his named supervisor, in a deal that was meant to facilitate the illegal disposal of government vehicles from the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA).
Since 2022, the law enforcement agencies in Zambia have been investigating a case of abuse of office among ZRA employees and the illegal possession of proceeds of crime involving private beneficiaries, among them the incumbent Catholic Archbishop of Lusaka, Alick Banda.
During the reign of late former President Edgar Lungu, several government institutions were ordered to release vehicles for use in the election campaigns for the ruling party, while some were gifted to PF sympathisers.
Under the ZRA, at least 22 motor vehicles were ‘disposed of’ under questionable circumstances, and records show that some of the vehicles were passed on to employees and private individuals, as well as entities aligned to the ruling party at the time.
Former ZRA Commissioner General Kingsley Chanda and his Director of Administration Callistus Kaoma were convicted and sentenced to six years and nine years respectively for not following procedure in disposing of government vehicles.
According to ZRA and RTSA records seen by News Diggers, one of the vehicles, a Toyota Hilux registration number ALF 7734, was purportedly sold to a ZRA employee named Mulopa Kaunda, who is said to have changed the car documents into his name on 21st April 2021 and then gifted it to the Catholic priest Alick Banda, who also changed the vehicle ownership documents into his personal name the very next day on April 22, 2021.
Records also show that another vehicle which came from ZRA was gifted to Heart of Mercy.
“I don’t know Alick Banda, I never sold or gave him a vehicle”
In a surprising turn of events, Kaunda reveals that he never participated in any tender or auction to buy the said vehicle from ZRA, and that he has never met or communicated with the high-ranking Catholic priest in his life.
He now narrates the agony, frustration and reputational damage he suffered since the public scandalisation started, leading to his hospitalisation, after Emmanuel Mwamba released fraudulent documents linking him to the scandal.
Sitting in his office in Ndola on 17th December 2020, Kaunda, a ZRA employee, received a surprise internal email from the accounts department with an attachment of a receipt. The receipt was an acknowledgment for a payment received from him towards a vehicle he had apparently bought from the institution through an auction sale.
In shock, he responded, saying he had not bought any vehicle from ZRA and he certainly did not make any payment to the institution for that purpose. Little did he know that the purchase of the said vehicle was going to be forced on him officially, as a new receipt was going to be issued for the same transaction.
….To Elect New Chairperson and 2026 Presidential Candidate This Month.
Lusaka – Wednesday, 7 January 2026.
The Tonse Alliance has resolved to remove the Patriotic Front (PF) as its anchor party citing prolonged internal disputes and leadership wrangles within the former ruling party.
The decision was made at a virtual meeting of the Alliance’s Council of Leaders held on Tuesday evening.
Caretaker Chairperson Professor Danny Pule said the Alliance shall not entertain any association with the “PF party” that is in court with Hon. Robert Chabinga.
He said the alliance will therefore no longer recognise the PF as a political party but will instead work with the “Edgar Chagwa Lungu (ECL) PF Political Movement” to ensure progress.
He said the move is intended to honour the wishes and political legacy of former President Edgar Lungu.
He said PF members of parliament who opposed and voted against Bill 7 were a clear example of members aligned to the ECL PF Political Movement, in contrast to those who supported the bill.
Prof. Pule said the Council observed that the Alliance’s progress had been stalled by PF’s leadership crisis, court battles and chaotic internal politics which had made the Alliance appear institutionally disorganised.
“By definition, the council approved that the “ECL PF Movement” is a non registered political pressure group consisting of all former and current PF Ministers, PSs, MPs, DCs, diplomats, council Chairpersons, mayors, councilors, party officials, members and structures countrywide loyal to ECL himself as Former President and his legacy outside the formal party aligned leadership in court with Chabinga,” he said.
“As Most Zambians are aware and know, Tonse Alliance was formed in July 2023 as an alternative political platform of Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu and his loyal followers/supporters in PF and outside PF when it was clear that ECL was betrayed by some PF leaders after the “PF party” was officially traded and politically sold to UPND and HH as well as when the UKA project completely failed him. Therefore, Tonse Alliance shall henceforth not entertain any association with PF party,” he said.
And Prof. Pule said the Council also resolved that the Tonse Alliance General Congress will be held in January 2026 to elect a new Chairperson, a 2026 presidential candidate and other key elective positions.
He said all members of the Council of Leaders will be eligible to contest for any position such as the chairmanship and presidential candidacy
ECONOMIST PROJECTS KWACHA TO APPRECIATE FURTHER TO AROUND K15 PER US DOLLAR
ECONOMIST Naylor Kopakopa has projected that the Kwacha is likely to appreciate further to around 15 Kwacha against the United States Dollar this year.
Mr. Kopakopa attributes the appreciation to increased production levels, particularly in the mining and agriculture sectors.
Mr. Kopakopa has explained to Phoenix News that the recent appreciation of the Kwacha is largely driven by rising global copper prices, which are expected to significantly boost Zambia’s foreign exchange earnings.
He adds that government revenue from copper-related taxes is also projected to increase, further supporting the local currency.
Mr. Kopakopa further adds that once farmers conclude selling their maize from the 2024/2025 farming season, there will be an increased inflow of foreign exchange into the economy, providing additional support to the local currency.
The Kwacha has appreciated sharply and is currently trading between K20 and K21 against one United States Dollar.
FEMALE ZAMBIAN PILOT DONATES 14 BOREHOLES IN CHASEFU DISTRICT
A Female Pilot, Captain Towani Chipeta, has donated 14 boreholes in Chasefu, a climate-stressed district in Eastern Province where access to water is only 25 percent.
Chipeta stated that the boreholes serve all 10 wards in the district.
She mentioned that the wards that got a borehole each include Mandahill, Susa, Kajilime, Lubelezi, Magodi, Chizingizi, Nkhanga, Kapilisanga, Membe, and Chaboli.
The Pilot explained that the initiative spans both chiefdoms of Chasefu, namely Magodi and Phikamalaza.
She noted that the boreholes were drilled within a period of four weeks.
The Pilot said all 14 were completed up to the handpump level to prevent accidents involving children falling into open wells.
Chipeta emphasised that this required additional financial commitment to ensure safety.
She explained that the average depth for a reliable water yield in Chasefu is approximately 80 metres, with each borehole costing no less than K140,000 to reach handpump level.
The project commenced in mid-August 2025 and concluded in mid-September 2025, after which it was officially handed over to the community.
Chipeta observed that the lack of access to clean and safe water had previously forced women and children to walk long distances to collect water from shallow wells, often resulting in waterborne diseases.
She remarked that children are now able to concentrate on their education, while mothers are engaging in more productive activities.
She added that the boreholes have benefited both people and livestock, and have also supported gardening efforts that generate income.
Donald Trump has shared a list showing the percentage of immigrants from different countries living on benefits in the United States.
The list shows that about 33.3 per cent of Nigerian immigrant households received some form of public assistance in the United States.
The chart was shared on Trump’s Truth Social platform on January 4, 2026, amid continued Republican focus on immigration, welfare dependency, and economic contribution debates in US domestic politics.
The chart, titled “Immigrant Welfare Recipient Rates by Country of Origin,” covers approximately 114 nations and territories, showing the number of households that receive some form of public support, such as food assistance, healthcare benefits, and others.
The top 10 countries with the highest reported welfare rates include Bhutan – 81.4 percent; Yemen – 75.2 percent; Somalia – 71.9 percent; Marshall Islands – 71.4 percent; Dominican Republic – 68.1 percent; Afghanistan – 68.1 percent; Congo – 66.0 percent; Guinea – 65.8 percent; Samoa (1940–1950) – 63.4 percent; and Cape Verde – 63.1 percent.
Similarly, the top 10 countries with the lowest percentage of immigrant households receiving assistance are Bermuda – 25.5 percent; Saudi Arabia – 25.7 percent; Israel/Palestine – 25.9 percent; Argentina – 26.2 percent; South America (unspecified) – 26.7 percent; Korea – 27.2 percent; Zambia – 28.0%; Portugal – 28.2 percent; Kenya – 28.5 percent; and Kuwait – 29.3 percent.
Alongside the welfare statistics, the Trump administration expanded travel bans and immigration restrictions on who is allowed into the United States and under what conditions
Sahara Reporters has obtained a shocking exclusive testimony detailing decades of alleged sexual predation, spiritual manipulation, and family betrayal by the founder of Liberation City, Pastor Chris Okafor.
In a harrowing interview, a 36-year-old former church member, who identified herself as Ama, accused the flamboyant televangelist of raping her when she was a 15-year-old choir girl, fathering a child he abandoned, and years later, sexually assaulting that same daughter.
‘The First Assault at 15’
According to Ama, her ordeal began in late 2004 at Okafor’s residence on Bashiru Street, Ojodu-Berger, Lagos. After delivering snails there as an offering from her mother, she was summoned back days later.
“He said he was done with the snails and asked me to come see him. I finished quickly and went to the lounge. He then came out and asked me to come inside his room,” she said.
“It was in his bedroom. There was a bed and a table in front. He asked me to sit. He thanked me for washing the snails and appreciated my mother.”
What followed, she said, was a violent assault. “Suddenly, he touched me inappropriately. I asked, ‘What is this?’ He then locked the door. I was scared and said, ‘Please, I have not done this before.’
“He told me to calm down and said he liked me. I told him to leave me alone.
“He pushed me on the bed. I could not overpower him. Before I knew what was happening, I went blank. When I recovered, I was on the floor, bleeding. I cried, asking what I had done to deserve this.”
‘He Claimed The Holy Spirit Said I Was His Wife’
In the traumatic aftermath, Ama alleged that Okafor immediately used his religious authority to confuse and control her.
She said, “He asked me to clean myself. While I was crying, he brought out a jotter. On the back was something written in pencil. He held my shoulder and asked me to look. He verbally told me that the Holy Spirit said I was his wife.
“I did not know what to say or do. I dropped the jotter on the bed. When he left, I looked again and read the pencil: ‘Amarachi, you are my wife, says the Holy Spirit.’ He told me to go to the restroom and clean up. I did. I left, crying.”
The pastor allegedly warned her that he was a prophet and nobody should speak against him.
“He said if I told anyone, something bad would happen. He warned me never to mention what happened to anybody,” she said.
Confusion, Fear, and Silence
Ama described the fear that engulfed her.
“The fear I had in me was overwhelming because I was young. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t tell my left from my right. I was confused and disoriented, but I managed to get home that way,” she said.
By the second month, Ama noticed changes in her body. She said she confided in a trusted relative.
She said, “I called her and said I didn’t know what would happen to me, but I needed to say it. I told her what happened when I went to my pastor’s house. She screamed. She told me to wait and said she would come. When she arrived, she said she was in a hurry and asked how we could maintain my mother’s peace. That was always my biggest concern-my mother.”
Ama further alleged that the pastor tried to force her to have an abortion, saying, “He gave me money and told me to go to a hospital to terminate the pregnancy. I refused. I told him I couldn’t do it. My exams were coming up in two days.
“He begged me. He reminded me that he was a pastor and a prophet. He said the pregnancy must not stay. I told him I couldn’t do it. At that time, there were many rumours of people dying from abortions. Even on my street, people talked about it a lot. I was scared.
“He told me not to forget that he was a prophet and that he would pray for me so that nothing would happen. He said I should forget everything and trust him. I left in fear.”
Family Intervention and Broken Promises
Eventually, Ama told her mother.
She said, “When he was called, he didn’t deny it. He stayed calm at first. My mother asked what we were going to do, saying this was a girl who had known nothing. She accused him of raping her daughter and threatening her.
“Later, family members intervened. He apologised and said they should forgive him. He said he would marry me. More discussions followed, involving elders and family members.
“In the end, my mother took me to the village to stay with relatives. That was how everything unfolded.”
‘He Raped Me Again When I Went To Ask For Our Child’s School Fees’
For years, Ama struggled alone to raise their daughter, Precious, with Okafor providing no support. According to her, her attempts to seek help led to further violation.
Ama recounted further abuse when she went to ask him for her child’s school fees.
She said, “The only thing I remember clearly before the incident was that he stood up from his chair and tapped my shoulder. I went blank. The next thing I remember was seeing him wiping himself. I saw that my own clothes were down. I started crying.
“To this day, I ask myself, ‘What did I do to you?’ You raped me again because I came to ask for your child’s school fees and upkeep.
“He started apologising. He said he liked me, that was why he did it. He warned me not to let anybody know. He reminded me again that he was a prophet and nobody must hear about it.”
‘My Daughter Said Her Daddy Assaulted Her Too’
Years later, under family pressure, Ama allowed Precious to live with Okafor. The arrangement quickly broke down, with access denied and the child reporting neglect.
Despite her resistance, Ama said family pressure, based on his wealth and claims of responsibility, led her to allow the child stay with him temporarily, on the condition that she could visit freely.
“There were times he pressured me heavily. I told my mother what he was saying. Some family members felt that since he had money and claimed he wanted to take responsibility, I should allow the child go to him, considering how much we had struggled. Eventually, under pressure, I took her there,” she said.
For a short period, this arrangement worked, but access to her daughter was soon restricted. Ama said she was repeatedly denied visits, sometimes begging security guards for a glimpse just to briefly see the child.
She alleged the child was deliberately hidden to avoid suspicion.
The situation reached a catastrophic point when Precious confided in her mother.
She said, “Later, my daughter called me, crying, saying something was wrong and that she needed to see me before she left the house. I finished what I was doing and left immediately.
“When my daughter was finally with me, she opened up fully. She told me how she was treated differently, how she was denied food, how she was constantly told to leave the house, and how she never felt like she belonged. She said there were no pictures of her among the family photos, and it made her feel unwanted.
“I reassured her that she would not return there, that she was safe now, and that everything would be okay.”
“She later opened up to me how her father had been sexually assaulting her (Pastor Chris) too in multiple instances during all her stays with him,” she said.
The alleged assaults occurred when Precious was about 14 years old.
“He assaulted her around 2019 and early 2020 when she was barely 14 years old,” Ama stated.
Traumatized, Ama focused on her daughter’s safety.
“It was a very traumatic news for all of us then, this is because the assault happened almost around the same age that I was raped by this same man. We had the option of raising alarm then. But she didn’t want anything that could affect the child emotionally or psychologically,” she said.
“Hence, we opted to quietly take the child away per the child’s request and her safety. The child was about to take her WAEC exam (West African Senior School Certificate Examination – WASSCE), and the situation was very similar to my experience. These were what formed our decision to take the child away from his house immediately so she could continue her school.”
A Call for Justice After Two Decades of Silence
Ama, now breaking a silence she kept for over 20 years, says she is speaking out to expose the man behind the pulpit.
“The fear I had in me was overwhelming because I was young… I was confused and disoriented,” she said, describing her teenage self. Today, her fear has turned to resolve.
Pastor Okafor, a popular figure on Christian television known for his “miracle” services, could not be reached personally for reaction to these allegations.
However, when contacted, Pastor Okafor’s legal counsel, Ife Ajayi Esq., did not directly address the specific allegations of rape and sexual assault made by Ama and her daughter.
Instead, Ajayi revealed that Okafor had preemptively taken legal action against the survivor.
“Just so you know, we have sometime last year lodged a formal complaint against her at the Police HQ and at the Zonal command and investigation has commenced,” Ajayi told SaharaReporters. “I believe she will be summoned anytime soon and she can come over to present her evidence as required by law to the police.”
He then dismissed this exclusive investigation, claiming it was a malicious scheme.
“As I said above, this so-called article serves no honest journalistic purpose but simply a ploy to distract, cover up, tarnish and blackmail our client into compliance.”
Okafor’s Recent Controversies
In December 2025, Nollywood actress Doris Ogala shared a post that appeared to show Okafor in a private setting. The post was later deleted.
The image depicted a man, topless and wrapped in a towel at the waist, inside a bedroom. She claimed it was his bedroom, alleged he had just engaged in sex, and warned that she would soon release the full video.
Ogala, through her lawyers, Synergy Law Partners, issued a demand letter dated December 16, 2025, seeking N1 billion in aggravated damages from Pastor Okafor over what her legal team described as a broken marital commitment.
The letter, addressed to the cleric at his Ojodu Berger residence, warned of imminent legal action should he fail to comply within 21 days.
According to the lawyers, Ogala alleged that Pastor Okafor made a “clear, consistent and unequivocal” promise to marry her, a commitment they said formed the foundation of a personal relationship that began in 2017.
They alleged that the relationship began when the actress was emotionally vulnerable and sought pastoral guidance from the cleric, during which he made assurances of marriage reinforced by conduct such as family introductions and joint appearances at family events.
Her lawyers said evidence including photographs, videos, messages, and banking records supports a claim of legitimate expectation of marriage.
They further alleged that she relied on the promise to her detriment by ending a troubled marriage, abandoning reconciliation, transferring ₦45 million to the cleric in a single transaction, and granting him access to her finances.
While acknowledging that marriage cannot be forced, her counsel argued that the law provides remedies for breach of promise and related harm.
Separately, the Lagos State Police Command confirmed that Pastor Chris Okafor had been invited for investigation over allegations of multiple rape and other serious sexual offence
American singer T-Pain recently surprised his family with a private jet he just purchased.
The moment was shared on his official Instagram page, where clip showed the Grammy-winning artist revealing the new aircraft to family members, who reacted with shock and joy.
Reports suggest the purchase follows a lucrative catalog sale, which provided him with significant financial gains.
In a previous interview, T Pain mentioned that the amount he received from selling his music catalog was enough that it “would have taken 100 years to make that money” through regular earnings.
American rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine, turned himself in on Tuesday, January 6, to the same Brooklyn jail where Nicolás Maduro and his wife are currently being held.
He arrived at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Sunset Park at 2 p.m. which was the prearranged surrender time.
The rapper will serve 90 days behind bars.
Hernandez was sentenced to three months behind bars for violating the terms of his supervised release.
He was indicted in 2018 in a federal racketeering case that targeted members of a criminal group with whom he worked.
After pleading guilty to conspiracy and other charges, he testified against members of the group for leniency.
Tekashi 6ix9ine was accompanied by streamer, Adin Ross when he surrendered to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn on Tuesday, January 6, 2025 (ET) afternoon to begin his three-month jail sentence.
His attorney says Hernandez expects to be segregated from the general population, likely in the same section of the federal detention center as high profile inmates like Maduro and Luigi Mangione.
The rapper is looking forward to serving his sentence, getting this part of his life behind him and resume his music career, his attorney said.
Before saying goodbye to the world for the next 90 days, Tekashi 6ix9ine did an almost two-hour-long live stream on Adin’s channel.
In the live stream, Tekashi 6ix9ine could be seen surrounded by friends as they joined him for the send-off. Content creator, Stephen Deleonardis even helped cut off the rapper’s ankle monitor during the live stream.
Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine surrenders to Brooklyn jail to serve three-month sentence
After initially failing to honour a police invitation on Monday, the embattled founder of Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, Pastor Chris Okafor, on Tuesday reported at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, for questioning.
It was gathered that Okafor arrived at the SCID on Tuesday afternoon after being cautioned by some highly placed individuals over the consequences of disregarding a lawful police invitation.
His earlier defiance was linked to the ongoing investigation involving his estranged lover, actress Doris Ogalla, which is being handled at the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Zone 2 Command in Onikan.
Sources told The Nation that the preacher, who has been accused by multiple women of s3xual impropriety, abuse of authority and other serious allegations, believed he could ignore invitations from other police units since a case he initiated was already being handled at the zonal command, where Ogalla was earlier alleged to have been detained.
A senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “Some highly placed persons read the news that he shunned the police invitation and warned him about the implications. That’s why he presented himself at the SCID in Yaba for questioning.
“His statement was taken, but he was not detained since there is no complainant yet. We have made attempts to reach out to the victims, even offered them protection and transportation to and from, but no one showed up.
“Since there is already an investigation ongoing at Zone 2, where there is a suspect and a complainant, the Lagos State Police Command will stand down to allow Zone 2 conclude their investigation.
“However, our offer to victims to come forward remains open. We are not dismissing the case; we are just standing down.”
The spokesperson of the Lagos State Police Command, Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed that Okafor was at the SCID on Tuesday afternoon but declined to give further details.
Okafor had earlier been invited by the Lagos State Police Command in a letter dated January 3, directing him to report for interrogation on or before 10 am on Monday, an invitation he initially ignored.
His legal troubles followed a wave of allegations from multiple women, including his daughter, former partners and members of his church. The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, subsequently ordered a probe as more allegations surfaced online.
The controversy intensified weeks ago after Ogalla accused Okafor of breaching a marriage promise following what she described as an inappropriate relationship. The allegations, supported by audio visual materials, triggered public outrage and calls for a criminal investigation.
Although the pastor initially dismissed the claims as an attack by enemies, he later admitted to some of the allegations, issued a public apology to his congregation and stepped aside as senior pastor of the church after marrying his new wife, Pearl, on December 16.
Among those accusing him are his Cameroonian ex wife, who claimed he fathered four children with her, and several female church members, including three siblings who alleged they were hypnotised and impregnated by the pastor.
Ogalla has continued to press her claims, alleging that Okafor shared her nud3 photos and videos, pressured her to leave her previous marriage, and was responsible for the death of her younger brother. She also alleged that he offered her a $10,000 bribe to withdraw the accusations and blame a rival pastor, an offer she said she rejected.
She later demanded N1 billion in damages through a legal notice filed by her lawyers, citing alleged threats and intimidation following her arrest and detention by the police.
TRUMP ADMINISTRATION DEMANDS VENEZUELA CUT ALL TIES WITH RUSSIA, CHINA, AND IRAN
The price of cooperation is becoming clear.
The Trump administration is pressuring Venezuela’s interim government to sever all ties with foreign adversaries and exclusively partner with the U.S. on oil exports.
The demands:
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated U.S. goals include expelling Iran from the region and dismantling ties with Russia, China, and Cuba.
Trump announced Tuesday that Venezuela will turn over 30-50 million barrels of crude to the U.S., specifically noting the intent to “get the Chinese out of their oil fields, or the Russians.”
U.S. oil majors are being invited to rebuild Venezuela’s infrastructure and will be reimbursed through the oil they extract.
The leverage:
The naval blockade initiated in December 2025 remains in place.
The administration believes Venezuela will run out of money within weeks without cooperation, leaving the interim government unable to pay security forces.
What’s at stake for adversaries:
-China: Currently buys 430,000 barrels per day from Venezuela.
Still owed billions from “loan-for-oil” deals. Faces potential default.
-Russia: State-owned Roszarubezhneft holds rights to fields with an estimated 2.3 billion barrels.
Those assets could be seized or marginalized.
-Cuba: Faces total collapse of subsidized oil imports.
The response:
China called it “hegemonic.”
Russia offered “solidarity” but no military assets.
Brazil’s Lula said the U.S. “crossed an unacceptable line.”
The administration calls it “America First” energy policy.
President Donald Trump has said Venezuela will turn over 30 million to 50 million barrels of oil to the United States after a military operation to remove President Nicolás Maduro from power.
Interim authorities in Venezuela will turn over “sanctioned oil” to be sold at market value and with the proceeds controlled by the US, Trump said on Truth Social.
The US will use the proceeds “to benefit the people of Venezuela and the United States!” he wrote.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright has been directed to “execute this plan, immediately,” and the barrels “will be taken by storage ships, and brought directly to unloading docks in the United States.”
Trump wrote, “I am pleased to announce that the Interim Authorities in Venezuela will be turning over between 30 and 50 MILLION Barrels of high-quality, sanctioned oil to the United States of America.
“This Oil will be sold at its Market Price, and that money will be controlled by me, as President of the United States of America, to ensure it is used to benefit the people of Venezuela and the United States!”
Trump added, “I have asked Energy Secretary Chris Wright to execute this plan immediately. It will be taken by storage ships, and brought directly to unloading docks in the United States.
“Thank you for your attention to this matter!””
President Trump says Venezuela will turn over 30 million to 50 million barrels of oil to US His comment came a day after Delcy Rodríguez, formerly Venezuela’s vice-president, was sworn in as its interim president. Maduro has been brought to the US to face drug-trafficking and weapons charges.
On Monday the US president told NBC News: “Having a Venezuela that’s an oil producer is good for the United States because it keeps the price of oil down.”
Russia has thrown its full weight behind Venezuela’s new interim President Delcy Rodríguez, following her swearing-in on January 5, 2026, amid dramatic U.S. intervention that saw former leader Nicolás Maduro captured and extradited.
In a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry on January 7, Moscow praised Rodríguez’s assumption of office as a decisive move to preserve Venezuela’s sovereignty.
“This step shows the determination of the Bolivarian Government to assure unity and preserve the power vertical created in compliance with the national legislation, mitigate the risks of a constitutional crisis and create the necessary conditions for further peaceful and stable development of Venezuela in the face of outrageous neo-colonial threats and external armed aggression,” the ministry declared.
Russia, a longtime ally of Venezuela, reaffirmed its “unwavering solidarity with the Venezuelan people and Government.” It wished “authorised President of Venezuela Delcy Rodríguez success in resolving the tasks facing the Bolivarian Republic” and expressed “readiness to continue rendering necessary support to friendly Venezuela.”
The statement insisted that “Venezuela should have the guaranteed right to determine its destiny on its own, without any destructive interference from the outside,” while calling for de-escalation through “constructive dialogue and respect for international law, primarily the UN Charter.” It emphasized that “Latin America and the Caribbean must remain a zone of peace” with sovereign development for regional countries.
Meanwhile, Rodríguez has signaled openness to Washington, extending an olive branch despite the tensions. In a social media post, she stated: “We extend an invitation to the U.S. government to work together on a cooperative agenda, oriented toward shared development, within the framework of international law, and to strengthen lasting community coexistence.”
This conciliatory gesture comes as Rodríguez navigates internal stability and external pressures, with Russia positioning itself as a staunch defender against perceived U.S. overreach in the region.
President Yoweri Museveni has said Uganda is considering allowing Starlink, the satellite internet service owned by billionaire Elon Musk, to operate in the country if it proves cheaper than existing underground fibre-optic connections.
The President revealed on Sunday that he has held discussions with Musk, who informed him that recent advances in satellite technology have significantly reduced costs. Museveni said the government is now studying whether Starlink could make digital connectivity more affordable for Ugandans.
“I have been in talks with Elon Musk; he has been telling me that his satellite, it is called Starlink. He has been telling me that satellite is now cheaper. We are studying that. If it is true, we shall allow Elon Musk to bring his satellites here if they can make digital connection cheaper than the underground,” Museveni said.
His remarks come less than two weeks to Uganda’s general elections, a period when internet and digital communication disruptions are widely anticipated, based on precedent from previous polls.
In anticipation of a possible internet shutdown, several Ugandans have reportedly imported Starlink equipment into the country to maintain online connectivity. This prompted intervention by authorities. The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) imposed restrictions requiring anyone intending to import Starlink equipment to first obtain clearance from the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
In addition, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) wrote to Starlink expressing concern over the equipment that had already entered the country. In response, Starlink stated that it had not been licensed to operate in Uganda and subsequently cut off all internet connectivity provided through its equipment within the country.
For years, the government has invested heavily in the National Optical Fibre Cable Backbone, laying underground internet infrastructure along major highways to connect different parts of the country and support digitalisation and automation of public services.
Museveni recalled that Uganda previously relied heavily on satellite communication, which he said was prohibitively expensive and prompted a strategic shift to fibre-optic infrastructure.
“People were communicating by radio, by digital electronic through satellite, but it was very expensive. I am the one who worked very hard to bring the backbone – the underground network; the internet,” Museveni said.
He explained that the expansion of undersea cables linking Africa to Asia and Europe, including connections through Mombasa and Dar es Salaam, significantly reduced internet costs by enabling fibre connectivity into Uganda and beyond.
“Today, there is undersea cable to Mombasa, to Dar es Salaam, and then underground cable from Mombasa and Dar es Salaam to here. That is how the cost came down,” he said, adding that the fibre backbone is now being extended to more parts of the country as critical national infrastructure.
The President also revealed that the government had previously rejected attempts by telecommunications companies to monopolise internet service provision, insisting on an open and competitive market to protect consumers.
The government’s ongoing assessment of Starlink is expected to focus on cost, regulatory compliance, and how the service would integrate with Uganda’s existing digital infrastructure, amid heightened public interest in affordable and reliable internet access.
Andre Yarham, believed to be the UK’s youngest dementia patient, has died aged 24 after battling a rare and aggressive form of the disease.
Andre, from Dereham, passed away on December 27 at a hospice, just days after Christmas. He was diagnosed at 22 with frontotemporal dementia, a rare condition caused by a protein mutation that affects only a small fraction of dementia patients.
His family first raised concerns after noticing changes in his movement, speech and awareness. An MRI scan later revealed that Andre’s brain resembled that of a 70-year-old, shortly before his 23rd birthday.
Paying tribute, his mother, Sam Fairburn, described him as having “a heart of gold” and said the family made the decision to donate his brain to science to help advance research into the disease.
“There’s not enough awareness of how cruel this disease can be,” she said. “There are different
She added: “We made the decision to donate Andre’s brain to medical research. If in the future, Andre has been able to help just one more family have a precious few more years with a loved one, that would mean the absolute world.”
Andre’s condition deteriorated rapidly in the final months of his life. He eventually lost his ability to speak, struggled with movement and required full-time care before being moved into a nursing home. In his final weeks, he was transferred to Priscilla Bacon Lodge Hospice, where he died peacefully.
Andre, who loved wrestling, football and video games, had previously worked for luxury car manufacturer Lotus in Norwich but was forced to leave due to his declining health.
His death places him among the smallest percentage of people in the UK diagnosed with dementia before the age of 65. His family has urged the public to seek medical advice early if they notice concerning changes in loved ones, saying early testing can make a difference.
Scientists are warning that tattoos may carry hidden biological risks beyond regret over names, spelling mistakes or outdated designs, as growing research suggests tattoo ink can interact with the body in ways not fully understood.
According to Dr Manal Mohammed, a medical microbiology lecturer at University of Westminster, UK, tattoo ink does not remain fixed in the skin after it is injected.
“Once tattoo ink enters the body, it does not stay put,” she explained. “Beneath the skin, tattoo pigments interact with the immune system in ways scientists are only just beginning to understand.”
While tattoos are generally considered safe, scientists say their long-term health effects may be less harmless than once assumed, particularly as permanent body art has surged in popularity in recent decades.
One concern is the composition of tattoo inks, which are often complex chemical mixtures. “Many pigments currently in use were originally developed for industrial applications such as car paint, plastics and printer toner, rather than for injection into human skin,” Mohammed noted.
She added that some inks contain trace amounts of heavy metals, including nickel, chromium, cobalt and, in some cases, lead. “Heavy metals can be toxic at certain levels and are well known for triggering allergic reactions and immune sensitivity.”
Black inks, commonly made from carbon black, may contain carcinogenic compounds linked to cancer, while coloured inks — particularly red, yellow and orange — are more frequently associated with allergic reactions and chronic inflammation.
Tattooing involves injecting ink deep into the dermis, prompting the body to treat pigment particles as foreign material. “Immune cells attempt to remove them, but the particles are too large to be fully cleared,” Mohammed said. “Instead, they become trapped inside skin cells, which is what makes tattoos permanent.”
US special forces have arrived in the United Kingdom as Washington moves to intercept a sanctioned oil tanker accused of evading the Trump administration’s blockade on Venezuelan crude and racing toward Russia.
Cargo aircraft carrying helicopters and personnel landed at RAF Fairford, as US and allied forces stage for a possible high-risk boarding operation against the tanker Marinera, formerly known as Bella 1.
The vessel, described by US officials as part of a “shadow fleet” used to bypass international sanctions, is believed to be operating under a Russian flag in the North Atlantic, roughly 500 miles west of Ireland, en route to Russia.
US special forces arrive in UK ?to seize Axis of Evil tanker? as it races towards Russia after beating Trump blockade
Troops from America’s 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, known as the Night Stalkers, have reportedly deployed Black Hawk and Chinook helicopters capable of fast-roping commandos onto large vessels. Three V-22 Ospreys operating out of RAF Mildenhall have also joined the mission, alongside surveillance aircraft and refuelling jets.
US and UK military activity intensified after the tanker was tracked resurfacing at sea, having previously slipped away from US forces in the Caribbean following Donald Trump’s announcement of a “total and complete blockade” on Venezuelan oil exports.
The tanker is alleged to be linked to Iran and accused of helping sanctioned regimes — including those of Vladimir Putin and Nicolás Maduro — continue oil trading despite restrictions. During the pursuit, the crew reportedly painted a Russian flag on the hull and later re-registered the ship under a new name in Russia.
US officials told American media that the preference is to seize the tanker rather than sink it, mirroring a helicopter-borne raid carried out last month on another sanctioned vessel. A decision on whether to proceed with the operation is expected within days.
Defence sources said the build-up at RAF Fairford indicates preparations for a hostile boarding, while naval patrol aircraft continue to monitor the tanker’s movements.
The chase comes as Washington tightens pressure on Venezuela’s oil lifeline, with more than a dozen tankers reportedly fleeing the country using deceptive tactics such as falsified tracking data and flag changes since the blockade was announced.
Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen reportedly dropped his accreditation and threatened to quit Nigeria’s AFCON squad entirely after his row with teammate Ademola Lookman during Monday night’s emphatic 4–0 victory over Mozambique in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations round-of-16 clash.
The Super Eagles produced one of their most commanding displays of the tournament on Monday evening as they went on to book their place in the quarter finals.
Sadly, the victory was overshadowed by Osimhen’s outburst with teammate Lookman on the pitch.
In pursuit of a hat-trick, the Galatasaray striker was caught on camera angrily confronting teammate Ademola Lookman during their emphatic 4–0 victory over Mozambique at the Africa Cup of Nations on Monday night.
Lookman had made one assist to help Osimhen score his brace before the outburst broke out.
Still visibly furious, the Galatasaray forward gestured to the bench for a substitution and was duly taken off, with Moses Simon coming on in his place.
https://youtu.be/wGxTnCYhCtQ?si=QAdAQACdVBpVZ-5F
Following the final whistle, he headed straight down the tunnel, opting out of the usual post-match handshakes and team prayer with his teammates. He was also the first Nigerian player to head for the team bus.
According to Arise News, confirmed reports from within the camp say Osimhen stormed out of the stadium after the match, dropped his accreditation, and declared he was “done” with the national team, insisting he was returning to Turkey.
It was also gathered that senior Nigeria Football Federation figures moved to reach him, with the federation’s president reportedly seeking to pacify the striker. However, some officials were said to believe he should be left alone to cool off.
Trump administration officials told US lawmakers that former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, sustained head injuries while attempting to flee US forces during their arrest.
In a new report by Reuters, according to officials familiar with the briefing, Maduro and Flores ran inside their compound and tried to hide behind a heavy steel door. The door frame was low, and both reportedly hit their heads while attempting to escape. US Delta Force operators later apprehended them and administered first aid after extracting them from the compound.
Maduro and Flores appeared in court with visible injuries. Flores’ attorney told the judge that she sustained significant injuries during the operation and may have suffered a fracture or severe bruising to her ribs. The attorney requested an X-ray and a full medical evaluation to ensure her health going forward.
During the court hearing, Flores was seen swaying and lowering her head at intervals, while Maduro appeared to struggle when sitting down and standing up. Courtroom sketches showed Flores with bandages on her head. Officials who briefed lawmakers later described her head injury as minor.
Maduro and his wife hit their heads as they attempted to flee US forces, new report claims
Some US Delta Force operators were also injured during the operation following a large firefight with a Cuban quick reaction force stationed near Maduro’s compound. The injuries were caused by bullets and shrapnel but were described as non-life-threatening, with all injured personnel expected to recover fully.
Nearly 200 US personnel were involved in the operation on the ground in Caracas. Officials said they did not have a clear estimate of how many Venezuelan or Cuban forces were killed, though Cuba’s government stated that 32 of its military and police officers died. US officials suggested the number could be higher, describing the confrontation as an intense and sustained gunfire battle.
Officials stressed that Maduro’s capture was not intended as a regime change operation. Venezuela’s government remains largely intact and is now being led by his deputy, Delcy Rodriguez. US officials described her as more pragmatic and as someone they believe they can work with, noting that opposition figures would likely be unable to control the country’s security forces.
The administration’s approach toward Rodriguez was informed by a classified intelligence assessment examining the immediate and short-term implications of Maduro no longer being in power. Officials said the assessment was not based on expectations of a broader regime collapse.
US officials have been in contact with Delcy Rodriguez and her brother, the president of Venezuela’s national assembly, for several months. They described the communications as part of efforts to influence behavior rather than to orchestrate Maduro’s removal.
Rodriguez also serves as Venezuela’s oil minister. US officials expect her to cooperate on rebuilding the country’s oil infrastructure and potentially allow American companies to operate there in the future. However, officials said there is no formal agreement in place, only an expectation that continued US pressure, including a strong naval presence in the Caribbean, will influence future decisions.
BREAKING: U.S. BACKS SECURITY GUARANTEES FOR UKRAINE FOR THE FIRST TIME
For the first time ever, the U.S. is formally backing long-term security guarantees for Ukraine, a move that basically tells Russia: you’re not winning this, now or later.
Announced at a summit in Paris with Ukraine’s European allies, think of it as the West putting a permanent security down payment on Ukraine’s future with military training, intel support, long-term weapons deals, and real deterrence.
The U.S. has officially entered a binding commitment to support the Zelensky if Russia attacks again.
After months of stalled U.S. aid, congressional drama, and war fatigue, this changes the tone: Washington’s not just helping Ukraine now, it’s pledging to defend it in the years ahead.
U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff, who has led talks with Russia, said after the summit that Trump “strongly stands behind security protocols.”
These guarantees are more than just symbolism, as they lock in Western alignment, tie Ukraine’s fate to U.S. and EU interests, and make clear that cutting Ukraine loose is no longer an option.
But for the Kremlin? It’s a geopolitical slap in the face.
The Cuban government has declared two days of national mourning following the deaths of 32 military personnel during the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro.
The names, ranks, and ages of the 32 Cuban military personnel killed during the U.S. capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro were published by the Cuban government.
Among the deceased are colonels, lieutenants, majors, captains, and some reserve soldiers, aged 26 to 60.
The personnel belonged to the Revolutionary Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior, Cuba’s two main security agencies. The publication did not specify their missions or how they died.
VENEZUELA UNDER MADURO SHIPPED GOLD WORTH $5.2 BILLION TO SWITZERLAND
VENEZUELA transported gold worth almost 4.14 billion Swiss francs ($5.20 billion) to Switzerland during the early years of the leadership of ousted President Nicolas Maduro, customs data shows.
The South American country sent 113 metric tons of the precious metal to Switzerland from 2013 when Maduro took office to 2016, according to data reviewed by Reuters.
The gold originated from Venezuela’s central bank, Swiss broadcaster SRF said, at a time when the government was selling down gold to support its economy. There were no gold exports from Venezuela to Switzerland from 2017, when EU sanctions were imposed, to 2025, customs data showed.
Maduro was seized by U.S. special forces in a raid in Caracas on January 3, and faces charges in a New York court including drug trafficking and narco-terrorism.
On Monday, Switzerland ordered the freezing of assets held in the country by Maduro, and 36 associates, but did not give any information on possible value or source of such funds.
It is unknown if there is any link between any such assets and gold transferred from the central bank. The gold, from Venezuela’s reserves, was likely transferred to Switzerland for processing, certification and onward transport, SRF reported.
Switzerland is one of the world’s biggest centres for gold refining, with the country hosting five large refineries.
The Central Bank of Venezuela has sold down its gold reserves to support the country’s economy and raise hard currency in the face of U.S. sanctions.
“There was big distress selling by the Venezuelan central bank from 2012 to 2016. A lot of this will have come to Switzerland,” said Rhona O’Connell, a markets analyst at StoneX.
“Thereafter it could have stayed with counterparties in the financial sector, or sold as small bars to Asia, or anywhere in the world.”
The gold exports to Switzerland fell to zero in 2017 when the European Union sanctioned various Venezuelan individuals accused of human rights violations or undermining democracy. Switzerland adopted the EU sanctions in early 2018.
The sanctions did not contain a general Swiss embargo on gold imports from Venezuela.
“There was probably a major drop-off in exports after because the Venezuelan central bank simply ran out of gold,” said StoneX’s O’Connell.
Mother in-law sues daughter in-law for playing ‘Nalitumpa Ine’ song on Christmas Day THE Matero Local Court has heard how a vulgar-tongued daughter in-law marinated her mother in-law in a bowl of insults on Christmas Day while playing the famous song ‘Nalitumpa Ine’ which was also one of Adada’s favourites.
Bertha Masuku, 55, of Lusaka’s Appolo Compound complained to the court that her daughter in-law, Anna Nkandu, 31, who also happens to be her neighbour was fond of playing condescending music within their premises without regard for the family relationship the duo shared. Masuku said what shocked her the most was when Nkandu came back home around 23 hours on Jesus’s birthday playing ‘Nalitumpa Ine’ while mentioning her mother in-law’s name and branding her a dog. Like a staunch Nkana supporter on derby day, Nkandu even threatened to vandalise her mother in-law’s properties for birthing a son ‘without manners.’
“I just heard her outside, shouting that “imwe bamake Dumiso, you are a dog, your son can’t be beating my young sister. I was so hurt that I I wanted to go out and respond but my husband refused me to go out,” she said.
“I still don’t know where that was coming from and if she had quarreled with my son, I don’t know how I was involved in their fight.”
Masuku complained that Nkandu had even threatened to braai and barbecue her with the ferocious Luapula kind of lightning while chorusing hymns of pork laden insults on the Seventh Day Adventist member.
In her defence, Nkandu admitted to hurling insults but denied mentioning her mother-in-law’s name, saying the words were directed at Masuku’s son.
She said she was instead shocked to learn that Masuku had allegedly sent her youngest son to beat the Nkandu sisters one by one. Nkandu told the court that Masuku’s youngest son, Dumiso, had beaten her younger sister and that, as the eldest sibling, she was merely defending her family.
“Her youngest son beat my young sister and as he was doing that, he kept mentioning that “kwasale iwe,” mum told me that I should be beating you one by one. Those insults were targeted at her son and not her,” she said.
After hearing sides of the duo’s witnesses, it was established that Nkandu had indeed insulted her mother in-law. Magistrate Lewis Mumba counselled the two that they were family and that, given the relationship they shared, it was best to resolve the matter through a family meeting.
“Nkandu, you can’t be insulting your in-laws. You have to be disciplined, you didn’t behave well. I advise you to go back home and have a meeting and reconcile. Nkandu, I order you to go and kneel down before your in-laws and apologise,” he ruled
The magistrate stated that had it not been for the child linking the two families, he would have fined Nkandu K5,000. “For the sake of the child, go and reconcile, fining you will just bring unnecessary enmity,” said Magistrate By Catherine Pule Kalemba, January 7, 2026
ZRA EMPLOYEE DENIES GIFTING A VEHICLE TO ARCHBISHOP ALICK BANDA
I have never seen or touched the vehicle that ZRA claimed I bought from the institution and sold to Archbishop Alick Banda, says Mulopa Kaunda, a man who has suffered over four years of public ridicule for supposedly dragging a high-ranking Catholic priest into a dirty deal.
In this exclusive interview, Kaunda explains how fraudulent receipts and other documents were generated in his name by his named supervisor, in a deal that was meant to facilitate the illegal disposal of government vehicles from the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA).
Since 2022, the law enforcement agencies in Zambia have been investigating a case of abuse of office among ZRA employees and the illegal possession of proceeds of crime involving private beneficiaries, among them the incumbent Catholic Archbishop of Lusaka, Alick Banda.
During the reign of late former President Edgar Lungu, several government institutions were ordered to release vehicles for use in the election campaigns for the ruling party, while some were gifted to PF sympathisers.
Under the ZRA, at least 22 motor vehicles were ‘disposed of’ under questionable circumstances, and records show that some of the vehicles were passed on to employees and private individuals, as well as entities aligned to the ruling party at the time.
Former ZRA Commissioner General Kingsley Chanda and his Director of Administration Callistus Kaoma were convicted and sentenced to six years and nine years respectively for not following procedure in disposing of government vehicles.
According to ZRA and RTSA records seen by News Diggers, one of the vehicles, a Toyota Hilux registration number ALF 7734, was purportedly sold to a ZRA employee named Mulopa Kaunda, who is said to have changed the car documents into his name on 21st April 2021 and then gifted it to the Catholic priest Alick Banda, who also changed the vehicle ownership documents into his personal name the very next day on April 22, 2021.
Records also show that another vehicle which came from ZRA was gifted to Heart of Mercy.
“I don’t know Alick Banda, I never sold or gave him a vehicle”
In a surprising turn of events, Kaunda reveals that he never participated in any tender or auction to buy the said vehicle from ZRA, and that he has never met or communicated with the high-ranking Catholic priest in his life.
He now narrates the agony, frustration and reputational damage he suffered since the public scandalisation started, leading to his hospitalisation, after Emmanuel Mwamba released fraudulent documents linking him to the scandal.
Sitting in his office in Ndola on 17th December 2020, Kaunda, a ZRA employee, received a surprise internal email from the accounts department with an attachment of a receipt. The receipt was an acknowledgment for a payment received from him towards a vehicle he had apparently bought from the institution through an auction sale.
In shock, he responded, saying he had not bought any vehicle from ZRA and he certainly did not make any payment to the institution for that purpose. Little did he know that the purchase of the said vehicle was going to be forced on him officially, as a new receipt was going to be issued for the same transaction.
On Tuesday 6th January,2026, PeP President Sean Tembo held an illegal virtual Tonse Alliance Meeting when the leadership of Tonse were busy campaigning in Chawama by-election.
He has announced ghe following illegal changes.
1. Removal of PF as Anchor Party 2. Removed Hon. Given Lubinda 3 Constitutional amendments
4. Claims leadership has now gone to Apostle Daniel Pule as Chairperson and Vice Chairperson as Dr. Chifumu Banda
TONSE ALLIANCE PRESS STATEMENT
7th January, 2026
COMPREHENSIVE CONSTITUTIONAL CHANGES TO GUARANTEE PROGRESS AND VICTORY IN AUGUST 2026
YESTERDAY in the evening, 6th January, 2026, the Tonse Alliance Council of Leaders was convened virtually from 18hours to 22hours to review, discuss, respond and make resolutions on a number of constitution amendments following a petition from some of the Alliance members.
The meeting which was chaired by myself, Prof. Danny Pule as Tonse Alliance Co~Chairman was virtually well attended by most leaders from Tonse Alliance political parties, civil society organisations, parliamentarians and renowned citizens.
Based on the petition from our four member organisations, this council of leaders discussed nine key constitutional amendments and made resolutions on each as follows:
1. Tonse Alliance will no longer recognize “PF Party” but only embrace and work with the “ECL PF Political Movement” in order to honour the wishes of Dr. ECL and make progress
The Council of leaders unanimously observed and agreed that the Tonse Alliance has been held at ramson/hostage, delayed to make progress and made to look institutionally disorganized as a result of the leadership crisis, wrangles, court battles, factionalism, divisions, rivalry and chaotic politics in PF as the anchor party for many months especially after the death of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
Hence, the Council resolved that the Alliance shall henceforth only maintain the membership of “ECL PF Political Movement” as per constitution as guided by Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu himself and has officially done away with anyone and anything to do with “PF party” that is in court with Hon. Robert Chabinga.
The Council believes that this is the only way the Alliance shall honour ECL’s Plan B, ECL’s wishes and political legacy since he brought and left “ECL PF Movement ” to Tonse Alliance himself when his party was treacherously taken away from him.
By definition, the council approved that the “ECL PF Movement” is a non registered political pressure group consisting of all former and current PF Ministers, PSs, MPs, DCs, diplomats, council Chairpersons, Mayors, Councillors, party officials, members and structures countrywide loyal to ECL himself as former President and his legacy outside the formal party aligned leadership in court with Chabinga.
As we speak, the council agreed that the gallant PF MPs who openly opposed Bill 7 and patriotically denounced it by not voting for it are a good example of members of the ECL PF Movement as opposed to the PF MPs who voted for it.
As Most Zambians are aware and know, Tonse Alliance was formed in July 2023 as an alternative political platform of Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu and his loyal followers/supporters in PF and outside PF when it was clear that ECL was betrayed by some PF leaders after the “PF party” was officially traded and politically sold to UPND and HH as well as when the UKA project completely failed him. Therefore, Tonse Alliance shall henceforth not entertain any association with PF party.
2. The Constitution has been amended in order to allow all Tonse Council of Leaders Eligible and Free to Contest Any Position including the Chairmanship, 2026 Presidential Candidacy and other electable positions
The Council deliberated and collectively resolved that, since ECL, the Constitutional Chairman and 2026 Presidential candidate is dead, Tonse Alliance has abolished the exclusivity of associating the coalition Chairmanship and 2026 presidential candidature to Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu himself and his “ECL PF Movement”.
The Alliance resolved that from now onwards, anyone who is a member of the Council of Leaders shall be free and eligible to contest any position including the Chairmanship as well as the 2026 presidential candidacy.
3. Tonse Alliance to Democratically elect it’s new Chairman and 2026 Presidential candidate this month, January, 2026
Based on resolution number two above, the Council of Leaders unanimously agreed and resolved that the Tonse Alliance General Congress shall elect it’s new Chairman and 2026 Presidential Candidate within the month of January, 2026 as well as all other key electable positions. The Council reaffirmed that The greatest political crisis and paralysis Tonse Alliance has faced since the death of Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu has been failure to elect a new legitimate chairman and 2026 Presidential Candidate.
4. The Concept of ANCHOR PARTY revised to reflect the Current Political Dynamics & Membership Status in the Council of Leaders
The Council observed that following the death of ECL and continued divisions, wrangles, rivalry, factions, court battles and leadership crisis within PF, the political potency, popularity and standing of the “ECL PF Movement ” has been drastically affected as it no longer enjoys its original VIP and leadership status of anchor organization in the Tonse Alliance.
Hence, the Alliance resolved to effect the following constitutional changes to the Tonse Alliance Council of leaders in terms of the number of official representatives per member organisation :
~ In recognising its countrywide membership, structures and Mobilisational Leadership, the “ECL PF Movement” shall only reduce from it’s current 15 representatives in the Council of Leaders to 7;
~ All Political parties that are Founding members of the Alliance and are recognised in the Constitution shall be represented by 4 officials in the Council of Leaders;
~ All political parties who are currently members of the Alliance but are not founding members shall be represented by 3 officials in the council of leaders ;
~ All civil society organizations that are founding members of the Alliance and are recognised by the constitution shall be represented by 3 officials in the Council of leaders ;
~ All civil society organisations who are members of Tonse Alliance but are not founder members shall be represented by 2 officials in the council of leaders;
~ All political parties that shall join Tonse Alliance after January 2026 shal be represented by the standard one (1) official in the Council of Leaders; and
~ All civi society and non political party organisations upon joining the Alliance shall not be automatic members of the Council of Leaders unless when invited and approved by the Council of Leaders.
5. Membership to the General Congress has been reviewed and revised to reflect the number of officials in the Council of Leaders per member organisation by three
The General Congress is the highest decision making organ of Tonse Alliance. This is what most political parties call the National Convention. As such, it is the Tonse Alliance General Congress that shall convene this month to elect the new Chairman, 2026 Presidential candidate and other important office bearers.
Following the revision to the concept of anchor organisation in Tonse Alliance, the Council of Leaders resolved that the number of officials in the Council per organisation by three shall be the number of delegates each member shall bring and accredit to the Tonse Alliance General Congress.
For example, the ECL PF Movement shall bring 7 by 3 which is 21 delegates. All political parties that are founding members shall bring 4 by 3 which is 12 delegates each. All political parties who are currently members but are not founding members or all civil society leaders who are founder members of Tonse Alliance shall bring 3 by 3 which is 9 delegates per organisation.
6. After a thorough discussion, the Council resolved that all Disciplinary matters, procedures and actions from henceforth shall move from the office of Tonse Alliance Spokesperson to the Tonse Alliance National Legal Chairperson who shall be complimented by the office of National Coordinator. In like manner, the disciplinary committee shall be composed of Chairpersons of Disciplinary Committees from member political parties and shall be report and be accountable to the Council of leaders on all matters.
7. In order to enhance leadership inclusion and diversity, the council thoroughly discussed and consequently resolved that the Alliance shall henceforth have Two Vice Chairpersons ( First Vice Chairperson and Second Vice Chairperson).
To that effect, the Council appointed State Counsel, Mr. Chifumu Banda, Acting FDD President and Mr. Kelvin Bwalya Fube (KBF), ZMP President as Acting First Vice chairman and Second Vice chairman respectively.
8. On the harmonisation of the office of the Tonse Alliance Secretary General and Tonse Alliance National Coordinator, the Council reaffirmed and resolved to keep the Constitutional Position of National Coordinator to be the Chief Executive Officer of the Alliance. The National Coordinator shall independently lead and manage the Secretariat outside political party members under the supervision of the Alliance Chairman.
The council recognised and approved the original provisions in the Tonse Alliance constitution.The council further resolved that there shall a Council of Tonse Alliance Secretary Generals that shall initiate, recommend and implement political programs and campaign activities of the Alliance with it’s own leadership but shall be coordinated by the office of the National Coordinator.
9. Interim Leadership Before General Congress Elections Within January, 2026
Unanimously, the Council of Leaders resolved to abolish the concept of interim co~chairmanship and appointed Prof. Danny Pule, Christian Democratic Party President as the Tonse Alliance CareTaker Chairman until the new Chairman and 2026 Presidential candidate is elected this month.
In like manner, SC Mr. Chifunu Banda, Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) Acting President was appointed Acting First Vice Chairman while Mr. Kelvin Bwalya Fube (KBF), ZMP President was appointed Acting Second Vice Chairman.
Lastly, the Council of Leaders unanimously appointed Dr. Chris Zumani Zimba as the official face and chairman of the “ECL PF Political Movement” as someone who understand the “ECL PF movement” better in the Alliance and as Lead Consultant who brought it to Tonse Alliance with Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu himself its founder leader.
I want to thank you all and may God bless Tonse Alliance and Zambia.
PROF. DANNY PULE TONSE ALLIANCE CARETAKER CHAIRMAN AND CDP PRESIDENT
Davies Mwila has earned his place in Zambia’s political memory. Long before the 2021 elections, he warned the Patriotic Front leadership that power without discipline would end in arrests, prosecutions, and humiliation. Events proved him right. Many who once towered over the state now answer to courts, not cadres. This record gives Mwila credibility. History has been kind to his foresight.
More recently, Mwila has argued that the PF, as a political force, is finished, and that after August 2026 what will remain are memories of violence, corruption, and cadreism. Whether one agrees or not, his assessment reflects a seasoned reading of the political moment. He speaks from experience, not impulse. That matters.
But this note is not about his analysis. It is about the man.
Public appearances show a Davies Mwila who looks frail, pale, and visibly drained. The years have taken their toll. Politics has taken its toll. And the current environment is no longer the one he helped shape. The PF he once served as Secretary General is deeply fractured, ideologically hollow, and fighting internal wars that cannot be solved by prophecy or nostalgia.
There is growing discomfort in seeing Mwila repeatedly pulled into factional battles, particularly by camps seeking historical legitimacy rather than new ideas. Experience should guide. It should not be exploited. Wisdom should counsel. It should not be weaponised.
Zambia’s politics has shifted. The terrain is different. The actors are different. The stakes are different. What remains constant is the value of health, dignity, and rest. Mwila has already given his contribution. He has already left his imprint. He owes the public no more predictions.
At this point, rest is not retreat. It is responsibility.
As a publication, we respect Davies Mwila’s voice and the accuracy of much of what he has said over the years. But we also recognise when it is time for elders to step back from the frontlines. Not every season demands participation. Some demand preservation.
When John Sangwa launched the Movement for National Renewal (MNR), the ambition was sweeping. One million followers by December 31, 2025. A mass civic awakening driven by constitutionalism, ethics, and reform. The numbers now tell a different story. With just 34,391 followers on the party’s Facebook page, the gap is stark: a deficit of 965,609.
This is not a verdict on Sangwa’s intellect. His strongest asset remains intact. He is among Zambia’s most respected constitutional lawyers, with over 27 years of legal practice, a formidable command of the law, and a public record of principled argument. In courtrooms and studios, Sangwa has been precise, consistent, and formidable. But politics is not litigation. And the country has reminded him of that.
Zambian politics is not won by ideas alone. It is won by organisation, endurance, and presence in spaces that do not look like seminars. It requires rallies, ward structures, ground coordinators, and the slow grind of mobilisation. Sangwa is not a rally politician. He is not a mass organiser. His appeal is elite, urban, and issue-driven in a political culture that still rewards charisma, proximity, and constant visibility.
The terrain has also exposed a strategic misread. MNR launched as a “movement,” but movements in Zambia are built through networks, not platforms. Social media is an amplifier, not a base. UPND learned this the hard way over two decades in opposition. Sangwa appears to have underestimated the time and sacrifice required to translate intellectual authority into political traction.
This week’s optics have not helped. During Archbishop Alick Banda’s appearance before the Drug Enforcement Commission, Sangwa stood alongside figures from the old political class. To many observers, this blurred the line between renewal and recycling. Instead of projecting a fresh alternative, MNR looked absorbed into a familiar, bitter crowd with unresolved battles and no new organising energy.
There is also a noticeable retreat. Sangwa’s media appearances have reduced. The early momentum has slowed. Reality has set in. This is not failure; it is the first collision with political gravity. Zambia’s history shows that credibility does not convert automatically into votes. Even President Hakainde Hichilema spent years building structures before momentum followed.
If MNR is to survive, it will need patience and humility. It will need organisers, not just lawyers. It will need to leave studios for constituencies. And it will need to accept that movements are built in years, not announcements.
The numbers are unforgiving, but they are honest. They are not an insult to Sangwa’s intellect. They are a lesson in politics.
ZAMBIA NEEDS DEMOCRATIC INDEPENDENCE, WE CAN’T SPEAK – LUO
FORMER Minister of Higher Education Professor Nkandu Luo says Zambia needs to regain its democratic independence because citizens cannot speak.
Speaking when she, alongside other PF women including former Lands Minister Jean Kapata, former Works and Supply Minister Sylvia Chalikosa among others, visited former first lady Vera Chiluba, Tuesday, Prof Luo said there was also need to be free from the colonial type of economy.
She recalled that the late former president Fredrick Chiluba was the father of democracy, and that a lot of work needed to be done for the country to regain its democracy.
“The father of democracy in this country is Dr Chiluba. People now talk about democracy, and because we don’t write these things, this new generation don’t even know who the father of independence is, who the father of democracy is. You are a symbol of what Dr Chiluba stood for, to give freedom to people, being able to trade, all these businesses people are talking about are as a result of president Chiluba. When I look at the journey, those of us who have been there, we are still looking for two other things: independence, freedom from having the colonial type of economy, to take ourselves to an indigenous Zambian economy. Former presidents Sata and Lungu started giving us that independence. Today we still have to get another freedom, which takes the Zambians into total freedom, where we are independent in terms of democracy because as it is in Zambia, we can’t speak,” said Prof Luo.
“I reflect on all the presidents and I say work is still there. It’s just this sickness that has befallen you, as first lady, you were helping my father to liberate this country, going into the doldrums, into the villages and taking development to the people in the villages. You had enough strength that you would even lift a bag of mealie-meal, we would get surprised. God is merciful, he has spared up to this time for a purpose that we can come back to you, visit you, we can cry to you. We are very lucky to be able to associate with you”.
Meanwhile, Chalikosa said there was need for God’s blessings to liberate the country as it had gone many years backwards.
“During your time as first lady, you were a great inspiration to a girl child because the way you carried yourself gave confidence to anyone. Making use of your high office to meet everyone regardless of where they were coming from. And I remember admiring you, you brought charisma into the office of the first lady. For those of us who just joined politics, it also showed that it doesn’t matter your background, you can still make it as long as you’re determined. So that still stands today,” said Chalikosa.
“May God grant us the blessings to do what we can to liberate our country because right now we seem to have gone many years backwards. Whatever we achieved has gone down. We hope that we will pray together for the emancipation of this country, totally on the basis of democracy and to expect people to have the due justice and move away from this individual persecution that we are going through. A lot of people are complaining about the way we are living. We pray that God helps our country to be the way it should be in 2026, even the peace we are enjoying should continue”.
WHY ARE THEY NOT TAKING ME TO COURT – NYASULU … are they scared because I mentioned some people at State House?
Former Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) director general Victor Nyasulu is wondering why the UPND administration is hesitant to take him to court about the cause of his dismissal.
Nyasulu also said the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) was scared to take him to court because of the revelations he brought out about the pressures some State House officials were exerting on him over procurement matters at ZAMMSA.
”The nation will remember that four statutory investigations by ZP, DEC, ZAMMRA & Presidential Forensic Audit following the 61 medicine containers saga. To date none of those reports have been publicised for the nation to know the truth about Hon. Sylvia Masebo’s hollow hullabaloo! What sort of governance https://dailyrevelationzambia.com/why-arent-they-taking-me-to-court-nyasulu-are-they-scared-because-of-some-people-i-mentioned/
CENTRAL PROVINCE PF CHAIRMAN BILLY SICHAMBA REJECTS HON BRIAN MUNDUBILE PROVINCIAL CAMPAIGN TEAM APOINTMENT.
Good afternoon, Distinguished Leaders of the Patriotic Front,
I convey to you my seasonal greetings.
I wish to formally clarify that I have received several calls indicating that I had allegedly been appointed as Central Province Campaign Manager for the team of Hon. Brian Mundubile. I consider it necessary to address this matter promptly and transparently.
As a loyal member of the Patriotic Front and a member of the Central Committee, I remain guided by party structures, resolutions, and collective decision-making. I am fully aware that the Central Committee has not passed any resolution establishing parallel structures or endorsing any candidate at this time. Indeed, as a Committee, we resolved that *we would not endorse any candidate*, and my team and I remain firmly committed to that collective position.
Accordingly, I have declined the purported appointment. There was no prior consultation, no consensus reached, and I was neither informed formally nor issued with any appointment letter to that effect.
My commitment is, and remains, to the unity, cohesion, and constitutional integrity of the Patriotic Front. We are merely organs of the Party, subordinate to its supreme decision-making processes, and we must act in a manner that promotes unity rather than division.
I remain hopeful that our Party Leadership will soon provide clear guidance on the way forward. Once the Patriotic Front proceeds to Convention, in whatever lawful form, and a President is duly elected, we shall all have an obligation to rally behind and campaign for our duly elected Presidential candidate.
I remain resolute in serving the Patriotic Front with discipline, loyalty, and a firm commitment to unity.
UPND disrespect towards Catholic Church angers Bishop Mwamba UNIP president Dr Trevor Mwamba says as a Bishop in the Church, he is angered by the disrespect and attack on the Catholic Church undertaken by the UPND administration.
In a statement yesterday, Bishop Mwamba stated that for unfathomable reasons the government has embroiled itself in an unnecessary tussle with the Catholic Church, especially with the Archdiocese of Lusaka, and its leadership, which has led to specific incidents of police action and legal summons.
”I recall the incident at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus, Lusaka, on October 28, 2024, when heavily armed police officers https://dailyrevelationzambia.com/upnd-disrespect-towards-catholic-church-angers-bishop-mwamba/
PF CB HAS NOT ENDORSED ANY OF RESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE YET
STATEMENT ON THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF CAMPAIGN STRUCTURES ON THE COPPERBELT
Wednesday, 7th January 2026
The Copperbelt Provincial leadership has taken note of information in circulation regarding the constitution and public announcement of a campaign team, in which same Copperbelt Provincial office bearers have been cited as part of structures purportedly established to campaign for Presidential candidate Hon. Brian Mundubile.
The Provincial leadership wishes to state, in the clearest terms, that the Copperbelt Province has not endorsed any individual candidate in the ongoing internal party processes. At this stage, the overriding obligation of the Provincial leadership is to preserve unity, cohesion, and institutional order within the party, and not to advance, or be perceived to advance, the interests of any particular individual.
In line with party discipline and established procedure, all office bearers at provincial, district, constituency, and branch levels are required to maintain strict neutrality. I wish to remind all Office bearers that our obligation as the leadership is to carry the collective responsibility of the entire province and the party at large.
The Provincial leadership is concerned that the establishment or announcement of campaign structures, particularly those that include serving office bearers and are formed outside sanctioned party processes, has the potential to create confusion and may lead to the emergence of parallel structures. Such actions undermine established party organs, weaken internal discipline, and pose a serious threat to party unity.
In this regard, I wish to reiterate on behalf of the province our firm commitment to order, discipline, and strict adherence to party structures and procedures. The unity of the Patriotic Front remains paramount and must not be compromised by premature alignments or actions that divide the membership.
I further wish to call upon all members and stakeholders in the province and outside to respect existing party structures, to refrain from any conduct that may cause division or instability, and to place the collective interests of the party above personal ambition.
Issued by: Hon. Emmanuel Mulenga Patriotic Front Copperbelt Chairperson Member of the Central Committee
