Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh has revealed that she started smoking at the age of 13 and struggled with the habit for 27 years.
She shared the testimony during a Sunday service at Streams of Joy International Church, led by Pastor Jerry Eze, where she spoke about what she described as her deliverance from smoking, alcohol addiction, masturbation and deep-rooted anger issues.
“I smoked since I was 13. God healed me from masturbation too,” she said, adding that these struggles followed her from childhood.
Tonto admitted she almost backed out of sharing her story because of her public image but chose honesty instead.
“The God that gave me the image is the same God that can take it away,” she said.
According to the actress, her turning point came after attending the Ghana Prayer Conference, where she noticed a major spiritual shift.
She also spoke about battling anger that affected her relationships.
“An anger that destroyed my life. Everybody had to feel it,” she said, noting that through prayer, she finally found peace.
“I am 40 years old, and I have never known peace until now. I am living in it.”
Tonto revealed that her smoking habit began due to exposure at home, explaining that her father smoked, and urged parents to be mindful of habits their children pick up.
She added that the urge for cigarettes and alcohol is now gone.
“My body does not ask for it. Today, it is broken.”
Pastor Jerry Eze later prayed for her, declaring her free, while the actress described herself on Instagram as “a living testimony of mercy.”
Kenya Boosts Air Defence With Israeli Counter-Drone Missile System
Kenya has taken a major step in strengthening its national security after receiving an advanced Israeli-made counter-drone and air defence missile system.
The system, known as SPYDER (Surface-to-air Python and Derby), is designed to detect, track, and intercept drones, aircraft, helicopters, and low-flying missiles.
It is mobile, fast-reacting, and suited for modern security threats, including the growing use of drones.
The acquisition reflects deepening security cooperation between Kenya and Israel and is part of Nairobi’s broader effort to modernize the Kenya Defence Forces.
Authorities say the system will significantly enhance airspace protection and counter-terrorism capabilities, especially amid evolving regional threats.
With this move, Kenya joins a small group of African nations operating high-tech air defence systems, reinforcing its position as a key security player in East Africa.
Kenya is upgrading its military technology to better protect its airspace and respond to modern security challenges.
Chabi Yayi, son of former Beninese president and current opposition figure Thomas Boni Yayi, was arrested early Sunday, December 14, at his home, according to several of his relatives.
No reason was given for the arrest, which comes just a week after a foiled coup attempt in the country. “At this time, we don’t know what he is accused of,” one relative told AFP. Another close friend, who is a member of the Democrats party, the main opposition party led by Boni Yayi, said, “We don’t know if it is linked to the events of last Sunday.”
Former president Thomas Boni Yayi had condemned the abortive coup in a video address two days after the failed attempt.
Several arrests have been made since the December 7 putsch attempt. Among those detained is a former minister of defence and prominent opposition figure, Candide Azannai.
Azannai was placed in police custody on allegations of “conspiracy against the authority of the State and incitement to rebellion”.
Authorities have also issued an international arrest warrant against pan-Africanist and anti-Western influencer Kemi Seba.
On Sunday, Seba released a defiant video response to the warrant. In the seven-minute statement, he said he had taken precautions since the arrest order was issued, although he did not disclose his location.
“You can never stop us,” he said. “We will go to the end of our fight.”
Benin issued the warrant on Friday, December 12, accusing Seba of “inciting rebellion” over his public support for the failed coup attempt, which he described as the country’s “day of liberation”.
Seba, whose real name is Stellio Gilles Robert Capo Chichi, is the head of the NGO Pan-Africanist Emergency and is widely known for his hostility towards France and African governments aligned with Paris.
The 44-year-old influencer has more than 1.5 million followers on social media. Born Franco-Beninese, he was stripped of his French nationality in 2024.
Seba supports the military juntas that came to power through coups in the Sahel region, governments that are hostile to France and maintain close ties with Russia. He now travels on a passport issued by the military regime in Niger, which shares a border with Benin.
Meanwhile, several individuals involved in the failed coup attempt, including its alleged leader, Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, remain at large.
🇷🇺 RUSSIA SUES FOR $229 BILLION OVER FROZEN CASH IN EUROPE
Russia wants its money back and it’s asking for a whopping $229 billion from Euroclear, a major financial clearinghouse in Belgium.
The lawsuit, filed in a Moscow court, claims Euroclear’s “unlawful actions” blocked the Kremlin from accessing its own assets and the income earned from them.
This is all about Russia’s frozen central bank reserves, locked away in Europe since Putin invaded Ukraine in 2022. Most of it, over €200 billion, is stuck in Euroclear accounts.
The EU wants to use the interest from those frozen funds to help finance a €90 billion loan for Ukraine. Moscow isn’t having it.
Russia is threatening legal action not just in its own courts, but in any country that touches the money.
Officials say they’ll “challenge any use of the assets” and enforce court decisions globally if needed.
Meanwhile, Brussels is still arguing over whether using the funds will open the door to financial retaliation from Moscow – or expensive legal losses.
So now you’ve got: Russia suing for hundreds of billions, Europe trying to bankroll Ukraine without getting sued, and everyone lawyering up.
If you thought geopolitics was dramatic, wait until the accountants show up.
“Zimbabwean Company Steps Forward to Build a House for South African Woman Who Champions African Unity”
In a powerful show of African solidarity, a Zimbabwean construction company, Barmlo Construction, has announced plans to build a house in South Africa for Zinhle Gradwell, a South African woman widely known for promoting African unity and consistently supporting Africans who are doing well across the continent and globally.
According to the organisers, the idea was first shared within the Zimbabwean community, asking whether they should take this bold step. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many Zimbabweans praising the initiative as a true reflection of Pan-African values.
Beyond moral support, several individuals have already expressed interest in contributing financially towards the construction of the house in South Africa, proving that this is more than just talk—it is action.
The organisers are now calling on anyone willing to support this noble cause, whether through donations, materials, or services, to get in touch:
📞 +263 78 755 5003 📌 Contact: Mr Homero
This initiative has been described as a rare and inspiring moment, where Zimbabweans come together to uplift a South African citizen—not because of borders, but because of shared African values.
Zinhle Gradwell has long been vocal about African unity, often celebrating African excellence and defending Africans wherever they succeed. Many say this gesture is a thank-you from the continent to someone who believes in One Africa.
🌍 One Love. One Continent. One Africa.
🏗️ Barmlo Construction – Your Happiness Is Our Pride
NB: This is not my project or organisation. I am sharing the story as provided, in the spirit of promoting African unity and positive action.
Canada Joins U.S. & China in Travel Warning for South Africa
Canada has joined the United States and China in issuing travel warnings to their citizens about visiting South Africa, citing growing security concerns.
Canadian authorities are urging travellers to exercise a high degree of caution, pointing to high levels of violent crime, including armed robbery, carjackings, assaults, and incidents of “express kidnappings” targeting both locals and foreigners.
The advisory highlights risks in major cities, especially at night, on roads leading from airports, and in some tourist areas. Visitors are advised to remain vigilant, avoid traveling after dark, and use trusted transport and accommodation services.
The U.S. and China have issued similar warnings, reinforcing concerns about personal safety and security risks in the country.
Despite these advisories, South Africa remains a popular destination, but foreign governments are encouraging travellers to take extra precautions and stay informed before and during their trips.
Population Comparison Between Japan and Nigeria Over 25 Years
-Population in 2000
Nigeria : 122 million people
Japan : 126 million people
At the beginning of the new millennium, Japan had a larger population than Nigeria.
Population in 2025
Nigeria : 239 million people
Japan : 123.8 million people
After just 25 years, Nigeria’s population has nearly doubled, while Japan’s population has clearly declined.
https://youtu.be/cn-Pvw3i6Vk?si=mD3TkB2VGHyZZfd0
-Why Is Japan’s Population Declining?
Japan’s population decline is not accidental; it is the result of several long-term factors:
– One of the lowest fertility rates in the world. – Long and exhausting working hours, making family life difficult for many people.
– High cost of raising children in a society -focused on intensive education and high standards. – Strict immigration policies, which limit foreign labor despite a major workforce shortage.
A striking demographic contrast that shows how different policies and lifestyles shape the future of nations.
Israeli intelligence services have identified Tehran as the prime suspect behind the Bondi Beach terror attack that killed 15 people including a 10-year-old girl.
The assessment:
Israeli intelligence sources say the attack appeared sophisticated and well-planned with hallmarks of Unit 910 – Hezbollah’s external operations arm. There’s also speculation about links to Hamas and Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba.
The pattern:
This fits exactly with Iranian operations uncovered in Australia over the past year. In August 2025, Australia expelled Iran’s ambassador over allegations he directed attacks against Jewish targets in Sydney and Melbourne – including the December 2024 synagogue firebombing in Melbourne and October 2024 cafe arson in Sydney.
Mike Burgess, Sydney’s intelligence chief, said his team uncovered links “between the alleged crimes and commanders in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC.”
The gunmen:
Naveed Akram, 24, and his 50-year-old father. The father arrived in Sydney in 1998 on a student visa, held a license for six weapons (all found to have been used in the attack), and was a gun-club member for a decade.
Naveed was investigated in 2019 for association with an Islamic State cell. Authorities knew. They investigated. His father got gun permits anyway.
The details:
2 “active” explosive devices were found – “fairly basic in terms of construction” – and rendered safe by bomb disposal. Reports say a black ISIS flag was draped over the attacker’s car. Around 50 bullets fired into the crowd.
Expert analysis:
Danny Citrinowicz, Iran expert:
“Given the short history of Iranian activity and 910 in Australia, they are definitely suspects and high on the priority list.”
Ronen Solomon, Israeli intelligence expert on Hezbollah:
“Australia has long been known to be a hub for Hezbollah, so it could be a joint operation between Hezbollah and Quds Force.
But this will mean it’s very hard to pin this on them as Iran will want to cover this up as an anti-Semitic incident.”
The victims: Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, British-born assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi, father of 5. His youngest child was born 2 months ago. His cousin:
“How can a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light have his life ended this way?”
Matilda, 10, died at Sydney Children’s Hospital overnight.
The hero:
Ahmed al Ahmed, 43, fruit shop owner, tackled one gunman and wrestled away his weapon while taking bullets to his arm and hand.
He’s recovering after one surgery, needs 2-3 more. His family calls him a “100 per cent hero.”
King Charles’ response:
“Appalled and saddened by the most dreadful antisemitic terrorist attack on Jewish people attending the Chanukah celebration.”
Netanyahu to Australia:
“You did nothing to curb the cancer cells growing inside your country. You took no action.”
What this means:
If Iran is confirmed behind this, it’s a major escalation – a foreign state-backed terror attack on Australian soil targeting the Jewish diaspora during a religious celebration.
Australia expelled Iran’s ambassador four months ago over similar attacks. Iran responded by organizing a massacre.
16 people dead. Australian officials haven’t confirmed foreign involvement yet. But Israeli intelligence is already calling it.
The pattern is clear. The warnings were ignored. And now families are burying children.
DA IN TURMOIL: Calls Grow to Replace John Steenhuisen as Party Divisions Deepen
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is facing a major leadership crisis as internal divisions come to the surface. With the 2026 elective conference approaching, growing numbers of party members and activists are questioning whether John Steenhuisen should continue as leader. The conflict is not just about personalities — it’s about strategy, credibility, and the direction of South Africa’s official opposition.
What’s Happening Inside the DA
1. Public Factional Battles Tensions have escalated between Steenhuisen and senior party figures, most notably former DA Minister Dion George. Steenhuisen’s push to remove George from a key ministerial post sparked backlash from party members who feel the move was politically motivated rather than performance-based. This feud has spilled into public view, with accusations and counter-accusations that have embarrassed the party and shaken its image of unity.
2. Leadership Under Scrutiny Steenhuisen has faced criticism for his leadership style, which some describe as overly confrontational and divisive. Questions about his personal accountability and financial decisions have also surfaced, with opponents using these issues to argue that the party needs a leader who inspires confidence both inside the DA and among the public.
3. Growing Factions and Opposition
Steenhuisen’s supporters argue that continuity is essential, especially as the party prepares for local elections and strategic positioning in national politics.
Opponents within the party say his style is alienating key members and undermining the DA’s credibility. Names of potential alternative leaders, including younger, dynamic voices, are increasingly being discussed as replacements.
Party elders and senior figures have stepped in to try to mediate, urging both sides to resolve disputes internally and avoid airing conflicts publicly.
Why This Matters
The DA has long positioned itself as a disciplined, professional opposition party. Public factional fights and perceived mismanagement threaten that reputation at a time when the party needs unity more than ever. The outcome of this leadership struggle will influence the DA’s strategy, voter appeal, and its ability to challenge the ruling party in upcoming elections.
What’s Next
The party is now gearing up for the 2026 federal elective conference, where Steenhuisen may face a formal challenge. Internal negotiations and behind-the-scenes discussions are intensifying as factions weigh their options. The DA must decide whether to stick with current leadership or embrace a new figure who can unite the party and chart a clear course forward
Bottom line: The DA’s future hangs in the balance. This is not just a contest over leadership — it’s a battle for the party’s identity and credibility. How the conflict is resolved could redefine South African politics for years to come.
R&B singer Trey Songz has been arrested for allegedly punching a Manhattan nightclub employee in the face over being told the spot was closing.
The 41-year-old singer, whose real name is Tremaine Aldon Neverson, was partying with his crew at Times Square spot Dramma Night Club when a worker told him it was closing time at around 4:25 a.m. on Dec. 4, sparking him to become “needlessly irate,” prosecutors said in Manhattan criminal court.
Neverson appeared in court on Sunday as he was arraigned on an assault charge for the club clash and an additional charge of mischief in the second degree from an unrelated incident that same morning at Mira, a restaurant and hookah lounge in Manhattan.
That early morning incident saw the “Slow Motion” singer allegedly break around $1,500 worth of restaurant property, including hookahs, DJ equipment, and sofas, according to the complaint against him.
The “Mr. Steal Your Girl” singer sported a black face mask as he was released on his own recognizance on the charges. The worker was granted an order of protection against Neverson, who is apparently a regular at the night spot, according to prosecutors.
His attorney, Mitchell Schuster, said in a statement that the incident overnight Saturday into Sunday began when Neverson was confronted by individuals “who instigated a confrontation and attempted to surround him.”
“His security intervened toprotect him and contain the situation, and an altercation occurred in the ensuring confusion,” Schuster said in the statement. “Despite being the target of the initial provocation, Trey was arrested.
“Public figures are often treated as targets for instigation in pursuit of headlines or financial gain,” he went on. “Trey is cooperating fully in both matters, and we are confident the full context and facts will come to light.”
He was granted supervised release as the judge noted his history of run-ins with the law made him a risk and is due back in court Feb. 18, per The Post.
Detroit rapper Baby Smoove was arrested earlier this week in Miami, United States of America, on multiple drug-related charges but was later released after posting bail.
According to online police records, the rapper, whose real name is Jaelin Deanta Parker, was pulled over late Wednesday night while driving a yellow Lamborghini with heavily tinted windows. An officer from the Miami Police Department said that upon approaching the vehicle, they “observed a cloud of smoke … and a strong odor of marijuana.”
The officer also reported seeing a black handgun under the driver’s seat. For safety reasons, all occupants of the vehicle were ordered to exit the car.
Police said Baby Smoove and two passengers were arrested because none of them was legally permitted to possess a firearm, and the weapon was within easy reach of everyone in the vehicle.
A subsequent search of the car allegedly led to the discovery of a black Taurus PT809 handgun loaded with 16 live 9mm rounds in the magazine and one live round in the chamber. Officers also said they found a yellow pill bottle hidden in a compartment containing suspected oxycodone, xanax and tizanidine hydrochloride, a prescription muscle relaxant.
In addition, police claimed they recovered a yellow backpack containing $30,000 in cash, 81.9 grams of suspected marijuana, 12 canisters of suspected THC wax and a bottle of promethazine, a prescription antihistamine. Investigators said Smoove told them he did not know who owned the gun but confirmed that the yellow bag belonged to him.
The rapper was charged with a total of seven felony counts. These include four counts of possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell or deliver while armed, one count of possession of marijuana with intent to sell or deliver while armed, one count of intent to manufacture or sell prescription drugs, and one count of carrying a concealed firearm.
The “Losing My Mind” hitmaker was released from custody on Friday, December 12, after posting a $1,000 surety bond.
José Antonio Kast, a 59-year-old ultra-conservative former congressman and Republican Party candidate, has won Chile’s presidential election with an impressive 58.17% of the vote, defeating leftist rival Jeannette Jara who received 41.83%.
This marks Kast’s third presidential bid and represents a dramatic political shift for Chile—the same country that elected left-wing president Gabriel Boric just four years ago.
Kast’s campaign centered heavily on immigration control, promising to deport tens of thousands of undocumented migrants and build border barriers, echoing themes from other recent right-wing victories across Latin America.
His victory has already drawn congratulations from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Argentina’s far-right president Javier Milei, signaling a growing alignment of conservative leaders in the region. Jara graciously conceded defeat, acknowledging that “democracy spoke loud and clear”.
What do you think drives these political shifts across Latin America? 🤔 Are voters prioritizing security and migration concerns over other issues, or is there something deeper at play?
Ukrainian 🇺🇦 President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said he is willing to drop Ukraine’s bid to join NATO as part of efforts to advance peace talks aimed at ending the war with Russia.
The statement comes ahead of high-level peace negotiations, where Ukraine is seeking a diplomatic path to end the conflict while safeguarding its future security.
Zelenskyy says Ukraine may abandon NATO membership ambitions — a long-standing national goal — in exchange for strong, legally binding security guarantees from Western partners.
He has made it clear that Ukraine will not give up any of its territory as part of a peace deal.
This is one of Kyiv’s biggest concessions so far and directly touches on a key demand raised by Russia. However, analysts say the toughest issues — territory, security guarantees, and enforcement — remain unresolved.
As talks continue, the world is watching closely to see whether this shift can bring Ukraine closer to a just and lasting peace.
Jakarta Just Became the World’s Largest City – And Indonesia is Reshaping Global Power
Jakarta has officially been recognized as the world’s largest urban area in 2025, a milestone that coincides with Indonesia’s full membership in BRICS. This isn’t just about population numbers—it’s about economic momentum.
With over 2,400 tech startups, an 80% digital payments penetration rate, and a projected $360 billion digital economy by 2030, Jakarta is emerging as Southeast Asia’s innovation powerhouse. Indonesia’s BRICS membership strengthens the Global South’s voice in shaping international trade, infrastructure development, and digital finance cooperation.
This dual achievement signals a major shift: emerging economies are no longer waiting for a seat at the table—they’re building their own.
A diplomatic firestorm erupted after Bangladeshi youth activist Sharif Osman Hadi, convener of the Inquilab Mancha movement, was shot on December 12 and remains in a coma.
Bangladesh summoned India’s High Commissioner, alleging that Awami League fugitives operating from Indian territory orchestrated the assassination attempt and demanding their immediate extradition.
Dhaka specifically requested India prevent suspects from fleeing across the border and ensure their apprehension if they enter Indian soil.
India categorically rejected these allegations, maintaining it has never allowed its territory to be used against Bangladesh’s interests.
Hadi, a prominent figure who rose to prominence during the 2024 student protests that toppled Sheikh Hasina’s government, was running as an independent candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency when he was attacked.
Malawi President Mutharika Returns Home Amid Health Speculation
Malawian President Arthur Peter Mutharika, 85, is set to touch down in Blantyre today, wrapping up a two-week private trip to South Africa.
The Chief Secretary to the President, Justin Saidi, confirmed Mutharika’s return, with an expected arrival time of 17:00 local time at Bakili Muluzi International Airport.
Rumors have been swirling about the president’s health, with some speculating he traveled to South Africa for medical attention. However, the government maintains the visit was private, leaving many wondering what’s really going on.
Bill 7 passes third reading with all MPs present voting in favour of it. MPs vote: YES -135, NO – 0 and ABSTAIN – 0
BILL 7 CLEARS THE NUMBERS, PARLIAMENT ERUPTS AS SECOND READING PASSES
Parliament has crossed a decisive threshold this afternoon as Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 secured the required two-thirds majority at Second Reading, pushing the controversial legislation to the next stage amid raw emotion, procedural clashes, and visible jubilation on the floor of the House.
With 131 votes recorded in favour and only two opposed, the numbers settled a debate that had dominated national politics for weeks. The arithmetic had loomed large from the outset.
Out of 167 Members of Parliament, including elected, nominated, and ex-officio members, the Bill required at least 110 votes to survive Second Reading due to the Chawama vacancy. It cleared that bar comfortably.
The session itself was anything but routine.
Tensions peaked when Nkana Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu mounted a forceful submission, warning that Parliament was “on the verge of undermining the Constitution.” Mpundu invoked the Constitutional Court and framed his stance as one for history, declaring, “I resolved to stand firm in defence of the Constitution of the Republic. I will not associate myself with any process that amounts to illegality.”
Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti cut in sharply, cautioning Mpundu against interpreting the law. “You are not a lawyer,” she reminded him, steering the House back to procedure and drawing murmurs across the chamber.
Mpundu nonetheless concluded by excusing himself from further participation, saying posterity would judge the House.
Moments earlier, another flashpoint had unfolded when Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa attempted to raise a point of order and table a document during debate.
“My point of order is very compelling, Madam Speaker,” Sampa insisted, saying he had evidence to support his claim.
Speaker Mutti rejected the move outright. “That is not how documents are laid on the Table,” she ruled, ordering the paper withdrawn. She stressed that Standing Orders require verification before any document can be admitted, adding that without compliance, “your point of order falls off.”
Throughout the heated exchanges, the Speaker repeatedly appealed for order and restraint. “I am not going to chase anyone out of the House,” Mutti said.
“Those who wish to leave may do so on their own. Let us maintain order and decorum so that we proceed seamlessly.”
When the vote was finally taken, the mood shifted instantly. Government benches erupted in applause. The two-thirds line had been crossed. Bill 7 survived its most politically dangerous hurdle.
The result confirmed what behind-the-scenes tallies had suggested all weekend. The ruling UPND bloc, bolstered by nominated members, ex-officio votes, a section of independents, and a breakaway group from the opposition benches, had the numbers.
Opposition threats of mass boycotts and court warnings did not translate into sufficient resistance on the floor.
Outside the chamber, reactions were immediate and polarized. Supporters framed the vote as a democratic endorsement of reform. Critics called it defiance of the courts. On social media, accusations of inducements flew freely, even as no evidence was formally presented in the House.
What is beyond dispute is that the centre of gravity has now shifted. Bill 7 moves forward, politically strengthened by a clear numerical mandate, but still carrying deep national divisions into the next stages.
The debate was fierce. The vote was decisive. And Zambia’s constitutional contest has entered a new and irreversible phase.
Members of Parliament have voted YES to Bill No. 7, with 135 votes in favour, 0 against out of a total of 135 MPs.
BILL 7 CLEARS THE NUMBERS, PARLIAMENT ERUPTS AS SECOND READING PASSES
Parliament has crossed a decisive threshold this afternoon as Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 secured the required two-thirds majority at Second Reading, pushing the controversial legislation to the next stage amid raw emotion, procedural clashes, and visible jubilation on the floor of the House.
With 131 votes recorded in favour and only two opposed, the numbers settled a debate that had dominated national politics for weeks. The arithmetic had loomed large from the outset.
Out of 167 Members of Parliament, including elected, nominated, and ex-officio members, the Bill required at least 110 votes to survive Second Reading due to the Chawama vacancy. It cleared that bar comfortably.
The session itself was anything but routine.
Tensions peaked when Nkana Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu mounted a forceful submission, warning that Parliament was “on the verge of undermining the Constitution.” Mpundu invoked the Constitutional Court and framed his stance as one for history, declaring, “I resolved to stand firm in defence of the Constitution of the Republic. I will not associate myself with any process that amounts to illegality.”
Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti cut in sharply, cautioning Mpundu against interpreting the law. “You are not a lawyer,” she reminded him, steering the House back to procedure and drawing murmurs across the chamber.
Mpundu nonetheless concluded by excusing himself from further participation, saying posterity would judge the House.
Moments earlier, another flashpoint had unfolded when Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa attempted to raise a point of order and table a document during debate.
“My point of order is very compelling, Madam Speaker,” Sampa insisted, saying he had evidence to support his claim.
Speaker Mutti rejected the move outright. “That is not how documents are laid on the Table,” she ruled, ordering the paper withdrawn. She stressed that Standing Orders require verification before any document can be admitted, adding that without compliance, “your point of order falls off.”
Throughout the heated exchanges, the Speaker repeatedly appealed for order and restraint. “I am not going to chase anyone out of the House,” Mutti said.
“Those who wish to leave may do so on their own. Let us maintain order and decorum so that we proceed seamlessly.”
When the vote was finally taken, the mood shifted instantly. Government benches erupted in applause. The two-thirds line had been crossed. Bill 7 survived its most politically dangerous hurdle.
The result confirmed what behind-the-scenes tallies had suggested all weekend. The ruling UPND bloc, bolstered by nominated members, ex-officio votes, a section of independents, and a breakaway group from the opposition benches, had the numbers.
Opposition threats of mass boycotts and court warnings did not translate into sufficient resistance on the floor.
Outside the chamber, reactions were immediate and polarized. Supporters framed the vote as a democratic endorsement of reform. Critics called it defiance of the courts. On social media, accusations of inducements flew freely, even as no evidence was formally presented in the House.
What is beyond dispute is that the centre of gravity has now shifted. Bill 7 moves forward, politically strengthened by a clear numerical mandate, but still carrying deep national divisions into the next stages.
The debate was fierce. The vote was decisive. And Zambia’s constitutional contest has entered a new and irreversible phase.
Outgoing PF Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa has complained to Koswe that people are not honest in Parliament.
“We had agreed not to vote for Bill 7 but you can clearly see that people are not honest. The whole house voted for Bill 7 and only me and my colleague from Mpika voted against.
And if you check on the Parliamentary map, Mpika is one of the biggest constituencies in Zambia by geography but the MP for Mpika voted against Bill 7,” laments Sampa.
“I think even us, two, we will just vote for it now during Third Reading. Surprisingly even Binwell Mpundu voted for the Bill.”
SPEAKERS of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, this morning told off Nkana Member of Parliament Binwel Mpundu, cautioning him not to interpret the law as he is not a lawyer.
This occurred while Mr Mpundu was making his submission on Bill 7, which is currently under its second reading.
In his submission, Mr Mpundu referred to the judgment of the Constitutional Court.
“I swore to speak the truth, whether it hurts or not. I want to stand on the side of history, the side that ensures we did what was right. Here in this august House, Madam Speaker, we are on the verge of undermining the Constitution,” he said.
In her guidance, Ms Mutti reminded Mr Mpundu that he was not qualified as a lawyer to make legal pronouncements.
Mr Mpundu further stated that the movers of Bill 7, whether through deception or political strategy, suggested they were seeking to include the marginalised, adding that the current law does not exclude women or youth.
“We have a young member here who came to this House because of political will within his party,” he said.
He accused the House of committing illegalities and warned that history would judge harshly if they proceeded on this path.
“I resolved to stand firm in defence of the Constitution of the Republic. I stand by that position today. I will not associate myself with any process that amounts to illegality or undermines constitutional guarantees. For that reason, Madam Speaker, once I conclude this submission, I will excuse myself, as I do not wish to be associated with actions that history may judge as unlawful. Posterity will judge the decisions we make in this House, and I hope that judgment will be fair and just,” he said.
Matero member of parliament Hon Miles Sampa leaves the house.
….”I dont want to be part of the illegal BILL 7.”
He writes;
This morning I went to Parliament to remind the Speaker and all gathered in the Chamber that they are breaking the Oath they took to Protect & Defend the Constitution of Zambia by discussing BILL 7 that the Constitution Court declared Illegal.
I laid on the table evidence documents that Bill 7 is illegal.
I have since left the House as don’t want to be part of debates on the illegal Bill 7 whose contempt and illegality hearings are currently under way in the Constitution Court. Zikomo MBS15.12.2025
I sat down to read through the written exchange between Honorable Sunday Chilufya Chanda, Member of Parliament for Kanchibiya Constituency, and New Heritage Party President Madam Chishala Kateka. I know one side fairly well. When it comes to debate, especially written debate, Sunday Chanda is not a lightweight. He is methodical, confident, and usually difficult to corner.
I have also met Madam Chishala Kateka and had what I can only describe as a powerful conversation about politics, Zambia, and the internal decay of political parties. She knows exactly why she is in the political space, and I respect clarity when I see it. What I did not anticipate was Sunday Chanda encountering an opponent so precise in constitutional argument that he would be forced to expend his very best.
This, therefore, is my spectator’s verdict. I am not taking sides politically. I am judging the exchange purely on substance, consistency, and constitutional depth.
At its core, this was not a disagreement about inclusion or representation. Both parties accept the need for a Parliament that reflects Zambia’s demographic and governance realities. The real dispute was about where power should reside. In the Constitution itself, firmly anchored and insulated, or in future legislation, deferred to political discretion.
Madam Kateka’s strength lay in her consistency. From her first response to her final letter, she held one line. Representation mechanisms are not administrative details. They are the architecture of democracy. If they are left to the phrase “as prescribed,” they become vulnerable to manipulation. That argument never shifted, and it was reinforced with scholarship, comparative constitutional practice from Kenya and South Africa, and Zambia’s own constitutional reform history.
Honorable Chanda’s defence rested on a different philosophy. That constitutions should set principles and allow Parliament flexibility to legislate the details. In theory, this is sound. In Zambia’s political context, where institutional trust is thin and memory is long, it is a weaker proposition. Madam Kateka exploited that weakness by reminding him of his own earlier warnings on Article 51, where he cautioned against precisely the kind of ambiguity he now defends under Article 68. That contradiction was never satisfactorily resolved.
The delimitation issue proved decisive. Madam Kateka shifted the debate from legality to legitimacy. Parliament may have the power to legislate, but reform built on unpublished data and unreleased reports lacks moral authority. Her insistence that reform without transparent evidence is not reform, but convenience, landed heavily and went largely unanswered.
On fiscal considerations, she again held the firmer ground. She did not argue against democracy. She argued against uncosted democracy. By pointing to global examples where legislative size is controlled despite massive populations, she exposed the absence of restraint and cost clarity in the current proposal.
Perhaps the most uncomfortable moment in the exchange came when Madam Kateka invoked political memory. By referencing Honorable Chanda’s own experience with opaque party adoption processes, she demonstrated how undefined discretion harms individuals before it harms institutions. It was not a personal attack. It was a reminder of why constitutions exist in the first place.
By the end of this exchange, the outcome was clear. Honorable Chanda argued with conviction and intellect, but his case relied heavily on future goodwill and parliamentary discipline. Madam Kateka argued with precision, precedent, and an unwavering demand for constitutional safeguards.
On balance, Madam Chishala Kateka wins this debate. Not because she opposed reform, but because she insisted that reform must be constitutionally grounds, procedurally legitimate, and resistant to abuse. In constitutional contests, good intentions are never enough. Clarity and restraint are what endure.
Guinea-Bissau: The wife of the ousted president, Emballo Sissoko, was transporting 5 million euros in a private plane bound for Portugal (Confidential Africa)!
Just days after the double exfiltration of ousted President Umaro Sissoco Emballo, revealed exclusively by Confidentiel Afrique, a new political and legal earthquake has shattered the upper echelons of the political and military establishment in Bissau. A case involving the transfer of 5 million euros in foreign currency was discovered aboard a private aircraft chartered by the deposed President Umaro Sissoco Emballo, who was holed up in Casablanca—the inside story of this intriguing affair.
His wife, who had remained in Bissau despite her husband’s frequent flights between Bissau, Dakar, Brazzaville, and Casablanca, was on board the plane alongside another woman named Myriam Lopes dos Reis and Mefazzione Cabrinne Gomes Fernandes, the man presented as the courier of the currency destined for Portugal, acting on behalf of the Emballo presidential couple. According to exclusive sources obtained by Confidentiel Afrique, the private jet picked them up the day before they departed from Guinea-Bissau. Only a few coup generals were aware of this “special trip,” our source revealed. Before leaving, they loaded 5 million euros onto the plane.
US intelligence services alerted Portuguese authorities to the aircraft
According to credible information obtained by Confidentiel Afrique, the plane from Bissau landed at Figu Maduro Airport, near Lisbon, carrying the wife of ousted President Umaro Sissoco Emballo and a courier named Mefazzione Cabrinne Gomez Fernandez. Alerted by US intelligence services to the Portuguese authorities, an authorised source told Confidentiel Afrique that the Portuguese police boarded the aircraft and discovered two briefcases containing an estimated 5 million euros in foreign currency.
Instead of landing at Lisbon Airport (the Portuguese capital), the plane touched down on the tarmac at Figu Maduro Airport to avoid attracting too much attention from Lisbon airport services. This was a well-planned and coordinated currency transport operation. The courier’s name is Mefazzione Cabrinne Gomes Fernandes, born in 1983. He is currently in the custody of the Portuguese Judicial Police.
There are allegations of internal complicity within the civil and military aviation authorities in Bissau. Was Umaro Sissoco Embaló orchestrating the operation from his luxurious residence in Casablanca (Kingdom of Morocco) with a small circle of coup plotters?
According to credible information obtained by Confidentiel Afrique, Umaro Sissoco Embaló’s wife, Myriam Lopes dos Reis, was on board the plane. They had left Bissau for Portugal.
🇿🇲 BILL 7: Inside the Numbers as Parliament Braces for a High-Stakes Vote
As Zambia’s National Assembly prepares to vote on Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 today, the debate has shifted decisively from legal theory and street protests to arithmetic. At this stage, Bill 7 is less about who is loudest on social media and more about who controls the numbers on the floor of the House.
Parliament currently has 167 members in total, made up of 156 elected MPs, eight nominated MPs and three ex officio members, namely the Vice President, the Speaker and one Deputy Speaker. With the Chawama seat vacant, the effective voting strength stands at 166.
This means Bill 7 requires a two-thirds majority of 110 votes to pass, or 111 once the House is full again.
On paper, the ruling UPND enters today’s sitting with a strong base. The party controls 88 elected MPs. Added to this are eight nominated MPs and the Vice President, bringing the firm pro-government bloc to 97. Parliamentary convention also matters. Both the Speaker and at least one Deputy Speaker are widely expected to support government business.
This pushes the reliable “yes” column to about 99 before any cross-bench movement is counted.
This is where the tension now lies. To reach the two-thirds threshold, government needs at least 11 to 12 additional votes. Attention has therefore turned to two groups: independent MPs and dissenters within the Patriotic Front. Of the 10 independent MPs in the House, UPND sources indicate that at least six are expected to vote in favour of the Bill.
If this projection holds, the government tally rises to 105.
The remaining arithmetic is uncomfortable for the opposition. The PF, which has publicly announced a boycott of the second reading, still has 54 MPs on the books following the loss of Chawama.
Multiple parliamentary sources, including from within PF itself, suggest that between eight and a dozen PF MPs are likely to break ranks and vote with government. If even the lower end of that estimate materialises, Bill 7 crosses the line.
This numerical reality explains the sharp rise in temperature over the last 24 hours. Lists of MPs are circulating online, accompanied by calls for citizens to “warn” or “name and shame” those suspected of backing the Bill. Allegations of inducements and MP-buying are also trending, though no evidence has been presented publicly.
Government has dismissed the claims as panic politics, while opposition figures argue the numbers themselves prove something “unnatural” is happening.
What is clear is that the opposition has struggled to translate its loud moral objections into a blocking minority inside Parliament. Parties like Citizens First and the Socialist Party dominate online spaces and press briefings, but they hold no seats in the House. Their leverage depends entirely on PF discipline and independent MPs holding firm. This coalition has looked increasingly fragile as voting day approached.
For many MPs, the choice is no longer abstract. Constituency interests, especially around delimitation and proportional representation, are colliding with party instructions. As one MP privately put it over the weekend, “You can shout about illegality on Facebook, but tomorrow you still have to face voters who want more representation.”
As the House convenes, both camps are watching the same scoreboard. Supporters of Bill 7 believe the numbers are finally lining up after weeks of political noise.
Opponents are hoping absences, walkouts or last-minute shifts can still deny government its two-thirds prize.
By the end of today, Zambia will know whether Bill 7 survives its most difficult hurdle. At this point, the battle is not about slogans or court filings. It is about 110 hands in the air, and whether the arithmetic of power proves stronger than the politics of resistance.
RESPONDING TO WYNTER KABIMBA’S BASELESS AND IMMORAL RANTINGS
Monday 15th December 2025
We have watched with fascination the regular media rantings of former Secretary General and former Minister of Justice, Wynter Kabimba made against the late President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, his government and the Patriotic Front.
Until recently, the Economic Front leader has been attacking President Hakainde Hichilema relentlessly accusing him of being the worst President Zambia has ever had, stating that he was a President who promoted self-praise, tribalism and massive corruption.
When he joined the UPND Alliance in September 2024, he changed dramatically turning his guns from President Hichilema to attacks against the former government of President Edgar Lungu.
This dramatic shift is understable as Edgar Lungu became what Kabimba couldn’t be-President of the Republic of Zambia.
His jealousy is so plain and naked for all to see that he issues vile attacks even in his death, an immoral and unafrican thing to do.
When President Michael Sata fired Kabimba, the positions he held as Patriotic Front Secretary General and Minister of Justice went to Edgar Lungu, who proceeded to become Head of State, the position Kabimba fought tooth and nail to attempt to achieve.
Therefore Kabimba’s recent base and sick attacks against the former President, who is no longer available to defend himself, must be seen in this light and context, and the regular personal attacks against him emanate from a very small man driven by vengeance and petty jealousy.
His attacks are so ridiculous that Zambians are basically laughing at him.
It is now an established fact that President Hichilema has run aground the economy, has subjected Zambians to the worst Load-shedding ever, while he continues to export electricity , has subjected Zambians to the worst cost-of-living crisis, has taken away rights and freedoms of Zambians, abuses human rights, harasses and jails political opponents and is determined to destroy the hard-earned democracy.
Yet Kabimba claims Hichilema’s government is better. Kabimba also makes false claims that leaders in the Patriotic Front are fighting to come back to steal is a statement lacking proper judgment and totally unfounded. If Kabimba abhors corruption, he would have condemned the grand acts of corruption taking place in President Hichilema’s administration.
But his attacks against corruption are all but mere grandstanding and must be ignored.
Kabimba’s comments about the constitution-making process must be ignored too as he knows better how a good constitution is processed but he is saying things, not to serve Zambia, but mere flattery meant to catch the attention of President Hichilema.
We must post warning that we will no longer keep quiet as unscrupulous and immoral individuals like Kabimba choose to attack the late President Edgar Lungu, who is no longer available to defend himself.
Issued by;
Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba Chairperson for Information and Publicity Member of the Central Committee PATRIOTIC FRONT
HERE ARE THE CLEAR MATHEMATICS ON HOW BILL 7 WILL GO THROUGH THIS MORNING ================= This article was done by @Nancy Prisháàn’s mum, very helpful indeed.
“Ka Parliamentary Parallel Voter Tabulation (please feel free to correct me incase i’ve gotten any composition wrong)
Parliament has a total of 167 Members (elected and non-elected).
Break down as follows:
156 Elected 8 Nominated 3 ‘ex-officio’ (i.e. The vice President, Speaker and 1 Deputy)
Total 167
Bill 7 will need 110/111 to pass.
2 thirds of the majority in Parliament is 111 (110 for now due to chawama vacancy).
I.e. 2/3 of 167 being 111 or 2/3 of 166 being 110.
The UPND has in their bag (guaranteed):
88 MPs 8 nominated 1 Veep Total 97
We can also safely say kuti the Speaker and 1 of her deputies or 2 deputies will VOTE YES. That’s 2 added to the guaranteed 97. Total 99 in the bag.
Balance needed for a YES vote is 12.
Parley has 10 independents. So far according to my masamuu, 6 are guaranteed to vote YES.
Muli 54 MPs from PF (55 before they lost Chawama). Umu muli 54, 8 PF MPs will vote YES.
That’s a mbasela of 2 YES Votes.
Bill 7 ilepita.
Unless otherwise che….let’s wait and see….kaili muntu siwochetekela 100%. Things might change pa last minute and ingaluke game ! 藍
So both the Pro bill 7s and the Anti-bill 7s must keep open minds. Keep some tabs of pain killers just incase 欄”
If you vote for Bill 7, you are automatically expelled, PF warns its MPs
PF faction national chairperson Jean Kapata has warned that party members of parliament that will vote for Bill 7 today should consider themselves automatically expelled from the former ruling party.
Addressing journalists in Lusaka yesterday, Kapata encouraged PF lawmakers to stay away from the National Assembly as the Bill comes up for second reading.
“PF MPs that will go to parliament tomorrow, consider yourself automatically expelled. We will follow you to your constituencies and give them other people,” she warned.
Speaking at the same press briefing, ex convict Chishimba Kambwili warned that posterity will harshly judge the lawmakers that will vote for the Bill.
“Insansa shinya ubulanda. Posterity will judge you harshly if you vote for that Bill,” he said.
According to Kambwili, Bill 7 will abolish the provision that allows independent candidates to contest parliamentary elections.
Acting president Given Lubinda said all the MPs that will not vote against the Bill will leave to regret their decision in years to come.
The arrogance displayed by President Hichilema, and the UPND government, on Bill 7, is exactly the one that has put government after government in trouble with Zambians.
The one I always think of as asking citizens – so what can you do about it?
So they announce that some recommendations from the public will be included in the Bill that will be put to the vote.
The people have no idea what those changes are. In short – as it has been from the start, only those who hold power will decide what will be in the Constitution.
WE THE PEOPLE will discover on the day of the vote, what is in the Bill😏!
Essentially this government wasted a whole lot of money on the Mushabati Committee, to pretend to consult the public. A total sham because consultation means the consulated are told the result of the process.
Government is acting like God when we pray. Ask but the decision on what is good for you is mine and mine alone. They think they are gods over us.
It would, of course, be another proud Zambian moment if MPs refused to pass this work of disdain for the people of Zambia.
Let’s just say it’s almost certain that the UPND has done its nasty homework.
The hubris displayed, so far, suggests that enough MPs have been garnered to pass a constitution amendment cooked in private, for the appetite of those who hold power.
I will just end by saying that, in this Bill 7 process, President Hichilema has chosen to write his name on the side of dishonourable constitutional making history.
He joins this unhappy list of ruling party self-serving arrogance:
1972 – One party state 1996 – FTJ constitutional amendments that took our democracy backwards 2001 – Third Term Attempt 2019 – Bill 10 2025 – Bill 7.
LUSAKA — Zambia wakes to a nailbiting showdown as Parliament braces for today’s decisive vote on Bill 7.
Opposition leader and presidential hopeful Brian Mundubile has made a lastditch appeal, warning lawmakers against supporting the controversial measure.
On Hot FM, Mundubile thundered: “Don’t support Bill 7.” His plea comes as tension grips the nation, with citizens anxiously awaiting the verdict that could shape the political terrain ahead of the August 13 presidential election in less than eight months.
Stay Away Speculation quite
Responding to swirling reports that some MPs had been quarantined, Mundubile said. “We have directed our members not to support the Bill, not quarantine them, as we hear they might be. We want MPs to stay away at their own will,” he clarified.
Mundubile urged ordinary Zambians to step in: “Citizens must join hands, look for your MPs and advise them not to support the Bill. Some MPs might be tempted because of the promised gratification,” he cautioned.
As the chamber prepares for the vote, lobbying and persuasion are expected to reach fever pitch. For Mundubile, the battle is more than legislative, it is a test of conscience, loyalty, and national destiny.
Today’s outcome will echo far beyond Parliament’s walls, as Zambia braces for a verdict that could redefine the country’s political future.
IT’S YOU WHO SHOULD SHUT UP AND ORGANISE YOUR PARTY, ZCTU TELLS PF
ZAMBIA Congress of Trade Unions President Blake Mulala says the PF are the ones who should “shut up” and organise their party, which he claims is failing to provide checks and balances to government.
Mulala says unlike the PF’s Bill 10, the UPND’s Bill 7 respects the rights of workers.
Shiwang’andu PF MP Stephen Kampyongo recently advised Mulala to “shut up” and focus on the plight of workers instead of focusing on politics. This was after Mulala urged MPs to vote for Bill 7, warning that workers would deal with them if they failed to do so.
But responding to that in an interview, Sunday, Mulala said workers could not be left out of governance issues.
“That’s a moral decay coming from an MP. If a member of parliament, in a stretch of thinking, believes that he can shut up the labour movement, remind them of the role which the labour movement has played from its inception. And we are alive to those values even to date, they have not died. What has changed at Congress is a different leadership. You cannot take away workers from governance issues. That’s not possible. And in our democracy, we must respect other people’s views. If there are people to shut up, it’s themselves. Let them shut up and organise their party, which seems to be not providing checks and balances to government. That’s how democracy is strengthened,” Mulala said.
“During the time of Kampyongo, if you look at the Kabwe Municipal Council, there were times when workers went six months without getting their salaries. And when the workers protested to claim their rightful dues, he unleashed PF cadres to maim the workers, and he was quiet. If we had the issues, we could have called Congress. Don’t force us to believe in what you believe. Assuming we supported them, if we made a stand to oppose the Bill, were they going to speak today?”
He wondered why the PF could not instead advise the Church to desist from preaching divisive sermons from the pulpit.
“When they are saying, no, workers don’t talk about these issues, why haven’t they questioned the church who are preaching on their pulpits about political sermons? Why have they remained quiet? Double standards. We, as Congress, have a position to make, and when we make our position, we are not shaken, and we don’t invite other people to agree with us. Those who have disagreed, we respect them, but we are looking at the future, where youth, the people with disabilities, the young ones also, will take centre stage in our Parliament. This is the future we want to build, not a future of madalas [old people] in Parliament. We also advocated, to say, look, we need the labour movement, on those slots also, they must be put there. This is the message. So when we make a stance, it’s driven by our own consultation,” Mulala said.8
“We saw the church speaking, their fathers and their churches who were even dividing the country. So it’s good for the church to speak about… We want to urge them also if they are morally right to speak to those priests in the churches who are preaching [and] dividing our country, that concentrate on the word of God. Don’t concentrate on this. So if he’s telling us to concentrate on the workers, don’t speak on this, let them also go to church. But they can’t do that. The reason is simple. They know why they can’t do it. Just like the way Jesus told the Pharisees of that time when he entered into the city of Jerusalem, they said, ‘you are making noise,’ he told them, ‘if you make me stop then the stones will make noise.’ And he reminded them, if you want to dare the congress spokesperson, say ‘shut up,’ the workers will rise to the occasion, and they won’t manage the situation”.
Mulala said many people were supporting Bill 7, saying a few individuals should not make it seem otherwise.
“The stories circulating on social media, I think the people who are supporting it are many, and a few people should not create an environment that this is a Bill which has been rejected like Bill 10. Bill 10 was taking away the rights of the workers, and when we look at this Bill 7, the rights of workers are respected, and it has brought more enhancements. We haven’t agreed to all of them, we have all stated our position. I don’t want to go into conflict with them. They shouldn’t invite us because we can also take on them. It’s not a wrong issue, this is a governance issue,” he said.
“The constitution is a governance issue. ZCTU from its inception has participated in governance issues. Every step, look at the third term attempt for Chiluba. What happened? Look at the change of government from the UNIP era to the multi-party regime. Who came there? It was the labour movement. Where was the opposition? So these are not wrong issues. These are not political issues. Our institution deals with political matters because the policy issues which are pronounced by government affect the members we represent”.
He insisted that the congress would not keep quiet as the Constitution was a national document.
“So we are not going to keep quiet as Congress. The Constitution is a national document. Saying like that is mischievous and a little bit of… I don’t know whether their history can make them understand ‘what are the roles of ZCTU.’ Is it only clothed to speak to only workers? The whole affiliates, what we speak… I am the voice of the workers. If you make me say shut up, then it is shutting the workers. And when the workers are going to be shut by one MP, I think they are treading on a dangerous path,” said Mulala.
Lubinda is PF president, general conference not needed – Kambwili
FORMER Roan Constituency member of parliament Chishimba Kambwili says Given Lubinda is not PF faction acting president but the president of the party.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka yesterday, Kambwili said according to the party constitution, when a president of the party dies, the vice president automatically assumes the role of presidency.
The former cabinet minister who is also an aspiring PF presidential candidate said there was no need for the party to hold a general conference when it already has a president.
He warned that party members who don’t want to recognise Lubinda as their president will face serious consequences.
“We have had this kind of indiscipline in the PF because people think he’s the acting president. As a founder of the PF and one who was involved in drafting the party constitution, the PF constitution has two provisions such as, in the absence of the president, the vice president acts but when the president dies, automatically the vice president assumes the full role of being president,” he explained.
“Comrade zayelo, in case you don’t know yourself, I’m telling you today that you are the president of the PF and all those who don’t want to recognise you as such will face the whip. As far as the constitution is concerned, we don’t have a vacancy in the office of the president. We only have a flag bearer.”
He said Lubinda had shown true leadership by allowing the party to prepare for a general conference, despite being the president.
Hichilema should serve for 20 years – Chief Shakumbila
SENIOR Chief Shakumbila of the Sala-Ila people of Shibuyunji district, Central Province says President Hakainde Hichilema needs to serve as Head of State for at least 15 to 20 years so that his developmental plans can be properly implemented.
Chief Shakumbila stated that President Hichilema is the best President Zambia has ever produced so far.
He said it would be unfair for the country to vote out the current Head of State when all he has ever done was develop the nation in ways others couldn’t.
“Us here, we have no any other party other than UPND. Hakainde is the only president. You just need a person who can plan better for the country, and that is HH,” he explained.
“And if it were me, I would have said no elections, we give this young man another 20 years to put his plans properly. After that it’s when we can go for elections, I don’t know what’s wrong with that. You don’t need to confuse someone who has come with a better plan.”
The traditional leader also thanked the President for the construction of chief’s palaces across the country.
“HH has built 288 palaces throughout this country. Since independence, no president ever thought of building palaces. It’s not easy to build 288 palaces. Some of our friends, it will be the first time to have such a palace,” he said.
“The only thing the president should add on is a vehicle. 288 vehicles should accompany the palaces. Some of the places when you go, you won’t even know that this is a chief’s palace,” he stated.
The chief said if Zambians want free education to continue then voting for President Hichilema would be ideal.
“No one thought we would have free education in Zambia, it came as a surprise. They were saying where will he get the money? People are going back to school because of free education,” he stated.
He further noted that the country was now peaceful, thanks to the leadership qualities of President Hichilema.
“There’s peace now in the country. What else do you need? You can go anywhere now without getting beaten,” said the senior traditional leader.
The chief said this on Saturday during a courtesy call at his palace by Nangoma Constituency media team.
As Zambia approaches a critical vote on Bill 7, the nation watches closely, asking: Where are the Lucky Mulusas of the UPND?
In 2017, Lucky Mulusa, then Minister of National Development Planning under the Patriotic Front (PF), made a stand that Zambians still remember. When Cabinet collectively approved the purchase of 42 fire tenders at US$1 million each, Mulusa did not quietly endorse the deal.
On national television, he called out the purchase, describing the vehicles as “wheelbarrows” and highlighting the wastefulness of the arrangement. His actions went against party consensus and cost him his ministerial post. Yet today, Mulusa is widely respected for his principled courage—for choosing integrity over political convenience.
This moment offers a lesson to UPND Members of Parliament. Tomorrow, MPs will vote on Bill 7, a constitutional amendment that has drawn criticism for its lack of public consultation and for posing threats to democratic accountability. Civil society groups, professional bodies, and concerned citizens have all voiced opposition, warning that the Bill undermines Zambia’s democratic processes and the trust of the people.
Now is the time for MPs to show the same conscience and courage that Mulusa displayed. Political loyalty alone should not dictate one’s vote when the very foundations of democracy are at stake. The people elected these MPs to represent them, not just to follow party instructions.
We call on the UPND MPs to: • Put the interests of Zambians above party directives. • Act in accordance with the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance. • Use their conscience to guide their vote, whether that means rejecting Bill 7 or abstaining.
History remembers those who stand for what is right, not those who blindly follow. Zambia deserves MPs who are guided by principle, courage, and the welfare of the citizens they represent.
Where are the Lucky Mulusas of the UPND? It is time for them to emerge.
FORMER Government Chief Whip Stephen Chungu has urged the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) not to interfere in the upcoming Chawama Constituency by-election.
Mr. Chungu, who is also former Luanshya Central Member of Parliament, says the ECZ has no mandate to determine leadership of political parties, stressing that the Patriotic Front does not recognise Robert Chabinga as its party president.
He accused the government of using the ECZ to sideline the PF from participating fully in elections, adding that genuine PF members do not recognise Mr. Chabinga.
Mr. Chungu warned that no political party remains in power forever, noting that Zambia has previously been governed by UNIP, MMD, PF, and now UPND.
He further said the country is facing serious challenges but expressed hope that Zambians will eventually see positive change and leadership that serves the people.
Mr. Chungu also claimed that unmet campaign promises could influence voters’ decisions in the 2026 general elections.
SOME MAIN POINTS FROM WYNTER KAMBIMBA’S LIVE APPEARANCE ON ZNBC OVER THE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS:
• You can’t take presidential executive powers and give them to the OASIS Forum
• Govt should initiate terms of reference and not draft the constitutional amendments
• You want to substitute HH with a pastor, with a priest? They didn’t vote for them
• What do you lose as government by simply putting the information in public domain over the delimitations?
• All past constitutional reviews went beyond one year. It’s not possible that the Mushabati Technical Committee would have done this work in one month
Kabimba addressed the three items the Technical Committee is supposed to submit to the President which are:
1. Verbatim submissions from all who submitted towards the review process
2. Recommendations by the Technical Committee which must condense the common items, which will subsequently be taken to Cabinet
3. The Committee is supposed to provide the Amendment Bill of the constitution which goes to Cabinet for consideration.
A last-minute legal effort to stop the controversial Bill 7 will be heard today as the Constitutional Court of Zambia convenes to consider an application that could halt the bill’s progress.
Chapter One Foundation executive director Linda C. Kasonde announced that the matter will be argued in open court this morning, describing the application as one with the potential to stop Bill 7 “in its tracks.”
The hearing is scheduled for 11:00 hours in Court 2 at the Supreme Court Building, and members of the public have been invited to attend.
Ms Kasonde has also called on Zambians to pray for justice to prevail as the court considers the application, underscoring the significance of the case amid heightened national debate over Bill 7.
DAVIS MWILA DISMISSES IMPROVED ELECTRICITY SUPPLY AS UPND ELECTION STRATEGY
By Cecilia Zyambo
Former Patriotic Front Secretary General Davis Mwila has dismissed the current improved electricity supply as a desperate campaign tactic by the UPND government ahead of next year’s elections.
Mr. Mwila says it is too late for the UPND government to win back the trust of Zambians, citing failures to, among other things, reduce the cost of living.
He tells Phoenix News in an interview that despite government trying to hoodwink Zambians by supplying 10-hours of electricity, Zambians have already lost hope due to the many unfulfilled promises by the UPND.
Mr. Mwila has also criticized the UPND’s free education policy, saying it has led to poor quality education due to high teacher-pupil ratios.
But UPND Deputy Secretary General Getrude Imenda has dismissed Mr. Mwila’s claims, attributing the improved power supply to investments in alternative energy like solar.
Mrs. Imenda has insisted that Zambians still trust the UPND government, pointing to projects like the increased constituency development fund -CDF- and employment of teachers and healthcare providers.
BAROTSE NATIONAL YOUTH MOVEMENT CALLS ON MPS TO SUPPORT AND VOTE FOR BILL 7.
After careful scrutinization of all 13 clauses to be amended in Bill 7, the Barotse National Youth Movement is in total support of Bill 7 as all 13 clauses to be amended for they are,non contentious.
As youths, for instance,we feel that the clause to bring into Parliament women, youths and people living with disabilities is timely, as previously the marginalized groups depended on the benevolence of those in authority for such appointments, but now it will be by law established that the inclusion of women, youths and people living with disabilities in Parliament is guaranteed.
Further, as youths coming from a rural area which is one of the least developed in Zambia, we fully support the delimitation exercise which will create more constituencies as this will mean more CDF resources for development particularly in Western Province and the rest of the nation in general.
It’s indeed for these reasons that we call upon all Members of Parliament who are elected by people,to represent and stand with the electorates by supporting and voting for Bill 7 so that it goes through.
Brian Simataa Barotse National Youth Movement Chairman.
China Begins Mass Production of 50-Year Nuclear Batteries
A Chinese company, Betavolt, has begun mass production of the BV100, a coin-sized nuclear battery capable of providing continuous power for up to 50 years, no charging, no maintenance, no moving parts.
This isn’t sci-fi. And it isn’t a reactor.
The BV100 is a betavoltaic battery, using Nickel-63 radioactive decay to generate electricity. As the isotope slowly decays, it releases beta particles that are converted into a steady electrical current via semiconductor layers. When it finishes decaying, it becomes stable copper.
No meltdown. No heat. No chain reaction.
👉 Important reality: This battery produces microwatts, not watts. It will NOT power phones, cars, or laptops… Yet.
So why does this matter?
Because longevity beats power in critical systems.
– Medical implants (pacemakers, internal sensors) – Spacecraft & satellites – Arctic, ocean-floor & disaster-zone sensors – Military & surveillance hardware – AI + IoT devices that must never go offline – Infrastructure monitoring where battery replacement is impossible
For these uses, changing batteries is costly, risky, or flat-out impossible. A 50-year power source is a game-changer.
And here’s the part Western coverage is missing 👇
This isn’t about consumer gadgets. It’s about industrial and strategic infrastructure.
China is doing what it increasingly does best: – Taking niche, high-value tech – Commercialising it – Scaling manufacturing – Locking in long-term capability advantages
Betavoltaic batteries have existed since the Cold War. The difference? They were never mass-produced for civilian or industrial markets.
China just crossed that line.
This has serious implications for: – Space systems – AI hardware resilience – Defence tech – Long-term sensor networks – “Install once, forget forever” infrastructure
The big unanswered questions now: – Cost at scale – Export controls & regulation – Whether this stays industrial… or quietly expands further
Either way, the age of decade-long power has arrived and China got there first.
TRUMP SEIZES IRANIAN TANKER HEADED TO CUBA – RUBIO’S PLAYING 3D CHESS WITH MADURO’S OIL MONEY
The U.S. just grabbed the Skipper, a tanker carrying Venezuelan crude supposedly bound for Cuba.
Except it wasn’t going to Cuba at all.
Here’s the scheme: Venezuela “sends” oil to Cuba at subsidized prices. Cuba then resells most of it to China for hard currency.
Panamanian middleman Ramón Carretero manages the whole operation – until Trump sanctioned him Thursday.
The Skipper offloaded 50,000 barrels to another ship headed to Cuba, then sailed east to Asia with the rest. Classic shell game.
And before hauling Venezuelan oil? This tanker spent four years running Iran’s dark fleet to Syria and China.
Rubio’s strategy is simple: starve Cuba, and Maduro falls. During Trump’s first term, they almost toppled Maduro until Cuban security forces propped him up.
Now they’re cutting the cash pipeline that keeps both regimes breathing.
What’s next: Cuba’s economy is already on life support. Cut the oil money, and the island collapses – taking Venezuela’s security apparatus with it.
China hasn’t retaliated yet, which means either Bessent cut a deal, or Beijing’s saving their punch for later.
