BISHOP KALESHA CLARIFIES AND APOLOGISES OVER MISINTERPRETED STATE HOUSE REMARKS
By Constance Shilengwe
CITYGATE Christian Centre Bishop Victor Kalesha has clarified that his recent remarks made at State House now widely circulating on social media, were not targeted at any specific group.
Bishop Kalesha was among the church leaders who met President Hakainde Hichilema over the weekend to express support for the amendment of Bill 7.
His comments sparked debate online after a video emerged in which he was quoted as suggesting that only people with children have the moral authority to speak on constitutional reforms.
But Bishop Kalesha says the remarks were an off-the-cuff statement that were later misunderstood and taken out of context. He has since withdrawn the part of the statement that raised concern and has apologised to anyone who may have felt offended.
The Bishop adds that, as a Christian, he is committed to making peace with all people and maintains that his written statement should be regarded as his official position on the matter.
He further notes that the issue was blown out of proportion and insists it was never his intention to offend anyone.
ECZ SHOULD EXTEND VOTER REGISTRATION SINCE THEY DIDN’T MEET TARGET – NSHINDANO
4th December 2025
FORMER ECZ chief electoral officer Patrick Nshindano says the commission should extend voter registration if there is still a window to enable more citizens to register.
On Tuesday, Acting Leader of Government Business Ambrose Lufuma said the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) would not extend the mass voter registration, stressing that citizens were told to register early but many opted to wait until the last minute.
In an interview, Wednesday, Nshindano said the commission had not attained its target, hence there would be a number of people who would be disfranchised.
“In terms of voter registration, first and foremost, I think the objective is to ensure that anybody who is eligible is able to register and vote.
Lusaka… Thursday December 4, 2025 – Former Patriotic Front (PF) Deputy National Youth Chairperson and aspiring Member of the Central Committee, Mr. Benja Siwila, has dismissed assertions by former PF Secretary General, Hon. Davies Mwila, that the party is “dead” and that its members should consider joining other political groupings.
In a statement, Mr. Siwila said he disagreed with Mr. Mwila’s sentiments, insisting that the PF remained alive, vibrant, and increasingly attractive to Zambians.
He argued that the significant number and high calibre of national leaders who had applied to be adopted as the party’s presidential candidate ahead of the August 13, 2026 General Elections was clear evidence of the PF’s continued strength.
According to him, people only gravitate towards a party they believe to be credible and capable of winning, not one that is “dead.”
He further stated that the unwavering loyalty of PF members across the country told a more accurate story of the party’s current state.
Despite court battles, internal challenges, and external propaganda, Mr. Siwila said the membership had remained united and committed to the movement that previously transformed Zambia under President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
He added that their refusal to defect was proof that PF remained a formidable political force.
Mr. Siwila also addressed the ongoing debate surrounding the formation of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to facilitate participation in the 2026 general elections, in light of the ongoing disputes regarding legitimate signatories at the Registrar of Societies.
He emphasised that while the matter was sensitive, it required sober judgment, due diligence, and careful strategic decision-making from the party leadership.
He advised that any SPV chosen should be stable, credible, and capable of advancing the PF’s aspirations without jeopardising the party’s identity or long-term interests.
He noted that the late President Edgar Chagwa Lungu had left PF within a broader political alliance, giving the party access to several potential partners from which the most suitable SPV could be selected.
Mr. Siwila urged party members to remain calm, united, and focused as the PF prepares for the 2026 polls.
He called on them to reject discouraging narratives and instead build on what he said was growing momentum.
According to him, the PF was not dead but gearing up for a strong return in the 2026 General Elections.
Patriotic Front Presidential hopeful Chishimba Kambwili has warned government that Bill 7 is unconstitutional and designed to extend the ruling party’s stay in power ahead of the 2026 elections.
He says public objections have been ignored, arguing that when citizens reject a proposal, those in office must listen not force it through Parliament.
He argues that the country is witnessing a dangerous trend where those in power are the first to abrogate the laws that protect the nation, stressing that a Constitutional Court ruling is final and must be respected urging Celestine Mukandila and Munir Zulu to commence contempt charges.
He points out that the Bill was declared illegal, null and void, yet was brought back to the House after what he describes as a rushed and questionable consultation process.
Mr Kambwili adds that MPs who will support Bill 7 will be liable in the future, as the next government will reverse it and hold individuals accountable.
And meanwhile, Kambwili appeals directly to the President to withdraw the case before the Pretoria High Court and allow former President Edgar Lungu to be buried, saying Hichilema holds the key and should not delay closure for the family and the nation.
He also questions the decision to declare the Chawama parliamentary seat vacant, calling for the seat to be restored
STATE-HOUSE CHALLENGES OPPOSITION TO PROVIDE CLAUSE-BY-CLAUSE OBJECTIONS TO BILL 7 State House has urged the consortium of opposition leaders to submit clause-by-clause objections to Bill 7 of 2025 before December 7, following an open letter delivered at the gate on December 2.
State House Chief Communication Specialist Clayson Hamasaka said anything less than detailed objections will only confirm what many citizens already suspect. He called on the opposition signatories to move from political grandstanding to genuine engagement.
Mr. Hamasaka noted that the opposition’s letter condemns Bill 7 without identifying a single clause they oppose. He contrasted this with President Hakainde Hichilema’s response to Bill 10, where the President openly identified specific threats to democracy.
He emphasized that State House now invites the consortium to demonstrate the same level of clarity, stressing that if their objections are real, specific, and constructive, the Government will give them due consideration.
STATE HOUSE RESPONDS TO OPPOSITION LEADERS’ LETTER, CALLS FOR DIALOGUE OVER SYMBOLIC GESTURES
STATE HOUSE has acknowledged receipt of a letter addressed to President Hakainde Hichilema, delivered yesterday at the gate by a consortium of opposition leaders.
In a statement to ZNBC News, Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka commended the peaceful conduct of the procession, noting that such restraint is welcome in a democracy that values responsible civic participation.
However, Mr. Hamasaka described the decision to leave an important national communication at the gate as a “curious choice,” given the President’s well-known openness to engagement. He emphasized that President Hichilema considers State House to be the people’s house, accessible to all who seek genuine and constructive dialogue.
Quoting Pope Leo XIV, Mr. Hamasaka said disagreements are best resolved through fraternal encounter, dialogue, and cooperation. He stressed that national matters demand structured, good-faith discussions rather than gestures that prioritize spectacle over substance.
He added that had prior arrangements been made, State House would have facilitated a direct conversation, which would have been more effective than depositing a document at the entrance.
On issues such as energy, debt restructuring, mining, and agriculture, Mr. Hamasaka said State House expects practical alternatives and solutions, not symbolic acts.
PF IS DEAD, JOIN OTHER PARTIES, MWILA TELLS MEMBERS
FORMER PF Secretary General Davies Mwila says there is no difference between President Hakainde Hichilema and Given Lubinda, describing both as destructive leaders who promote divisions.
He has advised PF members to find other political parties where to stand and move forward, so that Lubinda can remain with a ‘shell’ since the party is no longer there.
Mwila further says Lubinda is avoiding the PF conference because he knows he can’t win.
Last week, PF aspiring presidential candidates agreed to postpone the party conference following some party disputes, which saw Lubinda removing acting Secretary General Brenda Nyirenda, Party National Chairperson Emmanuel Mpakata Musonda and Mwila from the central committee.
Mwila, who was also commenting on President Hichilema’s remarks that many public workers report for duty but fail to deliver results, said it was too late for the President to be complaining about work culture, as that amounted to leadership failure.
“First and foremost, the President when he was campaigning, he promised that he is going to change a lot of things including the work culture. And it’s now four years and some months, next year we are going for elections, that’s when the President is complaining about the work culture. That is leadership failure. The President should have dealt with all these issues maybe in the second year of him being in office, now it’s too late, who is going to change? No one, it is only our government that will change the work culture of our people, it ends there. But we need us PF to unite because under the leadership of Given Lubinda, I don’t see this party getting united because he’s the one trying to create confusion, because when you suspend 10 people, that is confusion. You are not uniting the party. So, what we are saying is that if he can fail to unite a party, what about a country?” he wondered.
“Here we are complaining about Hakainde Hichilema’s failure to unite the country. So, what is the difference between Given Lubinda and Hakainde Hichilema? There’s no difference between Hakainde Hichilema and Lubinda. They are all destructive, they always bring divisions in leadership. So, what we are saying is that Hakainde Hichilema and Lubinda, there is no difference. How can you bring a person who sold the party? Miles Sampa sold the party, the problem we are going through was created by Miles Sampa, who sold the party to UPND. You put him as secretary general. People must be serious, PF must be serious, and he is a candidate (Given Lubinda), how do you entertain nonsense? You can’t entertain nonsense”.
He said some PF aspiring candidates like Chishimba Kambwili were jokers, as they had earlier ganged up with President Hichilema to defeat PF.
“I can tell you that if you look at Miles, and especially those who are coming from Northern Province, sometimes they are a problem. Because Miles Sampa is from Mpika. KBF wants to work with PF now, but they are the ones who ganged up with Hakainde Hichilema to destroy PF and remove PF from power. But today, KBF wants to work with PF, how does it work? Chitalu Chilufya was eating with Hakainde Hichilema, every day he was praising Hakainde Hichilema, today he wants to be a candidate. Are PF officials serious? You can’t take them seriously, those are jokes. All those who want to stand, Chishimba Kambwili went and ganged up with Hakainde Hichilema. They are the ones who introduced UPND in Northern Province, but today they want to stand as president. People must be serious as we go to the general elections,” said Mwila.
“That’s why it is important that we look at the candidates, let’s look at the candidates who have credibility, candidates who will make us win. The problem is Honourable Given Lubinda doesn’t want to go to the general conference because he cannot win, so if he can’t go to general conference, what next? So, under the leadership of acting president Given Lubinda, he has failed to unite this party, he has failed to hold this party because there is too much confusion under his leadership. So, if he can fail to lead the PF, what about the country? People must make decisions because PF is no longer there, so people must find other political parties where to stand and we move forward, that’s the advice I’m giving to PF. If Lubinda wants to remain with a shell, let him remain with a shell”.
KAMBWILI WARNS CHURCHES AGAINST PARTISAN POLITICS, SAYS IT THREATENS CHRISTIAN VALUES AND SOCIAL UNITY
By: Melinda Banda Former Minister Of Information And Broadcasting Services, Chishimba Kambwili, Has Welcomed The Decision By The Oasis Forum To Reject Bill 7, Stating That Their Rejection Was A Principled And Patriotic Act Aimed At Defending The Rights And Aspirations Of Zambians.
Speaking At A Media Briefing, Mr. Kambwili Emphasized That The Oasis Forum’s Position Was Not Politically Motivated But Rather A Demonstration Of Commitment To Safeguarding National Interests.
He Noted That The Rejection Of The Bill Reflects The Forum’s Resolve To Protect Citizens From Legislation That Could Potentially Consolidate Political Power At The Expense Of Democratic Values.
Mr. Kambwili Also, Cautioned Churches Against Engaging In Partisan Politics, Warning That Such Involvement Risks Undermining Christian Values And Creating Divisions.
He Stressed That The Role Of The Church Should Be To Guide Both Government And The People In Addressing Pressing Social Issues Rather Than Endorsing Political Agendas.
Mr Kambwili, Further Condemned Civil Society Organizations And Some Priests Who Praised Bill 7, Describing Their Actions As Disheartening And Divisive, Which Have Led To Unwarranted Attacks On The Catholic Church In Efforts To Push The Bill Forward.
Highlighting The Need For Government To Prioritize National Development, He Urged Authorities To Focus On Improving Critical Sectors Such As Energy And Health Instead Of Pursuing Legislation That He Argued Was Designed To Entrench Political Power.
CONSTITUTIONAL LAWYER SAYS RETABLING OF BILL 7 IN NATIONAL ASSEMBLY MAY ATTRACT FURTHER LITIGATION
By Cecilia Zyambo
Constitutional lawyer Mehluli Batakathi says the retabling of Constitution Amendment Bill Number 7 of 2025 in the National Assembly may attract further litigation, citing the Constitutional Court’s declaration of the bill as unconstitutional on July 27, 2025.
Mr. Batakathi deems the process illegal and has questioned the appointment of a Technical Committee on the Constitution if the intention was to stick to the same bill.
He tells Phoenix News that the country now awaits members of Parliament’s response to the issue.
The Constitution of Zambia Amendment Bill Number 7 of 2025 has been returned to the National Assembly for consideration following the submission of a technical report and draft bill to President Hakainde Hichilema by the Technical Committee on Constitutional Amendments.
Meanwhile, National Democratic Congress President Saboi Imboela has expressed disappointment that Bill 7 has been returned to Parliament and has questioned the urgency behind the UPND government’s push to pass the bill into law when it has been rejected by Zambians.
You can’t sue the President for official acts, Kabesha tells Mundubile ATTORNEY General Mulilo Kabesha has submitted to the Constitutional Court that President Hakainde Hichilema cannot be sued in his personal capacity for actions he carries out as part of his official duties.
This is in response to a petition filed by PF presidential hopeful Brian Mundubile and party member Celestine Mukandila, who are asking the court to declare President Hakainde Hichilema ineligible to stand as a candidate for any election, alleging that his actions in initiating a constitutional amendment process were unconstitutional
The petitioners are seeking several declarations, including that the President and the Attorney General acted unconstitutionally by initiating a constitutional amendment bill without conducting wide and inclusive consultations with citizens or relevant stakeholders. They argue that this conduct contravenes Articles 8(c) and (e), 9, 90, 91(3)(a), and 92(1) of the Constitution. They claim that President Hichilema breached his oath of office to protect and uphold the Constitution, and that this breach disqualifies him from seeking re-election as Republican President.
The petitioners referenced the Munir Zulu and Celestine Mukandila case of 27th June 2025, in which the Constitutional Court guided that a people driven process led by an independent body of experts should be followed for constitutional amendments. In his court submissions, Kabesha argued that all matters arising from the President’s executive functions are the legal responsibility of the Attorney General, making him the proper party to be cited in court.
“The 1st Respondent cannot be sued in his individual capacity for official acts within the exclusive Presidential authority as prescribed by the Constitution in furtherance of his Executive functions and further that the 2nd Respondent is the legally permissible party to be cited for all official acts and omissions of the Republican President.” The Constitution (Amendment) Bill No. 7 of 2025 proposes changes in 13 thematic areas, including the expansion of the National Assembly, the introduction of a mixed-member proportional representation electoral system, reforms in by-elections and the representation of women, youth and persons with disabilities.
The amendment process began with the publication of the Bill in the Government Gazette on 23rd May 2025 and its tabling in the National Assembly on 25th June 2025. On June 26, 2025, President Hichilema directed the Minister of Justice Princess Kasune to defer further readings of the Bill to allow for wider consultations with the Zambian public.
A Technical Committee on the amendments was appointed on October 2, 2025 to carry out consultations. The committee began its work on 20th October and submitted its report to the President on Monday. On Tuesday this week, the first deputy speaker announced that she had received communication from the minister of Justice to restore the deferred Bill for further legislative consideration to incorporate the committee’s findings.
Kabesha argued that the court’s guidance does not limit the President’s power to initiate amendments. “The Constitution is the supreme law of the Republic of Zambia and it binds all persons in Zambia, State organs and State institutions. The Judiciary cannot invent and legislate any procedures and processes or bodies such as an independent body of experts to represent the People of Zambia in conducting wide consultations outside of Article 79 of the Constitution of Zambia,” he said.
The Attorney General explained that Zambia’s Constitution distinguishes between Constituted power, the authority of elected representatives to propose amendments and Reserved or Constituent power of the people, exercised only through a referendum. He noted that the proposed amendments in Bill No. 7 do not create a new Constitution nor affect its basic structure.
The Attorney General asked the court to dismiss the petition, declare that Articles 79, 64, 88, and 92 of the Constitution provide the sole and exhaustive procedure for the amendment of the Constitution and confirm that the Basic Structure Doctrine does not apply in Zambia. He also seeks costs of the cross petition and any other relief the Court may deem fit. The case continues in the Constitutional Court. By Catherine Pule Kalemba, December 4, 2025
SHIWANG’ANDU Member of Parliament Hon. Stephen Kampyongo this afternoon delivered a blistering challenge to the Executive over what he termed the confusing, contradictory and opaque handling of the constitutional amendment process.
Rising on a matter of urgent public importance, Kampyongo did not mince his words:
“Madam Speaker, we are at sea!”
He demanded clarity on why the government had suddenly reactivated the controversial Bill 7 while ignoring the freshly submitted report and draft constitution bill from the President-appointed Technical Committee.
“Madam Speaker, the urgent matter without notice I am raising pertains to the constitutional amendment process,”
He reminded the House that “a day or two ago… the Technical Committee… presented its report… and the draft bill… which draft bill was said to be heading to this institution.”
But without presenting that report to Parliament, the Minister of Justice announced yesterday that she was reviving Bill 7 the same bill that had been deferred on the floor for “wider consultations” and was tied to a constitutional legal dispute.
“Madam Speaker… the Minister of Justice… notified this August House that she was reactivating the deferred Bill Number Seven, which had been deferred on the floor for the reasons of wider consultations.”
Hon. Kampyongo sharply questioned what he described as two clashing constitutional tracks running in parallel without explanation.
“We are at sea… regarding what is to happen to that report and that draft bill… Now that Bill 7… has been reactivated… what will happen to both processes that are dealing with the constitutional amendment?”
He stated that the Executive was creating confusion around the Constitution of the Republic and insisted that Parliament and the public deserved transparency.
The First Deputy Speaker ruled that the matter did not qualify as one involving loss of life or property or nothing catastrophic damage will happen directing the Shiwang’andu MP to file an urgent question when Parliament Is set to rise sine die on friday.
Despite that procedural ruling, Hon. Kampyongo’s intervention struck a national chord.
“Madam Speaker, we need serious guidance on this matter the people out there want to know whats NEXT”
Debate over the controversial Bill 7 has intensified as former Cabinet Minister Hon. Brian Mushimba has called the entire process “illegal” and a direct threat to Zambia’s democracy.
In a detailed statement widely shared on social media, Hon. Mushimba said, “The more I read the proposals in Bill 7, the more I worry. Firstly, it’s an illegal bill on the back of an illegal process. The court has pronounced itself on that.”
He criticised what he described as deliberate attempts to mislead the public about the ruling of the Constitutional Court.
“Instead of people siding with the law, some have conveniently found ways to justify, sidestep and gaslight us,” he wrote.
“THE BILL WAS WITHDRAWN FULL STOP”
Hon. Mushimba argued that the creation of a parliamentary committee to continue handling Bill 7 does not cure what the courts already found to be fundamentally defective.
According to him, “They created a committee and have passed that as a cure for the myriad of issues the court raised in delivering judgment. The court said the process was illegal and must be vacated; the bill totally withdrawn from Parliament!”
The former Minister highlighted what he called one of the most dangerous provisions in the proposed amendments one that affects presidential elections.
He explained that under the current constitution, should a candidate withdraw or be disqualified, their political party is given time to replace them.
“Yes, this may be a lacuna and possibly can stretch the presidential election indefinitely. I get it. But it has never happened,” he observed.
However, Hon. Mushimba warned that the proposed “cure” in Bill 7 is far more damaging.
“The cure as proposed by Bill 7 is now to proceed with the elections even when candidates withdraw or are disqualified, without any recourse for replacing those candidates on the presidential ballot,” he said.
He went further, suggesting that such a provision could easily be abused by an incumbent regime.
“So the incumbent can simply do Imingalato pay off candidates to withdraw or cause their disqualifications and be the only candidate on the ballot. And that doesn’t bother you?”
“YOU WILL CRY” IF THIS PASSES, HE WARNS
Hon. Mushimba cautioned Zambians to consider the long-term consequences of endorsing excessive presidential power.
“I can’t wait for government to change and someone else comes in with all this power being given to them under this bill. Mukalila. You will cry!”
He concluded his statement with a direct and emotional appeal to lawmakers, urging them to put the country first.
“MPs, we appeal to you to throw this illegal bill out. The country is bigger than all of us. Posterity will judge you positively.”
Across the country, the hashtags #Bill7MustFall, and #ThinkOfCountryFirst continue to gain momentum as public debate deepens.
Mr. Hakainde Hichilema President of the Republic of Zambia State House Lusaka
3rd December 2025
Mr. President,
RE: DEMAND TO HALT THE CONSTITUTION (AMENDMENT) BILL NO. 7 OF 2025
This letter is a firm and principled demand that your Government immediately ceases all efforts to proceed with the Constitution (Amendment) Bill No. 7 of 2025, in order to protect Zambia’s democracy, uphold the authority of the Constitution, and honour the clear will of the people. Evidence from professional bodies, civil society, and public commentary demonstrates that Bill 7 is deeply unpopular, constitutionally flawed, and politically dangerous.
First, Bill 7 stands on unconstitutional ground. The Constitutional Court has already pronounced that the process leading to the Bill did not meet the threshold of wide and meaningful public consultation required by Article 79, rendering it inconsistent with the Constitution and therefore void. Continuing with, repackaging, or reintroducing Bill 7 in defiance of this ruling would signal contempt for judicial authority and erode the rule of law that your administration pledged to restore.
Second, Bill 7 has been decisively rejected by key democratic stakeholders. The Law Association of Zambia has publicly called for the withdrawal of the Bill, warning that it lacks broad-based citizen participation and risks weakening democratic checks and balances, including by allowing parties to fill vacant parliamentary seats without elections and by bloating Parliament at the expense of service delivery. Civil society organisations have issued joint statements cautioning that any attempt to revive Bill 7 would be an attack on constitutionalism and an assault on civic space.
Third, the Bill is substantively dangerous to Zambia’s democracy. Provisions that expand Parliament while centralising power, tamper with by-elections, and weaken local government would entrench incumbents rather than empower citizens, turning constitutional reform into a tool for political advantage instead of national progress. Public voices, including members of Parliament and governance advocates, have described Bill 7 as “poisonous” and a threat to the hard‑won democratic gains of the past decades.
Fourth, the Bill diverts attention and scarce resources from the real crises facing Zambians: unemployment, the high cost of living, and over‑stretched social services. There is no evidence that increasing the number of MPs or manipulating electoral rules will put food on the table, reduce the debt burden, or improve essential services. On the contrary, adding more politicians to the payroll while citizens struggle sends a message that political elites come before the people they are meant to serve.
Your Excellency, your rise to power was anchored in promises of a people‑driven Constitution, respect for the rule of law, and the reversal of past attempts to manipulate the supreme law for partisan gain. Persisting with Bill 7, or attempting to reintroduce it through the back door, would mirror the very abuses your Government once condemned and would stain your legacy as a reformer. Zambians expect you to side with the Constitution and the people, not with a defective and self‑serving Bill.
In light of the above, it is demanded that your Government:
Publicly and unequivocally withdraws Constitution (Amendment) Bill No. 7 of 2025 in its entirety.
Commits that any future constitutional reforms will be people‑driven, led by an independent, non‑partisan body, and anchored in genuine nationwide consultation before any text is drafted.
Prioritises implementation of the existing Constitution and delivery on socio‑economic promises over destabilising, divisive constitutional engineering.
The Constitution belongs to the people of Zambia, not to any temporary majority in Parliament or any sitting Government. History will judge harshly any leadership that chooses to ignore a clear Constitutional Court ruling and the unmistakable voice of citizens. The only constitutional and democratic course is to abandon Bill 7 completely.
RE: The Unconstitutional Reintroduction of Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7
Dear Honourable Members of Parliament,
I write to convey profound concern, frustration, and disappointment regarding the Government’s decision to reintroduce Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 of 2025—in its original form—despite the Constitutional Court having already raised grave concerns about the legality and procedural integrity of the process that produced it.
This letter sets out the legal, democratic, and moral reasons why proceeding with Bill No. 7 in its current form would be unconstitutional, destabilizing, and a violation of your oath as Members of Parliament.
Constitutional and Procedural Concerns
This decision is not merely questionable. It is a direct affront to constitutionalism. A Bill flagged by the Constitutional Court for serious constitutional defects should never return to the House unchanged.
Reintroducing the Bill disregards judicial authority, undermines the separation of powers, and signals a willingness to manipulate constitutional processes for political ends.
The Constitutional Court is not an advisory body; its decisions are binding on all arms of Government under Article 128. When the Court identifies constitutional impropriety, Parliament’s duty is to correct it, not ignore it.
The claim that Standing Order 122 prevents the introduction of a fresh Bill is legally baseless. Standing Orders are internal rules subordinate to the Constitution. They cannot be used as a shield to justify proceeding with a Bill whose foundation the Court has deemed unconstitutional. No procedural convenience can override constitutional supremacy.
Legal Position: Bill No. 7 Has No Validity in Its Current Form
Bill No. 7’s legal status is settled law, not a matter of interpretation or political convenience.
In Munir Zulu & Celestine Mukandila v. The Attorney General, the Constitutional Court held:
“The Constitution amendment process cannot be initiated without the participation of the People of Zambia through wide consultations… [we] come to the inescapable conclusion that this process is unconstitutional.”
The Court further clarified that any legitimate constitutional amendment must:
be founded on broad, nationwide public participation
be initiated by an independent, expert-driven body
comply with Articles 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 61, 90, 91, 92, and 118
respect procedural safeguards protecting the will of the people
By these standards, Bill No. 7 was not merely irregular—it was null.
Article 1(1) of the Constitution is explicit:
“Any act or omission inconsistent with this Constitution is void.”
Therefore, reintroducing Bill No. 7 without curing its constitutional defects is itself unconstitutional. No Standing Order or parliamentary procedure can override the supreme law or sanitize a process already condemned by the Court.
Proceeding with the Bill invites immediate legal challenge, potential nullification, and unmanageable institutional instability. This is not merely a procedural error—it is a constitutional crisis in the making.
Democratic and Moral Imperatives
Democracy rarely collapses in one dramatic event; it erodes quietly when institutions choose convenience over duty.
Honourable Members, you now face a defining moment. What message are you sending to the nation when you revive a Bill already denounced for violating the people’s right to participate? How can you justify voting for a Bill that may itself violate the Constitution—the very document you swore to protect? Do you intend to establish a precedent where judicial warnings are treated as optional?
Supporting Bill No. 7 in its current form risks weakening the doctrine of separation of powers, diminishing judicial authority, endangering the legitimacy of future elections, and eroding public trust in the legislative process.
The Constitution is not an obstacle to bypass—it is the foundation of our Republic.
Call to Action
History does not remember those who remained silent when constitutionalism was under attack. It remembers those who acted.
I urge every Honourable Member to insist that all constitutional defects in Bill No. 7 be remedied transparently, lawfully, and with full public participation before Parliament proceeds further. Stand for constitutional supremacy, not political expediency. Protect the integrity of Parliament and uphold the oath you took to defend the Constitution.
This moment demands courage, integrity, and loyalty—not to party or convenience, but to the Constitution and the people of Zambia.
Stand on the right side of history. Stand for constitutionalism. Stand for the people.
Two Former South African Apartheid Police Officers Found Guilty of Murdering Student Activist in 1987.
By: Kaya 959
Two former apartheid-era police officers in South Africa have been found guilty of the premeditated murder of student activist Caiphus Nyoka. The verdict was delivered on Tuesday by the Pretoria High Court, sitting in Johannesburg.
Former Sergeant Pieter Stander and Major Leon Louis van den Berg were convicted for their roles in Nyoka’s killing. Although van den Berg was acquitted on some charges, both men remain guilty of murder.
According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana, the case has been postponed to Thursday, 11 December 2025, for a bail application ahead of sentencing. Until then, both men will remain in custody.
Mahanjana detailed that on the night of 23 August 1987, Stander and van den Berg—members of the South African Police Reaction Unit—met to plan Nyoka’s assassination. They organised a raid on his home.
“In the early hours of 24 August 1987, at around 02:30, Stander, Engelbrecht, and other members of the Reaction Unit, who are charged separately, stormed Nyoka’s room, where he was sleeping with three friends. After identifying him, they removed his friends from the room and shot him nine times. Nyoka died at the scene from multiple gunshot wounds,” Mahanjana explained.
The court ruled that the State had proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Mahanjana added that the judgment marks an important step toward justice for the Nyoka family.
South Africa’s Gauteng Faces Week-Long Power Cuts Amid Electricity Strain
By: Kaya 953
Residents in South Africa’s economic hub, Gauteng province, are currently experiencing scheduled power outages as state-owned utility Eskom implements week-long load reduction measures.
The outages, running from 1 to 7 December 2025,,last up to six hours per day in affected areas, including Johannesburg and Pretoria.
The cuts are timed to coincide with periods of peak electricity demand early morning from 5:00 to 9:00 and evening from 17:00 to 22:00 and are part of a broader effort to protect the power grid.
Eskom has explained that “continued pressure on transformers and mini-substations caused by illegal connections and electricity theft” has left critical infrastructure vulnerable. Load reduction is aimed at preventing equipment failure and avoiding wider blackouts.
The utility has released a full timetable of affected neighborhoods, with high-density areas expected to face the most significant impact. Residents are advised to conserve electricity wherever possible and exercise caution with electrical connections during outages.
These rolling power cuts highlight ongoing challenges in South Africa’s electricity sector, which is crucial not only for daily life but also for businesses and industries across the region.
BOTSWANA CIVIL SOCIETY REJECT CONSTITUTION AMENDMENT BILL
Major civil society groups, churches and trade unions have jointly demanded the immediate withdrawal of the Constitution of Botswana (Amendment) Bill No. 14 of 2025, calling it opaque, rushed and unconstitutional in spirit.
In a statement issued today and signed by BOCONGO, Botswana Council of Churches, OAIC-Botswana, BOFEPUSU and BFTU, the coalition condemned the absence of public consultations, a clear roadmap and civic education ahead of the proposed changes.
The groups warned that pushing the Bill without broad national consensus undermines democracy and risks costly, piecemeal referenda that strain limited resources.
Key demands:
Withdraw Bill No. 14 of 2025 from Parliament
Enact a legislated, inclusive Constitution Review Act
Publish a transparent national roadmap with realistic timelines
Conduct district-level consultations
Honour previous government commitments to a people-driven process
The organisations, which met in Gaborone on 23 October, declared: “Botswana’s Constitution must be for the people, by the people, and with the people.”
ZAMBIA’S CREDIT RATING UPGRADES SIGNAL ECONOMIC RECOVERY, SAYS BOZ
THE Bank of Zambia has welcomed the country’s latest credit rating upgrades by S&P and Fitch, describing them as a major boost to the economy and a clear endorsement of government’s debt restructuring efforts.
S&P has raised Zambia’s rating to CCC+, while Fitch has upgraded it to B-, officially taking the country out of default territory for the first time since 2020.
BOZ Governor Dr. Denny Kalyalya said the upgrades confirm that Zambia’s debt is now on a sustainable path. He explained that the previous default status had made borrowing more expensive, tightened liquidity, and limited banks’ ability to support businesses and government.
Dr. Kalyalya noted that the improved ratings will enable lenders and investors to extend credit to Zambia at lower cost, helping reduce interest rates, stabilise the exchange rate, and ease the cost of living over time. He added that the upgrades also reduce pressure on government’s domestic borrowing and strengthen confidence in Zambia’s broader economic reforms.
The Bank of Zambia has announced plans to conduct public outreach to explain the full implications of the rating improvements.
MATTERS ARISING | Arithmetic Shifts: House Tightens; Bill 7 Meets Survival Politics
Debate on Bill 7 has entered a volatile phase after the First Deputy Speaker told the House that the executive has instructed Parliament to resume scrutiny of the Bill.
“I have received communication from the Minister of Justice that the House must immediately resume consideration of the Bill,” Hon. Attractor Chisangano announced Tuesday.
The Select Committee was activated on the spot. The move triggered a new wave of political heat, sharpened by accusations, counter accusations and a restless electorate watching their MPs with suspicion.
Inside the House, tension sharpened Wednesday when Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwiimbu rose on a point of order, questioning whether Hon. Given Katuta was in order “to undermine the Bill 7 Committee of Honourable Members based on information circulating on social media.”
The Deputy Speaker refused to rule, stating that “the House has never relied on social media information.” The response did little to calm the storm because names of MPs thought to be appointed to scrutinise Bill 7 had already circulated widely, fuelling partisan outrage outside Parliament.
Hon. Katuta responded publicly saying, “Looking at the composition of this committee, I can only tell Zambians to pray harder for divine mercy.”
The Select Committee list has become a lightning rod. It contains UPND frontliners such as Garry Nkombo for Mazabuka, Sibeso Sefulo for Mwandi, Brian Kambita for Zambezi East and Stanley Kakubo for Kapiri Mposhi.
It also contains Independent MPs Emmanuel Banda for Serenje and George Kandafuila for Muchinga. It brings in PF MPs Sibongile Mwamba for Kasama, Elias Daka for Msanzala and Davies Mung’andu for Chama South. It further adds two minor-party MPs Simon Banda for Petauke representing NCP and Imanga Wamunyima for Nalolo representing NUP.
Their presence has provoked fury in PF ranks because these are the very MPs the PF base accuses of drifting towards the ruling bloc.
Away from Parliament, the arithmetic is shifting with quiet force. UPND commands 89 elected MPs. The party also controls 8 nominated MPs. That puts its operational strength at 97 without counting the known PF and Independent MPs who regularly vote with the executive. If even a fraction of PF MPs support the Bill, the opposition risks a devastating split.
A PF source told our correspondent, Mwape Nthegwa, saying, “MPs across both sides are tempted to support the Bill because new constituencies reduce competition. Creation of new seats is a lifeline for those fighting for political survival.”
This sentiment is spreading across the benches and has complicated the PF’s internal strategy.
Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa intensified the narrative battle at a morning briefing. He warned that leaving Article 52 in its current form is a “direct risk of a constitutional crisis in 2026,” arguing that last-minute withdrawals could derail ballot printing and hand unfair advantage to any incumbent.
“Those saying Bill 7 gives President Hichilema more powers lack seriousness and need to introspect,” he said.
He further reminded the nation that MPs from all parties once agreed to amend non contentious clauses before PF disruptions stalled progress in 2023.
Inside PF territory the reaction is sharp and accusatory. Activists have circulated unverified lists of MPs purported to have been bribed with “three million kwacha.”
They have placed Independent MPs such as Warren Mwambazi for Bwana Mkubwa, Joe Chibuye for Roan and Misheck Nyambose for Chasefu under a microscope. PF MPs such as Anthony Mumba for Kantanshi, Elias Daka for Msanzala and Davies Mung’andu for Chama South have been targeted with hostility from their own grassroots.
Emmanuel Mwamba inflamed the temperature further when he declared the alleged Select Committee list “Pro Hichilema.”
The mounting pressure reveals the real battlefield: numbers. UPND believes it stands within striking distance of the two thirds threshold. PF fears an internal rupture if its MPs defect on the vote. Independents hold the swing space.
Rural constituencies want new boundaries. Urban elites are pushing legal objections. Parliamentary survival instincts are rising because the creation of 55 new constituencies under Clause 4 is viewed as political oxygen. For many MPs, the vote is no longer ideological. It is existential.
As scrutiny begins, the real contest will not occur during speeches in the chamber. It will unfold in quiet corridors of Parliament, in caucus rooms, on midnight calls and in factional pressure circles. Every clause will be parsed for advantage. Every MP will be watched.
Bill 7 has evolved from a legislative proposal into a referendum on party discipline, political stamina and the future shape of the National Assembly.
DON’T WORRY ABOUT RIGGING, RULING PARTIES LOSE ELECTIONS EVEN AFTER APPOINTING COMMISSIONERS – ECZ
THE Electoral Commission of Zambia is wondering why people are worried that they would rig elections when all past commissions where the opposition emerged victorious were appointed by the ruling party.
The Commission is also calling on political parties to tame their appetite for violence.
The Commission further says it will continue to prioritise openness as the 2026 elections approach.
Speaking during the Anti-Corruption Commission Conference, organised by Transparency International Zambia, Tuesday, ECZ Commissioner McDonald Chipenzi said history had demonstrated that ruling parties lost elections despite being responsible for appointing the commissioners.
“I’ve got a bit of experience in elections for some time, and I have also studied electoral management bodies not only in Africa but across the globe. One thing that is very clear for Zambia, by now we would have transcended those fears, we would have actually put them behind us because in 1991, the commission that handled the elections was appointed by Kenneth Kaunda and it was under the office of the Vice-President, but KK lost the elections by a big margin, yet he’s the one who appointed the commission. In 2011, again we had a commission that was appointed by the ruling party, and when the elections came, I believe there were also those fears that the commission was going to rig, but you saw the results, the opposition won the elections,” Chipenzi said.
“In 2021, the commission that managed the elections was appointed by the ruling party, and what were the results after the elections? So, by now, do we still have to fear the five commissioners that they can manufacture votes to upset the will of the people? From 1991 to date, how many years have passed for us to continue crying and fearing that the commission can change results that people have put in? We have to interrogate that. I was in Malawi recently, the commission there was appointed by the ruling party, and you saw the results. In Liberia, the same happened after the commission was appointed by the ruling party. So you can see the trend. Countries that are led by liberation movements, change has not been easy, but the multiparty countries like Zambia and Malawi, it’s different”.
Chipenzi called on political parties to tame their appetite for violence, saying they should learn to coexist.
He was responding to a question of whether or not the commission was independent enough to suspend an election because of violence.
“Be assured that where the conditions are indeed ripe to suspend a by-election, the commission will suspend a by-election because it’s governed by law. So what happened in Petauke, if it was just one polling station out of 100, it’s either you suspend the election at that polling station, but if it’s widespread violence, then you suspend the by-election in the whole constituency. Violence is really a bad vice, but again it’s not perpetuated by ECZ, it is political violence. It’s caused by politicians themselves. So we need to start managing our politics, why can’t we deal with issues, why can’t we coexist? The electoral process has had violence not because it was caused by the Electoral Commission, it has been caused by stakeholders, especially political parties. Let’s tame our appetite to cause violence,” Chipenzi said.
https://youtu.be/AHQlalT8LyI?si=ABVCjYairnkmVyXs
He however said it was not only the duty of the commission to deal with violence, but said it was the responsibility of law enforcement agencies.
“On political violence, I was in Lavushimanda, and the issue is that when there is violence, it’s a criminal issue, and criminality is to be fought by police. We have police officers, so if there’s any weakness, it’s not from the commission’s point, it’s from the law enforcement point of view. Just like we are talking about corruption, the commission will put the laws, they will tell you that these things are there, the law enforcement agencies have to move in,” Chipenzi said.
Chipenzi admitted that the commission was lagging on sensitisation during voter registration, assuring that they would improve as the country heads to the 2026 elections.
“On voter sensitisation, we agree that we may not have used the songs, but I believe that as we get into the election, this issue will be considered. By the time the commission was considering hiring the musicians, it was too late. We were going towards the end of the registration exercise. But I agree that music is one of the elements that can help sensitise the voters to register or indeed to vote. So you will see the change as we get there,” he said.
He also urged stakeholders to follow keenly what the commission was doing so that they wouldn’t accuse them of rigging.
“For us, from the Electoral Commission of Zambia, I think this theme, ‘Collaborative Actions for Integrity and Transparency in Elections,’ means working closely with all stakeholders, political parties, civil society, the media and the public to strengthen the confidence in the electoral process. As we head towards the 2026 general elections, our assurance is simple: we will continue to prioritise openness, timely communication and inclusive engagement. I think if we are to be honest enough, the Commission has been very open for those who would want to get the real information. But for those who would want to thrive on disinformation and misinformation, they have gotten what they would want to get from somewhere else. We have always said we are an open institution,” said Chipenzi.
“If you recall, at one time, the Commission had stopped monitoring voter registration. If you remember, those who were in the civil society at that time, we battled that issue. Today, you are able to go to any registration centre and observe what is going on so that you are able to pick up whatever you want to pick up and be able to share with the public. The elections itself, by-elections, we have opened it up as it has been to everyone, including political parties that want to observe. So that to us is what we want to see. Because you cannot run an election alone. When we are talking about integrity, we are talking about the involvement of every stakeholder. Especially those who are key primary stakeholders, political parties, civil society, the media. Come and see what is happening so that when you say the elections have been rigged, you have evidence”.
“PRIORITISE UNITY AND LOVE”, MUNDUBILE URGES PRESIDENT HICHILEMA
Brian Mundubile has urged President Hakainde Hichilema to prioritise unity and love in his leadership.
2026 Presidential Aspirant Brian Mundubile has urged President Hakainde Hichilema to prioritise unity and love in his leadership.
Speaking when he featured on Nkani Yatu Program on Kwithu FM, Mr Mundubile says the Head of State should actively work to bring the country together by promoting harmony and encouraging citizens to emulate the same spirit.
https://youtu.be/AHQlalT8LyI?si=khgVEJ53H–wFb3z
He criticized recent statements attributed to President Hichilema, saying some of the remarks appear to fuel hate and revenge rather than reconciliation.
Mr Mundubile notes that certain incidents of tension and violence in the country can be traced to such sentiments, arguing that the President’s tone should reflect a desire to unite the nation instead of deepening divisions.
He said political rhetoric that dwells on hostility or blame creates an environment where conflicts become more likely, further eroding public confidence in efforts to foster peace.
GOVT DISMISSES CLAIMS THAT BILL 7 FAVOURS PRESIDENT HICHILEMA
GOVERNMENT has dispelled allegations that the ongoing constitutional amendment process is designed to extend or benefit President Hakainde Hichilema’s political tenure, insisting that such claims are baseless and ignore the real issues at hand.
According to Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa, the core purpose of Bill 7 is to correct long-standing constitutional lacunas not to alter presidential term limits or tilt the political landscape in favour of the sitting Head of State.
He stressed that Article 52(6), which mandates fresh nominations when a candidate withdraws, is among the critical flaws requiring urgent attention ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Mr. Mweetwa notes that these weaknesses have plagued the Constitution since 2016, when the document passed without thorough interrogation.
He says that the ambiguity surrounding presidential petitions such as whether the 14-day hearing period includes weekends, and whether judges should rule immediately or after the election is a recipe for instability.
The Minister has dismissed assertions that the reforms are coming at a late hour, arguing instead that failing to act now risks plunging the country into chaos during the election period.
https://youtu.be/AHQlalT8LyI?si=khgVEJ53H–wFb3z
He adds that the government is determined to avoid a repeat of the 2016 turmoil, during which the then-opposition felt robbed by unclear legal timelines and processes.
Mr. Mweetwa further clarified that government did not withdraw from negotiations with the Oasis Forum but just suspended.
He explaines that the bill before Parliament is the same one previously deferred not a new version and that crafting an entirely fresh constitutional amendment at this stage is legally impossible.
The Technical Committee’s report and draft bill, he said, were duly considered and will feed into the Select Committee’s work.
Who Would Have Thought that Hakainde Hichilema Would Take Zambia’s Democracy Backward?
Nic Cheeseman Wrote;
New piece for the Conversation: Why we need to start talking about Zambia
“I take no pleasure in saying this. The last time I wrote such an article about Zambia, it was to condemn the persecution of Hichilema after he was arrested in 2017 on trumped up treason charges. I was honoured to receive a letter of thanks upon his release.
https://youtu.be/AHQlalT8LyI?si=khgVEJ53H–wFb3z
Like many Zambians and international observers, I was hopeful for the new administration. Yet, while the government has kept some campaign promises and negotiated a difficult deal on the country’s debt burden, efforts to restore democracy are now going backwards .
Zambia needs a new constitution, but it deserves one that is rooted in evidence, consultation and democratic principles. Anything less threatens to undermine the country’s hard-won democratic gains and Hichilema’s own legacy.”
https://lnkd.in/g555B7bF
Nic Cheeseman is a Professor of Democracy at the University of Birmingham and a leading expert on African politics and elections
Drop these Bad and Archaic Laws on Speech and Insults
David Coltart Wrote;
“President @HHichilema I have admired you from across the Zambezi but this conviction and this law are serious blots on your record.”
“All of us politicians need to understand that being insulted goes with the territory. As they say don’t go into the kitchen unless you can stand the heat.”
“The heat in politics is criticism which can degenerate into insults, but it is part of the job.”
“I urge you to reconsider and to ensure that this woman does not serve time. Repeal this law as well.”
https://youtu.be/AHQlalT8LyI?si=khgVEJ53H–wFb3z
David Coltart served as Zimbabwean Minister for Education, Sport, Arts and Culture in the Government of National Unity from February 2009 to August 2013 is a prominent Zimbabwean lawyer, human rights activist, author, and politician who currently serves as the Mayor of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city.
THE ANATOMY OF A RESURRECTION: DEAD BILL 7 AND THE POLITICS OF DECEPTION
By Tom Mboya
Just to refresh your memory from yesterday’s exposé: by December last year, the President’s approval rating had plunged to around 30%. Faced with that harsh reality, the government began searching for two things, either a way to inflate those numbers or a political backdoor to hold onto power. That desperation is what triggered the rushed constitutional review process earlier this year. By the way, the approval ratings have dropped by 25 percent in November this year, as per the latest report. This may help you understand the desperation.
Be that as it may, I chose Tom Mboya as my shade name because he embodies clarity and courage in moments when truth becomes a dangerous commodity. He spoke frankly when honesty demanded a price. In this Republic, where regressive laws can turn candour into a liability, his name is a shield, a way to write without fear, while honouring a legacy that never bowed to intimidation.
Before the Constitutional Court delivered its judgment in Munir Zulu & Celestine Mukandila vs The Attorney General on Bill 7, some of the President’s own operatives quietly warned him that credible judges on the bench would likely rule in favour of the petitioners. In predictable fashion, he rushed to announce that he would withdraw Bill 7 “to allow more consultation” following criticism from civil society, the Law Association of Zambia, and the Catholic Bishops.
The gullible believed him. But words without matching actions are just political perfume masking rot.
Instead of withdrawing the bill, the Minister of Justice merely deferred it, a deliberate distinction. She wasn’t contradicting the President; she was following the script handed down by the master of deception, a sociopath par excellence, the self-anointed shushushu-in-chief.
Knowing that Bill 7 had collapse, the regime moved to amend the Superior Courts Act, hoping to reconstitute the Constitutional Court so that the same matter, once deferred, could be reheard by a more compliant bench. In their fantasy, a favourable ruling would resurrect Bill 7 and push it to committee stage.
But after the Judicial Service Commission’s plan to sneak loyalists onto the bench was halted by John Sangwa’s court action, the President shifted to Plan B, the Mushabati Commission, as a new pathway to amend the Constitution.
Yesterday, I reminded government, with intentional sarcasm, that Bill 7 would collapse on the floor of the House this Friday if it isn’t presented this week. Sarcasm, because legally speaking, there is no Bill 7. It died on 7 July 2025. Unfortunately, because the Attorney General comes from a small town and his legal advisor from a little-known firm, both still learning how government works, they have clearly not read the Standing Orders. Panic ensued.
They hurriedly went through the Mushabati Commission submissions and discovered, to their horror, that the Commission had done its work diligently and recommended positions directly at odds with HH’s wishes. By procedure, the constitutional amendment report should have been formally presented to the President by the Commission Chairperson, but he kept himself unavailable, resisting pressure to alter its findings. Ask them to release the report and you will see for yourself: the people rejected the amendments the President was pushing for.
As damage control, they hurriedly instructed the Minister of Justice, currently in India for medical treatment, to direct her acting counterpart to resuscitate a bill that is legally dead. A constitutional séance to raise a corpse.
To Hon. Imanga Wamunyima of Nalolo, once appointed to chair this committee: You are too young to be used as a tool for someone else’s political salvation. Do not let your name be etched in history as the one who facilitated illegalities.
To UPND MPs: You work hard to win your constituencies, but if you disagree with HH, you’ll simply be replaced. Do not delude yourselves with talk of “good clauses.” You are dealing with a sociopath who is preying on your fading popularity, dangling delimitation as bait.
To PF MPs like Anthony Mumba and the rest: HH won’t bankroll your drinking escapades at Essence. These are penguins. You will only tarnish your own names. And to Sunday Chanda specifically, we haven’t forgotten the promise that his innocent brother would be released in exchange for political support. MacPherson still served the full unjust sentence.
To PF and Independent MPs tempted by breadcrumbs: You swore an oath to defend the Constitution. Break it, and we will pursue you individually and relentlessly next year.
To Hon. Chabinga: You haven’t resolved your debt issues and are on the verge of losing your house. The sociopath will give you peanuts until you finish delivering his agenda, and then abandon you in the cold.
To the Courts of Zambia: You are quick to arrest ordinary citizens for disregarding court rulings. Why then allow Parliament to trample judgments because of one man’s selfishness? Arrest those undermining the courts. Stop the hypocrisy.
In conclusion, when Linda Kasonde took the Attorney General to court over ministers overstaying in office after Parliament was dissolved, the PF government respected the Constitutional Court’s ruling. They ordered the ministers to vacate their offices and to refund every salary and allowance earned during that period. We expect President Hichilema, given how he marketed himself, to rise above PF’s pedigree. Instead, he has fallen beneath it.
CHIPOLOPOLO striker Patson Daka has been appointed Goodwill Ambassador of the United Nations World Food Programme in Zambia.
Daka will use his platform on and off the pitch to raise awareness and support WFP’s work to end hunger, with particular focus on youth, nutrition, resilience building and community development.
He will also engage with the global community to promote good nutrition and encourage action towards ending hunger.
Over the coming months, Daka is expected to visit WFP-supported activities and take part in discussions underscoring the importance of food security for the health of the population.
This is according to a statement issued to ZNBC Sport by the WFP in Zambia.
Daka says he is deeply honoured to be appointed as an Ambassador for the World Food Programme.
He said growing up in Zambia, he witnessed how hunger affects families and limits potential.
Welcoming Daka to the UN family, WFP Representative and Country Director in Zambia, Cissy Kabasuuga, said the Leicester City forward embodies the spirit of teamwork and perseverance.
She said Daka’s voice will help the WFP reach new audiences, especially young people, with the message that good nutrition is vital to empowering the next generation.
SEAN TEMBO INSULTING LANGUAGE CASE ADJOURNED TO 9 DECEMBER
THE Lusaka Magistrates’ Court has adjourned the case in which Economic Progress Party President Sean Tembo is charged with using insulting language against President Hakainde Hichilema.
https://youtu.be/AHQlalT8LyI?si=khgVEJ53H–wFb3z
The matter has been adjourned to 9 December 2025 after State witness failed to appear before court.
Tembo is facing two counts of using insulting language, offences he is alleged to have committed between August and October 2023.
The charges are under Section 179 of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
A. ON MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT SCHENGEN AND NORDIC VISA APPLICATIONS
Madam Speaker,
I am grateful for the opportunity to deliver this Ministerial Statement in response to concerns raised on the floor of the House, as well as recent public debate and social media commentary regarding the alleged continued denial of visas for Honourable Members of Parliament to Schengen and Nordic countries on official business.
Madam Speaker,
The Ministry notes the concerns expressed by Honourable Members, members of the public, and the media regarding the alleged rejection or delay in the issuance of visas for Members of Parliament. In the interest of transparency, and to preserve cordial bilateral relations, it is necessary to provide a factual and comprehensive update.
Diplomatic Passports and Eligibility
Madam Speaker, Diplomatic Passports in Zambia are issued pursuant to Part III, Sections 5 to 7(2) of the Passport Act No. 28 of 2016, and Cabinet Office minute CO.4/1/1 of 10th May 2000. Section 7(2) provides that a diplomatic passport may be issued to: A Zambian diplomat accredited to a foreign country and their spouse; and Any other person as the Minister may prescribe.
Madam Speaker, the integrity and credibility of Zambian diplomatic passports remain beyond reproach and continue to enjoy full recognition and acceptance across all international jurisdictions. These passports reflect the sovereign authority of the Republic of Zambia and serve as a testament to the country’s adherence to established diplomatic protocols and international norms.
Visa Application Procedures
Visa issuance falls within the sovereign prerogative of each State. Suffice to inform to House that the Ministry has successfully facilitated many Schengen visa applications for Members of Parliament and government officials. In the case of the isolated cases under discussion, delays arose due to late submission of applications, which fell short of the minimum processing timeframe required by Schengen visa regulations.
Madam Speaker,
Although Members of Parliament hold diplomatic passports, Schengen visa regulations stipulate that only Ministers and equivalent high-ranking officials qualify for fast-track processing. This category currently does not include the other Members of Parliament. The Members of Parliament as therefore required to submit applications at least ten (10) to fifteen (15) days before the intended travel date to accommodate administrative processing, including courier dispatch of passports to Nairobi for certain Schengen states or to Pretoria for the United Kingdom.
Specific Cases
The Geneva-bound visa application for Honourable Members to attend the World Health Organization’s 7th Montreux Collaborative Global Forum from 1st to 4th December 2025 was submitted late and could not be processed within the necessary timeframe.
Visa applications to Switzerland are submitted through the Swedish Embassy, which contracts VFS Global to manage applications on its behalf. Applicants complete forms, pay requisite fees, undergo biometric enrollment at VFS, and the applications are then forwarded to the Swedish Embassy in Nairobi for processing. Standard processing is 10 to 15 working days, with a fast-track option of three (3) working days reserved for delegations led by Ministers or above. In the case of Honourable Warren Mwambazi, MP, the request for visa issuance within five (5) working days could not be accommodated, as he did not meet the fast-track criteria.
Similarly, the 18-member delegation applications were not submitted to the German Embassy as the request for a Note Verbale was made only five (5) days before the intended travel, making timely issuance impossible, particularly as the German Embassy required recommendation/approval from Berlin owing to the delegation size. The Embassy was willing to give five members of the delegation which was not admissible by the team.
https://youtu.be/AHQlalT8LyI?si=khgVEJ53H–wFb3z
STATUS OF ZAMBIA–GERMANY RELATIONS
Madam Speaker,
I wish to reaffirm that Zambia’s relations with Germany remain warm, constructive, and mutually respectful. Cooperation spans governance, renewable energy, trade, skills development, and health. The Government has not received any communication indicating a change in Germany’s policy toward Zambia or Zambian officials on official business.
The matters under discussion are isolated administrative occurrence and not indicative of any deterioration in bilateral relations or diplomatic reciprocity.
MEASURES TO AVOID SIMILAR OCCURRENCES
Madam Speaker,
To prevent future challenges, the Ministry is implementing the following measures:
Public Sensitization: Informing applicants about visa processing requirements for different jurisdictions. A Circular was issued to relevant stakeholders to this effect. Coordination: Strengthening inter-departmental coordination to ensure documentation for official travel is submitted in optimal timeframes. Enhanced Communication: Promoting adherence to diplomatic norms in handling official delegations through closer engagement with foreign missions. Mission Support: Working with Zambian Missions abroad to address all concerns arising from official travel.
The Government remains committed to protecting the dignity of this House, upholding Zambia’s sovereign interests, and ensuring that diplomatic passports are respected globally.
Madam Speaker,
I thank the House for the opportunity to provide this update and reaffirm the Ministry’s commitment to facilitating official travel while safeguarding the integrity of Zambia’s diplomatic engagements.
CLARIFICATION ON FALSE REPORTS ALLEGING A 60-DAY TRAVEL BAN BY THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Madam Speaker,
Allow me also to address the recent social media reports alleging that the Government of the United States of America imposed a “60-day travel ban” on Zambia.
These reports are false, misleading, and must be dismissed with the contempt they deserve.
Madam Speaker,
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation confirms that no formal communication has been received from the Government of the United States indicating any form of travel ban or new restrictions on Zambian citizens or Government officials. All existing travel procedures remain in full effect.
CLARIFICATION ON THE U.S. VISA BOND PILOT PROGRAMME
For the benefit of the House and the public, the following clarification is provided:
In August 2025, the United States Government included Zambia and Malawi in the Visa Bond Pilot Programme, introduced under Section 221(g) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act and under a Temporary Final Rule.
The programme applies only to B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourism) visa applicants from countries assessed to have high visa overstay rates.
Government officials, students, and applicants under other visa categories are not affected.
The programme is not a travel ban. It is an administrative measure running for one year, subject to review.
The Ministry continues to engage U.S. authorities to ensure smooth implementation and to safeguard the interests of Zambian travellers.
ZAMBIA–UNITED STATES BILATERAL RELATIONS
Madam Speaker,
The bilateral relationship between Zambia and the United States remains strong, productive, and mutually respectful.
His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema recently held a constructive discussion with the U.S. Secretary of State, the Honourable Marco Rubio, reaffirming cooperation in health, agriculture, governance, mining, and investment.
We have continued to engage the U.S. Ambassador to Zambia, His Excellency Mr. Michael C. Gonzales, on various areas of partnership, including immigration and passport systems.
These engagements confirm that relations between the two countries remain on a positive and collaborative trajectory.
APPEAL TO THE PUBLIC AND MEDIA
Madam Speaker,
The Ministry urges the media and members of the public to: Verify information before circulating it; Rely on official Government communication channels for updates on immigration and international travel; and Refrain from sharing unverified reports that may cause unnecessary alarm or undermine diplomatic relations.
CONCLUSION
Madam Speaker,
In closing, I wish to reassure this House and the nation that the Ministry is actively addressing matters relating to the Schengen visa applications through appropriate diplomatic channels. We remain committed to defending the dignity of this House, protecting the welfare of Zambian citizens abroad, and strengthening Zambia’s relations with all partner nations.
Russian gymnast Sergey Boytsov has left the internet awestruck after staging what he claims is the world’s first hot-air balloon football match, played on a makeshift pitch suspended 1,800 metres above the ground. The high-altitude stunt has gone viral on social media, racking up tens of millions of views.
In the video shared by Boytsov on Instagram, a couple of players are seen in full football gear with parachute backpacks strapped on. They are seen sprinting, passing, tackling and even scoring goals on a tiny platform dangling beneath a hot-air balloon. An aircraft circles overhead to capture the spectacle, revealing a narrow field swaying gently in the wind, with miniature figures darting across it thousands of feet above the earth.
Adding to the drama, one of the players is also seen celebrating a goal by performing Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic “SIUUU” celebration. According to Fox Soccer, the athlete executed the move while stepping off the suspended pitch with his parachute, sending him leaping into the open air mid-celebration.
In the caption of the post, Boytsov announced the feat as a record-setting moment. “We set a new world record. The world’s first hot air balloon football match at an altitude of 1,800 metres.”
Social media reactions The video has since gone viral online, garnering over 51 million views on Instagram. The video has also spread rapidly across X and other platforms.
Reacting to the clip, one user wrote, “So powerful, it’s breathtaking! Sergey, you create truly beautiful moments! Bursting with pride, these are our fearless, strong-spirited Russian guys”.
“Content of this level is usually referred to as cosmic. Now I know why!” commented another.
“If the ball drops in there, forget it, I’m not rescuing it. RIP ball,” said a third user. “How weird must that feel!” added another.
The World Bank’s latest Zimbabwe Economic Update (ZEU) has applauded the country’s strong economic rebound while simultaneously warning that persistent regulatory bottlenecks, particularly inadequate transparency, risk undermining the gains.
The report, released on Tuesday, projects Zimbabwe’s economy to grow by 6.6% in 2025, driven by robust performance in agriculture, services, and continued investment in mining and steel.
Growth is expected to remain solid at 5% in 2026, positioning Zimbabwe ahead of many Sub-Saharan African peers.
The World Bank noted that tight monetary policy since late 2024 has helped stabilise the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency and improve inflation dynamics.
Inflation is forecast to fall into single digits in 2026 and toward 5% over the medium term, supporting gradual poverty reduction, although the report stresses that rural households remain vulnerable to droughts, inflation, and limited social protection.
World Bank Senior Country Economist Victor Steenbergen said the improving macroeconomic conditions create an opportunity for the government to intensify efforts to strengthen the ease of doing business, which he described as essential for translating headline growth into “lasting economic benefits.”
“Now that the macroeconomy is improving, the Government’s position in re-prioritizing efforts to improve the ease of doing business to improve Zimbabwe’s private sector growth and competitiveness are more than necessary to enhance the overall growth and eventually translate economic growth into lasting economic benefits,” Steenbergen noted.
While commending Zimbabwe’s progress under the Presidential Ease of Doing Business Initiative, the report has raised red flags over regulatory opacity and administrative inefficiencies across several sectors.
A special section of the ZEU analysing regulatory burdens reveals that some subsectors, including agriculture, agro-processing and tourism, face up to 28 different legal and compliance requirements from multiple Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
The World Bank has identified major challenges including the inadequacy of transparency and use of manual processes. Many regulatory requirements remain paper-based, with limited online information, forcing businesses to make physical visits to multiple offices.
It also cited the high and regressive fee structures. The World Bank said compliance fees in some subsectors are so extensive that they may exceed annual revenues, particularly for SMEs.
“Strengthen central oversight of regulatory reforms and shift agencies towards a service‑delivery mindset.
“These reforms also require clarifying institutional mandates, reviewing agency fee structures, and ensuring regulations serve the public interest rather than institutional revenue needs,” the organisation noted.
The issue of overlapping mandates was also raised. Several MDAs issue similar permits and inspections targeting the same policy objectives, increasing procedural costs without clear public benefit.
The Bank has acknowledged ongoing reforms, including regulatory streamlining completed in the beef, dairy, stockfeed and tourism sectors, but stressed that the next phase of simplification across 12 priority sectors must be completed within 12 months to maintain reform momentum.
The ZEU urges Zimbabwe to adopt a broader medium-term agenda anchored on three pillars, transparency, simplification and governance, to foster a more business-friendly regulatory environment.
Key recommendations include establishing a central public registry of all licenses, fees and inspection requirements, consolidating overlapping procedures, adopting risk-based compliance regimes, and strengthening institutional oversight of regulatory reforms.
There are however concerns from political and economic commentators that reports by the World Bank are often based on figures supplied by the government and that these are always “massaged before being handed to the World Bank or IMF.”
Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono says its important for people “understand why our official data never matches lived reality. If the inputs are corrupted, the outputs will always be a lie.”
“If surveys are being done without physically visiting companies, then the data collected cannot reflect what is happening on the ground. It becomes theory, not reality. This is how economies collapse while reports still paint a rosy picture.
“Professor Steve Hanke’s work and his inflation models use real market signals, including the black market rate, which is what Zimbabweans actually feel in their pockets. That is why his numbers reflect reality while official statistics remain political fiction.
“Zimbabwe’s biggest tragedy is not just corruption, it is the institutional dishonesty that feeds bad policy. If data is manipulated at the source, the country becomes impossible to fix because decision-makers are operating on false information,” Chin’ono added.
The United States may bar entry to foreign nationals from more than two dozen countries under an expanded travel ban being considered by President Donald Trump. This comes soon after after DC National Guard shooting.
According to reports, the administration is preparing to add at least 30 nations to a revised list, with the possibility of including more over time. A source confirmed that discussions are in their final stages, and formal announcements could follow soon. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said the updated list would be released shortly, pointing to a significant tightening of US immigration and security controls.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem hinted to a major expansion of the United States’ travel restrictions, saying she had proposed a “full travel ban” during a meeting with President Donald Trump. Writing on X, Noem said she recommended adding “every damn country that’s been flooding our nation with killers, leeches, and entitlement junkies” to the restricted list.
“Our forefathers built this nation on blood, sweat, and the unyielding love of freedom – not for foreign invaders to slaughter our heroes or drain tax dollars,” she wrote. “WE DON’T WANT THEM. NOT ONE.”
Response to Washington DC attack The proposal comes as part of the administration’s sweeping immigration crackdown following last week’s attack on two West Virginia National Guard members in Washington, DC. Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal is accused of killing Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and critically injuring Andrew Wolfe, 24.
In response, the government has halted all asylum decisions and begun re-examining more than 720,000 green card holders from 19 “countries of concern.” The State Department has also paused visas for those travelling on Afghan passports.
Lakanwal entered the US legally in 2021 under the Biden administration’s Operation Allies Welcome programme and was granted asylum in April, making him eligible for a green card next year.
Immigration under review US Citizenship and Immigration Services has also stopped naturalisation ceremonies for some nationals of countries already on the summer travel ban list. Reports say individuals from Venezuela, Iran and Afghanistan had their citizenship ceremonies cancelled after the National Guard shooting.
A DHS spokesperson said the administration would take “no chances when the future of our nation is at stake,” and stressed that citizenship is “a privilege, not a right.”
Previous travel restrictions In June, Trump signed a proclamation fully restricting entry from 12 countries, including Afghanistan, Iran, Libya and Somalia, and partially restricting entry from seven more. The order followed an antisemitic firebombing in Colorado, allegedly carried out by an Egyptian national on an expired tourist visa.
The current list of 19 countries with full or partial restrictions include Afghanistan, Burma (Myanmar), Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.
At a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Trump again criticised immigration from Somalia, one of the countries already on the list.
Parliament Rejects Motion To Raise Matric Pass Mark To 50% The South African Parliament has decisively rejected a motion to end the use of 30% as the minimum pass mark in the country’s public education system. The bid, championed by opposition leader Mmusi Maimane, sought to raise the bar to 50% to foster greater academic excellence.
The National Assembly voted on the motion on the evening of Tuesday, 2 December 2025. The proposal was voted down by the two largest parties in the house, the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA). The motion did, however, receive support from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), and ActionSA.
Maimane, leader of Build One South Africa (BOSA), passionately argued for the change during a debate on Friday, 28 November 2025. He framed the low benchmark as a relic holding the nation back from global competitiveness.
“Our ambition must be better than where we are in terms of our term scores. It must be that we want to be global players who can influence and change the world,” Maimane told Parliament.
He contended that the 30% standard was a political tool to inflate pass rates, doing a disservice to learners’ futures. In a post on X following the vote, Maimane expressed his dismay.
“Today we lost the vote to end 30% as a pass mark at any level in our public education system. The following parties voted to keep Bantu education standards – ANC , DA, VF, PA and Al Jamah. They hugged incompetence and embraced mediocrity. Now SA knows,” he wrote.
Clarifying The Confusion Over 30% Pass Mark A significant part of the parliamentary debate focused on correcting widespread public misunderstanding about what the 30% figure actually means. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube provided detailed clarification, stressing that the notion of a blanket 30% pass for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) is incorrect.
She explained that to obtain an NSC, a learner must achieve at least 40% in their home language, 40% in two other subjects, and 30% in three further subjects. She presented data to show that vanishingly few learners scrape through with only the bare minimum.
“We all want to achieve higher standards, stronger outcomes and a system that is fit for purpose in a competitive global economy,” Minister Gwarube stated, before adding a crucial warning. “Raising the matric pass rate alone will not solve the foundational learning crisis.”
Minister Gwarube and other speakers shifted the focus to the deep-rooted problems in early education. She argued that without addressing foundational literacy and numeracy deficits, simply raising the pass mark would be ineffective.
Voices For And Against Raising The Bar Support for Maimane’s motion came from MPs who saw the 30% threshold as symbolic of low expectations. EFF MP Mandla Shikwambana was particularly scathing in his critique of the lasting impact.
“Our children are not failing. They are being failed by overcrowded classrooms, failed by schools without libraries, laboratories or learning tools needed to build confident thinkers,” Shikwambana said.
IFP MP Busaphi Machi echoed the sentiment that the current standard normalises mediocrity.
“A child who is told that 30% is good enough is being prepared for disappointment, not for success,” she warned.
However, those who opposed the motion argued it was a simplistic solution to a complex problem. DA MP Nazley Sharif called for a more nuanced conversation.
“South Africa deserves a clear, honest and evidence-based conversation about learner achievement, not soundbites or misrepresentation,” Sharif said, highlighting that the debate often overlooks the detailed structure of the NSC.
Education expert Mary Metcalfe, cited in earlier reports, expressed frustration at the recurring public confusion, noting that the NSC is a tiered qualification that allows for different post-school pathways, not a simple 30% pass.
The motion’s defeat means the current pass requirements remain unchanged for now. However, the intense debate has reignited a national conversation about educational standards, systemic reform, and the prep
Pope Leo XIV said Tuesday, Dec. 2, that he would like to visit Algeria in 2026 as part of a voyage to Africa.
The Pope made this known as he wrapped up his first international trip as pontiff.
“I hope to make a trip to Africa, which could be my next trip,” the US pope said during a press conference aboard the papal plane during his return from a six-day visit to Turkey and Lebanon.
“Personally, I hope to go to Algeria to visit the places from the life of Saint Augustine,” he said, in reference to the fifth-century saint from the North African country.
Leo, who was elected in May, belongs to the Augustinian order, which was founded in the 13th century and has nearly 3,000 members in around 50 countries.
Such a visit would allow the head of the Catholic Church to “continue the discourse of dialogue and bridge-building between the Christian and the Muslim worlds”, he said.
“The figure of Saint Augustine plays an important role as a bridge because in Algeria he is highly respected as a son of the nation,” the 70-year-old pontiff said.
A trip to Africa could also include visits to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, a Vatican source told AFP.
Leo, leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, also said he would “very much” like to visit “Latin America, Argentina, Uruguay”, as well as Peru, where he spent more than 20 years working as a missionary.
Meanwhile, the Pope also called for an end to hostilities in Lebanon and new approaches for peace in the Middle East before returning to Rome on Tuesday, Dec. 2, ending his inaugural visit abroad as pontiff.
A 150,000-strong mass at Beirut’s waterfront was the highlight of the trip by the head of the world’s Catholics, who arrived in Lebanon on Sunday after visiting Turkey, the start of his six-day trip.
Before landing in Rome on Tuesday afternoon, the 70-year-old pontiff told journalists aboard the papal plane that he looked forward to his next international trip, which has yet to be officially confirmed.
Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has issued a sharp critique of ‘newly’ wealthy Zimbabweans who are seemingly aligned to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, questioning their spending priorities and urging them to channel their resources toward productive investments that support national development.
Addressing supporters recently, Chiwenga challenged affluent citizens who he said had accumulated significant wealth but were failing to reinvest it domestically.
“Some people wake up saying, ‘I am now rich, I now have money,’” he said. “Why don’t they build factories for people to get employment from that money if it’s excessive?”
He further expressed concern over what he described as wasteful or unproductive displays of wealth among sections of the elite.
Chiwenga coupled his remarks with a firm warning against over reliance on external capital, arguing that foreign investors could not be expected to drive Zimbabwe’s development.
“No foreigner is coming to build Zimbabwe on behalf of Zimbabweans,” he said, adding that outside players across mining, manufacturing and tourism were primarily interested in extracting local resources.
Although the Vice President did not name individuals, his comments come amid growing public scrutiny of prominent tenderpreneurs closely associated with Mnangagwa, including Wicknell Chivayo, Paul Tungwarara and Kudakwashe Tagwirei.
The businessmen have in recent months drawn attention for distributing vehicles and cash to Zanu-PF members as part of efforts to bolster support for the party’s Vision 2030 agenda.
Chiwenga’s remarks seemingly signal rising tensions within the ruling party. Chiwenga, who is opposed to the controversial 2030 agenda, is trying to align with the masses by condemning corruption.
Since 2017 when Chiwenga and Mnangagwa removed late former President Robert Mugabe from power through a military coup, the former Army General has been the frontrunner in the race to replace the current Zanu-PF leader when his term of office ends in 2028.
But this plan is gradually shifting with Mnangagwa seemingly preferring to anoint Tagwirei as the next Zanu-PF leader.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming India visit has renewed attention on the extraordinary secrecy and precision that typically accompany his foreign trips. While each country he travels to plans its arrangements independently, Putin’s foreign visits are marked by a long-standing pattern of extreme precaution, tightly controlled logistics, and an opaque security architecture that moves with him wherever he goes.
These methods have evolved under the Federal Protective Service (FSO), one of Russia’s most secretive security institutions, and they form the backbone of how Putin’s trips abroad are conducted.
From controlled food supplies to discreet bathroom protocols and hand-picked bodyguards, the system treats his personal safety, privacy and health details as tightly as any state secret.
Why His ‘Poop Suitcases’ Travel With Him
For several years, reports have described one of the most unusual features of Putin’s foreign-trip routine — his waste is collected, sealed and flown back to Russia. This practice, first detailed in the French magazine Paris Match by journalists Regis Gente and Mikhail Rubin, and later reported by The Independent in 2022, is intended to prevent foreign intelligence services from analysing his stool for information about his health.
The reports say his bodyguards collect his waste, pack it in sealed bags, and store it in a special briefcase that is then taken back to Moscow. The system was reportedly observed during his 2017 visit to France, his 2019 trip to Saudi Arabia, and more recently during the Alaska Summit in the United States.
Former BBC journalist Farida Rustamova also confirmed hearing of such incidents, saying Putin sometimes used ‘a private bathroom’ or even a portable toilet while travelling abroad. Cited an unnamed source, she said the practice dates back to the start of his presidency.
Human waste has historically been viewed as an intelligence asset. Joseph Stalin is said to have ordered tests on Mao Zedong’s stool in 1949, and during the Cold War, British agents reportedly examined used toilet paper from Soviet soldiers. For Moscow, preventing similar intrusions has long been part of its risk calculus.
According to investigations cited by the Azerbaijani media platform Modern.az, Putin is among the most heavily guarded leaders in the world, protected by the Federal Protective Service (FSO), a powerful institution created in 1996 and shaped by protocols inherited from the KGB. Within it, his personal bodyguards belong to an elite unit called the Presidential Security Service (SBP), which follows one of Russia’s most stringent selection processes.
Candidates must not be over the age of 35 and must meet strict physical standards: a minimum height of 180 cm, high endurance, combat ability, and the psychological capacity to remain calm under intense pressure. They must also speak foreign languages. Their entire personal and family backgrounds are investigated, and they undergo loyalty tests to the state and the president. Bodyguards are permanently forbidden by Russian law from disclosing information about the president’s movements, routines or health.
Although the guards seen beside Putin in public form the visible layer, the portal reported that there is an extensive unseen network as well. Snipers, observers, electronic-intelligence teams, drone operators and specialised communications units operate around him. Before any foreign visit, these teams arrive days in advance to examine the venue, map risks, and prepare alternate evacuation routes.
Modern.az also cited former bodyguard Gleb Karakulov, who fled Russia in 2023, describing Putin’s “closed lifestyle,” which includes avoiding mobile phones, sometimes travelling by a special train, and following strict protocols to minimise traces.
Putin’s guards have even intervened in high-level meetings, including stopping North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in 2025 from getting too close to him. The current guard cohort includes individuals with professional sporting or martial arts backgrounds. Guards accompany him on all domestic and foreign trips, remain with him inside the plane, protect all residences he uses, and split into advance and immediate-escort teams during travel. The escort group during foreign trips is believed to include around 100 personnel. Fighter jets accompany the presidential aircraft during flights, and the FSO oversees all vehicles and armoured transport, including specially designed trains and cars.
Food, Water And A Lab That Travels With Him
Putin’s meals are prepared entirely by his own chefs, who are themselves trained military personnel with firearms and tactical skills. Bodyguards act as food tasters, sampling every dish before it reaches him. In the film “Our Service,” one Kremlin chef explains their constant presence: “Wherever the leader is, we are there. That is, whether it’s a business trip, a vacation, or a private ceremony, we are always there.” This tightly controlled chain extends far beyond the kitchen.
During foreign trips, food security is managed through an entirely closed ecosystem. Putin does not rely on hotel kitchens; instead, an advance Russian team inspects the hotel and removes all locally supplied food and consumables, replacing them with Russian-approved items. All ingredients used to cook his meals are pre-checked at the Kremlin, and his chefs and housekeeping staff travel with him. Some hotels have even allocated separate elevators exclusively for his team.
Putin reportedly travels with a mobile laboratory capable of testing his food and surroundings for toxins. His preferences, as described in “Our Service,” include avoiding fast food and limiting meat at night. He favours eggplant appetisers, Olivier salad, and game animal liver, and at official events prefers rosehip or ginger tea instead of ordinary tea. Alcohol consumption is described as rare.
Cleanliness and sanitisation are also maintained with unusual rigour. The Presidential Administration in Moscow is cleaned daily with special products, a practice that predates the pandemic.
Vehicles, Aircraft And The Emergency Chain Of Command
Once abroad, Putin travels in the Aurus Senat limousine, designed by Aurus Motors and Russia’s NAMI institute. The car is bulletproof, grenade-resistant, equipped with emergency oxygen supplies, a fire-suppression system and advanced communications. It can continue moving even with all four tyres punctured and reach speeds of up to 249 kmph.
His aircraft, the Ilyushin IL-96-300PU — sometimes called the “Flying Pluton” — contains secure communication systems, missile-protection measures, conference rooms, a medical centre, a gym and a bar. The plane carries the equipment needed to authorise nuclear strikes, enabling Putin to issue orders even while airborne. Two backup aircraft often accompany the main jet.
Before international travel, his bodyguards reportedly quarantine for two weeks to ensure they are fully prepared and not carrying infections.
In case of an attack, bodyguards form a human shield around Putin before escorting him to the Aurus Senat. From there, he can be taken directly to the Kremlin’s specially parked aircraft. During public appearances abroad, his guards have been seen carrying hand-held anti-drone interceptors designed to disable or shoot down hostile drones.
MACRON IN CHINA: CAN EUROPE STILL MATTER IN A WORLD OF GIANTS?
Macron’s 3-day visit to Beijing is more than just another diplomatic stop, it’s a strategic gamble at a time when Europe’s global influence is under pressure.
Officially, he wants better trade terms for French companies and to attract Chinese investment. But the deeper aim is geopolitical: persuade Xi to use his leverage over Putin and help end the war in Ukraine.
That’s a heavy lift. China hasn’t condemned the invasion, continues to back Russia economically, and benefits from a divided West.
Still, Macron is betting that dialogue matters, and that Europe can remain a diplomatic force in a world tilting toward hard power blocs led by Washington and Beijing.
This trip also reflects growing urgency inside the EU. The trade imbalance with China is massive. Industrial overcapacity, unfair subsidies, and market barriers are fuelling calls in Brussels to rethink the bloc’s China policy.
Macron is walking a fine line: don’t alienate Beijing, but don’t appear naive or desperate either.
For Xi, the visit is a win. Hosting a major European leader helps China push back against claims of isolation, even as it deepens ties with Moscow and clashes with the U.S.
Whether Macron can move the needle on trade or peace remains to be seen. But in today’s fractured world, presence isn’t power, results are.
BREAKING: UN General Assembly Declares Israel’s Occupation of Syria’s Golan Heights Illegal
The UNGA has passed a resolution (123–7, with 41 abstentions) reaffirming that Israel’s 58-year occupation, and 1981 annexation attempt,of Syria’s Golan Heights has no legal validity under international law
Only Israel, the US, and five states opposed the measure.
The resolution:
• Reaffirms that the Golan is Syrian territory under international law • Declares Israel’s control “null and void” • Demands full withdrawal to the pre-1967 lines • Calls for renewed peace talks on the Syrian and Lebanese tracks
This vote lands at a time of rapidly rising tensions along the Golan frontier, just days after Israel’s cross-border raid near Beit Jin triggered a regional scramble to prevent escalation.
The UN position remains unchanged: the Golan Heights is occupied Syrian land.
Breaking News: BRICS Pay: Timeline Extended to 2030
First proposed in 2019, BRICS Pay aims to link national fast-payment networks and eventually support CBDC transfers. Contrary to earlier rumours, the platform is not live.
While Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in Rio that a pilot could appear “before the end of 2026”, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov clarified in October 2025 that the system is now targeted for operational status by 2030.
Technical Architecture Confirmed The platform will be blockchain-based and decentralised, designed to link existing national systems, including Russia’s SPFS, China’s CIPS, India’s UPI, and Brazil’s Pix.
It will also integrate central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) from member states, including the digital yuan and digital ruble.
Vladimir Putin on why the European Union is being excluded from the peace talks with the USto end the Ukraine proxy war:
‘They have no peace agenda. They are warmongers. Even when they are trying, allegedly, to introduce some changes, some adjustments to President Trump’s proposal, all these changes have only one goal in mind.
They are aimed at blocking and putting to a halt this peace process. They are trying to make demands that are unacceptable for Russia, and they understand this.
And then later they would try to blame Russia, accuse Russia of stopping this peace process. This is their objective, and we can clearly see that.’
BREAKING: President Trump says NO MORE SOMALIANS in the USA. He’s DONE.
“Their country STINKS! They contribute NOTHING.”
“I don’t want ’em, to be honest. OK? Some say, that’s not politically correct. I DON’T CARE. I don’t want them in our country. Their country’s no good for a reason!”
“I’m understanding Somalians ripped Minnesota that place for BILLIONS of dollars! And they contribute NOTHING. The welfare’s like 88%!”
“I always watch [Ilhan Omar] complain about our Constitution, how she’s treated ‘badly,’ or it’s a bad place, hates Jewish people, hate’s everybody. She’s a TERRIBLE person.”
“I watch what’s happening in Minnesota, the land of a thousand lakes? This beautiful place, I see these people RIPPING it off.”
