Nigeria international, Victor Osimhen has been described as the best striker in the world by his Turkish club, Galatasaray.
Osimhen was in top form for the Turkish giants on Wednesday night, October 22, scoring a brace in Galatasaray’s 3-1 win against Bodø/Glimt on Matchday 3 of the UEFA Champions League.
The Super Eagles striker opened the scoring just three minutes into the game, racing onto a through pass before slotting the ball past the goalkeeper. Osimhen then doubled the lead in the 33rd minute, rounding the keeper and rolling the ball into an empty net following a poor back pass from a Bodø/Glimt defender.
After the game, Osimhen was handed the Player of the Match award for his impressive showing. Reacting to his display, Galatasaray posted on its X handle, simply stating: “Best striker in the world.”
Osimhen has now scored three goals in two games in the UEFA Champions League this season.
Earlier on Wednesday, the 26-year-old was shortlisted for the 2025 African Player of the Year award. He will contest the award with top stars such as Mohamed Salah, Achraf Hakimi, and Serhou Guirassy. Osimhen previously won the African Player of the Year award in 2023, becoming the first Nigeria men’s footballer to do so since Nwankwo Kanu in 1999.
The European Union is set to agree in principle on Thursday, October 23, to provide Ukraine with the necessary financing for the next two years, according to EU Council chief Antonio Costa.
This commitment comes amid a high-stakes debate, including a Belgian threat to block the controversial plan to use frozen Russian assets to aid Kyiv.
Arriving at a summit of EU leaders, Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever laid out three specific demands regarding the use of Russian immobilised assets to provide a 140 billion euro ($163.27 billion) loan to Ukraine.
De Wever warned that if his demands are not met, he would “do everything in my power… politically and legally to stop this decision.” Belgium is central to the plan as it holds the bulk of the frozen assets via the securities depository Euroclear.
De Wever demanded that all EU members share the legal and financial risks associated with the plan, meaning they must share the costs of any legal action pursued by Russia and contribute financially if the money ever had to be paid back. He also called for transparency on the legal basis for the decision and insisted that Russian frozen assets held by other countries be included in the scheme.
Despite this challenge, Costa, arriving at the summit with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, made clear the EU would ensure Kyiv’s financial needs were covered for 2026 and 2027, including for the acquisition of military equipment. The leaders are expected to formally task the European Commission with developing a legal proposal for the frozen assets plan.
At the summit, EU leaders will reiterate their backing for Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Ukraine’s leader received a boost as the bloc formally approved a new sanctions package against Russia on Thursday. The package includes a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) from January 2027, as well as new measures targeting the so-called shadow tanker fleet and two independent Chinese oil refineries.
Zelenskiy welcomed the new EU sanctions, following a turbulent few days that saw the U.S. postpone a planned meeting between President Trump and Vladimir Putin and hit Russia’s major oil companies with sanctions on Wednesday.
Even before a formal proposal on the frozen assets was made, EU countries began wrangling over the conditions to impose on the “reparations loan.” Some members want the funds exclusively for Ukraine’s military, with the bulk spent on European weapons.
Others argue Kyiv should have the autonomy to use some of the loan for general budget support or to buy arms from outside Europe. A senior Ukrainian official emphasized that Kyiv needs the funds by the end of the year and requires autonomy over how to spend them. Russia has described the idea of using the frozen assets as an illegal seizure of property and has warned of retaliation.
Former Manchester United defender, Paul Parker has sharply criticized forward Marcus Rashford for claiming he gave his best efforts while playing for the Red Devils.
The England international was reportedly listed among the ‘Bomb Squad’ by then-manager Ruben Amorim after struggling to impress the Portuguese coach, which eventually led to his loan moves to Aston Villa and subsequently to Barcelona.
Rashford has since found success at Barcelona, where he took his goal tally to five goals and five assists in 12 appearances after scoring a brace in their 6-1 victory over 10-man Olympiakos in the Champions League on Tuesday night.
Reacting to this improved performance, Parker spoke in a chat with a betting site and stated that Rashford was “completely lazy” at Old Trafford.
Parker argued that Rashford let his teammates down, saying, “He was lazy, he didn’t do anything.” He questioned whether any players in the UK would trust him as a teammate, asserting that the answer is “no-one.” Parker said that the urgency he played with—where it was “life and death” should have been ingrained in Rashford, but wasn’t.
Parker concluded that if a player “can’t give everything for your boyhood club and you are willing to let down the rest of the team, then that says a lot about you.” He added that failing to deliver for the club he had been at since he was a kid and letting down his teammates on numerous occasions put Rashford in “a very bad position.”
Rafa Benitez is set to return to management at Panathinaikos with the Spanaird becoming the highest paid boss in Greek history.
The ex-Liverpool and Chelsea boss has been out of work for more than a year following his sacking from Celta Vigo in March of last year. He left the Spanish club two points above the relegation zone but has now been handed his 17th job as a manager.
Reports in Greece claim Benitez is due to pen a two-year deal in Athens.
The Greek giants currently sit seventh in the 14-team Super League Greece having picked up nine points from six matches. It leaves them eight points adrift of league leaders PAOK but with a game in hand.
Dutch outlet De Telegraaf claims the record-breaking £3.47million contract comes after negotiations in London on Sunday evening with their club president Giannis Alafouzos. Panathinaikos are without a league success since 2010 and have only claimed the title twice this century.
Benitez has requested that his new tenure be put on hold as he sorts his move to Athens, meaning he won’t be on the bench for their Europa League encounter at Feyenoord on Thursday afternoon.
Benitez’s 16 clubs prior to Panathinaikos has seen him manage some of the biggest teams in world football including Liverpool, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Napoli and Real Madrid.
His managerial honours include winning two LaLiga titles and a UEFA Cup with Valencia, a FA Cup and Champions League with Liverpool, FIFA Club World Cup at Inter Milan and Europa League during his time at Chelsea.
Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier have been arrested in connection with an investigation into illegal gambling, according to reports by US media on Thursday, October 23.
ABC News, citing law enforcement sources, reported that Billups’ arrest was linked to an illegal poker operation allegedly connected to the Mafia. The 49-year-old former NBA star was taken into custody and is expected to make his first court appearance in Oregon later in the day.
Rozier, 31, was arrested in a separate but related betting case, ABC said. CBS News reported that FBI Director Kash Patel was scheduled to hold a press conference in New York at 10:00 am (1400 GMT) to address the arrests.
Billups, a former Detroit Pistons standout, retired from professional basketball in 2014 after a decorated playing career. He has served as head coach of the Trail Blazers for five years.
Rozier, drafted 16th overall by the Boston Celtics in 2015, has played 11 seasons in the NBA and joined the Miami Heat ahead of the 2024–25 season. He did not appear in the Heat’s opening game on Wednesday.
The arrests come amid heightened scrutiny of gambling within professional sports. Last year, Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter was banned from the NBA for life following a betting-related scandal.
Britain’s King Charles and Pope Leo prayed together in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel on Thursday, October 23, marking the first joint worship including an English monarch and a Catholic pontiff since King Henry VIII broke away from Rome in 1534.
Latin chants and English prayers resonated through the chapel, where Pope Leo XIV was elected the first U.S. pope six months ago. Charles, who is the supreme governor of the Church of England, was seated at the pope’s left near the altar as Leo and Anglican Archbishop Stephen Cottrell led a service that featured the Sistine Chapel Choir and two royal choirs. Although Charles has met the last three popes and two previous popes visited Britain, their encounters never before included joint prayers.
The King and Queen Camilla are on a state visit to the Vatican to mark the closening ties between the Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion, five centuries after their turbulent separation.
Anglican Rev. James Hawkey, canon theologian of Westminster Abbey, commented that the moment in the extraordinary setting of the Sistine Chapel offers “a kind of healing of history.” He noted this would have been impossible just a generation ago, representing how far the churches have come over the last 60 years of dialogue.
The split between the two churches was formalized in 1534 after Pope Clement VII refused to annul King Henry VIII’s marriage to Catherine of Aragon. While Henry’s desire for a male heir was the immediate catalyst, the break also involved the English crown’s seizure of church assets and the growth of Protestant ideas in England. The ensuing period saw England swing between Catholicism and Protestantism, leading to the execution of hundreds of people for their faith.
Charles and Camilla also had a private meeting with Pope Leo on Thursday morning. Later in the afternoon, the King will travel to Rome’s Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, one of Catholicism’s four most venerated churches. Pope Leo has approved giving the King a new title of “Royal Confrater,” or brother, at the connected abbey.
King Charles III assisting the Divine Office led by Pope Leo XIV in the Sistine Chapel, the first time a British monarch has partaken in a religious service with the Bishop of Rome since 855, when Æthelwulf, King of Wessex, was in Rome for the inauguration of Pope Leo IV. pic.twitter.com/L1qc22jaqk
Charles will also be gifted a special seat in the apse of the basilica. The wooden chair, reserved for use only by future British monarchs, is decorated with the King’s coat of arms and the ecumenical motto “Ut unum sint” (That they may be one). Bishop Anthony Ball, the official Anglican representative to the Vatican, stated that the honors show the commitment both churches have to working for a shared future.
Buckingham Palace also announced that Charles had approved two British honors for Pope Leo: making him the “Papal Confrater” of St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, and conferring on him the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath.
The Catholic Church, which has 1.4 billion members, and the Anglican Communion, with 85 million members, have been improving their ties since the 1960s.
Russian President, Vladimir Putin said on Thursday, that the latest U.S. sanctions targeting two major oil firms were “serious,” but he asserted they were not strong enough to significantly affect the economy.
The United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on Russia’s two biggest oil producers—Rosneft and Lukoil—marking the first o such restrictions against Russia since U.S. President Donald Trump returned to office.
“They (sanctions) are serious for us, of course, that is clear. And they will have certain consequences, but they will not significantly impact our economic well-being,” Putin told reporters. He characterized the sanctions as an “unfriendly act” that “does not strengthen Russia-US relations, which have only just begun to recover.”
Trump had initially sought to foster ties with Russia at the start of his term but has become increasingly frustrated with Putin’s refusal to agree to a ceasefire, recently complaining that his peace talks with him were not going “anywhere.” The Republican president held off introducing new restrictions against Russia for months, but his patience broke after plans for a fresh summit with Putin in Budapest collapsed.
Despite the new sanctions and the summit’s postponement, Putin appeared to remain open to dialogue, telling journalists, “Dialogue is always better than confrontation or any disputes, and especially war. We have always supported the continuation of dialogue.”
However, he issued a warning, stating that if Russia were attacked with U.S. Tomahawk missiles, which Ukraine seeks, the response would be “very strong, if not overwhelming.”
Apple, Amazon, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft, Google, Coinbase, Comcast, and Meta are among the major companies that have made donations to build President Donald Trump’s proposed 90,000-square-foot ballroom, according to the White House.
Trump has repeatedly stated that work on the ballroom is privately funded by himself and donors and will cost taxpayers nothing. On Wednesday, Trump discussed his plans for the ballroom, saying it will cost “about $300 million.” The administration had previously estimated the cost of the project at $200 million.
Additional major donors include the co-founders of cryptocurrency exchange Gemini, Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss; Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and his family; and the Adelson family. Trump awarded Miriam Adelson, a Republican megadonor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2018.
The list of donors released by the White House includes the following entities and individuals:
Altria Group, Inc., Amazon, Apple, Booz Allen Hamilton, Caterpillar, Inc., Coinbase, Comcast Corporation, J. Pepe and Emilia Fanjul, Hard Rock International, Google, HP Inc., Lockheed Martin, Meta Platforms, Micron Technology, Microsoft, NextEra Energy, Inc., Palantir Technologies Inc., Ripple, Reynolds American, T-Mobile, Tether America, Union Pacific Railroad, Adelson Family Foundation, Stefan E. Brodie, Betty Wold Johnson Foundation, Charles and Marissa Cascarilla, Edward and Shari Glazer, Harold Hamm, Benjamin Leon Jr., The Lutnick Family, The Laura & Isaac Perlmutter Foundation, Stephen A. Schwarzman, Konstantin Sokolov, Kelly Loeffler and Jeff Sprecher, Paolo Tiramani, Cameron Winklevoss, and Tyler Winklevoss.
A woman has been arrested for claiming to be rapper Eminem’s wife to avoid paying the Restaurant bill
TMZ reports that the Florida resident, Jennifer Kleber, said she was the Detroit rapper’s wife while eating at Darrell’s Dog Gone Good Diner in Silver Springs, where she ate a hearty meal but refused to pay the bill on Monday (Oct. 20).
According to the police report, the manager remembered her and said she had several outstanding bills at the eatery. This time, when police showed up, she told them that her “spouse” is Em and that he would be footing the bill.
She also claimed that he has paid for her before, which is why she thought he had “unlimited money.”
Kleber told police that she only had $10 to her name, while her meal cost $27.55. Her order reportedly included French toast, a bacon cheese sandwich, soda, and a chocolate milk.
The 54-year-old was arrested and booked at a local jail for defrauding an innkeeper.
While Eminem isn’t married to Kleber, he is currently in a relationship with his stylist, Katrina Malota.
CITIZEN’S First (CF) Party President Harry Kalaba says people are very eager to reject President Hakainde Hichilema in 2026.
“People are very eager to reject HH in 2026 because he is a man full of broken promises,” he says. “This government has warped priorities.”
Meanwhile, Kalaba has expressed gratitude to the people of Mufili in Northern Province for their support while calling out the government for neglecting key development issues in the area.
He cited community concerns over unpaid maize sales, poor road infrastructure and the stalled Bangweulu hospital project.
“I was basically thanking the people of Mufili for voting for us on the 18th of September. And I was just encouraging them to be strong. And they have resolved that they will support us in 2026.
They have continued to lament on the issues of late delivery of farming inputs. Up to now they sold their maize to FRA and they have not received their money and they are not happy with government,” Kalaba told The Magnet.
“They have complained about their road. The Luwingu-Kasaba road, which government has not attended to despite being promised that government will work on that road. They also complained on the issue of Bangweulu hospital, which was started in the last government that has not been worked upon.”
NO MORE POLITICS AT CHURCH, PRIESTS CAUTIONED – BISHOP
CHIPATA Chipata Catholic Diocese Bishop George Lungu has directed priests in the diocese not to allow any political figure or aspirant to campaign or make political statements during liturgical celebrations or Church events.
This follows an incident in which some Patriotic Front Members of Parliament led by Mporokoso MP Brian Mundubile, turned up and began dancing during the Catholic Women’s Organisation Pilgrimage of Hope at St. Anne’s Cathedral Parish last Sunday.
Bishop Lungu expressed concern over the growing trend of politicians attending Church gatherings and using such occasions to advance their political ambitions through acts of apparent generosity.
In a statement issued by Diocesan Communications Director Fr Gabriel Mwanza in Chipata yesterday, Bishop Lungu said that it often happens when politicians are designated as “Guests of Honour” or are allowed to “greet the people.”
The Bishop encouraged the laity to continue supporting the local Church but cautioned them to be wary of politicians who exploited generosity for self interest.
“Despite the economic struggles and poverty, we must not opt for easy but unsustainable solutions. Instead, we must work hard to build a self-supporting, self-ministering, and self-propagating Church anchored on honesty and concerted effort”.
“While donations to the Church or community projects may appear generous on the surface, we must discern the true motives behind them. Too often, such gestures aim to gain political favour and buy votes ahead of elections rather than serve the genuine needs of the people,” he said.
⬆️ BRIEFING | M’membe Cries Over Low Voters Registration Turnout
Socialist Party President Dr Fred M’membe has raised alarm over what he describes as a “disturbing lack of awareness” among citizens about the ongoing voter registration exercise.
Speaking after a visit to Bauleni Compound in Lusaka, Dr M’membe said he was shocked to find that most residents were unaware that voter registration was even underway.
“We went through the market and around Bauleni asking people about the voter registration exercise. When you ask them, have you registered? They respond, register for what? What registration?” he said.
The opposition leader said the situation is deeply concerning, given the limited time left before the Electoral Commission of Zambia closes the exercise.
Dr M’membe urged the ECZ to intensify its public awareness campaigns and improve outreach, saying many citizens risk being excluded from next year’s general elections.
He warned that low registration figures could undermine the credibility of the 2026 vote, calling on both government and civil society to treat the issue as a national priority.
OPPOSITION POLITICS IS NOT JUST A SACRIFICE, IT’S A RISK: WHY UPND NEEDS TO EMPOWER ITS ARTISTS
23/10/2025
Music is a business and it is for that reason that many artists will tell you that they will sing for any politician or party that pays them well.
But what do you call people that identify an opposition party and sing for it for free FOR MANY YEARS until they help it get into office? Those are not just businessmen, they are loyalists and heroes to your cause and should be treated as such.
Ba UPND, do you remember Mpande, Cav Man, the Orga Family, Ocean Kaniini, Lloyd Chileshe, Kadas Munjile band, etc, who brought you beautiful songs like Alikwisa Driver, Moses wa nomba, HH, etc? Where are these people and what have you done for them? For Lloyd Chileshe who is a person with a disability you haven’t even bought for him proper walking aids
Music is a business so when your party wins you should win with it, no two ways about it. These artists sacrificed their careers to sing for UPND when it was not fashionable to do so.
I liked the way the PF looked after their PF aligned artists and I can say, factly, that a good number of them are set for life. They have proper homes and other properties which will make them live comfortably no matter who’s in power. But the UPND aligned artists are still renting, others still walking. No singing contracts or anything to show for their loyalty. That’s pure greed because the UPND is failing to share their success at a party level when they shared their struggles with these artists. And if the UPND will be a one term government, then what did they risk their lives for all those years?
In politics, loyalty is everything. Empower your people because soon you will need them and they won’t be there. You will pay bigger artists to sing for you but the public will be disgusted by these disloyal artists who just move where there is money and so will not listen to them. We have already heard one flop which sounds like the person was being forced to sing it. Where is Mpande, where is Cav man, where is the Orga Family? Ever loyal to you, but imwe disloyal to them and others.
It’s not too late, empower your artists. And do it privately if you have to so that when it really matters they will also support you again. Improve the arts industry in general- but that’s a story for another day. Otherwise as things stand, the UPND aligned artists are worse off now than they were in the opposition. So why did they risk their careers and even lives to just sing for such an ungrateful and uncaring party like their own? Music is a business, but in politics LOYALTY IS EVERYTHING.
Ive always safeguarded the Rule of Law-Makebi Zulu
He writes:
As Zambia continues to redefine its future, I stand guided by one enduring conviction: that the strength of our Republic rests on respect for the Constitution and fidelity to justice.
From my years in public service as Member of Parliament for Malambo and Provincial Minister for Eastern Province, to my professional life as a constitutional lawyer and advocate, my duty has always been to safeguard the rule of law, defend institutions, and promote accountable leadership.
Our nation’s journey demands sober reflection and responsible voices. I believe that leadership must first heal and then build; it must restore faith in governance, protect citizens’ rights, and open opportunity for every community.
In the coming weeks, I will be engaging citizens, students, faith leaders, and professionals in an open dialogue about the Zambia we wish to shape beyond 2026. This conversation is not about partisanship; it is about principles, discipline in public office, equity in economic growth, and unity under the law.
Let us begin that conversation with clarity of purpose, civility in tone, and hope in our collective capacity to build a nation that truly serves its people.
PRESS STATEMENT 23 rd OCTOBER 2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
From the office of Acting PF President/Tonse Chairman, Hon Given Lubinda
To Fellow Tonse Alliance Leaders, Members of Central Committee, PF MPs, Mayors, Council Chaipersons & Councilors, PF Provincial Leadership, PF District Leadership, PF Constituency Officials, PF ward and branch officials.
I Greet you all in the name of our Lord Jesus.
Allow me to remind you that “it’s darkest before dawn”.
As a Christian Nation, we serve a faithful God and hope is on the way for Zambia.
Tomorrow marks our 61st Independence Day of our Republic – a day our forefathers won to mark political liberation from British colonial rule on 24th October, 1964.
Sadly, modern Zambia under the UPND government has witnessed rampant deterioration in terms of democracy and good governance since 2021. For the past four years, our cherished principles of separation of powers as well as rule of law are both politically compromised and practically damaged.
Under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, it is now common knowledge that most of our PF leaders, members and those associated with PF are either in courts, incarcerated and languishing in prisons and their freedoms taken away which our forefathers fought for. The latest incarceration of our PF and Tonse Alliance SG, Hon. Raphael Nakachinda is louder and visible for everyone to see.
Sad enough, tomorrow will be the first independence celebration for Zambia that shall be commemorated by our people without any living Former President following the death of Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu in South Africa on 5th June, 2025. This must make us both sorrowful and morally ashamed.
Make no mistake we are determined and shall continue to stand in solidarity with the Men and women whose freedoms have been taken away by the UPND administration.
We wish to therefore direct all members of the party and Tonse Alliance across the country that tomorrow on independence day as a sign of solidarity for our leaders and in memory of our freedom fighters,let us wear black,it can be a t-shirt,a suit,chitenge, scarf, what ever is black let us put on, in solidarity of our gallant Men and Women languishing in prisons dotted around the country
This must also be done in Memory of our sixth Republican President Mr Edgar Chagws Lungu who we are yet to put to rest.
May God bless you all in anticipation for our 2026 Political Freedom
Hon. Given Lubinda PF Acting Acting President Tonse Alliance Acting Chairman
FORMER KATETE DC BOUGHT MORNING AFTER PILL FOR HIS SEXUALLY ABUSED GRANDDAUGHTER
By Samuel Khwawe
The Katete Magistrate Court has heard how former Katete District Commissioner DC Raphael Phiri sexually abused his 15 years old granddaughter in his house and later traveled to Chipata District to buy morning after pill for her.
This is in a matter Mr. Phiri is facing charges of incest.
In a trial led by Senior state advocate Nchimunya Munkombwe, the granddaughter to the accused has testified that her grandfather facilitated her release from school for a four-day holiday on July 4, 2025 and went to his house where he was alone at the moment.
Around 19:00 hours, the accused took the victim to Pangani Lodge for dinner and returned home around 21:00 hours.
She explains that when she went to sleep in a separate bedroom, her grandfather the accused convinced her to join him in his bedroom where he asked her to takeoff her clothes and later had sex with her.
He thn took her to Chipata District the following morning where he bought her morning-after pill to take.
the court has further heard that when school closed on August 8, 2025, the victim went to stay with the accused, where he were residing with two other cousins.
On August 13, the accused called for the victim around 04:00 hours to join him in his bedroom where he had sex with her.
On August 15, again around 04:00 hours, the accused called the victim to his room where he had sex with her which he repeated on August 19.
The girl then reported the incidents to her cousin on August 22 and then to her elder sister, who resides in Livingstone.
Around 10:00 hours on August 22, the accused sent his driver to pick her up from home and bring her to his office.
While at his office, he told her to stop telling people what had happened.
Later that same day, the police picked the victim and took her to the hospital for a medical examination after her sister reported the matter to the Livingstone Police Station.
The second prosecution witness, the elder sister of the victim, has estified that the accused became the victim’s guardian on February 12, 2024, following the death of the victim’s mother, who was the first-born daughter of the accused.
She has stated that the victim told her she had been sexually abused by the accused, which prompted her to report the matter to the Livingstone Police Station.
Another witness, the deputy headteacher at a named Secondary School, as testified that the accused called her on July 4, 2025, requesting permission for the victim to leave school.
Permission was granted and the victim was picked up by the accused and his driver.
Amos Nyanway, a 25-year-old corrections officer from Travis County, Texas, was arrested and fired after allegedly selling fried chicken wings from Wingstop to an inmate in exchange for money, officials said.
The case surfaced on August 21 during an unrelated investigation by the Sheriff’s Office Security Threat Intelligence Unit. Investigators learned that Nyanway had supplied an inmate with contraband food items in exchange for payment. The “contraband” turned out to be fried chicken wings, according to Fox 7 Austin.
Following the discovery, Nyanway was placed on administrative duty while the Sheriff’s Office conducted an internal investigation. After reviewing the findings, officials terminated him on October 14.
Nyanway, who had been with the department since June 2023, was booked into the Travis County Jail the same day he was fired. He now faces a Class B misdemeanor charge for introducing contraband into a correctional facility.
In Texas, a Class B misdemeanor is punishable by up to six months in jail or a fine of up to $2,000. No other contraband items were reported in the case.
Sheriff Sally Hernandez said she was disappointed by the officer’s “foolish decision,” emphasizing that all employees are expected to uphold strict standards. “We simply cannot tolerate contraband of any type being brought into our secure facilities,” she said.
Authorities are still reviewing the case to determine whether other inmates were involved in the exchange.
Daniel Kellan Mayfield, a former youth pastor in Landrum, South Carolina, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for secretly recording children and women in church bathrooms and showers over several years.
Investigators said Mayfield hid cameras and cell phones in bathrooms and shower areas at Gowensville Baptist Church in Greenville County, where he worked as a youth pastor. Many of the victims were children under 12.
According to WLBT, authorities found more than 5,000 images of child pornography on his phone. Investigators believe Mayfield had been recording victims for three to four years before being caught.
The case began when a family member caught him secretly filming her in the shower. After confronting him, the family found disturbing photos and videos that were later turned over to police.
Mayfield was first arrested on state charges in 2023, which led to more than 150 accusations from other victims. He was later convicted on a federal charge and ordered to serve at least 85 percent of his sentence. He is also required to register as a sex offender.
Officials said his state charges are still pending as the investigation continues. Before his arrest, Mayfield also worked as a wedding videographer.
Trump is demanding that the Department of Justice pay him $230 million in compensation for years of investigations that he says damaged his reputation and career. The probes date back to before his first term and continued after he left the White House. He said he was “damaged very greatly” and would donate any compensation to charity.
According to CNBC, Trump’s claims were filed through an administrative process that could lead to lawsuits. One complaint, submitted in 2023, involves the DOJ’s Russia election interference probe. Another, filed in 2024, accuses the FBI of violating his rights during its 2022 search of Mar-a-Lago for classified documents.
Trump was later charged in Florida for allegedly keeping those records and obstructing efforts to retrieve them. The case was dismissed, and the DOJ dropped its appeal after Trump won the 2024 election and returned to office.
Trump said the amount mentioned “could be” correct and that “they probably owe me a lot of money.” He added that any settlement “would have to go across my desk,” calling it unusual to decide damages in a case where he is both plaintiff and president.
Trump referenced the claims during a recent Oval Office event with Attorney General Pam Bondi, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, and FBI Director Kash Patel. Blanche, who previously served as Trump’s defense lawyer, is among those who may review any potential settlement.
Trump’s legal team said he continues to challenge what they call politically driven investigations. The DOJ declined to comment on his claims but said its officials always follow ethics guidelines in cases involving potential conflicts of interest.
“50 Cent would Never Date a man like him if he was a woman. Like who dates a man that can’t even give his girlfriend $1 unless she gives him $10?”- 50 Cent’s Ex-girlfriend Lameñts
“I am very happy right now after brēakîng up with that stîngy man. When I look at how beautiful I am, I wonder what made me date a man like 50 Cent. 50 Cent feels like he’s a king and women have to beg after him.
There are men out there who would spend all their money just to be with me but I still went for 50 Cent. There are guys who come to my DM and tell me things like I’m so beautiful and they would pay $100k just for a night out with me. And when I tell 50 Cent about it, he’ll be like okay. He won’t even feel intimîdated or ashamed. There was never a day when 50 Cent gave me even $1 for turning down money from a man because of him.
50 Cent even believes a woman doesn’t do him any favor by sleepîng with him. Like how can a man think he shouldn’t pamper me before and after s£x simply cuz we both enjoyed it. To get $1 from 50 Cent, you have to spend like $10 on him then he’ll return the favor.
There are times when I buy expensive jewelry, clothes, and wigs just to look good for 50 Cent but he never compliments me. When I ask him and I’m like: ‘Babe, didn’t you notice anything new?’ He’ll be like: ”I hope that isn’t coming out of my pay cheque? Cuz I don’t have money.”
And I’ll be like WTF. He even knows when a lady wants to ask for money before she asks him. And when you do ask him he’ll say he’s not a Sîmp and he won’t give you anything. Then when you say it’s over, he’ll be like: ”I didn’t know we were dating girl.” 50 Cent has gotta be the stîngîest man alive if not of all time.” ~ JAMIRA
50 Cent was so unbothered about his brēak up with Jamira he has never talked about their relationship anywhere since their brēak up
Sishuwa aware about a list of opposition, civic leaders earmarked for prison before 2026 elections
He writes:
I am aware that there is a list of opposition and civic leaders who will be jailed before the elections, in addition to those already behind bars or six feet under the ground.
Those set to be imprisoned includes Binwell Mpundu, Brebner Changala, Fred M’membe, Kasonde Mwenda, Dan Pule, Chishimba Kambwili (yes, again!), Brian Mundubile, and Given Katuta. One may naively ask: but what offence have they committed? Well, under this administration, the play book is that one need not commit a genuine crime to be sent to jail; offences and their seriousness seem to be decided by those in power.
There then exists a set of regime-friendly magistrates and High Court judges whose job is to convict critics and political opponents of the incumbent president.
The ultimate objective is to ensure that the incumbent president goes into the election without a formidable opposition. This is, from all points of view, most unfortunate.
A day after being jailed, convicted Patriotic Front (PF) faction secretary general Raphael Nakacinda yesterday appeared in court for a hate speech crime he is accused of commiting.
The outspoken politician and businessman was supposed to open his defence but failed to do so on account of ill health related to his voice.
This is in a case Nakacinda is charged with hate speech wherein it is alleged that he expressed or showing hatred, ridicule or contempt for persons because of their race, tribe, place or origin or colour.
Allegations are that between April 18 and 22, 2022, he allegedly uttered hateful words against the Tonga of Southern Province, claims he denied, before the court found him with a case to answer.
When the case resumed for opening defence on Monday, the court heard that Nakacinda was unable to speak due to a vocal code-related ailment.
A defence lawyer informed Lusaka magistrate Idah Phiri that his client is sick, before the case was adjourned
And when it resumed yesterday, defence lawyer Nkula Botha said Nakacinda was still unwell and that he had gone to the hospital to seek medical attention on Monday but the procedure was curtailed.
“The circumstances are beyond our control and we will be praying that the court grants us a very short adjournment, convenient to the court to allow our client to recover,” Mr Botha said.
But senior public prosecutor Michael Nundwe said the state was at pains with the adjournment plea, especially that no document was adduced in court to prove the sickness.
“Legally, such applications are always supported by documentation from qualified medical staff.
“The application is not made in good spirit. We urged the court not to allow this application. We maintain that we proceed to defence,” he said.
But Mr Botha said the accused was on self-medication and that on Monday, he had gone to Midland Hospital to see a physician but that “In the course of him being attended to [by a doctor], he got news that there was an issue of a warrant for his arrest.
“Hence he left in a hurry to hand himself over to the police. And that he will continue to see the doctor from the hospital or clinic within the facility” the lawyer said before the matter was adjourned to next month.
MUNDUBILE SAYS NAKACHINDA’S JAILING A BLOW TO PF AND TONSE ALLIANCE MOBILISATION AHEAD OF 2026 POLLS
By Nelson Zulu
Patriotic Front-PF Member of the Central Committee Brian Mundubile says the upholding of party Secretary General Raphael Nakachinda’s 18-month jail term by the High Court will adversely affect the party’s mobilization ahead of the 2026 general elections
The Lusaka High Court on Tuesday, upheld the conviction and 18-month prison sentence handed down to Mr. Nakacinda for defaming President Hakainde Hichilema in December 2021.
Reacting to this development, Mr. Mundubile has described Mr. Nakacinda’s incarceration as a serious setback for the party, as he is a central figure in organizing opposition efforts to unite parties under the Tonse Alliance and to coordinate PF mobilization ahead of next year’s elections.
Mr. Mundubile who is also Tonse Alliance Parliamentary Affairs Chairperson has accused authorities of selective application of justice, arguing that recent convictions and bail decisions point to uneven treatment of political actors.
He has however assured that necessary measures will be put in place to fill the void ahead of next year’s polls in a united front.
EFF DEMANDS NAKACHINDA JUDGMENT BE SET ASIDE: “REPEALED LAWS CANNOT SILENCE THE ZAMBIAN PEOPLE! – Kasonde Mwenda C EFF President
Date: October 21, 2025
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) condemn, in the strongest terms, the UPND government’s continued hypocrisy and brazen assault on civil liberties, most recently manifested in the imprisonment of opposition Patriotic Front Secretary General, Raphael Nakachinda. The sentence handed down against Nakachinda—under a law that was repealed in December 2022—is an unconscionable stain on Zambia’s democratic credentials and an affront to the foundational values of freedom of speech and justice.
THE HYPOCRISY LAID BARE: UPND’S PATENT DOUBLE STANDARD
The UPND government seeks to justify the incarceration of Nakachinda for this statement: “His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema had summoned Judges at his private residence, intimidating and coercing them to frustrate PF legal battles.” (Nakachinda, December 13, 2021)
Yet, not so long ago, President Hakainde Hichilema, in his days as an opposition leader, voiced similar—if not more severe—criticisms of the ruling government and judiciary:
1. August 2016: “We are deeply concerned about the erosion of judicial independence in Zambia, which threatens the rule of law and democracy. The courts have denied us a fair hearing in our presidential petition.”
2. August 2017: “Persecution through prosecution is what is happening—using the courts to silence political opposition is unacceptable and a violation of fundamental human rights.”
3. May 2017: “The continued adjournment of our case and the denial of bail are clear evidence of how the law is being used as a weapon to punish dissent and undermine democracy in Zambia
4. November 2017: “President Lungu’s statements and actions are an affront to the independence of the judiciary and a dangerous step toward authoritarianism in Zambia.”
5. August 2018: “The government’s manipulation of the courts is glaring for all to see. Justice in Zambia has become subject to the whims of those in power.”
The above statements by Mr. Hichilema, documented by reputable international bodies and local press, are strikingly similar or even more direct than Nakachinda’s. The glaring injustice here is that none of these statements led to prosecution or imprisonment.
The EFF decries this selective use of repealed legislation and the double standard applied to voices in opposition.
HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE GAG ON ZAMBIA’S CITIZENS
The decision to jail Nakachinda, under Section 69 of the Penal Code—a law formally repealed in December 2022—signals the rebirth of repression in our polity. It sends a chilling signal to every Zambian: if you dare speak up, you risk jail time, even under laws no longer recognized by our Parliament. Human rights organizations have warned that this practice is nothing short of a gag order on all Zambians and establishes a precedent that threatens the foundation of free speech and open democratic engagement.
We ask: Is this the Zambia our forebears fought to liberate? Are we to exchange political colonialism for judicial tyranny? The answer must be a resounding “No!”
EFF’S VISION: HUMANITY, MEDIA FREEDOM, AND JUSTICE
The EFF pledges that under our leadership, never again will any Zambian face prosecution or imprisonment for exercising the fundamental right to free expression. We affirm:
– The protection of journalists, whistleblowers, and political commentators who question authority. – The enforcement of freedom of speech, creativity, and civic participation without fear of persecution. – The immediate and unconditional nullification of unjust convictions such as that of Nakachinda—especially when the very law underpinning the prosecution has been annulled by Parliament.
We call upon the UPND government to reflect honestly on its own record and to apply equal standards—past, present, and future. EFF demands that President Hichilema and the current administration take urgent steps to **set aside and discharge this disastrous judgment** and restore full freedom of speech for all Zambians.
The future of Zambia depends on it. Kasonde Mwenda C
Issued by: Kasonde Mwenda C. President THE ECONOMIC FREEDOM FIGHTERS (EFF)
KALABA AND M’MEMBE DEMAND URGENT MEETING WITH ECZ OVER VOTER REGISTRATION CONCERNS
By: Thomas Afroman Mwale
Citizens First and Socialist Party leaders, Harry Kalaba and Fred M’membe respectively, have jointly written to the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) Board Chairperson, Mwangala Zaloumis, requesting an urgent meeting to discuss what they have described as serious concerns regarding the ongoing voter registration process.
In a letter dated 21st October 2025, the opposition leaders emphasized that their initiative aims to promote transparency, fairness, and inclusivity in the electoral process — principles they described as non-negotiable in a democracy.
Meanwhile, ECZ announced the completion of phase two of the voter registration exercise, which ended on Tuesday, 21st October 2025.
ECZ Corporate Affairs Manager, Patricia Luhanga, clarified that voter registration centres operate daily from 08:00 to 17:00 hours, including weekends.
Ms. Luhanga further announced that phase three of the voter registration exercise will run from Thursday, 23rd October to Sunday, 26th October 2025. #SunFmTvNews #SunFmTv
KALABA URGES GOVERNMENT TO STOP MEDIA INTIMIDATION…… saying the only crime KBN TV has committed is to constantly and boldly question the lies and failed promises of the UPND administration.
Lusaka, Oct 23 – We have seen a press statement by the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) advising that the hearing for KBN TV will be next week Thursday, 30th October, 2025.
On this eve of Zambia’s 61st independence anniversary, Citizens First would like to urge the UPND Government to stick to its promises and leave the media, and KBN TV in particular, alone to operate without intimidation.
We are aware that IBA is not acting independently as their name claims, but have been instructed to suspend KBN TV even before the hearing takes place. This goes against UPND’s self praise that they would not close any media like the former regime.
Going into next week’s hearing with instructions from the highest office to pronounce a predetermined verdict before listening to the defence of the media house in question, does not represent the autonomy of IBA, but an institution that has become the latest victim to fall prey to a vicious circle of state capture.
The only crime KBN TV has committed is its professional journalism stance to constantly and boldly question the lies and failed promises of the UPND administration.
We would like to advise the UPND administration that citizens are watching and they should lay their hands off KBN TV and allow the media house to hold them accountable for all the lies and fake promises they told the nation and the injustices they continue to subject the Zambian people to wantonly.
Having read the charges levelled against KBN TV on unsubstantiated claims, and i quote: “During the Programme, the two analysts took turns to comment on the court case of Ms. Maria Zaloumis and her partner, Mr. Nathaniel Barthram. They claimed that Ms. Zaloumis and her husband had their court charge changed from murder to manslaughter because the mother of the accused is a close ally of President Hakainde Hichilema.” end of quote.
From the above it’s not a secret that the current ECZ Chairperson, who is also a long-term UPND sympathiser, had her daughter arrested as a murder suspect and her case was later changed to manslaughter and subsequently given bail while other citizens continue to be denied bail.
Now, IBA should tell the nation how KBN TV’s analysis of these facts during one of its programmes becomes “Non Compliant to Broadcasting Standards,” as stated in the alleged breaches?
We challenge IBA to be transparent and allow live broadcasting of the KBN TV hearing so that the nation can see and hear for themselves that IBA is indeed independent.
FARMERS OWED BY FRA WILL BE PAID AFTER MAIZE EXPORTS TO MALAWI, SAYS MINISTER MTOLO
Minister of Agriculture Reuben Mtolo Phiri has promised to settle all outstanding payments owed to farmers who sold maize to Food Reserve Agency FRA by 31 October once exports funds are secured.
Mr. Phiri after holding high level meeting with a delegation from Malawi the funds would be secured from the proceeds of planned maize exports handled by the Food Reserve Agency (FRA).
He says government is committed to clearing the debts by the end of October.
The pledge comes amid ongoing concerns from farmers about delayed payments.
He emphasized that the government valued the farmers’ role in maintaining national food security and vowed to improve the payment system in future seasons
The announcement was made during a handover ceremony for Constituency Development Fund (CDF) loans, a separate government initiative.
Meanwhile Chief Mnukwa Mazyopa of Chipangali District has urged the President to remove all individuals who are making the life of farmers difficult stating that playing with farmers is threatening for security of the country.
NORAH IN THE TERRACES: UEFA Licence Expired; Must Renew It To Occupy Her Place On Copper Queens Technical Bench
CAF yesterday sent Copper Queens coach Norah Hauptle into the stands after establishing her UEFA Coaching licence had expired.
According to insiders, CAF are strictly enforcing their coaching licence rules on the technical bench. A coach must have a CAF A or its equivalent to sit on the technical bench.
It was established her licence had expired after which she could not be permitted on the technical bench and could therefore only issue her instructions from the stands.
The Swiss coach will have to renew her licence to be permitted on the technical area in the return leg on Sunday.
GRANT EYES RETURN TO ISRAEL AMID MACCABI HAIFA INTEREST
Israel Today reports that that Zambia boss, Avram Gran, was contacted last week by Maccabi Haifa regarding a possible return to the club as head coach.
The 70-year-old Chipolopolo gaffer was among three coaches shortlisted and approached by the Israeli Premier League side before they ultimately opted to appoint Barak Bekar yesterday.
According to Israel Today, Grant who has spent several years coaching abroad intends to return to his native Israel in the near future especially when he leaves Zambia
Grant still has over a year remaining on his contract as Zambia’s national team coach.
Ms Dolika Banda joins the Movement for National Renewal (MNR)!
MEDIA STATEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 23 October 2025
John P. Sangwa SC and Ms. Dolika Banda Unite Under the Movement for National Renewal (MNR) to Champion a People-Driven Zambia
We, **John P. Sangwa SC and Ms. Dolika Banda**, are honoured to announce a new chapter in our shared commitment to building a better Zambia, a Zambia where citizens are not bystanders, but active participants in shaping the future of our nation.
After a period of deep reflection, consultation, and dialogue, we have resolved to work together under the **Movement for National Renewal (“MNR”)**: a people centred movement dedicated to restoring integrity, accountability, and purpose to Zambian public life. This partnership is founded on a shared conviction that Zambia’s future must be reclaimed by its citizens, not as spectators but as active architects of a just, prosperous, and united Republic.
We are united by a profound conviction that Zambia’s renewal must begin with her citizens. We recognise that true transformation will not emerge from our already tired institutions alone, but also from an awakened and empowered citizenry taking responsibility for the nation’s political direction, economic progress, social welfare, and human development. It is time for every Zambian to reclaim both voice and agency in shaping the country’s destiny.
Our collaboration is therefore, not driven by personal ambition or political convenience, but by purpose, principle, and the urgent call for national transformation. Together, we are building a movement anchored in integrity, guided by competence, and sustained by our collective patriotism. We seek to restore honour in leadership, foster inclusive economic opportunity, and build a just and equitable society for all.
Such a renewal demands more than just participation; it calls for a higher standard of national dialogue and leadership, one defined not by credentials or privilege, but by moral courage, sincerity of intention and a selfless devotion to the Republic.
Through the MNR we call upon like-minded Zambians from all walks of life, provinces, and communities, to join us in this national cause for renewal. Our immediate goal is to mobilise **one million supporters by 31 December 2025**, united by conscience, conviction, and a desire to rebuild Zambia on a foundation of truth, transparency, accountability, through the power of the voter’s card.
We firmly believe that when citizens unite around a common purpose, no obstacle is insurmountable. In the coming days, we will host a **joint public engagement** to share more details about this partnership, outline our strategic objectives, roadmap and engage directly with citizens and stakeholders. This will not be a monologue, but a dialogue with the people.
By all intents and purposes, this is more than an alliance; it is **a national awakening**, a solemn call to renewal. It is a summons to every Zambian who believes that our country can rise again: stronger, fairer, recognisable, and united in purpose. The hour for doubt has passed; the moment for courage is upon us.
Together, in faith and determination, we can, and we will build the Zambia we all deserve.
WE WILL USE MUTHARIKA CHARM AS WE PREPARE TO BOUNCE BACK IN 2026 – UNIP
UNITED National Independence Party President, Henry Muyoba, has declared that the party is ready to bounce back in the 2026 general elections and liberate the Zambian people from what he described as economic bondage.
Colonel Muyoba said UNIP will contest the 2026 elections at ward, parliamentary, and presidential levels without forming any alliances, stating that previous alliances have not yielded positive results for the party.
Speaking when he featured on Radio Christian Voice’s Chatback programme in Lusaka today, Col. Muyoba said UNIP draws inspiration from Malawi, where an experienced politician made a political comeback, a scenario he believes can be replicated in Zambia in 2026.
“UNIP has observed that the economy is not in the hands of Zambians, and this is what the party intends to change in 2026,” said Col. Muyoba.
Meanwhile, Col. Muyoba dismissed assertions that UNIP does not embrace young people, saying the party’s structure is dominated by youth, except for a few senior leadership positions.
He has since called on Zambians to rally behind UNIP as it seeks to revive the country’s economic landscape and restore hope for the nation.
DOES THE UPND GOVERNMENT DESERVE ANOTHER FIVE-YEAR TERM?
As Zambia edges closer to the 2026 General Election, one question looms large: Has the United Party for National Development (UPND) delivered enough on its 2021 campaign promises to deserve another five-year mandate?
When the UPND swept to power under President Hakainde Hichilema, it rode on a wave of public optimism and renewed hope. The promises were bold — to restore the rule of law, stabilise the economy, create jobs for the youth, fight corruption, and rebuild public confidence in governance institutions. Four years later, Zambians are beginning to take stock of whether these promises have been fulfilled or remain works in progress.
Economic Stability vs. Cost of Living
There is no denying that the UPND government inherited a fragile economy. Debt levels were unsustainable, inflation was soaring, and investor confidence had plummeted. The government’s success in negotiating a debt restructuring deal with external creditors — including the International Monetary Fund (IMF) — deserves recognition. This was a feat that had eluded previous administrations.
However, despite these macroeconomic gains, the reality for many Zambians remains harsh. The cost of living continues to rise, with prices of mealie meal, fuel, and electricity biting deeper into household incomes. While economic indicators suggest progress, the benefits have yet to reach ordinary citizens. Without a visible improvement in living standards, economic stability risks being dismissed as “statistics without substance.”
Governance and Rule of Law
The UPND promised to restore the rule of law and end political violence — and to some extent, it has. The political atmosphere has cooled, civic freedoms have expanded, and open dissent is now more tolerated than before.
Yet, critics argue that the government has not completely abandoned old habits. Allegations of selective application of justice, especially in cases involving former Patriotic Front officials, have sparked debate. The true measure of the rule of law lies in its impartiality — whether justice is applied equally to both allies and opponents.
Youth Empowerment and Jobs
The youth vote was a decisive force in the 2021 elections. Young people rallied behind the UPND on the promise of jobs and empowerment. The government has since rolled out initiatives such as the expansion of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), recruitment of teachers and health workers, and the creation of small-scale financing programs for entrepreneurs.
However, unemployment and underemployment remain persistent. Many youths feel excluded from meaningful economic participation, while others complain of bureaucratic hurdles and politicisation in accessing empowerment funds. For the UPND to maintain credibility among young voters, it must translate these programs into tangible, broad-based opportunities.
Fighting Corruption and Strengthening Institutions
President Hichilema’s administration has taken a firm public stance against corruption, promising transparency and accountability. Yet, the perception of corruption persists. Many citizens still demand tougher, more impartial action. The government’s anti-corruption drive will only be deemed credible if prosecutions are pursued consistently and without political bias. Moreover, structural weaknesses in procurement and financial management systems must be addressed to prevent future abuse.
Foreign Policy and International Standing
On the global stage, Zambia’s image has improved. President Hichilema’s diplomatic engagements have restored confidence among international partners. The country is once again viewed as a stable and reform-oriented democracy. His participation in global forums has positioned Zambia as a credible voice on issues such as investment, democracy, and climate change.
However, foreign policy success must ultimately translate into domestic dividends — job creation, investment inflows, and improved infrastructure — that ordinary Zambians can experience in their daily lives.
The Verdict: Promise vs. Performance
The UPND government has recorded notable progress in areas such as debt restructuring, governance reforms, and diplomatic re-engagement. Yet, persistent challenges — particularly the high cost of living, slow job creation, and perceptions of selective justice — continue to overshadow its achievements.
As 2026 approaches, the ruling party must go beyond political rhetoric. It must demonstrate measurable improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens. The promises of 2021 were not mere campaign slogans — they were commitments to the people.
The electorate will judge not by the eloquence of speeches, but by the evidence of delivery. In a democracy, performance — not promises — is what earns renewal of trust.
LOW VOTER REGISTRATION TURNOUT AHEAD OF 2026: A REFLECTION ON CIVIC ENLIGHTENMENT
The ongoing voter registration exercise by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), which commenced two weeks ago, has so far recorded a low turnout of eligible citizens across the country. Both the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) and opposition parties have expressed concern over the slow pace, citing several challenges, including the shortage of registration materials in some centres. Stakeholders have also highlighted the ECZ’s inadequate voter education and sensitization efforts as contributing factors.
However, beyond logistical challenges lies a deeper issue—low civic enlightenment among citizens. The subdued enthusiasm towards voter registration reflects a limited public understanding of the importance of participating in democratic governance. A politically aware and engaged electorate is often the product of long-term investment in education and civic awareness. Thus, the current scenario offers an important point of reflection for both the current and past governments on the urgent need to address illiteracy and promote civic education as a foundation for democratic participation.
Ignorance, in many instances, has been weaponized to manipulate public opinion and influence political outcomes. While voter sensitization campaigns remain necessary, true civic enlightenment cannot be achieved through short-term mobilization drives or publicity campaigns alone. It demands sustained efforts in education, access to information, and the cultivation of a culture that values informed participation in governance.
Political parties often boast about mobilizing large numbers of supporters, sometimes even ferrying them in trucks to registration centres. Yet, as history has shown, numerical strength is of little value if the electorate lacks an understanding of the civic responsibility and power that comes with casting a vote. As former PF Secretary General Davies Mwila once claimed before the 2021 elections, numbers may fill rallies and queues—but without enlightenment, their democratic impact remains hollow.
It is therefore imperative that the ECZ swiftly addresses the logistical and operational challenges that have plagued the registration process. More importantly, the Commission, civil society, and government must invest in building a more informed and participatory citizenry.
A free, fair, and credible electoral process is the cornerstone of Zambia’s constitutional democracy. But such a democracy can only thrive when its citizens are both empowered and enlightened to take part meaningfully in shaping their nation’s future.
Should politicians continue to make careless statements that border on hate speech, tribalism, character assassination, and threats to national security—all in the name of politics? Are our politicians, both from the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) and the opposition, exempt from respecting the laws that govern every Zambian citizen?
The truth is simple: politicians are not special citizens. They are bound by the same laws that guide the conduct of every individual in this country. Yet, time and again, we witness a worrying double standard. When ordinary citizens make similar remarks or commit comparable offences, they are swiftly arrested and prosecuted. But when politicians cross the line, they are often shielded by political rhetoric—defended on the grounds that they are merely “playing politics.”
This selective application of the law erodes public trust in our justice system. It sends a dangerous message that political affiliation or influence can serve as a shield against accountability. Such a culture breeds impunity and undermines the very principles of equality, fairness, and justice that underpin our democracy.
Politicians, by virtue of their positions, should be role models. They must lead by example, not by manipulation or provocation. Their words carry weight and can either build or destroy national unity. Irresponsible utterances have the potential to ignite divisions and sow seeds of hatred among citizens who look up to them for leadership.
No one should be above the law. The rule of law must apply uniformly—whether one wears a suit in Parliament or walks the streets of Lusaka. Political privilege must never be mistaken for immunity from accountability.
Being a politician is not a passport to commit crimes. It is a responsibility to serve, unite, and uphold the dignity of public office. Zambia’s democracy can only thrive when those who lead respect the very laws they swore to defend.
Department of immigration confirm the arrest of Chishimba Kambwili
IMMIGRATION ARRESTS CHISHIMBA KAMBWILI
The Department of Immigration wishes to confirm the arrest of Mr. Chishimba Kambwili for contravening Section 16(1) of the Immigration and Deportation Act No. 18 of 2010, which requires any person departing from Zambia to appear before an Immigration Officer for clearance formalities.
Mr. Kambwili unlawfully crossed into Zimbabwe in January 2024 without completing exit procedures at the Chirundu Border Control.
He was subsequently deported from Zimbabwe to Zambia on 8th February 2024. He has since been formally arrested and charged for the said offence.
Namati H. Nshinka (Mr) CHIEF PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
CONSTITUTION COMMITTEE BEGINS PROVINCIAL SITTINGS OCTOBER 27, ENDS NOV 13 2025
THE Technical Committee on Amendments to the Constitution will start its sittings on Monday, October 27, 2025.
The sittings are expected to run until November 13, 2025, after which the final report will be officially handed over on November 26, 2025.
According to the schedule accessed by ZNBC, the sittings will begin with Central, Northern, North Western, Western, and Eastern Provinces from October 27 to October 30, 2025.
The sittings will then proceed to Muchinga, Southern, Copperbelt, and Luapula Provinces from November 3 to November 6, 2025.
The process will conclude with Lusaka Province from November 10 to November 13, 2025.
The final report will be completed on November 16, 2025, and handed over on November 26, 2025.
BINWELL MPUNDU URGES SENIOR POLITICIANS TO MENTOR YOUNG LEADERS
By: Justin Banda
Nkana Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu has expressed concern over the lack of political will to mentor emerging leaders in Zambia.
Speaking on Sun FM TV’s Public Forum, Mr. Mpundu, who also leads the Movement for Good Governance, popularly known as Ichabaice, said senior politicians have failed to adequately prepare the next generation for leadership.
He emphasised the need for older leaders to intentionally pass on their experience and guide young people while there is still time.
Mr. Mpundu acknowledged that only First Republican President Kenneth Kaunda and Sixth Republican President Edgar Lungu made deliberate efforts to appoint young people to leadership roles.
However, he clarified that the movement is not advocating for older politicians to be sidelined. Instead, it promotes a more inclusive approach to leadership — one that allows young people to learn from experience, knowledge, and wisdom #SunFmTvNews
NO, THEY ARE NOT POLITICAL PRISONERS – THEY ARE CONVICTED CRIMINALS
In recent months, a dangerous narrative has been gaining ground in Zambia’s political discourse — the idea that certain individuals facing prosecution or serving jail sentences are “political prisoners” or victims of persecution simply because they once held political office or harbour presidential ambitions. This narrative is not only misleading but also undermines the rule of law and the very foundations of justice in our country.
Let’s be clear: these individuals are not being jailed because they are presidential aspirants — they are being jailed because they committed crimes.
Zambia’s justice system, though imperfect like any other, provides numerous safeguards to ensure fairness. Those accused of crimes enjoy access to competent legal representation, are presumed innocent until proven guilty, and are given the opportunity to appeal their cases through multiple levels of the judiciary — from the Subordinate Court all the way up to the Supreme Court. The individuals in question have had every chance to defend themselves using some of the most experienced lawyers in the country.
When convictions finally occur, they come after protracted legal battles, often stretched over several years. By the time judgment is delivered, the accused have exhausted every legal loophole and technicality that could possibly tilt the case in their favour. Their convictions are not the product of political manipulation, but the outcome of due process — built on evidence, legal argument, and judicial independence.
It is disingenuous and dangerous to portray such individuals as martyrs of democracy when in reality, they are beneficiaries of an extensively fair justice system. Their sentences do not stem from their political ambitions but from their own actions — actions that broke the law. When the courts, after careful consideration, find them guilty beyond reasonable doubt, that verdict must be respected, not politicized.
This culture of shielding powerful figures behind the veil of political persecution must end. Justice should not depend on one’s political status or social standing. Ordinary citizens who commit similar offences face the full weight of the law — so why should politicians be treated differently?
If we continue to romanticize criminality and disguise it as political victimhood, we risk normalizing corruption, abuse of power, and impunity. We risk sending a dangerous message — that one only needs political relevance to escape accountability.
Zambia’s democracy thrives when the rule of law stands above individuals, not when individuals stand above the law. Those convicted have had their day in court — and lost. They are not saints being punished for their ambitions; they are offenders being held accountable for their actions.
Let us stop rewriting criminal records into political fairy tales. Justice is not persecution.
K1.3 BILLION DEBT OWED TO UNZA STAFF THREATENING INSTITUTION’S EXISTENCE
THE University of Zambia Lecturers and Researchers’ Union has revealed that government owes the University of Zambia over k1.3 billion in terminal benefits alone, a debt it says is threatening the institution’s survival.
Addressing the media this morning, UNZALARU President Andrew Phiri says the amount includes unpaid gratuities, pensions, and contributions to statutory bodies dating back as far as 2016.
Mr. Phiri has accused the government of neglecting its funding responsibilities and allowing the university to operate under unbearable pressure.
He says poor and unpredictable funding from the government has led to delayed salaries, non-payment of retirees, and failure to maintain basic infrastructure adding that lecture theatres, laboratories, and sanitation facilities are in a bad condition.
Meanwhile, Mr. Phiri has disclosed that the Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board owes the university around K100 million in unpaid fees from the government sponsored students who have already completed their academic year.
He says the union has since issued a deadline of 31st December 2025 for its demands to be met, warning that failure to resolve the crisis may lead to a protest.
