ECZ REGISTERS 200,080 VOTERS IN PHASE ONE OF MASS REGISTRATION
THE Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has announced that a total of 200,080 voters have been registered as of October 16, 2025, under Phase One of the mass voter registration exercise.
ECZ Chief Electoral Officer, Brown Kasaro, said out of the total registered voters, 95,907 are new voters, comprising 43,987 males and 51,920 females.
Mr. Kasaro disclosed that the Copperbelt Province recorded the highest number of new voters at 16,550, followed by Luapula Province with 14,106, while Muchinga Province registered the lowest number at 3,990.
He further revealed that the Commission has published detailed deployment plans indicating registration centres open in each phase to help members of the public easily identify where and when voter registration is taking place.
“All districts have been directed to share these deployment plans widely through council platforms, churches, markets, and other strategic community spaces,” said Mr. Kasaro in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
Mr. Kasaro added that this approach aims to ensure that even citizens in remote communities can access timely information on voter registration centres and schedules.
He also announced that the Commission has distributed over 2,000 voter registration kits and generator sets across the country to support the ongoing exercise.
Mr. Kasaro emphasised that this equipment is essential to ensure smooth registration, especially in areas with limited or no access to electricity.
‘It’s a political trap,’ Civil societies drag Hichilema over alleged restrictive Terms of Reference for constitution review
By AUGUSTINE SICHULA
A coalition of ten civil society organizations has expressed strong reservations over the Terms of Reference (TORs) issued by the Secretary to the Cabinet for the Technical Committee tasked with drafting constitutional amendments.
Acting consortium Chairperson, Solomon Ngoma, said the TORs deviate from President Hakainde Hichilema’s earlier commitment to a broad-based and people-driven constitutional review process.
Ngoma, in a statement issued in Lusaka on Tuesday, stated that in both “substance and intent,” the TORs represent a repackaged version of the controversial Bill 7.
“Rather than embodying the spirit of an open, people-driven reform process, they reflect a narrow and restrictive approach that risks undermining public confidence in this critical national undertaking,” he said.
He added that while some elements of Bill 7 raised legitimate constitutional issues worthy of review, the consortium had opposed the framing of certain provisions for their undemocratic nature.
“We are deeply concerned that Government has imposed restrictive TORs that limit the Committee’s scope and appear to preclude the introduction of other necessary constitutional reforms in the final Bill,” Ngoma stated.
He said the current TORs appear designed to facilitate short-term political changes rather than enduring constitutional improvements, warning that the approach risks reducing the Technical Committee to “an executor of a pre-determined agenda rather than an impartial facilitator of a genuine constitutional amendment process.”
Ngoma further emphasized that a credible constitutional reform process must “go beyond selective political adjustments” and instead address long-standing national priorities such as the separation of powers, judicial independence, and stronger governance institutions — issues on which Zambians have “consistently expressed consensus.”
He also raised concern over the absence of a clear and transparent timeframe for the review process, describing the omission as one that “undermines legitimacy and erodes public trust.”
“The Zambian people deserve a transparent, predictable roadmap for constitutional reform and not an ambiguous process,” he said.
Ngoma appealed to President Hichilema to revise the TORs to allow broader public and institutional input and ensure that citizen and stakeholder submissions are reflected in the final draft Bill.
He urged members of the Technical Committee to reflect deeply on their constitutional duty and seek “a broader, legitimate mandate before commencing their work.”
Ngoma also called on the Secretary to the Cabinet to release a clear timeline for the review process consistent with the consortium’s earlier recommendation for a phased two-year approach, and to “establish an inclusive framework for public consultation that reaches citizens at all levels, not merely a privileged few.”
Similarly, former Kasenengwa Constituency lawmaker Sensio Banda described the TORs for the Technical Committee on Amendments to the Constitution of Zambia, 2025, as “a political trap” rather than a plan for genuine reform.
Banda said the TORs were designed to give the ruling UPND’s agenda the false appearance of a people-driven process.
“The structural flaws in the TOR clearly show an intent to manage the outcome, not to truly listen to the people’s will. This exercise isn’t about consultation; it’s about control. The Committee has been set up as a mere rubber stamp for the Executive’s wishes,” he said.
He noted that the most worrying feature of the TORs was Item 2.3, which instructs the Committee to “draft proposed constitutional amendments and provide justifications for each proposal.”
“The Committee’s true role is not to report on public consensus but to produce a draft bill that gives partisan proposals a technical look of neutrality,” he said.
Banda added that Item 3 of the TORs, which lists subject areas such as the term of Members of Parliament and Ministers, nominated MPs, and by-elections, reflected “areas of direct and critical concern to the governing political structure.”
Meanwhile, Alliance for Community Action Executive Director, Laura Miti, wrote on her Facebook page on October 21, 2025:
“The President should have said — I will set up a Technical Committee to receive submissions on Bill 7. That is what I want to amend so I will let the people make submissions on it.
“Nothing stopped him from telling us the truth.
“Instead, he waxed lyrical about consulting the country on the Constitution.
Then, his people locked the ToRs to only Bill 7, preventing any submissions about what matters to anyone else. That is disrespecting citizens..
PRESIDENT HICHILEMA COMMISSIONS $110 MILLION GLUCOSE AND STARCH PLANT, HAILS INDUSTRIAL MILESTONE
Lusaka, Tuesday, October 21, 2025
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has officially commissioned Zambia’s first Glucose and Starch Plant under Kingsworth Group Limited (KGL), a subsidiary of Trade Kings Group, describing the project as a landmark achievement in Zambia’s industrialization and economic transformation journey.
The commissioning ceremony, held at the Lusaka Multi-Facility Economic Zone, marks another major step toward value addition, job creation, and reducing the country’s dependence on imports.
President Hichilema said the US$110 million facility demonstrates Zambia’s shift from a consumption-driven to a production and export-oriented economy, adding that such investments are critical to sustainable growth.
“This is a national milestone in our quest for industrialisation and value addition to our economic growth. We are matching the talk with action, walking the talk. The significance of this plant cannot be overemphasised,” President Hichilema said.
The Head of State commended Trade Kings Group for its confidence in the Zambian economy, noting that the company’s total investment in the industrial sector now exceeds US$1 billion, supporting over 17,500 jobs nationwide.
“Seventeen thousand five hundred jobs is a remarkable achievement. Even single mining companies do not employ such numbers,” President Hichilema said, highlighting the positive impact of the government’s strong collaboration with the private sector.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining a stable and attractive investment climate, explaining that government is working closely with private enterprises to stabilise inflation, sustain a predictable exchange rate, and continuously lower the cost of doing business.
The President also emphasized the importance of removing bureaucratic barriers that slow down investment, saying long-term employment growth must come from a thriving private sector.
“The more than US$30 million in annual import savings and up to US$150 million in export potential from this investment will help stabilise the exchange rate and strengthen our economy,” he said.
President Hichilema further lauded Trade Kings’ ongoing expansion projects, including Dairy Gold Limited’s US$30 million dairy processing plant, which adds to the US$50 million already invested in the dairy sector.
He also announced plans to commission the Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia plant in Kafue later this week, describing it as another milestone in the country’s industrial resurgence.
Trade Kings Group Executive Director for Corporate Affairs, Mr. Phil Daka, hailed the new KGL plant as a defining milestone in Zambia’s pursuit of economic self-reliance.
“Today we celebrate not just a facility, but an idea whose time has come. This US$110 million investment, US$60 million completed under phase one and US$50 million for phase two, positions Zambia as the third producer of glucose and starch in Africa, after Egypt and South Africa. It will create over 1,000 direct jobs and source 126,000 tonnes of maize annually from local farmers,” Mr. Daka said.
The plant will produce starch, glucose, maltodextrin, and animal feed by-products, essential for the food, beverage, and manufacturing industries, while boosting foreign exchange earnings and strengthening Zambia’s agricultural value chain.
Mr. Daka said the project exemplifies the success of public-private collaboration, crediting President Hichilema’s leadership and enabling policies.
“Trade Kings proudly aligns with the President’s vision to move Zambia from consumption to production and from imports to exports. The MFEZ incentives have made this possible, proving that good industrial policy drives sustainable investment,” he said.
Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister Chipoka Mulenga described the event as another great day for Zambia, saying the country’s industrial sector is being revived under the New Dawn administration.
“A few years ago, industries were closing and the economy was declining. Today, we are witnessing the birth of new industries and jobs. Zambia has now established the third-largest glucose and starch plant in the region,” Mr. Mulenga said.
The commissioning of the KGL plant comes just days before Zambia’s 61st Independence Anniversary, which President Hichilema notes symbolises a new era of true economic independence, one rooted in production, innovation, and sustainable prosperity.
It didn’t take long for some of President Donald Trump’s most vocal supporters to start publicly distancing themselves from him. Over the past several months, a growing number of conservatives who once fiercely defended the former president have either criticized his policies or outright denounced his leadership. Their shift is sending shockwaves through the GOP and raising questions about how fractured the party may become heading into the next election.
From Georgia firebrand Marjorie Taylor Greene to tech mogul Elon Musk, these influential figures are not staying silent anymore. As Trump’s approval numbers continue to fall, their criticism is growing louder. Here’s a closer look at 12 MAGA loyalists who have now turned their backs on Trump:
1 – Marjorie Taylor Greene
Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has long been one of Trump’s most outspoken allies. But lately, her tone has changed. She’s criticized the former president’s handling of the Epstein files and slammed Republican men as “weak.” Greene also took aim at the GOP’s “Big, Beautiful Bill” Act. While she still considers herself part of the MAGA movement, many in her own party have begun to question her loyalty.
2 – Joe Rogan
Podcaster Joe Rogan once used his massive platform to help energize young conservative voters for Trump. But recently, Rogan admitted he regretted voting for him after criticizing the president’s use of the National Guard on U.S. cities. “That can’t be the only way to do this,” Rogan said on his show, condemning Trump’s deportation tactics and calling the images “horrific.”
3 – Candace Owens
Conservative commentator Candace Owens made waves in June when she called Trump “a chronic disappointment” following his alliance with Israel. After the assassination of her friend Charlie Kirk, Owens accused the administration of “playing games” with the truth and vowed to expose what she believes is a cover-up surrounding the Epstein files.
4 – Lauren Boebert
Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert has also broken ranks with Trump over the Epstein files. On “The Benny Show,” she called for a special investigation and criticized the administration for withholding information. Her demand for answers has not gone unnoticed by Trump loyalists, who now see her as drifting away from the MAGA core.
5 – Elon Musk
The tech billionaire and former DOGE director Elon Musk shocked the world when he launched a public tirade against Trump. Musk accused the president of mishandling legislation and suggested Trump’s name might even be tied to the Epstein files. Musk then announced plans to start his own political movement, calling it the “America Party.”
6 – Andrew Schulz
Podcaster Andrew Schulz, once a reliable MAGA voice, now praises Democratic socialists and criticizes Trump’s failure to live up to his promises. “Lying to Americans is not ‘America First,’” Schulz said, calling out Trump on his own platform.
7 – Rand Paul
Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul has been clear about his issues with Trump’s spending. He stood firm in voting against the “Big, Beautiful Bill” Act, warning that it would add $4 trillion to the national debt. After Trump blasted him on Truth Social, Paul didn’t back down, reinforcing his opposition to Trump’s fiscal policies.
8 – Tucker Carlson
Tucker Carlson’s shift away from Trump has been impossible to ignore. The commentator criticized Trump’s handling of the Iranian war, labeled his administration “corrupt,” and condemned its lack of transparency. He’s also warned that Trump’s policies could trigger civil disobedience if free speech rights are targeted.
9 – Johyn F. Kell
Former Secretary of Homeland Security and U.S. Marine Corps general John F. Kelly has openly called Trump’s leadership “dictatorial” and “fascist.” His warning to Americans last year remains one of the sharpest rebukes from someone who once served in Trump’s inner circle.
10 – Dave Smith
Podcaster Dave Smith spent most of 2024 campaigning for Trump. But now, he’s apologizing to his audience for supporting him. “It was a bad calculation,” he said, calling Trump’s recent actions “a betrayal of everything he ran on” and urging his former supporters to turn away from him.
11 – Nikki Haley
Former UN ambassador Nikki Haley has openly clashed with Trump over the Epstein files, calling for full transparency. “Release the Epstein files and let the chips fall where they may,” she posted on X. Haley’s public pushback highlights growing fractures between Trump and high-profile Republican figures.
12 – Roseanne Barr
Comedian Roseanne Barr, a longtime MAGA supporter, has also had enough. She criticized Trump for refusing to release the Epstein files, telling him to “read the damn room.” Barr also blasted the administration’s attempt to pressure TV networks to silence critics — a move she said mirrored the censorship MAGA used to condemn.
Luundu Mwanakasale, a Zambian woman who was left paralyzed after a tragic road accident in December 2014, has shared how her life changed dramatically just days before her planned wedding.
At the time, Luundu was a 24-year-old teaching student engaged to be married and was on her way to Livingstone to try on her wedding dress when the accident happened.
Her fiancé was the one driving the vehicle, and as they reached Monze, the car overturned, resulting in a serious crash.
While her fiancé escaped the accident unscathed, Luundu sustained a severe spinal injury that left her paralyzed from the waist down and led to the loss of her five-month pregnancy.
Doctors informed her that she would never walk again, and she was confined to a wheelchair—a devastating blow that came just a month before her wedding day.
Luundu spent nearly three months in the hospital, during which her fiancé remained in contact and pretended to support her through the ordeal.
Though they continued dating for three more years after the accident, she was unaware that he had found another woman and was secretly planning a wedding.
Just four days before his wedding, Luundu learned through a friend that her fiancé was about to marry someone else simply because she could no longer walk.
Heartbroken and betrayed, she tried calling him for answers, but he ignored her calls and only contacted her three weeks after his wedding—only to ask about her bank account so he could send money for her medical bills.
The emotional shock pushed Luundu into a deep depression, and she dropped out of college during her second year, unsure of her future and overwhelmed by grief.
To cope, she turned to baking as a therapeutic outlet, slowly regaining her strength and beginning the journey toward emotional healing.
In 2021, determined not to let her disability or heartbreak define her, Luundu re-enrolled in college at Chreso University, where she pursued and completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Education with distinction.
Now 35 years old, Luundu is happily engaged again—to a man who truly values her for who she is, and who, as she says, “saw beyond the wheelchair.”
President Trump is considering a major overhaul of the U.S. refugee system that would prioritize white applicants and English speakers while cutting overall admissions. Internal documents show the plan could reshape how America accepts refugees in the coming years.
The proposals, drafted by the State and Homeland Security Departments, recommend prioritizing Europeans, including white South Africans, and individuals who oppose mass migration. These changes reflect Trump’s long-held goal of tightening both legal and illegal immigration.
According to The New York Times, officials said the proposals are still under review, but parts of the plan are already being enforced. The administration has lowered the refugee cap and begun giving special consideration to Afrikaners, South Africa’s white minority group.
Trump has argued that white South Africans face racial persecution, a claim denied by South African authorities. Police statistics indicate that white citizens are not more likely to be victims of violent crime than other racial groups.
If fully implemented, the new refugee policy would assess applicants based on how well they could assimilate into American culture. They would be required to take lessons on U.S. history, values, and respect for cultural norms. The documents also propose limiting refugee placements in areas with large immigrant populations to reduce what they describe as “the concentration of non-native citizens.”
One report supporting the plan claims that increased diversity has weakened social trust in the U.S. It recommends admitting only refugees who can “fully assimilate” and align with the administration’s objectives. The proposal could also cancel hundreds of thousands of pending refugee applications already in the system.
Another major change would shift authority from the United Nations to U.S. embassies to decide who qualifies as a refugee. This move would give Washington more control over which applicants are approved.
Critics say the plan exposes an effort to make the refugee system favor white and Christian applicants. The Trump administration, however, insists that the goal is to prioritize the nation’s interests and ensure that newcomers align with American culture and values.
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has revealed why he turned down the chance to replace Sir Alex Ferguson as Manchester United manager in 2013.
Speaking on The Diary of a CEO podcast, Klopp said that while Manchester United were interested in him when he was coaching Borussia Dortmund, he didn’t feel it was the right time — or the right project.
Then, two years later, he ended up moving to England and joining Liverpool, where he made history over the next nine years.
Revealing he once had an opportunity to join United instead, Klopp said: ‘In the year when Sir Alex retired, they spoke to me. Of course, they were interested at one point. At that time, I would have been interested, I was young — I had a sensational team at Dortmund. They probably thought, “What is he doing there?”
‘Later on I heard that my players — James Milner and Adam Lallana — they flew to Real Madrid when we (Dortmund) had a semi-final there in the Champions League just to watch us play. “What is Dortmund doing? What football that is”. I mean, you cannot get a bigger compliment.
‘United tried (to approach me). It was wrong time, wrong moment. I had a contract at Dortmund and wouldn’t have left for anybody. They wanted a new manager and I was one of a few options I think.’
Asked if he turned Manchester United down rather than the other way around, Klopp replied ‘yes’ before adding: ‘There were some things in the conversations that I didn’t like. The idea was that big — “We get all the players we want, we get him, we get him” — and I was sitting there thinking this is not my project. It was the wrong time but on top of that it was not my project.’
In the years following Ferguson’s departure, United splashed out on a sea of high-profile stars who struggled to perform at Old Trafford, including the likes of Angel Di Maria, Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez.
The Red Devils also weren’t afraid to bring back superstars they once sold, with Paul Pogba returning for a huge £89m in 2016 and Cristiano Ronaldo agreeing to a second stint at Old Trafford in 2021.
Insisting he would not have wanted to sign these players were he manager of United, Klopp said: ‘I didn’t want to bring back Pogba, he was a sensational player but these things don’t work usually. Or Cristiano, we all know he’s the best player, together with (Lionel) Messi, in the world but bringing back never helps.
‘In 2013, it was not about Cristiano, maybe about Paul, I’m not even sure, but the idea is we bring the best players together and then let’s go.’ Interjecting, Barlett said: ‘So, it wasn’t about the football?’
‘Not at all,’ Klopp said. ‘And that’s not for me. Then, a pure football project comes up with Liverpool. And a sensational talk with Mike Gordon. That was really important as well. After that talk, I wanted to be his friend. He’s such a good guy.’
Bartlett, a Manchester United fan, went on to ask Klopp why Liverpool’s bitter rivals have struggled so much since Ferguson’s exit – a question which prompted guffaws of laughter from the German boss.
‘I didn’t think for a second since I joined Liverpool about what Man United did right or wrong. At that moment, I buy into Liverpool and you become our “opponent”, one that is more fun to beat than others. With Everton, I know so many Everton fans in Liverpool, I lived their for nine years, great people. But then you go to the game and it’s something different. I don’t make that up, it’s like that.
‘Always in football, like in life, you have a problem and you only try to find a solution for now knowing you have another problem two days later. But just find a solution for that problem – there’s no point looking to the mid or long-term.
‘At United, we deal with it for a year or two and then we can make a big step. Because you’re in such a rush because you want or have to win the next game. When (United) were not happy, they would buy the time.’
European Union countries have agreed to completely phase out gas imports from Russia by the end of 2027, marking a major step toward ending the bloc’s long-standing energy dependence on Moscow despite the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Energy ministers from the 27 member states met in Luxembourg on Monday, October 20, where they approved a European Commission plan to end both pipeline and liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports from Russia. The proposal will still need to be endorsed by the European Parliament.
Lars Aagaard, Denmark’s energy minister and current holder of the EU’s rotating presidency, described the decision as “crucial” for Europe’s long-term energy security. “Although we have worked hard and pushed to get Russian gas and oil out of Europe in recent years, we are not there yet,” he said.
The move forms part of a wider EU strategy to cut Russian energy ties and reduce the Kremlin’s revenue streams. In a parallel effort, the Commission is also pushing for LNG imports to be halted a year earlier, by January 2027, as part of a new sanctions package designed to weaken Moscow’s ability to finance its war in Ukraine.
Unlike sanctions, which require unanimous approval, Monday’s trade restriction measure needed only a weighted majority, at least 15 member states representing 65 percent of the EU population, to pass. Only Hungary and Slovakia voted against the plan, citing energy security concerns.
Hungary’s foreign minister, Peter Szijjarto, said, “The real impact of this regulation is that our safe supply of energy in Hungary is going to be killed.” Budapest insists that, as a landlocked nation, it has no viable alternative but to continue importing Russian gas.
Under the new framework, no new contracts for Russian gas imports will be permitted from January 1, 2026. Existing contracts will be phased out, with short-term deals allowed until June 17, 2027, and long-term contracts until January 1, 2028.
Although the EU has significantly reduced its reliance on Russian pipeline gas since the invasion of Ukraine, several member states have continued to import LNG shipped by sea. Russian gas still accounts for roughly 13 percent of EU imports in 2025, valued at more than €15 billion annually, according to data from Brussels.
The older brother of actress Regina Daniels has denied claims that she engages in drug use.
Recall that on Sunday, October 19. Senator Ned Nwoko released a statement on his IG page claiming that the root cause of his problem with Regina is drug abuse. He denied the allegations of domestic violence and also accused Regina’s brother of also being her drug supplier.
In a post shared on his IG page this afternoon, the older brother denied the allegation. Read his post below
American rapper, YBezzy, known for his hit “No Trust,” just got hit with a betrayal that’s got everyone talking.
After buying her a 6-bedroom house and paying all the bills, she still cheated on him with some random dude.
YBezzy shared the incident on his Instagram. He posted a video of them which was captured by the ring cam.
According to him, he returned early from tour. The reason behind his early return is undisclosed. He added that he had also lost his key to the house.
YBezzy started knocking at the door and luckily his girlfriend opened up, but he was in for a whole new surprise and emotional turmoil.
The girlfriend was hesitant about letting him in the house and even stood in his way to prevent him. Suddenly, another guy in a black hoodie came out of the house.
he footage shows the rapper standing there with his girlfriend and her lover for a moment before he took his leave without any confrontation.
“I looked at her and said, ‘So this what we doing?’ Told her I’m done. I’ll be back to get all her stuff out my place,” he wrote in the caption.
In a later post, he posted a chat between himself and the lady where she threatened to sue him for defamation.
From the chat, it was clear that YBezzy has evicted her out of his house and they are no longer together.
The video has sparked conversation all over Instagram and other media platforms with most people criticizing the girlfriend.
Virginia Giuffre, a prominent accuser in the Jeffrey Epstein sex-trafficking case, wrote in her posthumous memoir that she feared she might “die a sex slave” at the hands of Epstein and his powerful associates.
The memoir, titled “Nobody’s Girl” and set for publication on Tuesday, October 21, contains harrowing details of the abuse Giuffre allegedly suffered as a teenager.
The BBC, which obtained an advance copy, reported Giuffre’s account of the sex-trafficking ring: “In my years with them, they lent me out to scores of wealthy, powerful people. I was habitually used and humiliated – and in some instances, choked, beaten, and bloodied.”
Virginia Giuffre feared she would ?die a s3x slave? in Jeffrey Epstein?s circle, Posthumous memoir reveals
The book’s release is expected to intensify the transatlantic scandal concerning the proximity of the rich and powerful to Epstein, particularly heaping fresh scrutiny on the British royal family.
The memoir will likely deepen the disgrace of Prince Andrew, who Giuffre accused of sexually assaulting her on three occasions when she was a teenager. Andrew, who vehemently denies the accusations, last week relinquished the use of his royal titles, including the Duke of York, but retains the title of prince.
Among the most damaging new revelations is Giuffre’s claim that Prince Andrew’s “team” attempted to hire online “trolls” to harass her around the time she filed a civil case against him in New York.
Writing about the 2022 settlement with Andrew, Giuffre stated: “After casting doubt on my credibility for so long – Prince Andrew’s team had even gone so far as to try to hire internet trolls to hassle me – the Duke of York owed me a meaningful apology as well.”
This allegation follows a report by the Mail on Sunday that Andrew in 2011 asked a police bodyguard to gather damaging information on Giuffre, a report which the Metropolitan Police confirmed it was “actively looking into.”
Further contradicting the Prince’s public statements, newly unearthed emails published by the Mail on Sunday suggest Andrew maintained contact with Epstein in February 2011, two months after he claimed he had broken off their friendship. In one email, Andrew reportedly wrote to Epstein: “It would seem we are in this together and will have to rise above it. Otherwise keep in close touch and we’ll play some more soon!!!!”
American rappers Snoop Dogg and Ice Cube have been sued for $1.3 million in a lawsuit by a company, Westside Merchandise, alleging fraud, which the pair adamantly deny.
The 53-year-old Snoop Dogg and 56-year-old Ice Cube filed court documents in August asking a judge to rule they did not have to appear for a deposition scheduled for October.
According to lawyers for the rappers, the request to depose them as part of the lawsuit was “harassing, oppressive, and burdensome,” especially for such “high-profile individuals who keep busy schedules with firm commitments.” Their attorneys also claimed the pair did not have anything “substantive” to provide were they to show up for the deposition in the first place.
The rappers said in court documents that they told Westside Merchandise they could speak to their associate Tony Draper, but the company refused until the duo sat for depositions. This, their lawyers assert, is a “clear tactic” to “force” a settlement.
Snoop and Ice Cube said that if the court did order them to appear, they requested permission to testify virtually and that the deposition be limited to two hours. Snoop has said he was shooting a movie and would not be available until October 21, while Ice Cube said he was in Florida handling his Big3 basketball league, and was also getting ready to tour.
Westside Merchandise filed court documents in September opposing the rappers’ request not to be deposed.
The company claimed it had been “extremely cooperative” with the musicians’ legal team in attempting to schedule the depositions. Ultimately, the company demanded that the court sanction Snoop and Ice Cube by ordering them to pay $11,000 in fees for dragging out the case. Notably, a judge has not yet ruled on the matter.
The case started in November last year, when Westside Merchandising sued a group of rappers, including Snoop, Ice Cube, E-40, Too Short, and Mount Westmore LLC for breach of contract, fraud, conversion, and other claims. Mount Westmore is a supergroup consisting of the aforementioned musicians, who have worked together for years. Their debut album was released in 2022.
According to the merchandising company, it entered into a deal with the rapper in 2022 as the exclusive vendor for Mount Westmore merch. The lawsuit says the company provided the rappers with certain advances and royalties based on the promise that the group would go on a 60-date tour in America and Europe.
Westside Merchandising also says it was promised that Snoop and Ice Cube would “publicize and promote the agreement by producing a promotional video” and by appearing at a retail location of Westside’s choosing—but none of these things happened, the company asserts.
“In fact, the only appearance Defendants made was [at] a VIP meet and greet event at which Snoop Dogg appeared to sell his own merchandise,” Westside’s lawyers said.
The merch company said it paid the rappers $1.375 million after the contract was finalized, but the musicians ultimately bailed on their contractual obligations.
However, Snoop, Ice Cube, and the other rappers argued that the company failed to provide enough evidence to back up certain claims in its case. For one thing, Too Short and E-40 said they weren’t even involved in the initial agreement.
“[Defendants] have always conducted their business in good faith and with integrity,” said Frank Seddigh, a lawyer for the rappers. “Despite multiple attempts to resolve this matter amicably, Westside Merchandising has refused to cooperate or engage in good-faith discussions.”
Meanwhile, John Fowler, an attorney for Westside, said: “Defendants in this case are trying to hide from having their depositions taken because they are scared of answering difficult questions relating to their swindle.”
Shacole Fox, an African American woman from Cincinnati, Ohio, chose an unexpected person to walk her down the aisle — her 79-year-old landlord, Gil Pulliam. The two formed a bond that turned into a father-daughter connection on her wedding day.
Fox, a makeup artist, rents her studio space from Pulliam, who’s known for his no-nonsense attitude but warm heart. Over time, they built a close bond based on mutual respect. Though not related by blood, Pulliam became someone Fox could trust and rely on.
Having grown up without her father, Fox thought she had made peace with that absence. But as her wedding approached, she began to feel the weight of it. “When I thought about who would walk me down the aisle, trying to figure out what that looks like, the thought of it was like… surprisingly painful,” she told CBS News.
Pulliam already knew about her family situation and sensed how she felt. Without hesitation, he offered to walk her down the aisle. Fox was moved by the gesture and instantly agreed, grateful for the kindness that filled an emotional gap in her life.
On the wedding day, both shared a heartfelt moment that neither will forget. “The music is playing — and I’m getting ready to walk down the aisle — and he grabbed my hand so tight,” Fox said. “And it was a really good feeling… Yeah, it still is. Like a wound had been healed in my heart.”
Now married to her husband, Victor, Fox says she gained more than just a partner that day. She also found the father figure she never had — one who stepped up, supported her, and proudly stood by her side.
Information reaching this publication indicates that Police in Blantyre have arrested three police officers and two Pakistani nationals in connection with the theft of K143 million from a money changer, Yasin Patel.
The arrested police officers have been identified as Leonard Poya, Pemphero Kachipapa, and Fabiano Phillip. The Pakistani nationals are Nouman Khan and Faraz Khan.
According to police, the Pakistani nationals allegedly contacted their friend, a money changer, claiming someone had US dollars to sell. However, when they arrived to exchange the money, the police officers appeared, stole the cash from Patel, and the two Pakistani nationals fled the scene.
Police say they are still searching for a fourth officer, John Bokosi, who is currently on the run.
Face of Malawi will keep you updated on this matter…
SOUTH AFRICA: A quiet community has been left reeling after the tragic deaths of two sisters, allegedly killed by a man identified as Pitsi Malepe.
Malepe is accused of murdering his wife and her younger sister in their home following a heated argument over the weekend.
Neighbours reported hearing shouting from the house before the gruesome discovery of the two bodies.
Shockingly, after the alleged killings, Malepe posted a chilling message on Facebook that read: “Rest in Peace my love, these are the works of your mother.”
The disturbing post quickly went viral, sparking outrage and heartbreak across social media.
Residents revealed the couple had been having marital issues for some time, but no one anticipated such a violent outcome.
A neighbour said the victims were kind and did not deserve to die in such a horrific manner.
Police have confirmed an active investigation is underway, with the suspect reportedly fleeing the scene after the incident.
Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that could lead to Malepe’s arrest.
Women’s rights groups have condemned the killings, calling for urgent action to combat gender-based violence.
Trust may be vital for every form of relationship but with it comes betrayal when things don’t go as planned.
A Nigerian social media influencer is already regretting her marriage just 4 months after discovering what her husband and best friend have been up to behind her back.
Nigerian Snapchat influencer, Nicole, was dumbfounded and heartbroken when she found videos of her husband and her best friend who doubled as her bridesmaid together.
In a couple of videos released by Nicole on her WhatsApp status, the pair have been having lots of fun.
Elohor, Nicole’s long-time best friend even accompanied the couple to their honeymoon because of the love she has for her.
Reports indicate that they were doing it before the they got married and even had some serious sessions while at the honeymoon.
According to Nicole, her husband has always been bad-mouthing Elohor, calling her “Olosho” and claiming she smells but it was just for cover up.
Since the release of the video, social media has been buzzing and people are asking if it’s even safe to trust someone you’ve known for years.
THE TOILET SEAT DIDN’T DO IT: BUSTING THE BIGGEST UTI MYTH
For generations, a persistent myth has circulated in whispered conversations and casual advice: that women contract urinary tract infections (UTIs) from sitting on public toilet seats. It is a belief so widespread that many women hover uncomfortably above the seat, convinced they are protecting themselves from infection. But here is the truth: UTIs are not caused by toilet seats.
The truth is that majority of UTIs are caused by bacteria, most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli), that live in the digestive tract and sometimes spread to the urinary system. These bacteria typically enter the urethra and travel upward, leading to infection. The toilet seat, by contrast, is an unlikely culprit. In fact, the skin is an excellent barrier against germs, and the conditions required for bacteria to move from a seat into the urinary tract simply do not exist.
So why does this myth endure? Perhaps because UTIs are so common, about 40% of women will experience at least one in their lifetime, and people naturally seek a visible, external cause. Public toilets, often perceived as unhygienic, become an easy scapegoat. But the real risk factors lie elsewhere and these include:
1. Sexual activity, which can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
2. Improper wiping habits (back-to-front instead of front-to-back).
3. Holding urine for too long, which allows bacteria to multiply.
4. Hormonal changes, especially after menopause, which can alter the urinary tract’s natural defenses.
This is not to say hygiene is unimportant. Washing hands, staying hydrated, and urinating after sexual intercourse are all effective preventive measures. But hovering over a toilet seat or avoiding public restrooms altogether does little to protect against UTIs, and may even cause unnecessary discomfort or bladder strain.
The danger of clinging to the toilet seat myth is twofold. First, it distracts from the real causes and preventive strategies. Second, it fuels stigma, making women feel embarrassed about a condition that is both common and treatable. UTIs are medical issues, not moral failings or hygiene lapses.
The next time someone warns you about “catching something” from a toilet seat, remember: the real threat is not where you sit, but how bacteria find their way into the urinary tract. Let’s flush away the myths and focus on science.
Bottom line: UTIs are caused by bacteria, not toilet seats. Dispelling this misconception empowers women to take the right preventive steps and seek treatment without shame. You have heard.
“Go and learn how to talk like a leader.” Former NFF President Amaju Pinnick responded to the South African Minister of Sports’ statement that Nigeria must not go to the World Cup. Gayton McKenzie added: “I want Nigeria to lose. Another African country should qualify.”
Amaju said in his reply:
“If it is the wish of God that Nigeria should qualify for the World Cup, the South African Sports Minister’s careless statement cannot stop it from happening.
It is unfortunate to have someone like McKenzie appointed as a minister in a developed, civilized country like South Africa. I know several people in South Africa who are knowledgeable in football matters and who will not speak with such hatred as McKenzie.
The South African Football Association (SAFA), I am sure, is aware that it was their mistake (that led to FIFA deducting three points from Bafana) and have owned up to the error. Why then should a sports minister decide to put the blame for the consequences on Nigeria?
I would rather say that this minister is an ingrate for not thanking the Super Eagles for defeating Benin Republic in Uyo. He did not realize that if Benin had won or drawn the match in Uyo, South Africa would not be the beneficiary of the Group C direct qualification ticket for the World Cup.”
Pinnick added that Nigeria was a victim of points deduction in 2018 but did not blame anyone.
The Lusaka High Court has upheld the 18-month conviction and sentence of Patriotic Front faction Secretary General Raphael Nakacinda for falsely claiming that President Hakainde Hichilema was summoning judges to his house to coerce them into frustrating the PF’s legal battles and establishing a one-party state.
The court has issued a bench warrant for Nakacinda’s immediate arrest, as he was not present in court, to begin serving his sentence.
Why I Laughed When I Heard Yo Maps’ New Political Song “Aleteka”
By Thandiwe Ketiš Ngoma
I honestly couldn’t help but laugh when I listened to Yo Maps’ latest political song Aleteka, sung in support of the UPND. Let me be clear from the start: I have no problem whatsoever with Yo Maps producing a political song. He is an artist, and music is his craft and his business. Every artist has the right to sing for whomever they choose. That is freedom.
What made me laugh, however, was not joy but disbelief. One particular line in the song caught my attention. Yo Maps calls President Hakainde Hichilema (HH) a boss while suggesting that opposition leaders are fingelegele—meaning useless, insignificant, or not worth paying attention to.
That line struck me because, whether Yo Maps meant it literally or not, he confirmed what many Zambians have been saying for a long time: HH acts more like a boss than a leader. Ironically, in trying to praise him, Yo Maps ended up describing him perfectly.
A Boss vs. A Leader
There is a world of difference between being a boss and being a leader.
A boss commands; a leader inspires. A boss says, “Do what I say.” A leader says, “Let’s do this together.”
A boss demands loyalty, while a leader earns respect. A boss is obsessed with control, image, and authority. A leader is driven by purpose, vision, and people.
Looking around today—at the struggling economy, the unbearable cost of living, and the growing frustration among ordinary citizens—it is clear that we are being ruled by a boss, not led by a leader.
A boss surrounds himself with praise singers, people too afraid to tell him the truth. A leader, on the other hand, welcomes honesty, even when it is uncomfortable. A boss wants to be feared; a leader wants to be trusted.
And so, we must ask ourselves: what do we have in Zambia right now? Fear or trust? Silence or dialogue? Control or collaboration?
The Message Behind the Music
Music is powerful. Sometimes it expresses truths that even the artist may not realize. By calling HH a boss, Yo Maps captured the true spirit of this government—one that operates more like a corporate boardroom than a people’s house.
A boss mentality governs from the top down. It issues orders, dismisses dissent, and measures success by control rather than compassion.
That is exactly what we see today: a government that listens only to itself, speaks more than it hears, and celebrates power instead of service.
Strength without empathy is not leadership; it is arrogance. Efficiency without humanity is not progress; it is oppression disguised as order.
When leaders forget that their power comes from the people, they stop leading and start ruling. That is what happens when a boss replaces a servant of the people.
Final Thoughts
So yes, I laughed when I heard Aleteka. But it was not laughter of amusement—it was laughter of realization. Yo Maps’ song, perhaps unintentionally, exposed a truth that many Zambians feel deep down: we do not have a leader guiding us; we have a boss commanding us.
And perhaps that is why the nation feels stuck. A boss runs things, but a leader transforms them. A boss talks about control, while a leader creates hope. A boss divides; a leader unites.
It is time we begin demanding leadership, not bossmanship. Zambia does not need a boss in State House. Zambia needs a leader—one who listens, serves, and stands with the people, not above them.
SICHILIMA WRITES TO ATTORNEY GENERAL KABESHA DEMANDING ANSWERS ON ALLEGED MONTHLY SALARY OF DR. NEVERS MUMBA
Operation Save Movement for Multi-Party Democracy leader, Gastone Sichilima, through his legal representatives Joseph Chirwa and Company, has formally written to the Office of the Attorney General, Mulilo Kabesha, seeking clarification regarding allegations that New Hope MMD President, Dr. Nevers Mumba, is receiving a salary equivalent to 80% of that of President Hakainde Hichilema.
In a letter dated 6th October 2025 and shared with Sun FM TV News, Mr. Sichilima questioned the legal provisions underpinning the alleged remuneration, particularly in light of Dr. Mumba’s continued active participation in politics.
He referenced the precedent involving the late former President Edgar Lungu, whose retirement benefits were reportedly withdrawn upon his return to political activity.
Through his legal counsel, Mr. Sichilima expressed concern over the apparent inconsistency in the administration of benefit entitlements, urging the Attorney General to clarify the legal basis upon which Dr. Mumba, a former Vice President, is receiving government remuneration.
He has since affirmed his intention to pursue the matter with determination, stating that it will be addressed thoroughly before the conclusion of President Hichilema’s term in office.
… as he accuses the UPND administration of laying ground work to rig elections
Citizens First (CF) leader Harry Kalaba has thanked the people of Mufili ward in Northern Province for opening the doors of victory in his party, which he said would culminate into him getting into State House.
Kalaba also gifted 5 cows to the party leadership and the community for working hard to win the party’s first electoral victory across the country.
And Kalaba said the ruling UPND was laying the ground work for rigging elections over the failure to open registration centres on time in areas perceived to be opposition strongholds.
During a thanksgiving rally in Mufili ward over the weekend, where CF recently defeated the ruling UPND for a ward seat, Kalaba said the area will forever remain a cornerstone in the annals of his party’s history as the birthplace
When former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu ruled Zambia, few could deny his firm grip on both the Patriotic Front (PF) and the country’s political machinery. But as time passes and revelations continue to emerge, a troubling question lingers in the minds of many observers: was Zambia slowly being turned into a Lungu Dynasty?
Insiders within the PF corridors have whispered for years about Lungu’s quiet but deliberate attempts to handpick his political heirs. In a democratic nation like Zambia, the idea of succession planning may sound ordinary — even wise. But the concern arises when that process appears to sideline democratic competition, elevate loyalists over merit, and entrench power within a narrow circle loyal to one man.
Among those said to have been “anointed” by the former Head of State as possible successors were Given Lubinda, Makebi Zulu, Willah Mudolo, John Sangwa, and Kelvin Bwalya Fube (KBF). Each of these men, in their own right, has a political footprint that could fit into the PF’s narrative — yet what binds them together is not ideology, but their perceived closeness to the former president.
Given Lubinda: The Loyal Lieutenant
Given Lubinda, once the PF Vice President, was long considered Lungu’s most trusted lieutenant. His calm demeanor and loyalty to the former president saw him elevated to key party positions after the 2021 loss. Lubinda represented continuity — the safe pair of hands who would protect Lungu’s legacy and shield him from political retribution.
Makebi Zulu: The Legal Shield
Then there was Makebi Zulu, a sharp lawyer and former Eastern Province Minister, who became one of Lungu’s most visible defenders both inside and outside the courtroom. His political rise during Lungu’s reign was meteoric — often viewed as someone being groomed not just for political prominence, but also for the delicate role of protecting the former First Family’s interests.
Willah Mudolo: The Money Man
Willah Mudolo, a businessman and PF financier, also found himself in the conversation. His financial clout and connections in South Africa made him a valuable ally to Lungu’s political ambitions. Some insiders suggest that Lungu saw in Mudolo a modern version of a technocratic politician — one who could wield both influence and capital to keep the PF machine alive beyond State House.
John Sangwa: The Unlikely Contender
Perhaps most surprising was the name of John Sangwa, the constitutional lawyer known for his sharp legal mind and outspokenness. Although Sangwa publicly distanced himself from PF politics, reports indicated that Lungu once flirted with the idea of bringing him closer — a move that would have lent intellectual legitimacy to a party struggling with its legal and moral image.
KBF: The Rebel Apostle
Kelvin Bwalya Fube, popularly known as KBF, was among those who loudly proclaimed that Lungu’s time had ended — yet sources allege that he, too, was once considered part of the inner circle before falling out of favour. His eventual rebellion against the PF leadership highlighted the divisions within the so-called dynasty project.
A Legacy Under Scrutiny While none of these individuals openly admit to being part of a grand succession plan, the patterns of appointments, endorsements, and public messaging during Lungu’s tenure painted a picture of a leader who sought to maintain influence long after leaving office.
The idea of dynastic politics is not new in Africa. From Kenya’s Kenyattas to Uganda’s Museveni family and the Kabila legacy in the DRC, leaders often attempt to preserve their grip through proxies, protégés, or family ties. In Zambia’s case, Lungu’s post-presidency manoeuvres — including his return to active politics and the visible reactivation of his loyalists — only deepen the suspicion that he intended to remain a central figure in national politics.
But Zambia is not a monarchy. It is a democracy that thrives on the principle of free choice and institutional independence. Any attempt, subtle or overt, to turn political leadership into a family or personal dynasty undermines the sacrifices made by citizens to uphold multi-party democracy.
As the PF struggles to reinvent itself amid internal wrangles and leadership uncertainty, the shadow of Edgar Lungu still looms large. Whether the former president was building a dynasty or merely protecting his legacy remains a matter of public debate — but one thing is certain: Zambians have grown wary of politics that put personalities above the people.
Sangwa highlights failure to open voter registration centres in opposition strongholds
By Mubanga Mubanga
The Movement for National Renewal (MNR) has expressed concerns over what they have termed widespread operational, logistical and administrative challenges in the ongoing voter registration by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ)
In a statement issued yesterday on behalf of MNR, a movement he recently unveiled, renowned lawyer John Sangwa stated that such disorganisation by ECZ could fuel perceptions that the Commission was “incompetent”
“However, the Movement for National Renewal (MNR) expresses deep concern over widespread operational, logistical, and administrative challenges that threaten to disenfranchise citizens and erode public confidence in the integrity of this crucial national exercise. 1. Procurement Irregularities and Operational Delays: The procurement of biometric voter registration kits was marred by irregularities, delays, and opaque decision-making,” Sangwa stated.
“These lapses have resulted in last-minute deliveries and rushed training, now manifesting in system failures and inefficiencies across the country. Such disorganisation fuels perceptions of incompetence or manipulation and undermines confidence in the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).”
Sangwa alleged that ECZ had failed to open some voter registration centres, especially those perceived to be in opposition strongholds.
“Failure to Open Registration Centres: In several provinces,
GOVERNMENT has tasked the Technical Committee on Constitution Amendments to review, and benchmark best constitutional practices from within and outside Zambia.
This is meant to consolidate democracy and constitutionalism, enhance equitable and balanced representation and distribution of resources across the country.
According to the Terms of Reference issued by Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa, the committee shall facilitate nationwide consultations.
Mr. Kangwa says the Committee will receive submissions from the people of Zambia with respect to provisions relating to the electoral process and the electoral system as a whole.
He says the submissions should be specifically on provisions relating to the delimitation and delineation of Constituencies and Wards with a view to ensure fair, equitable and balanced representation and distribution of resources across the Republic.
The Secretary to the Cabinet says the focus should also be on the promotion and enhancement of effective participation of Women, Youths and persons with disabilities in elective positions and governance institutions in accordance with the principles of inclusivity, equality and equity.
Mr. Kangwa says the Committee has also been tasked to look into By-elections, considering various factors such as the cost of the by-elections.
He says the number of nominated Members of Parliament including the filing in of fresh nominations after the resignation of a candidate in Presidential, Parliamentary and local government elections is also among the Terms of References.
Mr. Kangwa explains that transitional and statutory mechanisms with a view to ensure predictability and clarity in the term of office of all elected representatives will also be looked at.
He says the Committee will further receive submissions from the people of Zambia with respect to provisions of the Constitution relating to the term of Member of Parliament and office of Minister.
Mr. Kangwa adds that the Committee will receive submissions with respect to provisions of the Constitution relating to the hearing of Presidential, Parliamentary and local government election Petitions with a view to enhance the administration of justice .
Furthermore, Mr. Kangwa says the Committee will receive submissions on composition of local government and the tenure of office of local government officials.
The Secretary to the Cabinet says the Committee will receive submissions on the definition of Youth, Child and Adult.
Mr. Kangwa says submissions on Constitutional Office holders, specifically the tenure of office of Attorney General and Solicitor General, and the qualifications of the Secretary to the Cabinet will be received.
This is according to a statement issued to ZNBC News by Mr. Kangwa.
PF’S FAILURE TO HONOUR NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER A BETRAYAL OF ECL’S LEGACY
The National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance and Reconciliation observed annually on 18th October, remains one of Zambia’s most significant national events. Enshrined in the spirit of the Constitution that declares Zambia a Christian nation, the day is meant to promote reflection, reconciliation, and unity across political and social divides.
It is also one of the most enduring legacies of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu (ECL), whose administration institutionalised the event as a unifying moment for the nation. It was therefore disappointing to see the Patriotic Front (PF) — the very party that championed its establishment — fail to fully honour the occasion this year.
Instead of using the day as an opportunity for reconciliation, the PF leadership once again showcased deep internal divisions. Acting PF President Mr. Given Lubinda, Patriots for Economic Progress (PeP) leader Mr. Sean Tembo, and PF presidential hopeful Mr. Brian Mundubile were conspicuously apart during the commemorations. Their failure to stand together on such a spiritually symbolic day sent a powerful message — one of disunity rather than solidarity.
To Mr. Lubinda’s credit, however, he made a notable gesture by reconciling with Dr. Chris Zumani Zimba, former Political Advisor to President Lungu and longtime rival of Mr. Chisanga Chanda, the former Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to ECL. Mr. Chanda has often accused Dr. Zimba of betraying the PF by advising the former President to concede defeat in the 2021 general elections. Yet, while such individual reconciliations are commendable, they are insufficient in the absence of broader party unity.
As it stands, both the PF and the broader TONSE Alliance appear in urgent need of structured mediation. Figures such as civil society activist Mr. Brebner Changala and Green Party President Mr. Peter Sinkamba — both of whom have expressed support for reconciliation efforts — could play an important role in steering the process.
If the PF hopes to remain politically relevant, it must learn from history. UNIP’s decision to boycott elections led to its gradual decline into political obscurity — a fate that could await any party that alienates itself from the people and its founding ideals.
Honouring the National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance and Reconciliation would have been a fitting tribute to Edgar Lungu’s legacy — a small but meaningful act to demonstrate unity, humility, and continuity. If the PF truly loved the man who built their political foundation, then the least they can do is uphold the values he stood for.
Today I took time to go and verify my voters card in Kamulanga ward of Kabwata Constituency.
Sadly I learnt of a very unfortunate incident that happened there at the registration center where one of an identified UPND cadre was caught by the community with 2 NRCs trying to register.
I wish to thank the residents and the community in Kamulanga who did not take the law into their hands, but rather decided to alert the police who later apprehended the culprit and took him at Kabwata Police Station.
I took interest in the matter and decided to accompany the police at Kabwata Police Station where I also wanted to register my complaint against such electoral fraud and malpractice and also to urge the police to be on high alert.
Sadly, UPND cadres stormed Kabwata Police Station in a white quantum mini bus and tried to cause confusion.
They found me seated outside the police station and almost attacked me, until I had to go in one of the offices inside the police station.
I certainly want to urge you, please don’t be intimidated. Be on high alert and protect your votes. Report every
On Friday morning, we had a meeting with Comrade Capt Ibrahim Traore, the President of Burkina Faso, at the Kosyam Palace in Ouagadougou.
President Capt Traore began by thanking us for coming from near and far to guide the youth, exchange ideas, and reflect on ways to give the revolution a lasting foundation.
He emphasized that in the struggle we are engaged in, there are only two camps: that of the oppressors and that of the oppressed. President Capt Traore further stressed that neutrality does not exist in this fight; those who claim to be neutral have either forgotten to turn on their brains or are working, consciously or not, for our enemies.
The President said that the most important achievement in the emancipation struggle we are waging today is the construction of an African consciousness. He thanked those who work tirelessly every day to awaken minds and arm spirits and spread truthful information – reminding everyone that the enemy never gets tired of trying to poison and demoralize our people through fake news and disinformation. To win battles on the military front, on the political front, and on the mental front, we must have citizens and young people who are well-informed and well-educated, who know their history, who understand where we want to go, and who are aware of the geopolitical stakes of the current world.
He also told us that when Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro came to see him, he congratulated him for speaking directly to the African people. President Maduro told him that, in his time, Comandante Hugo Chavez used to speak to the Venezuelan people every single day. And that one day, when someone asked Commandante Chavez why he did that, he replied that the people needed it because the enemy never misses an opportunity to poison them with lies.
President Capt Traore also shared with us the story of his meeting with a young woman who, a few years ago, had wanted to start producing medical cotton for healthcare use. At the time, people had called her crazy and said her project was doomed to fail, and even confiscated her equipment and shut down her factory. His government has since given her the means to relaunch her project, and this morning, the factory was inaugurated.
The President recalled that the revival of the Institute of Black Peoples, which was originally created by President Thomas Sankara and later abandoned, must serve as a platform for all those committed to awakening consciousness. He said it should allow everyone to take part and make themselves available to help train as many Africans as possible, whether in person or online.
He once again thanked us and wished us a safe journey back home.
Fred M’membe President of the Socialist Party [Zambia]
ZAMBIA’S NEW AMBASSADOR TO ANGOLA DR. ELIAS MUNSHYA PRESENTS CREDENTIALS
Zambia’s newly appointed Ambassador to Angola, His Excellency Rev. Dr. Elias Munshya, has officially presented his Letters of Credence to His Excellency President João Lourenço at the Presidential Palace in Luanda.
The presentation ceremony, held today 20th October 2025, was followed by a private audience between Ambassador Munshya and President Lourenço. During their discussions, the Angolan Head of State reaffirmed the strong brotherly relations between himself and President Hakainde Hichilema, commending Zambia’s continued partnership in regional development.
President Lourenço highlighted key areas of cooperation, including the Lobito Corridor, infrastructure development, health sector collaboration, and investment opportunities for Zambian companies in Angola’s newly created provinces.
Ambassador Munshya reaffirmed Zambia’s readiness to move from dialogue to practical cooperation, saying the meeting concluded with a shared resolve that “the time for action is now.”
President Hakainde Hichilema during the National Day of Prayer and Reconciliation did the right thing by calling for a moment of silence and closure over the burial of late former president Edgar Lungu.
The President also prodded the nation to pray for the family of the late Lungu. This is as it should be.
We have all felt the pain of losing a loved one, and can all attest of the pain, especially when the loss involves a very close family member or friend. It has therefore, not been easy for the family of Lungu. And the emotional toll increases each day that passes with their loved one’s remains still kept in the mortuary without any closure, four months after his demise.
It is easier for those who are not members of the family and did not share a bond with Lungu to simply pay lip service about trying to find closure to this matter. Not so with the Lungu family and those who shared a close bond with the former president. The best therefore, particularly those who are in the habit of posting mockery about this death can do is to sympathise and and pray for the family. It is never easy to lose a loved one.
While the politics will continue and will always be with us, we must as a people learn to rise above politics and whatever feelings we may have had about someone in times of loss, while always reminding ourselves that we are human first before affiliating ourselves with politics.
It’s commendable that the President remembered to urge the nation to pray for the Lungu family and to find closure to the matter. But the President has a huge responsibility as President actually in finding closure to the same. He therefore, must do all that he can to ensure a tranquil closure to that matter. A closure that takes into account the feelings of the same family he urged the nation to pray for.
Anyone that has followed this matter from the moment the death happened is aware about the deep divides between the government and the family, and how challenging it has been to bridge the gaps. Just the fact that the matter is under litigation before the South African courts is enough to explain the challenges that have existed. Whatever outcome that will come from the court will not guarantee a tranquil closure to this matter as court judgements do not have the ability to heal the matters of the heart.
And if the court outcome will remain in favour of the government, they cannot surely expect to proceed on this matter to put Lungu’s remains without the participation of the family in body and soul. This is why we are urging the President to
Guns, Gangs and Gold: The dark side of Zambia’s gold discovery
When news of a violent gold rush in Kikonge reached MakanDay, veteran investigative journalist Charles Mafa knew it demanded deeper investigation. He assembled a small team of local journalists familiar with the area to uncover how a discovery meant to bring prosperity had instead sparked chaos, fueled by gangs and guns. The team uncovered a dark side to the discovery, one marked by gangs, guns, and chaos – a far cry from the prosperity it promised.
By Charles Mafa, James Beluchi and Caleb Likomeno
“What I know (about) Kikonge is that it has brought the worst situation than development,” said Chief Kizela’s representative.
Thousands of people have flooded into northwestern Zambia seeking gold said to be buried just under the surface.
The gold rush in Kikonge has attracted gangs from the Copperbelt and Lusaka.
Violent clashes have broken out with police.
The site is on traditional land and traditional leaders have called for the army to be deployed.
Social media posts about gold buried just beneath the surface have triggered a rush of fortune-seekers into northwestern Zambia. But the ensuing gold rush in Kikonge in the vast Mufumbwe district has turned violent.
The government has promised to restore law and order but the 300 police officers sent to remove illegal miners and secure the mining sites have met fierce resistance, and are accused of taking bribes to let miners in.
The police are not responding to questions, neither is the government. Traditional leaders are calling for military intervention.
Amid this chaos, the state is pressing ahead with plans to licence small-scale miners.
The so-called Kikonge gold mine is not a formal one but an informal site about 60km from Mufumbwe town. Reports of easily accessible gold in the area surfaced on social media early this year.
By mid-year, police estimated that about 40,000 people had migrated to the area from across Zambia and from Namibia, South Africa and Tanzania.
Residents say the gold rush first brought them money from wealthy buyers and suppliers of gold detectors. But, as word spread, gangs from the Copperbelt and Lusaka arrived and have taken control, according to the police and to traditional leaders.
“When it was just us locals mining, the place was peaceful – no killings, no deep pits, only surface digging,” a young man told MakanDay. He bought a motorbike with his proceeds from mining.
“Before that, I was using my father’s bike,” he said.
A few weeks after speaking to MakanDay his motorbike was stolen.
Police at Mufumbwe police station say crime in the area is flourishing, with people fighting over gold, sometimes killing and torturing one another.
To support local police, the government deployed 300 police officers to the area in July, most of them from the Copperbelt. On 10 July, police and miners clashed, leaving two suspected illegal miners dead and 12 officers injured.
The government responded by dispatching some top brass.
Ministers who visited the area included Defence Minister Ambrose Lufuma, Home Affairs Minister Jack Mwiimbu, and Minister for Northwestern Province Robert Lihefu. They were accompanied by top security chiefs, including Inspector General of Police Graphael Musamba and Zambia Air Force Commander Lieutenant-General Oscar Nyoni.
The ministers announced a crackdown, and police proceeded with an operation to remove illegal miners and ban access to the Kikonge mine site. It’s unclear how many illegal miners were removed (police reported 25,000). But when we visited the area in late September violent clashes between police and miners were continuing.
Police from the local Mufumbwe Police Station were threatened when they entered Kikonge in September, to track down murder suspects. A senior Mufumbwe police officer told MakanDay that he had found more than 10,000 people on the mine site, locally known as “Swahili Market”. He said police had been told to leave or they would “regret” it. “In the end, it took the intervention of some gang leaders themselves, for police to identify the suspects.”
Mufumbwe police efforts are hampered by a lack of resources. Their only vehicle, a Land Cruiser bought through the Constituency Development Fund, was damaged in an accident in August, and has not been repaired. Officers must now borrow vehicles from other departments, including the national parks and wildlife department.
Without transport, local police struggle to cover a mining area 60km from their station. Illegal miners also operate in other, more remote areas to which there are often no roads.
Police accused
Kikonge is a vast area, spanning two chiefdoms presided over by Senior Chief Kasempa in Kasempa district and Chief Kizela in Mufumbwe district.
Chief Kizela’s spokesperson Labson Samola Kayombo welcomed the ministers’ visit but said traditional leaders were sidelined.
“They didn’t even want to speak to us. They said they would come to the palace. They haven’t,” said Kayombo, who says police can’t restore order because some are cashing in on the chaos.
“They’re involved because they charge people to access the mine,” he alleged, suggesting soldiers should be deployed instead.
Pressed for proof, he told journalists to visit Kikonge and hear from local residents who have been reporting this to traditional leaders.
Locals living on the Kikonge mining site handed journalists videos showing people living in flimsy shelters between gaping open pits. In one clip, a youth is heard accusing police of “charging us for access at night and chasing us away in the morning”.
The other video is too graphic to publish and shows the body of a young local boy. According to residents, he was shot by police during a raid to remove illegal miners.
Risks
When the MakanDay team arrived in Kikonge, police warned of the risks.
“No one goes to that area wearing spectacles like you. You would not come back,” an officer said, referring to spectacles being a sign of wealth.
The team asked for a police escort into the area. But the district commissioner ignored these requests and repeated visits to his office made no difference.
At the Mufumbwe-Solwezi road junction, about 27km outside Mufumbwe town and still 30km from the gold mining site, MakanDay found a makeshift camp of tired-looking young men and women preparing to return to the Kikonge gold pits.
Asked why they risked returning when access to the area was prohibited, one youth replied: “To survive, the police need us, that’s why we are going back.”
A Mufumbwe police officer, speaking anonymously because he is not authorised to give interviews, said the 300 police at the site are short of food, water, and other basics.
“If the government does not provide supplies – food, water, because there is no water there, they have to buy. But for a human being to survive, buying water every day from your salary is not possible. Recently, I saw them buying six 25kg bags of mealie meal here in Mufumbwe town. What is six bags for over 100 officers in one camp?” he said.
Police have not responded to questions sent to them on 30 September about allegations of corruption and using live ammunition to disperse crowds. Follow-up calls have also come to nothing.
The Ministry of Mines says mining licence holders are responsible for securing sites.
But Kikonge is on traditional land with no licence holder. The government has not responded to a list of questions about what it will do since efforts to restore law and order to the area have not worked out.
Traditional leaders say they have lost faith in the police and want the army to step in.
“We are not satisfied with the performance of the police,” said Kayombo. “The army will know how to handle civilians.”
Mortuary full
As illegal mining and crime persist, so do deaths. A senior Mufumbwe District Health Office official confirmed that bodies from mine accidents and violence keep arriving. The mortuary was full when journalists visited, and new arrivals had to be sent elsewhere.
Bodies that are not claimed after 14 days are buried in unmarked graves, mainly at the Kalende gravesite, east of Mufumbwe town.
While mortuaries struggle to cope, many deaths are not recorded. Kayombo says most of the mining fatalities are street children lured into the area by gangs. Their bodies are often buried in collapsed pits or left unrecorded after violent clashes.
A district health official agreed: “The number of dead bodies from Kikonge is even higher. Many junkies (street kids) are buried underground after the collapse of the earth while searching for gold.”
Councillor for the Kikonge Ward Moses Mangisha told MakanDay: “We are still looking for six [missing people]. Out of these six, two of them are my own brothers. It’s either they were trapped or they were killed.”
Government forging ahead
The government is issuing artisanal licences to local co-operatives to formalise gold mining and ensure local communities benefit from it. Over 100 licences have been issued so far, and Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Investment Holdings has agreed to buy the gold.
Kayombo cautiously welcomed the move, but warned that some people might be given plots without gold, and would still have to pay taxes and file returns.
This situation will be further complicated if illegal miners are still operating in the area as they are now. While they will not pay taxes like licensed miners, licensed miners are unlikely to get access to their allotments if illegal miners are still in the area and operating as they are currently.
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TECHNICAL COMMITTEE ASSURES STAKEHOLDERS OF ITS INDEPENDENCE
By Nelson Zulu
Constitutional Amendment Technical Committee Spokesperson Dr. Landilani Banda has reaffirmed the committee’s independence, stating that its work will be driven by the interests of the majority of Zambian citizens.
Dr. Banda who is also vice president of the committee has emphasized that the 25-member committee operates autonomously and will focus on gathering broad public input to ensure an inclusive and representative constitutional reform process.
He has noted that the committee is guided not by partisan influence, but by the voices and needs of ordinary zambians.
Dr. Banda has further explained that internal rules and a clear roadmap have been established to direct the committee’s work, and that all recommendations will be based on evidence and feedback collected during community and provincial consultations.
Responding to concerns from some legal scholars about the legitimacy of the committee and the scope of its mandate, Dr. Banda clarified that the committee is legally constituted and firmly committed to protecting the public interest, in line with relevant legal frameworks.
ZAMBIA AMONG TOP FIVE AFRICAN COUNTRIES WITH STRONGEST CURRENCIES BUT KWACHA GAINS WON’T EASE COST OF LIVING IMMEDIATELY
By: Thomas Afroman Mwale
Economist Yusuf Dodia has revealed that Zambia is currently ranked among the top five African countries with the most valued currencies but cautioned that the recent appreciation of the Kwacha will not immediately result in reduced commodity prices or a lower cost of living.
Speaking in an interview with Sun FM TV News, Mr. Dodia explained that the Kwacha, now trading at around K22 against major convertible currencies, is performing on par with those of Morocco and Tunisia.
He attributed this performance to Zambia’s improved export trafficking framework, which he believes has significantly boosted export earnings from copper thereby strengthening the economy estimating that nearly $50 million in daily copper exports has played a major role in the Kwacha’s appreciation.
Mr. Dodia noted that while inflation and interest rates may decline, commodity prices are unlikely to drop as expected stating the high cost of doing business coupled by the ongoing load shedding is impacting manufacturers and producers negatively.
Zambia is seeing a steady rise in utility scale solar projects, from Bangweulu and Ngonye to Chisamba and several new farms now being planned. The question often asked is, why solar and not wind, geothermal, or coal?
The main reason is practicality. Solar is currently the cheapest and fastest to deploy. It does not require long feasibility studies, massive dams, or complex fuel logistics. With abundant sunshine, projects can be completed in under a year, and global costs have fallen sharply over the past decade. This makes solar an effective short term measure to ease power shortages and reduce load shedding.
Other renewable options remain promising but face real challenges. Wind depends on consistent speeds, and Zambia’s data is still limited. Geothermal requires deep drilling and significant upfront investment before any results are known. As for coal, while it provides stable base load, it raises environmental concerns and is harder to finance under today’s global climate commitments. These alternatives will play a role in future diversification but are not as quick to implement when urgent capacity is needed.
Hydropower remains Zambia’s backbone, yet droughts have exposed its vulnerability. When water levels fall, so does generation. Solar helps spread that risk since it does not rely on rainfall and supports the grid during daylight hours, easing pressure on hydro plants.
Meanwhile, thermal generation is catching up. New plants linked to industrial operations are beginning to provide dependable base load power, helping stabilize the grid as renewables expand. Though not renewable, thermal will remain important in maintaining system reliability..
Solar’s growth, then, is not by accident. It is fast, clean, and relatively affordable, helping Zambia build resilience in the face of climate change.
CHURCH MUST RELATE MEANINGFULLY WITH POLITICS – BISHOP CHIKOYA Newly appointed Anglican Bishop Emmanuel Chikoya says the Church must relate meaningfully with culture, politics, the economy, and social life.
Bishop Chikoya said discipleship by the Church must extend beyond the pulpit into the public square—where faith meets life, and love becomes action.
He said embracing culture, politics, the economy, and social life ensures that the Church is relevant and transformative in its evangelisation agenda.
During his enthronement as the 5th Anglican Bishop of the Central Diocese, Bishop Chikoya added that the Church must proclaim the Gospel faithfully and fearlessly, in order not to become a mere social club.
”This mandate is grounded in Genesis 1:26–28 and Matthew 5:13–16. We are made in God’s image to steward His creation and to be salt and light in the world. Therefore, our discipleship must extend beyond the pulpit into the public square—where faith meets life, and love becomes action,” he said.
Bishop Chikoya further highlighted evangelisation as the primary mission of the Church.
LOOTING; SIX ARRESTED IN K4.6 MILLION KAPIRI MPOSHI COUNCIL THEFT SCANDAL
Police in Kapiri Mposhi have arrested four accountants and two businessmen in connection with the theft of K4,665,802.00 from the Kapiri Mposhi Town Council, a crime that took place between September 2024 and February 24, 2025.
In a statement, Charity Munganga, Police Commissioner for Central Province, confirmed the arrests and identified the suspects as Demetrius Mofya (31) Accountant Kapiri Mposhi Town Council. Mathews Banda (31) Accountant, Kapiri Mposhi Town Council. Patricia Katongo (40) Accountant, Kapiri Mposhi Town Council. Patson Chirwa (52) Assistant Accountant, Ministry of Agriculture, Kapiri Mposhi. Boniface Chisenga Businessman and Noah Mafunda Businessman.
According to police investigations, the suspects allegedly transferred large sums of money from the Council’s account into four company accounts linked to the two businessmen. In return, the businessmen reportedly received a 10% commission before handing back the rest of the funds to the accountants.
The fraudulent transactions were disguised as payments for stationery, computers, and building materials, but authorities confirmed that no such supplies were ever delivered to the Council.
“Investigations into the matter are ongoing, and everyone found wanting will be dealt with according to the law,” Commissioner Munganga stated.
Police have not ruled out further arrests as they continue to probe the financial scandal.
The Government of Malawi has begun cutting down its K17 trillion national debt after China forgave part of the country’s outstanding loans.
According to Lu Xu, the Chinese Ambassador to Malawi, China has cancelled USD 20 million (over K34 billion) of Malawi’s debt and has also extended the repayment period for other existing loans
Ambassador Lu made the announcement during a training session for newly elected Members of Parliament in Lilongwe.
Meanwhile, Malawians on social media have shared mixed reactions, with some saying the move shows growing international confidence in President Peter Mutharika, who has recently been elected as the country’s new leader.
SOUTH AFRICANS CALL FOR PATRICE MOTSEPE TO BE PRESIDENT: “A CLEAN LEADER WHO BUILT SUCCESS WITHOUT CORRUPTION”
A growing number of South Africans on social media are calling for billionaire businessman Patrice Motsepe to one day lead the country as President, praising him as one of the few African tycoons untainted by corruption.
Motsepe — founder and executive chairman of African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) — built his fortune from the ground up, becoming South Africa’s first black billionaire through mining, smart investments, and strong ethical leadership. He has maintained a spotless reputation in a continent where many business moguls have been accused of political favouritism or corruption.
His success extends far beyond business. As the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Motsepe has been credited with restoring credibility and financial stability to African football. Under his leadership, CAF has seen increased sponsorships, improved governance, and a renewed global respect for African competitions, including AFCON.
Motsepe also chairs several initiatives focused on education, rural development, and job creation through the Motsepe Foundation, which he founded with his wife, Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe. The foundation has donated billions of rand to social projects and youth empowerment — showing his commitment to uplifting communities, not just accumulating wealth
Public Sentiment Many South Africans are saying it’s time for leaders who build wealth through innovation, not corruption. Supporters argue that Motsepe’s success story proves that ethical leadership and good business can coexist, and that South Africa needs more figures like him steering the nation’s economy — and perhaps, its politics.
A Vision of Integrity Motsepe’s leadership, calm character, and consistent success make him a symbol of hope for clean governance in a time when citizens are losing faith in traditional politicians. While he has never shown interest in running for public office, the growing calls from citizens reflect a deep hunger for honest, capable, and visionary leadership.
South Africans say it loudly: “If Motsepe can lead African football with integrity, maybe he can lead South Africa the same way.”
