ENG KATOTOBWE URGES AFRICAN LEADERS TO RESPECT THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE & ARREST POVERTY
Blantyre, Malawi… Saturday October 4, 2025
Luapula Constituency Member of Parliament, Eng. Chanda Katotobwe, has called on political leaders across Africa to respect the will of the people and focus on eradicating poverty rather than relying on propaganda or manipulated statistics to project development.
Speaking in Blantyre after witnessing the inauguration of His Excellency Prof. Arthur Peter Mutharika as Malawi’s 7th Republican President at Kamuzu Stadium, Eng. Katotobwe said true leadership is rooted in service to the people and respect their collective will.
“Leaders must always remember that power ultimately belongs to the people,” he said.
“We are merely servants of the people, entrusted to safeguard their interests and improve their welfare.”
Eng. Katotobwe emphasized the need for African governments to deliver tangible improvements in the lives of their citizens by prioritizing eradication of poverty, access to affordable housing, better healthcare, and quality education.
“Development should be measured by the extent to which people’s lives are improved,” he noted.
“Reducing poverty, improving literacy, and providing decent living conditions are the true indicators of progress not inflated statistics or political rhetoric.”
He criticized the growing trend among some leaders to rely on false economic data and media spin to portray prosperity while ordinary citizens continue to languish with extreme poverty and hunger.
“The use of inaccurate numbers to depict false economic growth, while hunger and suffering escalate, must be halted,” Eng. Katotobwe said.
“Our focus should be on delivering real, meaningful change for our people.”
The Luapula Constituency lawmaker concluded by urging all leaders on the continent to govern with humility, accountability, and a deep respect for the will of the people, stressing that “leadership is a privilege, not an entitlement.”
Tunisian man sentenced to death for Facebook posts offensive to president
By: TRT Afrika
A court in Tunisia has sentenced a 51-year-old man to death over Facebook posts deemed offensive to President Kais Saied and a threat to state security, his lawyer said Friday.
The defendant, who has not been identified, was convicted on Wednesday of three charges: attempting to overthrow the state, insulting the president and spreading false information online.
Judges said the posts incited violence and chaos and violated Tunisia’s penal code as well as the controversial 2022 cybercrime law, Decree 54. The ruling is the first of its kind in Tunisia.
Although capital punishment remains in Tunisia’s penal code and civilian courts occasionally issue death sentences, none have been carried out since the execution of a serial killer in 1991. #SunFmTvNews
ZAMBIA’S MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE HON. REUBEN MTOLO REPRESENTS PRESIDENT HAKAİNDE HICHILEMA AT MALAWI PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION
Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Reuben Mtolo, has arrived in Blantyre, Malawi, to represent President Hakainde Hichilema at the inauguration of President-elect Professor Peter Mutharika.
His presence at this historic occasion reflects Zambia’s steadfast commitment to nurturing strong diplomatic ties and regional cooperation with its neighbors.
Hon. Mtolo’s participation underscores Zambia’s support for democratic processes in the region while providing a valuable opportunity to engage with fellow African leaders.
During the inauguration, the Minister is expected to discuss key issues of mutual interest, including agricultural development, trade, and regional growth initiatives.
This visit reaffirms Zambia’s dedication to fostering partnership and collaboration within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), as the country works together with regional neighbors to promote economic growth, food security, and sustainable development for the benefit of all citizens.
Issued by: Balewa Zyuulu Principal Public Relations Officer MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE
Councillor Simataa Tests First Ever Mechanized Pothole Mending Machine on Kamwala Roads
Kamwala Ward Councillor Mainda Simataa says the newly acquired mechanized pothole mending machine by the Lusaka City Council Engineering Department is a game changer as it not only improves efficiency and speed of the high-way maintenance team, but also improves machine operators safety.
The civic leader who was testing out the machine on Nationalist road and Chilumbulu potholes today, says the transition from manual to semi-automated works has cut the manpower needed by 50% while increasing the speed of works by 300% – “previously it would take us 3 hours to work on this kind of pothole, but now it just takes 30 minutes or less”.
The mechanized pothole mending vehicle is the first of its kind to be deployed in the Zambian Local Council operations, and Lusaka City Council looks to set the standard and blaze the mechanization trail.
3 October 2021 Nationalist/Chilimbulu Roads KAMWALA, LUSAKA
⬆️ REGIONAL| Mutharika Sworn-in as Malawi’s 7th President
Kamuzu Stadium was awash with blue this morning as thousands of Malawians, regional dignitaries, and political leaders gathered to witness Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika take the oath of office, marking his return to power as Malawi’s seventh President.
Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda administered the oath before the nation’s defence forces staged a 21-gun salute and a ceremonial parade. The symbolism was clear: Malawi is entering a new political chapter, one sealed by the dramatic comeback of a former leader.
Supporters of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) filled the stands, waving flags and chanting slogans as traditional troupes and popular artists electrified the stadium. The inauguration was held under the theme “The Great Return to Proven Leadership,” underscoring Mutharika’s message of stability after years of turbulence.
According to the Malawi Electoral Commission, Mutharika secured 56.8 percent of the September 16 vote, defeating outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera, who trailed with 33 percent. The scale of the victory brought jubilant celebrations across DPP strongholds, while also deepening divisions within a fragile political landscape.
Notably absent from today’s ceremony was Chakwera himself. Despite conceding defeat in a televised address last week, the outgoing president was not present in Blantyre, a stark contrast to regional traditions where defeated leaders often participate in symbolic handovers. His absence underscored the bitterness that has defined Malawi’s post-election transition.
In his oath, Mutharika pledged: “I, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, solemnly swear to faithfully perform the functions of the high office of President, defend the Constitution, and serve Malawi without fear or favour.”
The guest list reflected regional attention on Malawi’s transition. Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo, and Tanzania’s Prime Minister joined former Malawian leaders Joyce Banda and Bakili Muluzi in the packed stadium. Delegations from Kenya, Namibia, and Zambia were also in attendance, a signal that Malawi’s politics remain under close continental watch.
For many Malawians, the stakes are clear. After five years in opposition, Mutharika returns with promises to stabilise an economy battered by inflation, food shortages, and power cuts. His critics argue his previous tenure was marked by corruption scandals and elite capture. His supporters insist his return represents order after chaos.
Observers say his inaugural address will be critical, setting the tone for how Mutharika intends to govern and whether he can rebuild trust in Malawi’s democratic institutions.
What is certain is that today’s spectacle was more than ceremony. It was a reminder that Malawi, once celebrated for overturning fraudulent elections in 2020, now finds itself wrestling with the familiar cycle of power, memory, and political rebirth.
By [Reporter’s Name] |Patriotic Front (PF) Acting President Hon. Given Lubinda has hinted at seeking his party’s top position and ultimately contesting the 2026 general elections, declaring that he is ready to serve both his party and the nation
In an exclusive conversation at his residence last month, Lubinda told political analyst Dr. Chris Zumani Zimba that by God’s grace, “it is my time” to lead the PF and carry forward the legacy left by former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
“By God’s grace, it’s my time, Dr. Zimba, and I am available to serve both PF and Zambians by continuing from where my elder brother ECL left from. If some people in PF think they can discriminate against me for who I am as Lozi, they are lying and wasting their time,” Lubinda said.
Lubinda, a veteran politician and long-serving cabinet minister, has been a central figure in PF politics for decades. He has also been outspoken about the need for internal unity within the former ruling party as it prepares for its next national convention.
Dr. Zimba, who disclosed details of the meeting, described Lubinda as a credible statesman with unmatched experience in both parliamentary and national politics.
“Among known opposition presidential candidates so far, both in PF and the Tonse Alliance, few can match him in terms of experience. Hon. Given Lubinda is an intellectual, politically grounded, and deeply passionate about serving Zambia,” Dr. Zimba observed.
Lubinda’s potential bid comes as the Tonse Alliance prepares for its General Congress in December 2025, where key opposition leaders are expected to position themselves ahead of the August 2026 general elections.
Dr. Zimba added that with candidates of Lubinda’s caliber, the opposition can look forward to challenging the ruling UPND with confidence.
“With such quality candidates, we can smile at August 2026 knowing that we shall cross the UPND bridge with confidence, even if it means walking barefooted,” he said.
Lubinda now joins a growing list of opposition figures eyeing the 2026 race, though the PF is yet to officially announce its presidential candidate.
South Africa-based Zambian businessman James Ndambo says brothers do not compete against each other, describing President Hakainde Hichilema as his brother.
Ndambo, who is the Chairman of Africa Union Holdings and founder of My Home Town initiative, has dismissed reports of him engaging in politics and that he was being considered to run on the PF ticket.
As the country draws near to the August 2026 elections, the name of Ndambo, who came to prominence in 2022 due to his philanthropic work during Miss My Home Town, continues to pop up as the favorite contender to challenge President Hichilema.
But on several occasions, including during the Choma event, Ndambo stated he had no interest in joining politics. He said at that time that his charity work was, in fact, supplementing public work.
Ndambo, through veteran politician Vernon Mwaanga, on 4th October 2025, reiterated his stance, vowing he was not and would never be interested in running for political office.
“He has authorized me to state for the 100th time that he has not, is not, and will not ever be interested in active politics,” Mwaanga stated in a statement made available to Zambian Eye. “In 1991 and 1996, MMD offered Mr. Ndambo a parliamentary seat, which he would have won easily, and both times he declined.”
Mwaanga, a retired politician and freedom fighter, says Ndambo regards President Hichilema as his brother, whom he cannot stand against.
“He regards President Hakainde Hichilema as a brother and says ‘brothers don’t stand against each other,’” Mwaanga says.
Mwaanga says Ndambo, who is his nephew, is not eligible to run for the presidency of Zambia as he holds South African nationality.
“Mr. Ndambo is not even eligible to stand for president,” he said.
Mwaanga also dismisses reports that former president Edgar Lungu had meetings with Ndambo to discuss his candidature.
“Mr. Ndambo has not had any secret or other meetings with the president of PF. He has been asked this question many times and has not responded, and this statement should be treated as his factual response,” Mwaanga said.
Ndambo has warned that going forward, he will take legal action against those peddling lies and malice against him.
“Mr. Ndambo has had serious discussions with his family and lawyers. It has been agreed that the manufacturers and distributors of these malicious falsehoods will, from now on, be sued and legally compelled to produce evidence in a court of law or face the consequences. Please stop making up falsehoods; please stop the lies; please stop the malice,” he warned.
I WANT TO BE PART OF A POLITICAL PARTY, NOT FORM ONE – SANGWA
By Elfi Mwale Shampande
Constitutional lawyer John Sangwa has clarified that his political ambition is to join an existing political party rather than form his own.
Appearing on Emmanuel Mwamba Verified via Facebook on Friday, Mr. Sangwa said he is open to working within an alliance that seeks genuine solutions for the country, stressing that he does not want to “tell people more lies” but to contribute toward meaningful change.
He emphasized that he has never declared interest in the presidency but is willing to serve in any capacity that contributes to national renewal.
Mr. Sangwa explained that his remarks come after months of reflection, following persistent calls from Zambians at home and abroad urging him to consider elective office.
He added that he has presented his “10-point questions” to the public as a mirror of what is broken in the country, encouraging citizens to join hands in charting a path toward renewal.
The constitutional lawyer further accused law enforcement agencies, the Judiciary, and the National Assembly of being weak institutions that function as extensions of the Executive.
Judge Chiyanwa Zulu Refuses to Sign Consent Order, Sends PF Matter to the Freezer
Judge refuses to sign Consent Order, joins expelled MP, Robert Chabinga to the matter, and orders a full trial on the Patriotic Front case.
Lusaka High Court Judge, Hon.Justice Conceptor Chinyanwa Zulu has sent to full trial the matter regarding wrangles in the Patriotic Front among PF MPs, Matero MP, Miles Sampa and expelled Mafinga MP, Robert Chabinga.
In May 2025, Miles Sampa and the MPs settled the matter in a Consent Agreement to end the leadership wrangles and return the Party to the Edgar Lungu-Given Lubinda-Raphael Nakacinda faction.
After the Consent Agreement was signed and deposited to court, Government through the Acting Registrar of Societies, illegally changed the Office Bearers of the Patriotic Front from Miles Sampa to Robert Chabinga, who purports to be Acting President of the Patriotic Front.
Judge Zulu refused to sign the consent order stating that she needed to establish the facts and legality about the Extraordinary Conference that was held on 24th October 2023 by the Miles Sampa faction, which brought about the current leadership tussle when the Registrar of Societies recognised amd amended the records from the Edgar Lungu to the Miles Sampa group.
Judge Chiyanwa Zulu has since called for a status conference on 9th October 2025 to allocate dates for trial.
THERE’S NO SPECIFIC DATE WHEN CITIZENS WILL START RECEIVING ELECTRICITY 24/7 – MAKOZO
ENERGY Minister Makozo Chikote says there is no specific date when citizens will start receiving uninterrupted power supply but predicts electricity stability in 2026.
Meanwhile, Chikote says Zesco only managed to collect $81 million against the target of $140 million from the emergency tariffs, citing load shedding as one of the reasons for not meeting the target.
He adds that the Ministry was shocked that those who were targeted as consumers consuming above 200 units in a month dropped to under 200 units consumption.
When asked during a Parliamentary Committee on Energy when citizens could expect to receive uninterrupted power, Chikote said 24/7 power supply depended on the completion of alternative power projects. “How do we communicate to our citizens…
After learned counsel Celestine Mukandila and Hon. Munir Zulu realised that President Hakainde Hichilema and his UPND government had started the process of constitutional amendments without following the correct procedure, they made a bold step to seek legal guidance from the Constitutional Court.
In June 2025, the Court ruled that the Constitution Amendment process instituted by President Hichilema and his Justice Minister, Hon. Kasune, was flawed. The Court ordered President Hichilema to appoint an “independent body of experts” to conduct constitutional reform after “wide consultations with the people.” Today, Hichilema has instead appointed what many are calling a Committee of Praise Singers plus three others to undertake the exercise.
The composition of that Committee is a story for another day. But here is the real, hard-hitting issue: the constitutional amendment process should not be rushed. We are left with just seven months before Parliament is dissolved and barely ten months before the general elections. The Constitution is the supreme law of the land. It cannot be manipulated for short-term political survival.
A Constitution Cannot Be Amended on Election Eve
Constitution-making is a sacred process that demands time, inclusivity, and genuine national dialogue. It requires input from every corner of Zambia: ordinary citizens, political parties, civil society, the Church, traditional leaders, and legal experts. To attempt this colossal task in the dying months of a parliamentary term is to cheapen the process and undermine its credibility.
No credible constitution can be drafted, debated, passed, and owned by the people in such a rushed timeframe. Any attempt to do so will only produce a partisan document designed to serve the narrow interests of the ruling elite.
“A constitution amended on the eve of elections will never be a people’s document. It will only be a partisan tool.”
Suspicious Timing, Hidden Motives
Let us not be naïve. Zambia today faces a crippling economic crisis. Citizens are battling with soaring prices of food and fuel, unemployment is rife, businesses are suffocating, and hospitals are running short of essential medicines. If the government truly had the nation’s interest at heart, every ounce of energy would be directed toward reviving the economy.
Instead, we are told that Bill 7 and constitutional amendments are the priority. Why now? Why at this time? The answer is obvious: this has little to do with building democracy and everything to do with manipulating the law to tilt the political field. The motive is clear. The UPND is seeking ways to tighten its grip on power ahead of 2026.
“Bill 7 is not about democracy. It is about UPND’s desperation to prolong its stay in power.”
What Is the Rush For?
We do not have a constitutional crisis. The Constitution in its current form is serving the country. If the ruling party insists it is not sufficient, then let the process begin after 2026, when there will be ample time for wide consultation and debate.
What is the rush for? Why bulldoze amendments a few months before elections? The answer is simple: this is not about strengthening governance but about using the Constitution as a tool to secure political advantage.
“We don’t have a constitutional crisis. What we have is a leadership crisis.”
A Recipe for Division and Distrust
By forcing constitutional reforms so close to elections, the government risks dividing the nation. Every proposal, whether good or bad, will be viewed with suspicion. Opposition parties and civil society will see it as an attempt to rig the rules of the game. Ordinary citizens will view it as another waste of resources.
A constitution born out of political expediency will never command public trust. Instead of uniting the nation, it will leave Zambia more fractured and unstable.
Parliament and Electoral Deadlines Make It Impossible
Parliament is already burdened with pressing legislative duties as the clock ticks toward dissolution. Expecting MPs to fully debate and pass sweeping constitutional changes in a few months is unrealistic and dangerous. The result will either be shallow debate or bulldozed laws designed to suit the ruling party.
Worse still, changing the rules of governance on the eve of an election risks throwing the electoral process into confusion. Zambia cannot afford that kind of uncertainty.
Misplaced Priorities Amid Economic Hardship
Constitution-making is expensive. Public hearings, expert reviews, and nationwide consultations require millions of kwacha. At a time when the country is drowning in debt and ordinary citizens are crying out for economic relief, wasting scarce resources on a rushed process is an insult to the suffering people of Zambia.
“Zambians are asking for jobs and affordable food, not Bill 7.”
Conclusion: This Is About Power, Not Democracy
The UPND government’s insistence on pushing Bill 7 now is nothing short of a political maneuver. It is not about giving the people a stronger, fairer constitution. It is about securing an advantage and prolonging their stay in power.
Zambia deserves better. A genuine, people-driven constitution must be crafted carefully, transparently, and at the right time — after elections, with all stakeholders fully engaged. To bulldoze reforms now is to betray the trust of citizens and to play politics with the supreme law of the land.
The people of Zambia must reject this dangerous distraction and demand that the government focus on what truly matters: reviving the economy, creating jobs, and restoring dignity to the lives of ordinary citizens. Anything less is a betrayal.
UPND’s Panic and Desperation: Emmanuel Banda’s Adoption Marks the Death of Internal Democracy
By Michael Zephaniah Phiri Political Activist
The mask has finally fallen. The UPND government has shown the nation what it truly is — a desperate political machine willing to trample on democracy, silence its own members, and force candidates down people’s throats just to survive the 2026 general elections.
*Emmanuel Banda: A Pawn in UPND’s Game*
Independent Muchinga MP Emmanuel Banda has crossed the floor and been hastily “adopted” by UPND — but at what cost? This is not a show of strength. It is a sign of panic. Banda’s political career is now tied to a sinking ship, and he will sink with Hakainde Hichilema when the people deliver their verdict in 2026.
Citizens are not fooled. They know who has caused their pain — the soaring cost of living, broken promises on jobs, unending fuel and electricity woes, and a leadership that listens only to itself. That pain is the real opposition UPND faces, not PF, not any alliance. The people themselves have become the biggest opposition party in this country.
*By-Elections When It Suits Them*
UPND is quick to cry for by-elections when it favors them, but when Emmanuel Banda openly crosses the floor, they refuse to create one in Serenje. Why? Because the system only works when it keeps UPND in power. This hypocrisy exposes how far they are willing to bend the rules of democracy to protect their crumbling political empire.
*Internal Democracy Dead in UPND*
Before Parliament is even dissolved, UPND is already dishing out adoption certificates behind closed doors. What does this say about internal democracy? What does this say about 2026? If the ruling party cannot respect democracy inside its own house, how can anyone expect free and fair elections for the nation?
Article 60 of the Constitution is clear about democracy within political parties, but UPND has spat on it. They want Emmanuel Banda at all costs, even if it means suffocating their own members who have loyally worked for years in Muchinga. Banda’s adoption is not just a betrayal of the grassroots — it is an insult to the democratic spirit of Zambia.
*2026: The People’s Shockwave*
If the Tonse Alliance continues to stumble in disunity, Zambians will shock the world in 2026. Citizens will choose their own independent president and MPs — free from the chains of failed alliances and corrupt adoptions. The writing is on the wall: people are tired of being used, tired of being lied to, and tired of being ignored.
UPND is preparing for a rigged and unfair election, but no amount of manipulation will erase the suffering of ordinary citizens. They may adopt Emmanuel Banda today, but they cannot adopt the people’s anger, and they cannot silence the nation’s resolve.
Road blocks, a Syndicate of Corrupt Officers and Home Affairs Officials
A cartel exist that profits from the roadblocks especially against Minibus Drivers.
The cartel collects as high as K200,000 a day.
It’s a properly networked criminal syndicate.
The leader of the traffic police officers is seen buying breakfast and lunch and delivers the meals to offices at Lusaka Central Police and Police Service Headquaters.
Similarly money is shared from Lusaka Central Police , Service Headquarters and Ministry of Home Affairs.
That’s why every directive to stop roadblocks falls on deaf ears.
Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu has issued bans against roadblocks. The repeated directives have been ignored-repeatedly!
I remember that everytime we held bilateral meetings with the South African Government, or held business meetings with the Captains of the Industry, the complaint of turn-around time for trucks and rail sent to Zambia and DRC was awful.
For rail it was the aged and poor infrastructure that sees loss of time as trains move at snail’s pace.
For trucks, it was the over 35 roadblocks existing between Kazungula-Livingstone-Lusaka-Kasumbalesa! And the chaos at the borders.
Copperbelt Provincial Minister, Elisha Matambo had to beg police officers not to hold their corrupt exercise during peak hour.
The roadblocks can’t be stopped.
An entire network of corrupt officials benefits from the systematic extortions from members of the public.
GUEST ARTICLE: AN ANALYSIS FOR LAURA MITI – THE UNENDING SEARCH FOR A PERFECT ZAMBIAN CONSTITUTION
By Christopher K.
My dear Laura Miti, the media and to all the people of Zambia,
The ongoing national conversation about our constitution is not a new one; it is a thread that has run through the very fabric of our nation since before the flag of independence was raised. The notion that we can ever craft a constitution that satisfies everyone is a beautiful but elusive ideal.
The reality, as our history starkly reveals, is that constitution-making is, by its very nature, a contentious and political process. To believe otherwise is to misunderstand the dynamics of power, society, and democracy itself.
Let us walk through this history, step by step, to understand why controversy is not a sign of failure, but a feature of the process.
The Pre-Independence and Early Post-Independence Blueprint: Power in Embryo
Even before 1964, the foundations of controversy were laid. The constitution that the British gave us was not a divine gift; it was a political document designed to manage the transfer of power. While it established a multi-party democracy, it also set the stage for a strong executive.
Kenneth Kaunda’s brief tenure as Prime Minister of Northern Rhodesia was embedded within this colonial framework, which was more about administrative handover than a deep-seated belief in democratic pluralism. The seeds of a powerful central government were sown by the colonial master, and our first independent government was all too ready to nurture them.
The 1973 One-Party State Constitution: The People Silenced
The first major rupture in our constitutional journey was the 1973 Constitution. Under the mantra of “national unity” and to prevent “tribal divisions,” the one-party state was institutionalized. This was a profound and definitive act of elite interest. The ruling United National Independence Party (UNIP), under President Kaunda, effectively used the constitution not as a tool to empower the people, but as a legal instrument to entrench itself, eliminate political competition, and monopolize power. The “people-driven” mantra was absent; it was replaced by a state-driven decree, demonstrating clearly how a ruling party will use the constitution to secure its own survival.
The 1991-1996 Return to Multi-Party Politics: New Players, Old Tactics
The return to multi-party politics in 1991 was a victory for popular will, but the subsequent constitutional processes revealed that the patterns of the past were hard to break. The Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD), which had championed democracy, soon began to exhibit the same tendencies it had opposed. The 1996 Constitution, particularly its controversial citizenship clause aimed at a specific political opponent, was a clear indication that the new elites in power were also willing to manipulate the supreme law for political advantage. The rejection of key recommendations from its own Mwanakatwe Commission showed that “people’s input” was acceptable only as long as it did not threaten the ruling party’s interests.
The Long Charade of “People-Driven” Consultations
For decades, we have been trapped in a cycle of expensive commissions and nationwide consultations. The Mung’omba Commission draft of 2005 was hailed as a landmark of popular participation. Yet, what became of it? It was shelved, ignored, and its most progressive elements were only cherry-picked years later. This cycle has bred immense public mistrust. The media and vested interests—both economic and political—have fueled this mistrust, often framing the process as a zero-sum game where one side’s gain is the other’s loss. The truth is, the call for a “people-driven constitution” has often been used as a slogan by the opposition and civil society to challenge the government, and by the government to legitimize a process it ultimately controls.
The Mwanawasa Era: The National Constitutional Conference (NCC)
President Levy Mwanawasa inherited the acclaimed Mung’omba Commission draft but chose a different path. He established the National Constitutional Conference (NCC), a massive, protracted, and government-dominated assembly. The controversy was immediate and profound. Key opposition parties and civil society groups boycotted the process, arguing it was designed to allow the ruling MMD to cherry-pick and water down the progressive elements of the Mung’omba draft. The NCC became a symbol of a captured process—long, expensive, and ultimately failing to produce a legitimate constitution before President Mwanawasa’s untimely death.
The Lungu Era: The 2016 Constitution
Under President Edgar Lungu, Zambia finally adopted a new constitution in 2016. While it introduced crucial reforms like the 50%+1 threshold for presidential elections, the process was marred by accusations of a “stroke of the pen” imposition. The government was criticized for bypassing a broader national consensus and rushing the adoption, leading to claims that it was more about consolidating the Patriotic Front’s (PF) legal standing than enacting a truly people-driven charter. It was a classic case of a ruling party delivering long-demanded changes, but on its own terms, thereby tainting the victory with controversy.
The Recent Past: PF, Bill 10, and the Strategy of “Non-Controversial” Reforms
Our observation about the current government’s approach is astute. After the polarizing and ultimately failed attempt by the Patriotic Front (PF) to introduce Bill 10—a classic example of a ruling party seeking to embed clauses (like the controversial running mate clause and changes to parliament composition) that would have advantaged it structurally—the current administration has taken a different tack.
By picking what are deemed “non-controversial” articles from previous drafts, the government is attempting to sidestep the political landmines and reduce the exorbitant costs of new commissions. This is a pragmatic recognition of the stalemate. Similarly, the PF’s push for Bill 10 was a stark reminder that every ruling party, regardless of its ideology, is tempted to shape the rules of the game in its favour, in the name of “stability” or “national interest.”
The Inescapable Truth: Controversy is Inevitable
So, where does this leave us, Lara Miti? It leaves us with a fundamental truth: there will never be a time when we have a universally accepted, “people-driven” constitution. This is not a Zambian failing; it is a reality of democracy. A constitution is the bedrock of power distribution. It will always be contested.
· If the opposition proposes something, the government will reject it if it diminishes its authority. · If the government proposes something, the opposition and civil society will scrutinize it for hidden advantages. · The idea that “the people” are a monolithic entity with a single voice is a fiction. Our society is a vibrant tapestry of competing interests: traditional leaders, the church, civil society, the private sector, and political associations. They will always have inputs and disagreements.
A Call for Resolute and Decisive Leadership
Therefore, the solution is not to endlessly chase an impossible consensus. The solution is for a government that truly means well to be resolute and decisive.
1. Organize Cost-Effective Fora: Instead of nationwide tours that drain the treasury, the government should convene structured, cost-effective forums with key sections of society—like: traditional leaders, the church, civil society, the private sector, and professional associations.
2. Listen, Consolidate, and Decide: In these fora, let all inputs and disagreements be heard. Let the debate be robust. Then, the government, elected by the people to lead, must consolidate these views and make the ultimate decision.
3. Do Not Back Down: If the resulting constitutional amendments are in the genuine long-term interest of the nation’s stability and development, the government must not back down in the face of the inevitable political noise. Leadership is about making tough choices, not pleasing everyone.
This is how it has always been, from the colonial order-in-council to the one-party state to the present day. The forum for input may change, but the ultimate decision-maker has always been the governing authority of the day.
Let us enlighten ourselves and our leaders. Let us stop pretending that a perfect, uncontested constitution is possible. Instead, let us strive for a functional and improving one, crafted through inclusive but decisive leadership. The government should press on, absorb the criticisms, and enact the changes it believes will move the nation forward. History will be the judge.
Yours in the pursuit of a more pragmatic and stable Zambia.
US-Based Vlogger Ethel Edwards Faces Seditious Practices and Hate Speech Charges in Lusaka Court
By Memory Bbuku
US-based vlogger Ethel Edwards has appeared before the Lusaka Magistrate Court to answer to four counts of seditious practices and hate speech, allegedly directed at President Hakainde Hichilema.
Lusaka Chief Resident Magistrate Davis Chibwili has allocated the case to Magistrate Amy Masoja. However, Edwards could not take plea due to the trial court’s unavailability. She is expected to take plea on Monday, October 6, 2025.
According to the allegations, Edwards used multiple social media platforms between February 1, 2023, and February 28, 2025, to disseminate hate speech and seditious content. These include a Facebook page named Dominic Phiri, another page titled Zambia Top Updates, and a TikTok account called Trending Stories Wthros.
The case has drawn attention due to its implications on digital speech, national security, and the legal boundaries of online expression.
GOVERNMENT RELEASES K602 MILLION CONSTITUENCY DEVELOPMENT FUND TO ALL 156 CONSTITUENCIES
Lusaka, 3rd October 2025
The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has announced the disbursement of K602 million to all 156 constituencies across the country.
The funds, released through the respective local authorities over the past seven days, mean that each constituency has received an average of K4 million.
This latest allocation brings the total Constituency Development Fund (CDF) disbursed from January to date in the 2025 financial year to K3,070,014,055.58
Permanent Secretary (Administration), Dr. Gabriel Pollen, said the CDF remains a vital instrument for decentralised development and community empowerment, allowing local citizens to champion and implement projects that respond directly to their unique challenges and priorities.
He explained that the fund is currently supporting a wide range of developmental efforts in various parts of the country.
These include infrastructure projects such as the construction and rehabilitation of schools, health centres, water systems, and feeder roads. In addition, the fund is being used to promote economic empowerment through loans and grants provided to small-scale entrepreneurs.
It is also helping to support education by financing bursaries for vulnerable learners and is improving service delivery by enabling local authorities to procure essential resources, including earthmoving equipment.
Dr. Pollen expressed confidence that this latest disbursement will enhance the capacity of local authorities to deliver tangible development outcomes.
He noted that several projects funded through the CDF have already been completed, while many more are currently underway.
Reaffirming Government’s commitment to inclusive and equitable development, Dr. Pollen emphasised the importance of transparency, accountability, and active citizen participation in managing public resources.
He stated that the ultimate goal is to bridge the rural-urban divide and improve the quality of life for all Zambians.
EMMANUEL MWAMBA MISINTERPRETS A SIMPLE STATEMENT — SHIFTING ATTACKS FROM THE PRESIDENT TO CIVIL SERVANTS
By: Timmy
It has now become clear that former Ambassador Emmanuel Mwamba has shifted his pattern of attacks. Having failed to discredit President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership through false narratives, he has now turned his attention to innocent civil servants — twisting their statements to fit his political agenda.
In his recent post, Mr. Mwamba attempted to frame a Zambia Police officer who merely made a factual comment in support of the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Hon. Jack Mwiimbu’s directive to reduce unnecessary roadblocks. The officer, in his comment, highlighted a simple truth that during the PF era, the same leaders failed to end unnecessary roadblocks, despite having every opportunity to do so.
This was not a show of rebellion against ministerial authority, nor was it an act of indiscipline. It was a reminder to Mr. Mwamba and the PF that they never prioritized reforms of this nature when they were in government.
Unfortunately, Emmanuel Mwamba seems to have misunderstood basic English comprehension. The officer was not opposing the Minister’s instruction; he was, in fact, agreeing with it and contrasting it with the previous administration’s failure to act on the same issue.
This type of deliberate twisting of facts is not only unfair to the civil servant involved, but it also reflects a worrying trend where innocent public workers are dragged into political battles simply because some individuals have run out of genuine issues to attack the New Dawn Government on.
The New Dawn Administration under President Hakainde Hichilema has emphasized professionalism, discipline, and respect for civil servants. Unlike before, officers today are allowed to express constructive opinions without fear of political victimization.
We urge Mr. Mwamba to refrain from targeting hardworking public servants and instead focus on engaging with facts. Zambia has moved on from politics of distortion and character assassination.
To all our followers — share, comment, and like this article to counter misleading narratives. Let’s continue supporting truth, professionalism, and the progressive leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema.
Looting of Public Funds Persists Despite Audit Warnings
By Kumwesu Newsroom | October 4, 2025
Zambia’s public purse remains vulnerable to mismanagement and outright losses despite repeated warnings from state auditors, the latest Auditor General’s Report shows.
Acting Auditor General Dr. Ron Mwambwa tabled before Parliament on Thursday the Report on the Accounts of the Republic for the year ending December 31, 2024, exposing 33 critical audit findings that remained unresolved by September 30, 2025. The revelations underscore persistent governance failures in revenue collection, procurement, and financial oversight across ministries raising alarms for service delivery and fiscal stability.
Tax Gaps and Revenue Leakages
The Zambia Revenue Authority is sitting on K4.39 billion in unpaid tax liabilities, while weak controls on transit goods exposed an additional K10.9 million in taxes. At the Ministry of Lands, K1.32 billion in ground rent arrears — some more than a decade old — remain unpaid, alongside K177.9 million in other arrears.
“These gaps in revenue collection not only erode the fiscal base but also undermine public trust,” the report warned.
Losses, Mismanagement, and Unkept Promises
The Ministry of Finance alone lost US$3.66 million after failing to honor contractual terms, a case now sitting with the Drug Enforcement Commission.
Meanwhile, K25.7 million worth of farming inputs under the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services failed to reach farmers ahead of the 2024/2025 season. The Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility (SAFF) remains owed K12.96 million, while insurance claims worth K113.1 million under FISP remain unpaid a situation leaving tens of thousands of farmers exposed.
Funds Returned, Advances Unrecovered
The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock returned K30.7 million in unspent funds earmarked for animal health programs. At the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, K48.4 million in terminated contracts included K15.4 million in unrecovered advance payments.
Such reversals reflect not just inefficiency, but a breakdown in project execution where budgetary allocations fail to translate into services.
Procurement Red Flags
The Ministry of Education engaged Alliance Procurement and Capacity Building Ltd. to collect K2.8 million from schools without following tender procedures.
At the Ministry of Health, duplicate works and questionable extensions worth K24 million were flagged. Worse still, a contract with Primetime Freight and Customs Brokers, which expired in 2020, was verbally extended, allowing payments to continue without invoices or interest computations.
“These breaches in procurement law heighten the risk of fraud and misuse of public resources,” the Auditor General cautioned.
Failed Infrastructure and Lingering Liabilities
The Ministry of Transport and Logistics paid US$1.53 million in port rental arrears on behalf of a private concessionaire under a 25-year Walvis Bay Port agreement signed in 2009. Of this, US$1.43 million remains unrecovered.
The report signals that Zambia’s concession model, designed to ease fiscal pressures, may instead be shifting private liabilities onto taxpayers.
The Bigger Picture
Zambia’s public debt has already ballooned to US$21.6 billion by end-2024. The Auditor General’s findings expose how weak governance and poor contract management are compounding fiscal stress.
For a government navigating tight IMF-backed reforms, the failure to plug these leaks threatens not just program credibility but the livelihoods of citizens reliant on efficient public services.
As one analyst put it: “Every kwacha lost to mismanagement is a kwacha denied to hospitals, schools, and farmers.”
Kumwesu Analysis: The audit paints a picture of a state apparatus struggling to enforce discipline over its finances. Without urgent reform in revenue collection, contract management, and procurement oversight, Zambia risks sinking deeper into a cycle of rising debt, missed opportunities, and public disillusionment.
PRESIDENT HICHILEMA WRAPS UP SUCCESSFUL UK WORKING VISIT
By Wagon Media | 3rd October 2025
President Hakainde Hichilema has concluded a successful three-day working visit to the United Kingdom, where he held high-level discussions with King Charles III and senior British Government officials aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and boosting development partnerships.
The President highlighted that the agreements and collaborations forged during the visit are designed to deliver tangible benefits for Zambians, including job creation, increased investment, and improved resilience in key sectors such as energy.
Following the meetings in London, President Hichilema has since departed for Lusaka, expressing gratitude for the support and prayers of the Zambian people.
The visit reinforces Zambia’s commitment to strategic international cooperation as a driver of national development.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has been sentenced to over four years behind bars for his pr0stitution conviction.
The music mogul, 55, reportedly hung his head as Judge Arun Subramanian handed down the sentence of 50 months in a Manhattan courtroom on Friday, as Diddy’s weeping family watched on from the gallery.
The judge also slapped him with a fine of $500,000 as he condemned him for his ‘savage’ abuse of his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, saying he was making an example of him because he caused ‘irreperable harm’ to his victims.
Music mogul Diddy sentenced to 50 months in prison for pr0stitution offenses ‘Deterrence requires a significant sentence’ he said, noting that Diddy held more ‘freak offs’ even after he had been subjected to search warrants and public shaming over his abuse of Ventura.
‘You abused the power and control you had over the lives of women you professed to love dearly,’ the judge said. ‘Why did it go on so long? Because you had the power and resources to keep it going.’
The decision came following a tumultuous sentencing hearing, with the judge deciding at the start of the day he would still consider evidence from s£x trafficking and racketeering charges that he was cleared of back in July.
Prosecutors then told the judge Diddy had arrogantly arranged speaking arrangements for Monday in Miami, suggesting he didn’t believe he was going to spend any more time behind bars at all.
Diddy’s attorney, Nicole Westmoreland, broke down in tears in her argument for a light sentence, claiming he deserved leniency because he was awarded Menswear Designer of the Year by the American Fashion Council in 2004.
‘It wasn’t just about an award, it was about breaking barriers,’ she said, as courtroom reporters said she appeared to start crying.
The sentence delivered on Friday marks a dramatic downfall for the 55-year-old, who was once among the most influential figures in the entertainment industry.
LABOUR COMMISSIONER WARNS EMPLOYERS: END ABUSE, RESPECT WORKERS’ RIGHTS
By: Sun Fm Tv Reporter
Labour Commissioner Givens Muntengwa Has Issued A Stern Warning To Employers Against Exploitative Labour Practices, Following Disturbing Reports From Workers At Usangu Group In Ndola.
During An Inspection At The Company, Muntengwa Expressed Dismay Over Allegations Of Unpaid Overtime, Unfair Deductions, Underpayment Of Subsistence Allowances, And Poor Treatment Of Employees.
He Criticized The Adoption Of A “Capitalist Mentality” That Alienates Employers From Their Workforce, Stating That Such Attitudes Undermine Industrial Harmony And Violate The Principles Of Decent Work.
Mr Muntengwa Also Raised Concerns About Cross-Border Drivers, Particularly Those Traveling To Congo, Who Reportedly Receive Only $100 For Month-Long Trips, From Which They Must Cover Tolls And Fees.
He Condemned The Practice Of Charging Workers For Broken Tools, Tyre Bursts, And Unconfirmed Diesel Theft Claims, Calling It Unjust And Demoralizing. The Commissioner Urged Companies To Adopt Fair Labour Practices, Engage In Social Dialogue, And Respect Workers’ Rights.
He Emphasized That Collaboration Is Key To Achieving Both Profitability And Sustainable Development.
Highlighting The Role Of Trade Unions, Muntengwa Stated That, Unionism Is Not The Enemy Of Employers, Citing That Strong Unions Must Ensure That Workers’ Voices Are Heard And Should Create A Platform For Dialogue Instead Of Confrontation.
He Encouraged Unions To Engage Constructively With Employers To Foster A Workplace Built On Mutual Respect And Shared Growth. #SunFmTvNews
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has announced that the remains of South Africa’s Ambassador to France, Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, are expected to be repatriated to South Africa next week.
Mthethwa, 58, was found dead on September 30, 2025, at the base of the Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile hotel, with French authorities suspecting suicide.
DIRCO Deputy Minister Alvin Botes visited the Mthethwa family in KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal, on Thursday to offer condolences and assure them that the ambassador would receive a dignified sendoff.
Botes emphasized that the government is awaiting preliminary findings from the French investigation before finalizing repatriation plans. He also noted that cultural protocols would be respected during the process.
The South African government has refrained from drawing conclusions about the circumstances of Mthethwa’s death, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation. DIRCO remains committed to ensuring that all procedures are conducted with the utmost respect and adherence to traditional customs.
Mthethwa served as South Africa’s Ambassador to France from February 2024 until his death. His passing has left the diplomatic community in shock, and his family, colleagues, and the nation mourn the loss of a dedicated public servant.
Nkosi Mandla Mandela among activists detained by Israel, Mandela calls for immediate release
Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela has added his voice to the growing global condemnation following the interception of a humanitarian flotilla bound for Gaza by Israeli authorities.
The flotilla, aimed at delivering aid to besieged Palestinians, included Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela, grandson of former South African President Nelson Mandela, climate activist Greta Thunberg, and nearly 500 other international activists.
In a statement released on Thursday, Melisizwe Mandela described the detention as “unlawful and inhumane,” emphasizing that the flotilla’s mission was one of peace, solidarity, and humanitarian aid not conflict.
He called on the international community, including the United Nations and the African Union, to intervene and ensure the immediate and safe release of those detained.
“History will remember the courage of these activists who refused to look away,” Mandela said, invoking the words of his grandfather: “Our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinian people.” He added that the struggle of the Palestinian people is intrinsically linked to the global fight for justice and human rights.
The statement concludes with a resounding call: “FREE MANDELA. FREE GAZA. FREE PALESTINE.”
The detention has sparked widespread criticism from human rights organizations and world leaders, further intensifying calls for international action to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Security beefed up as Mkhwanazi prepares to testify before Ad Hoc Committee
Security has been tightened around KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, ahead of his upcoming appearance before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee. The committee is probing explosive allegations of political interference and corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Mkhwanazi, who has already testified before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, has accused senior official including Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya of unlawfully dismantling task teams investigating political killings and removing sensitive case dockets. He has been placed under heightened protection following what officials describe as “credible threats” to his safety.
Additional security measures have reportedly been implemented at his home, while his movements now fall under the scrutiny of the SAPS VIP Protection Unit. The reinforcement comes amid concerns that his testimony could implicate powerful figures in both the police and political spheres.
The Ad Hoc Committee, established by Parliament in July, is tasked with investigating Mkhwanazi’s claims.
Netflix has seen its market value drop by $15.1 billion following a surge in subscription cancellations spurred by Elon Musk’s public call to boycott the streaming giant.
The backlash centers around Netflix’s children’s programming, particularly the animated series Dead End: Paranormal Park, which features a transgender teenage protagonist.
Musk, who has a substantial following on X (formerly Twitter), announced he had canceled his own Netflix subscription and encouraged his 227 million followers to do the same.
He criticized the show for promoting “transgender woke agenda” and shared posts from users who had unsubscribed in protest. His message, “Cancel Netflix for the health of your kids,” resonated with many, leading to a significant uptick in cancellations and a trending hashtag, #CancelNetflix.
The controversy intensified after resurfaced comments from Dead End creator Hamish Steele, who allegedly mocked the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Although Steele denied the allegations, the incident fueled further outrage among conservative groups and parents, who accused Netflix of promoting progressive gender ideologies to children.
In response to the mounting criticism, Netflix’s stock experienced a sharp decline. Shares fell by 2.3% on Wednesday, marking a consecutive drop over several days. The cumulative effect has been a $15.1 billion decrease in the company’s market capitalization. Investor concerns are growing over the potential long-term impact on subscriber numbers and brand reputation.
Netflix has yet to publicly address the controversy or Musk’s comments. As the situation develops, the streaming service faces increased pressure to navigate the cultural debate surrounding its content offerings.
Home affairs employee convicted for faking people deaths to claim insurance
A 45-year-old Department of Home Affairs employee, Dawn Celeste Pieterson, has been found guilty of multiple fraud charges in the Calvinia Magistrate’s Court.
Pieterson was convicted on nine counts of fraud under the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977 and two counts of contravening the Birth and Death Registration Act of 1992. Her crimes, committed between February 2019 and September 2022, involved manipulating the national population register to falsely declare people dead.
The court heard that Pieterson, who had access to official systems, issued fraudulent death notices and used the falsified records to claim funeral policies from insurance companies, naming herself as the beneficiary.
Her actions left victims wrongly recorded as deceased, causing major disruptions to their daily lives.
Family rejects suicide claims in death of South African ambassador Nathi Mthethwa in Paris
The family of South African Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, has firmly rejected reports suggesting he died by suicide after allegedly falling from the 22nd floor of a Paris hotel on September 30, 2025.
Relatives, speaking from his home in KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal, described the circumstances surrounding his death as “mysterious” and called for a thorough investigation.
Khulekani Mthethwa, a family spokesperson, emphasized that Nathi Mthethwa had endured torture under the apartheid regime and would not have taken his own life to avoid the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry after being named by General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
He questioned the whereabouts of the ambassador’s security detail during his disappearance and subsequent death. The family has urged both French authorities and South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the incident.
French authorities are investigating the death as a suspected suicide. Ambassador Mthethwa had reportedly sent an apologetic message to his wife the night before his death, expressing intentions to end his life. The window in his hotel room had been tampered with, and no signs of struggle or drug use were found.
Mthethwa, 58, had a distinguished political career, serving as Minister of Police, Minister of Arts and Culture, and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture. He was appointed as South Africa’s Ambassador to France in February 2024. His death has prompted tributes from colleagues and officials, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, who praised his contributions to strengthening South Africa-France relations.
The family’s call for a full investigation underscores the need for clarity and transparency regarding the circumstances of Ambassador Mthethwa’s untimely death.
Brian Kagame, the youngest son of Rwandan President Paul Kagame, was among more than 1,000 cadet officers who graduated from the Rwanda Defense Force (RDF) today.
A graduate of the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK—like his elder brother Ian—Brian’s entry into the RDF reinforces the Kagame family’s deep-rooted military legacy.
With President Kagame leading the RDF for over three decades, his sons’ rising roles echo similar dynastic military trends seen in Africa, such as Uganda’s Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba. Could Paul Kagame be preparing one of his sons to take over once he steps aside?
A Jury selection has begun in the high-profile murder trial of Sarah Hartsfield, the Texas woman accused of k!lling her fifth husband with insulin.
The 50-year-old faces accusations that she murder£d her husband, Joseph Hartsfield, in January 2023. Hartsfield pleaded not guilty.
According to a grand jury indictment filed in February 2023, prosecutors allege she “intentionally and knowingly cause the de@th of an individual, namely Joseph Hartsfield, by a manner and means unknown to the grand jury.”
Joseph’s obituary says he d!ed in a hospital “due to complications of an ischemic stroke, with his loving wife at his side.”
Hartsfield is currently in custody at the Chambers County Jail in Texas and is held on a reduced bond of $2 million.
Prosecutors allege that Hartsfield, an Army veteran, used her husband’s diabetes to cover up a homicide, allegedly injecting him with dangerous amounts of insulin and delaying calling 911 for several hours.
Joseph’s obituary says he d!ed in a hospital “due to complications of an ischemic stroke, with his loving wife at his side.”
Hartsfield is currently in custody at the Chambers County Jail in Texas and is held on a reduced bond of $2 million.
Prosecutors allege that Hartsfield, an Army veteran, used her husband’s diabetes to cover up a homicide, allegedly injecting him with dangerous amounts of insulin and delaying calling 911 for several hours.
Hartsfield’s first marriage was to her high school sweetheart, Titus Knoernschild. The couple married young, but the relationship soon soured.
Knoernschild told ABC13 Houston that Sarah threatened him during their separation, warning him not to be surprised if he didn’t survive their divorce.
According to the local outlet, they divorced by 1995, but he said she continued to harass him for years afterward, including showing up at his Fort Hood office in 2008 until he obtained a no-contact order.
She went on to marry her second husband in the mid-1990s.
According to ABC13, Sarah was arrested in March 1996 for allegedly assaulting him during a dispute at their Rio Bonito home.
The charge was dropped after about a week, ABC13 reported.
By the late 1990s, Sarah had remarried, and her third marriage eventually ended in divorce in 2018. Around that time, she became engaged to David Bragg in Minnesota.
On May 9, 2018, Sarah shot and k!lled Bragg in his home.
The family of a man who went on a knife rampage at a synagogue before he was shot de@d by police has issued a statement.
Jihad Al-Shamie, 35, has been identified as the attacker at the synagogue in north Manchester on Thursday, October 2. He drove into a group of people outside Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue before stabbing a man.
Family of Manchester synagogue attacker Jihad Al-Shamie issues new statement after their son went on ramming and stabbing spree
Al-Shamie was shot de@d by police at the scene of the attack in Crumpsall on Thursday morning, which took place on Yom Kippur, Judaism’s holiest day.
Greater Manchester Police said Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66, di£d in the horrific attack and three others remain in hospital with serious injuries.
The family of Al-Shamie has now issued a statement saying it was a “heinous act” and expressed “shock and sorrow”.
The statement read: “The news from Manchester regarding the terrorist attack targeting a Jewish synagogue has been a profound shock to us. The Al-Shamie family in the UK and abroad strongly condemns this heinous act, which targeted peaceful, innocent civilians.
“We fully distance ourselves from this attack and express our deep shock and sorrow over what has happened. Our hearts and thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we pray for their strength and comfort.”
It adds: “May God have mercy on the innocent victims, and we pray for the swift recovery of the injured.”
Al-Shamie is understood to have entered the UK as a young child and was granted British citizenship in 2006 when he was around the age of 16. It is believed his name has not appeared in initial searches of police and security service records, and he is not thought to have been under investigation.
Neighbours of the synagogue k!ller said he had lived there since around 2021.
One woman said: “We used to see him out in the garden working out, doing weights, press ups. He used to change his clothes. One day he would be wearing the full gown, to the floor and the next jeans and pyjama bottoms.”
Another person who lived near the house raided in Langley Crescent, Prestwich, told the Daily Telegraph she recognised its occupant from photographs of the synagogue attacker.
She said: “He lived there 10 years, with no wife or kids that I could see. He never seemed to speak to anyone around here.
“I recognised him from the pictures of the attacker. I recognised his little car, the Kia, because he’d always park it badly outside ours. I’d see him walking around in his pyjamas and slip-on sandals, carrying a shopping bag. He was quite bulked up and used to keep his exercise weights in his garage. I’d see them there.”
ITV News said Al-Shamie is understood to have worked as a tutor teaching English and computer programming, while reports suggest his father is a surgeon.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said she was “surprised” by the attacker’s name.
Speaking on LBC, Ms Mahmood was asked about the attacker’s name, Jihad Al-Shamie, which presenter Nick Ferrari translated as “struggle of the Syrian”.
She said: “I was very surprised to discover that name myself. Actually, as a Muslim, I’ve never heard someone being called Jihad, but it is the name that he was born with – that has always been his name.”
U.S. President Donald Trump has today issued a final warning, demanding Hamas accept a US peace agreement to end the bloody Gaza war.
The president threatened that ‘all hell’ will break out on the militants if they did not accept his plan by 6pm on Sunday.
The deal includes that all remaining hostages are released within 72 hours of an agreement.
Trump wrote on Truth Social on Friday: ‘Hamas has been a ruthless and violent threat, for many years, in the Middle East! They have killed (and made lives unbearably miserable), culminating with the October 7th MASSACRE, in Israel, babies, woman, children, old people, and many young men and women, boys and girls, getting ready to celebrate their future lives together.
‘As retribution for the October 7 attack on civilization, more than 25,000 Hamas “soldiers” have already been killed. Most of the rest are surrounded and MILITARILY TRAPPED, just waiting for me to give the word, “GO,” for their lives to be quickly extinguished. As for the rest, we know where and who you are, and you will be hunted down, and killed.’
The president added: ‘I am asking that all innocent Palestinians immediately leave this area of potentially great future death for safer parts of Gaza. Everyone will be well cared for by those that are waiting to help. Fortunately for Hamas, however, they will be given one last chance!’
Trump met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday at the White House along with some of his top cabinet officials, and agreed on a new peace deal for Gaza.
The White House released a 20-point plan, which included increasing aid to Gaza and an economic development proposal that includes preferred tariffs and access rates.
Trump added on Truth Social on Friday: ‘Great, powerful, and very rich Nations of the Middle East, and the surrounding areas beyond, together with the United States of America, have agreed, with Israel signing on, to PEACE, after 3000 years, in the Middle East.
‘THIS DEAL ALSO SPARES THE LIVES OF ALL REMAINING HAMAS FIGHTERS! The details of the document are known to the WORLD, and it is a great one for ALL! We will have PEACE in the Middle East one way or the other. The violence and bloodshed will stop.’
Trump also demanded that Hamas release the bodies of dead Israeli captives before the Sunday deadline.
‘RELEASES THE HOSTAGES, ALL OF THEM, INCLUDING THE BODIES OF THOSE THAT ARE DEAD, NOW! An Agreement must be reached with Hamas by Sunday Evening at SIX (6) P.M., Washington, DC time.’
He added: ‘If this LAST CHANCE agreement is not reached, all HELL, like no one has ever seen before, will break out against Hamas. THERE WILL BE PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST ONE WAY OR THE OTHER.’
On Friday, a senior Hamas official told AFP that the organization needs more time to study Trump’s plan to end the war.
Parts of the proposal call for a complete disarmament of Hamas followed by a gradual and complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
The plan also outlines that a post-war Gaza will be governed by Trump himself.
‘Hamas is still continuing consultations regarding Trump’s plan… and has informed mediators that the consultations are ongoing and need some time,’ the Hamas official stated.
A family in Kirinyaga County has been torn apart after a woman discovered her husband in a compromising situation with her firstborn daughter. The mother of four had previously endured abuse from her husband while they lived in Tanzania before fleeing to Kenya with her children.
After promises of change, the man later followed her and convinced her to reconcile. The couple settled in Nairobi, where he worked as a boda boda rider and she supported the family through laundry jobs. Tensions soon grew within the household as the eldest daughter became increasingly defiant.
Efforts at discipline were often undermined by the husband, who consistently took the girl’s side. This strained the relationship further and planted seeds of conflict in the home.
The situation reached a breaking point when the woman returned home unexpectedly and found her husband half naked with her daughter. Devastated, she sought assistance from her landlord, but her husband insisted he preferred to remain with the girl rather than his wife.
The confrontation ended with the woman being thrown out of the house together with her two younger children while she was pregnant at the time. Her daughter stayed behind with the man, leaving the mother to face life alone. She later moved to Naivasha, where she now struggles to rebuild her life while caring for her children.
Despite the betrayal, she has chosen to forgive her daughter but remains firm in keeping her distance to protect her other children.
Wayne Rooney has delivered a stinging assessment of Manchester United under manager Ruben Amorim, claiming he no longer recognises the club he once captained and achieved legendary status with.
The former United striker, who won five Premier League titles and a Champions League medal at Old Trafford, expressed his disappointment over the direction of the club, saying Amorim has failed to inspire belief both in the squad and among supporters.
“I don’t recognise the whole football club.There’s no identity, no structure, no fight. I don’t see the passion that defined Manchester United when I played there.
“Honestly, I don’t have faith that Amorim is the man to turn it around,” Rooney said in an interview with British Media.
Amorim was appointed during the summer after United parted ways with Erik ten Hag but results have been far from convincing.
The team has struggled in the league, dropping crucial points and failing to establish consistency.
Rooney argued that the problems at Old Trafford go beyond individual players, suggesting a lack of clarity in coaching and strategy.
“You look at the performances, you look at the body language of the players and you have to ask yourself: what is the plan? Where are we going?” he questioned.
United fans, already frustrated by years of decline since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013, have been divided over Amorim’s appointment.
Many had hoped his successful spell at Sporting Lisbon would translate into a fresh approach in Manchester but so far the optimism has faded.
Rooney’s comments add to the mounting pressure on Amorim, whose future is already being debated just months into his reign.
Critics argue that the club lacks not only a tactical identity but also the resilience that once made it the most feared side in England.
The ex-England captain urged the club hierarchy to reassess their long-term vision.
“The fans deserve better.This isn’t about one bad game or one bad season. It’s about what Manchester United stands for. And right now, I don’t see it,”he added.
While some supporters believe Amorim should be given time to rebuild, Rooney’s blunt remarks highlight the growing impatience surrounding Old Trafford.
After six Premier League matches, Manchester United find themselves in 14th position on the table with just seven points, having won two games, drawn once and lost three.
President Lazarus Chakwera and Secretary to the President and Cabinet (SPC) Colleen Zamba have been barred from attending the Swearing-In and Inauguration Ceremony scheduled for tomorrow at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre, sources from State House and Ministry of Information have confirmed.
According to the State House source who asked for anonymity, some members of the inauguration organising committee especially those from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), do not want Chakwera and Zamba at the event because “it is none of their business, this is about the new government.”
Chakwera conceded defeat to Mutharika last week and has since then demonstrated statesmanship by committing to a smooth handover of power.
Chakwera was even expected to attend Mutharika’s inauguration and pass on the baton to him.
Efforts to talk to Jean Mathanga and Peter Mukhito, both members of committee from the DPP, proved futile as their phones were unreachable.
The committee comprises members from DPP, Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC).
We called Mathanga twice but her phone was unavailable. We called Mukhitho thrice but his phone was said to be busy.
⬆️ BUILD-UP | Makebi Zulu, From Body Politics to Presidential Endorsement
The opposition Tonse Alliance is not short of drama, and the latest twist adds another layer of intrigue. Chris Zumani Zimba has endorsed Makebi Zulu as a credible presidential candidate for 2026, hailing him as “a loyal son of Edgar Lungu” and “highly credible.” But there is a complication that Zumani’s glowing praise cannot hide.
Zulu is not just a lawyer and former MP. He is the family’s lawyer and spokesperson in South Africa, the man who has been at the centre of the battle over Edgar Lungu’s body since June. For nearly four months, he has helped the family resist government attempts to repatriate the late president’s remains, insisting on their right to bury him in Johannesburg. Until today, the fight over Lungu’s funeral has remained unresolved.
That is the political baggage Zulu carries into this conversation. While Zumani sees him as credible, many even within PF and the Tonse Alliance see him as compromised. For them, his central role in what has been called “body politics” makes him a divisive figure, not a unifier.
The endorsement also exposes the PF’s unresolved identity crisis. The party has been paralysed since Lungu’s death, torn between camps loyal to Given Lubinda, Raphael Nakacinda, Sean Tembo, and Robert Chabinga. In that chaos, Makebi Zulu’s name now surfaces not as a natural choice but as a desperate gamble. A man known more for managing a funeral dispute than leading a political resurrection.
The irony is striking. Edgar Lungu himself rose to power on claims that he was the chosen heir of Michael Sata. Today, PF is once again running on the endorsement of the dead. Only this time, the figure being endorsed is not even buried, and the man championed as successor is still negotiating the terms of that burial.
Zumani’s narrative of credibility clashes with grassroots sentiment. Within PF, some view Zulu as too tied to the family feud, too unknown nationally, and too compromised by his role in holding back a state funeral. Others argue that his loyalty to Lungu shows he can be trusted to protect PF’s legacy. Both arguments expose the deeper truth: PF has no consensus candidate.
For the alliance, the risk is clear. Endorsing a figure so visibly connected to body politics will only fuel public cynicism that the opposition cannot rise above personal feuds. And for Zambians watching from the outside, the question is sharp: how can a coalition that cannot bury its dead promise to govern the living?
The next weeks will be decisive. As PF wrestles over Lungu’s memory and his remains, Makebi Zulu now finds himself pushed forward as a contender. But until the burial question is resolved, his candidacy will remain tainted by the politics of the grave.
JOHN SANGWA VOWS TO REPLACE HH AS PRESIDENT IN 2026
Constitutional lawyer John Sangwa has confirmed his intention to contest the 2026 presidential elections, shifting his focus from the courtroom to the highest office in the land.
A report by Kalemba, Sangwa said his decision to run is anchored on the collective will of Zambians, stressing that true national renewal cannot be achieved through the effort of one individual alone.
“That future will not be built by one person alone, but by all of us acting together: each fulfilling our constitutional duty and demanding the same of those who lead us,” Sangwa said. “I am ready to serve, but only if the people of Zambia are ready to walk this path with me. Renewal cannot come from my sacrifice alone, but from our collective decision to change course together.”
He emphasized the need for a Zambia where corruption is firmly rejected, citizens live responsibly within their means, and the Constitution is treated as a living guide rather than a document left on paper.
Sangwa further warned that no leader, however sincere, can succeed without the active participation of the people in defending the Constitution and rejecting corruption.
“The time has come for us, as one people, to face reality honestly and begin the work of national renewal,” he declared.
Setting the Record Straight: Willah J. Mudolo Rejects Fake Endorsement Reports, Reaffirms Commitment to Zambian People
The Willah J. Mudolo Campaign categorically and unequivocally rejects the fabricated reports circulating on social media which falsely claim that Willah Joseph Mudolo has “endorsed HH for the 2026 election.” This is nothing less than a malicious attempt at political deception—a typical case of fake news designed to mislead the public.
Our campaign’s position remains unchanged—Zambia must move in a new direction. What we need is a leader who will genuinely care about the interests of every single citizen—that means you, your family, and the people in your neighborhood. So, if you hear any story saying we’re planning a political deal or endorsing the government that’s currently in charge, know that it’s a complete and blatant lie. They are trying to hide the truth about how deeply we are committed to bringing about real, transformative change.
Let’s be honest—the problems our beloved country is facing right now are the biggest and most painful proof that the current government has failed you. This widespread suffering is not propaganda; it is the daily, crushing reality for the majority of our people.
What they are claiming about an endorsement is simply a calculated lie. It completely misrepresents our deep commitment to you, the Zambian people.
Look at the facts, and don’t listen to the noise designed to confuse you:
– The cost of living is so high, it has become the number one stress—the major headache—in every single household.
– More than 20 hours of loadshedding is not just unbearable; it is a deliberate act of sabotage against small businesses! The government has left majority of our people in the dark and killed the few chances they had to get ahead.
– The devastating truth is that countless children will go to bed hungry tonight. This is the ultimate proof of this administration’s unfulfilled promises and the crushing failure of their leadership.
These bitter facts show that the promises made leading up to the 2021 election—the reason you stood in the queue that day—have been totally thrown away. This is a cruel betrayal of your trust and your hope. We refuse to be fooled by their big talk of “economic growth” that only exists on paper and cannot even buy you a single bag of mealie-meal! The power to change our future rests with a leadership that cares about you—the person—before any dirty political game.
Willah J. Mudolo will never betray the trust of the Zambian people by supporting an administration that has made our nation drown in such widespread and profound suffering. Our path is decided: Change is coming!
“…he is highly credible Presidential Candidate on the Table..”
Friday, 3rd October, 2025
“He is Among the Best Lawyers, a Loyal Son of ECL, Distinguished Scholar & Noble Citizen.”
“Makebi Zulu is highly credible Presidential Candidate on the Table and We must Welcome Him to Compete both in PF and Tonse Alliance. “
“For me, he is my close friend and a reliable brother in the liberation struggle in whom I am well pleased With such quality & competent candidates, I see light at the end of August 2026.”
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MAKEBI ZULU: THE QUIET STRENGTH IN ZAMBIA’S POLITICAL CONVERSATION
By Brian Matambo – Lusaka, Zambia
Hon. Makebi Zulu, former Eastern Province Minister and Member of Parliament for Malambo Constituency, is steadily emerging as one of the most talked-about figures in Zambia’s evolving political space. His rise has not been through noise or confrontation, but through a steady, disciplined presence that has caught the attention of both his party and the nation.
At 44 years old, Makebi Zulu stands out as part of a younger yet more grounded generation of leaders within the Patriotic Front. He belongs to a cohort that includes Raphael Nakachinda and Greyford Monde, men who are mature in outlook, seasoned in debate, and committed to steering a rebranded PF into relevance. In this group, Makebi Zulu represents a blend of professional rigor and moral steadiness, qualities increasingly seen as essential for Zambia’s future.
The foundation of his reputation lies in law. A trained advocate, Makebi Zulu has for years been at the forefront of constitutional arguments that have shaped national debates. But beyond the courtroom battles, it is his loyalty to the late President Edgar Chagwa Lungu that has stood out. Each time the former head of state and his family faced legal hurdles, Makebi Zulu was there, not for the cameras but for the cause. His consistency in representing Lungu in some of the most high-pressure moments after State House has defined him as a man who does not waver when
