Former ZAMMSA Director General Victor Nyasulu has officially joined the Patriotic Front (PF) after announcing his resignation from the United Party for National Development (UPND).
PF Secretary General Hon. Raphael Nakachinda was on hand to welcome Mr. Nyasulu into the party
Mr. Nyasulu contested the position of Mayor in 2021 on the UPND ticket. After losing the election, he filed a petition in the Constitutional Court, which was subsequently dismissed.
He was later appointed as Director General of ZAMMSA, a position he held until 19th July 2024, when he was relieved of his duties following the scandal involving 61 missing ZAMMSA containers. Bernard Kamba
But… I still think if he can really be the pace setter he is supposed to be, and if he can really be the leader we want to experience, then he can still make this work!
Otherwise if nothing changes, here is my expectation next year
2026 洛裸 0%
This is my view and opinion. It doesn’t represent anyone else.
Some will obviously ask, does that mean he will lose the election? Probably not for a number of reasons primarily
Note “fix” is in inverted commas. There is s reason for that. Because people’s decisions are emotionally driven, many will still vote him back.
Further, I always ask this question, in as far as 2026 goes, who is the formidable alternative in all honesty? Drop your emotions for now and ask.
Remember, the powers that be are very good at distracting people. And some of your new entrants who will excite the (m)asses should get you to consider them.
But here is the big question… Whose funding them? $6m to run an effective presidential campaign is not pocket change. So what’s their interest?
Zambians Are Not Lazy, They Are Betrayed: A Cry Against Failed Leadership
By Dr Mwelwa
Mr. Kabesha’s words are not just careless—they are a dagger to the heart of every struggling Zambian. To call the people “lazy” in a time when they are waking up at 04:00 to push wheelbarrows in Soweto Market, when women rise before dawn to carry tomatoes to the roadside, when bus drivers spend 18 hours behind the wheel just to meet impossible cashing targets—this is not leadership, it is mockery.
Scripture teaches in Jeremiah 29:7 that God told the exiles in Babylon, “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city… for if it prospers, you too will prosper.” No man can be richer than his country. No minister can thrive while the economy is collapsing. Zambia’s problem is not laziness but a hostile environment that favors the rich and foreigners over its own citizens.
Our people pay levies and taxes but cannot access affordable capital because the Monetary Policy Rate sits above 20%, designed not to grow SMEs but to strangle them. Borrowing is impossible, and when they dare to borrow, they are crushed by interest.
Mr. Kabesha must remember he was once an ordinary Zambian with limited means, struggling like every other man in Kabwe’s broken economy. The marketeers he insults spend all day in the sun, but customers are broke. The charcoal burners he mocks are merely trying to survive in an economy where even basic energy is unaffordable.
Students he ignores are selling airtime and their dignity to pay for rent because their parents’ crops have been destroyed by drought. Colleges are collapsing under unpaid fees, failing to pay lecturers, NAPSA, and PAYE. And when the youth, desperate and disillusioned, turn to crime or depression, leaders blame them instead of the environment they have created.
Dr. Kenneth Kaunda once reminded us that “a leader is a servant of the people, not their master.” True leadership does not insult its citizens; it lifts them. It creates an economy where work is rewarded, where farmers are paid on time, where bus drivers have rest, where welders have electricity to work, where marketeers have customers who can afford to buy.
To brand Zambians lazy is immoral. It is a failure to see the truth. Our people are not lazy—they are betrayed. Betrayed by leaders who fail to fix energy, who fail to fix agriculture, who fail to fix liquidity, and who now seek to absolve themselves by blaming the victims.
Leadership is stewardship, not scapegoating. As long as this government continues to insult the people instead of empowering them, the cries from villages, markets, and bus stations will grow louder until the very foundation of power shakes. Because, as Proverbs 29:2 says, “When the righteous rule, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.”
And today, Zambia is groaning. #zambianwhistleblower #ZWB
Kelvin Ndila on the Foundation of UPND, his perspective
…I was among the first founding member, proposed the name of the Party
Kelvin Ndila Wrote:
Excuse me,Upnd Members, , Followers etc, what Batuke Imenda is Saying is Not True at all.
The Truth is that in 1997 , Casiano Nzala and myself lost ours Jobs from the Special Division (OP) due to Political interference from a Gentleman called Evaristo Mutale (Private Secretary to President Frederick Chiluba) who accused us of being UNIP sympathizers.
Mutale was at the time a powerful Private Secretary to the late FTJ. Chiluba. He therefore influenced the Service to have us dismissed from the Service.
In the meantime, I used to reside in Madras Kamwala, and my third door neighbour was Mr. Hamududu who at the time was working for the Judiciary at the High Court of Zambia.
Mr Hamududu’s wife , a Cousin to an elder sister who lived in Luanshya who was a close friend to Mrs Mazoka.
Coincidentally Mr Mazoka used to visit Mr.Hamududu house in particular to seek advice from Hamududu how he could retrieve his notor vehicle which was at the time confiscated by officials from State House and also how Mazoka could deal with the position of his BAULENI WARD TREASURY he had won but was nullified by the MMD’s National Secretary who happened to be Michael Sata at the time.
Hamududu who had known our fate at OP referred Mr. MAZOKA to meet with us for ADVICE.
Hamududu gave Mr. MAZOKA my contact number and he called me to find out when we could meet with him and I suggested to meet him the following day which he agreed and he picked my self and Casiano Nzala from Long acres around 17.00 hrs in his RED SENTRA CAR.
When we arrived at MALENDE his Residence, Mazoka briefed us what had transpired during Bauleni Ward election, nullification of the election which he had won and the CONFISCATION OF HIS SUZUKI CAR BY STATE HOUSE..I want to Say here that My immediate Reaction to Mazoka that evening was from GOD, He spoke to Mazoka Using Me.
I SAID TO MAZOKA ( SIR WHY DO YOU WANT TO WASTE YOUR TIME FIGHTING MMD TO BE A TRESURER AT A WARD LEVEL WHEN YOU CAN BE A PRESIDENT OF THIS COUNTRY, AS A CEO OF EASTERN, CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN AFRICA ANGLO AMERICAN ,WHY NOT FORMING YOUR OWN PARTY ? I ASKED HIM) Mazoka ,Responded by asking us How we Can MAKE HIM ONE).
We told him could do it with our experience in the SERVICE and promised to write a DOCUMENT TO GUIDE HIM ON WHAT STEPS HE MUST TAKE, HOW HE MUST CONDUCT HIMSELF WITH THE PUBLIC, HIS TEAM, IN OTHER WORDS BUILD HIS IMAGE..WE PRE PREPARED THE DOCUMENT WITH Casiano Nzala and Delivered to him at ANGLO AMERICAN pffice.
A few days later he called me and said he appreciated the DOCUMENT and gave me a GREEN LIGHT TO BEGIN THE PROCESS.
I shared this news with Casiano, the first person I called was my Cousin Themba Muleya who was Manager at ZSIC as we wanted to keep the PROJECT WITHIN THE FAMILY FIRST.
I then called Olivetti Malungisa who was a Man at Evestrust Bank, then Moono Munansangu a former accountant at UNIP OFFICE.
These had been known to me personally for some time. By the way, Mazoka gave me Express ACCESS TO CONTACT AND SEE HIM ANY TIME , So Casiano and Myself Took Themba Muleya now late, Munansangu late, Olivetti Malungisa TO MEET AND INTRODUCE THEM TO MAZOKA AS PERSONS WE RE GOING TO EXCUTE THE TASK WITH.
At ANGLO, Mr. Mazoka received us after passing through his Secretary and were introduced to Muna Hantuba as his Assistant but did not stay in the meeting.
After introductions Mazoka proposed that Moono Munansangu who was the oldest in the group leads as Chairman of this small group and we must commerce our program by bringing in people of Substance in our meetings with caution, as premature disclosure might jeopardise our operations.
Later on Themba Muleya brought in Loveness Malambo his Aunt, Olivetti brought in Baxton Maambo and Munansangu brought in Nakalonga and more people joined in until we felt strong enough to Register the Party.
Several names were suggested in our meetings for the Party to be, like universal and national party etc, previously I had read one African magazine which talked about political parties in WEST AFRICA and One Name STUCK WITH ME FOR A LONG TIME.
As several possible names were being floated around my mind was racing, AGAIN GOD USED ME.
In my mind I was Saying, UNIP USHERED YS INDEPENDENCE , MMD MULTIPARTISM the Party we re proposing MUST OFFER ZAMBIANS WITH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. Then I remembered this Political party in West Africa. It was called, (P.N.D.) Party For National DEVELOPMENT. When I Suggested this Name to my Fellow Committee Members they all ACCEPTED IT, But MUNANSANGU, a Former UNIP MEMBER ABD ACCOUNTANT SUGGESTED THAT WE ADD(UNITED) So it can be Named UPND.
Comrades and friends this is MY STORY FOR NOW. but I’ll react sharply when attemps are made to distort facts and MARGINALISE ME. WAIT FOR MY MY BOOK?
SP DESCRIBES HICHILEMA’S ADDRESS TO PARLIAMENT AS RHETORIC
…..says it was disjointed with what is happening on the ground
MPULUNGU… Saturday September 13, 2025
The opposition Socialist Party (SP) has described President Hakainde Hichilema’s speech to Parliament yesterday as “rhetoric” and lacked realism.
SP Chief Presidential Advisor Brian Hapunda says the Head of State did not inspire confidence and hope for Zambians.
Mr. Hapunda claimed that the speech was full of self praise when what is obtaining on the ground is a different situation.
“As Socialist Party we want to describe the President’s address to Parliament as as nothing new and full of rhetorics. The President’s speech is disjointed with what is on the ground, it lacked reality, it’s not matching. The President’s lacked realism and lacked hope. It failed to give the people of Zambia hope as they know what they are going through today,” he told journalists in Mpulungu.
“We saw the President continue in his usual style of self praise that his government is delivering, that his government has stabilized the kwacha. This is not what is obtaining on the ground. It shows a disconnect with what is happening on the ground.”
Mr Hapunda stated that while the Head of State was boasting about stabilizing the kwacha, what is on the ground is a different situation.
“While the President is boasting that inflation has gone down, while he is boasting that his government has stabilized the kwacha, and that the economy is doing well, the picture on the ground shows a clearly different picture. Unemployment has continued to go up, load-shedding has continued to chock businesses and many businesses have actually closed because of load-shedding,” he added.
“We had hoped that he was going to give a clear solution to load-shedding and unemployment levels but nothing happened.”
PARLIAMENTARY ADDRESS ‘ALL TALK, NO ACTION,’ SAYS NJOBVU
Democratic Union President Ackim Antony Njobvu has dismissed President Hakainde Hichilema’s address to Parliament, describing it as repetitive and lacking in practical solutions to the country’s pressing challenges.
Speaking after the speech, Mr. Njobvu said that while the address was “okay,” it offered nothing new, arguing that most of the content had been heard before.
“The President’s speech was full of rhetoric and intentions, but what we need are concrete actions. Zambians wanted to hear solutions to load shedding, unemployment, and the high cost of living, but those immediate concerns were not adequately addressed,” Mr. Njobvu said.
He criticized the government’s stance on load shedding, noting that proposals around solar power were not practical for the majority of households.
“It’s not everyone who can afford to buy solar panels. People needed to hear what short-term measures will be taken to stabilize electricity supply,” he added.
Mr. Njobvu further argued that the recruitment of 2,000 teachers was inadequate compared to the estimated 6,000 teachers who leave the profession annually. He also raised concerns about over-reliance on Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to address education infrastructure gaps, saying the fund “does not have the capacity” to solve systemic problems in the sector.
On economic issues, the Democratic Union leader said citizens were looking for immediate interventions to ease the rising cost of living, rather than promises of long-term investment.
He also urged government to prioritize settling arrears owed to local suppliers, warning that unresolved local debt continues to undermine business confidence.
“Overall, the speech was fine in delivery, but content-wise, it lacked a game changer. We needed to see more action, not just statements. The country requires urgent, short-term interventions alongside long-term plans,” Mr. Njobvu stressed.
President Hichilema’s address was delivered earlier today in Parliament, outlining his administration’s achievements and policy direction for the year ahead.
Hichilema doesn’t believe in witchcraft, Juju men’s lawyer begs for clients leniency
TWO juju men convicted of attempting to use charms to harm President Hakainde Hichilema have turned to the President’s own words to beg the court for mercy.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1A3ktVPHDY/
Yesterday, Magistrates Fine Mayambu found Jasten Candunde, 42 of Maravia in Mozambique and Leonard Phiri 43, of Kafewa village in Sinda, guilty of professing knowledge of witchcraft and possession of charms, offences under the Witchcraft Act.
The duo, who became notorious as juju assassins, had been on trial over allegations that they were hired by Emmanuel Jay Banda through his younger brother, Nelson Banda to bewitch President Hichilema.
Prosecutors said the two were found in possession of charms, including a live chameleon and had travelled to Lusaka to carry out sinister rituals.
The convicts insisted that they were mere traditional healers brought to Lusaka under the pretext of treating a sick woman, not plotting to harm the President.
However, in mitigation after conviction, their lawyer turned the tables on the prosecution’s claims, pointing to the President’s own disbelief in witchcraft.
“The President said he doesn’t believe in witchcraft and that witchcraft doesn’t exist,” the lawyer argued.
“If the Head of State himself dismisses its existence, then surely the court can extend maximum leniency to my clients.”
The court has since adjourned the matter to Monday, when the fate of the two juju assassins will be sealed with sentencing.
We will not tolerate lawlessness during 2026 election period – Hichilema
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has warned that his government will not tolerate lawlessness before, during and after the 2026 general elections.
Addressing parliament in Lusaka yesterday, President Hichilema thanked citizens for embracing the peaceful atmosphere around the country since the UPND assumed office.
“I want to thank citizens for embracing good citizenship. This is the peaceful atmosphere we expect from all of us. As we enter the election season next year, we will not tolerate any lawlessness of whatever form, before, during and after elections. Let’s use the courts,” he said.
The Head of State explained that government has introduced mobile court sessions in correctional facilities to accelerate the dispensation of justice and ease case backlogs.
He reiterated that his administration’s stance on zero tolerance for corruption and economic crimes had remained firm, stressing that citizens can now see the quiet but deliberate work that government has been undertaking.
“We hope it will be a deterrent to others, including those of us in office today. We need a society that rewards ethical conduct, good conduct, a society that values hard work and frowns upon corruption not one that dances for it,” said President Hichilema.
He also urged eligible voters to take part in the democratic process by registering ahead of the 2026 polls.
“The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) will soon conduct a voter registration sensitisation exercise and we urge all eligible citizens to register so they can participate in choosing their leaders,” he explained.
Your recent remarks branding Zambians as “lazy people who want to eat without working” are nothing short of disgraceful, arrogant, and deeply insulting to the very citizens whose taxes pay your salary and sustain your privileged lifestyle.
Who gave you the audacity to demean an entire nation?
Zambians are not lazy. In fact, they are among the most hardworking and resilient people on the continent.
The marketeer who wakes up before dawn with only a few kwacha in hand, struggling to feed her family.
The farmer toiling under the scorching sun, battling erratic rainfall and receiving little to no meaningful government support, yet still striving to feed the nation.
The miner risking his life underground for a meagre wage while billions are siphoned through corruption and bad contracts.
The nurse, teacher, and police officer working tirelessly with inadequate resources, low pay, and no incentives, yet still serving with dedication.
How dare you reduce their sweat, resilience, and sacrifice to “laziness”?
The Real Problem: Failed Leadership
If Zambia is on its knees today, the blame lies not with ordinary citizens, but with failed leadership, particularly the UPND government, which has proven unable to deliver on its promises of economic revival, job creation, and dignity for the people.
The economy is collapsing not because Zambians refuse to work, but because of corruption, poor policy choices, and gross incompetence. The cost of living has soared while the elite live in comfort.
Load-shedding is crippling homes and businesses not because citizens are idle, but because the government has failed to ensure energy security, allowing the crisis to spiral.
Unemployment is at record highs not because Zambians lack ambition, but because industries have been neglected and local entrepreneurs sidelined in favor of foreign interests.
Hunger and poverty are worsening not because people want to “eat while seated,” but because food prices are out of control, fertilizer is unaffordable, and agriculture, the backbone of our economy, has been abandoned.
Zambians Are Not Lazy, They Are Betrayed
Zambians are working. They are struggling. They are sacrificing. But they are being betrayed by a government that insults them instead of empowering them. They are betrayed by leaders like you, Mr. Kabesha, who sit in air-conditioned offices enjoying every privilege while mocking the very people footing the bill.
If this administration had delivered even half of what it promised, citizens would not be enduring such misery. Instead, under the UPND, Zambians face broken promises, empty rhetoric, and misplaced priorities.
A Call for Respect and Accountability
Mr. Kabesha, you owe the Zambian people an immediate and unconditional apology. Your words are a slap in the face to every hardworking citizen holding this nation together in the midst of crisis.
But more than an apology, what Zambians truly need is a government that respects them, values their sacrifice, and delivers on its commitments, not one that insults them while presiding over economic collapse, power shortages, mass unemployment, and hunger.
Leadership is a privilege. It is not a license to trample on the dignity of the people.
The people of Zambia will not be silenced. They will not be mocked. And they will not forget. #zambianwhistleblower #ZWB
ECL COURTED SANGWA, MUDOLO & NDAMBO – Family source
A reliable source within the family of late Edgar Lungu has told a correspondent reporter of TheAspirants that the former president was courting renowned constitutional lawyer John Sangwa and two South African based tycoons, James Ndambo and Joseph Mudolo to take over the Patriotic Front (PF) leadership.
The source confirms Dr. Sishuwa Sishuwa’s recent remarks that the former late President was speaking to people who are not active in politics to possibly take over the leadership of the PF.
“Before he died, ECL was talking to three people at least to my knowledge, to take over the party leadership and run for President in 2026. He believed that none among his current party members had the credibility and stamina to wrestle power from President Hakainde Hichilema and more so that, the political fight needed someone who was well established financially and is dynamic because of the financial burden that comes with running for president. I can confirm what Dr. Sishuwa said the other day but maybe to be precise, the names I am aware of are Sangwa, Ndambo and Mudolo. I can’t speak for Dr. Sishuwa but am certain these are the names” an ECL family source familiar with the issue has said.
The PF is set to choose Lungu’s successor at a convention yet to be announced. However, there seem to be leadership wrangles within the former ruling party, whereas as one side, former Justice Minister Given Lubinda is leading a faction and Muchinga Member of Parliament Robert Chabinga is leading another faction and claims leadership.
Several individuals within the PF have expressed interest to contest for the top job within the former ruling party. These include, Given Lubinda, Mutotwe Kafwaya, Dr. Chitalu Chilufya, Brian Mundubile, Chanda Katotobwe, Greyford Monde as well as Emmanuel Mwamba who is currently in exile in the United States of America.
However, lately some PF members have claimed that a horde of senior party officials have auctioned the PF leadership to the highest bidder, adding that, there’s a group within the party who have gone to South Africa to get paid by a named person who is interested to lead the PF.
What do you think about the three individuals who have been named so far?
I’m disappointed PAC partnership didn’t work – Dolika
ASPIRING 2026 presidential candidate Dolika Banda has expressed disappointment over the breakdown of her partnership with the People’s Alliance for Change (PAC), saying efforts to build a working relationship did not succeed.
Banda revealed that while both sides had made efforts to form a strong political alliance, the collaboration ultimately did not take shape as hoped.
Appearing on HotFM yesterday, Banda explained that the main point of disagreement with PAC stemmed from constitutional requirements that had to be met before the party could hold its convention.
She pointed out that the constitutional requirements fell short of what she considered acceptable, making it difficult to move forward with the alliance.
Banda revealed that she had requested access to certain original documents that had been submitted to regulatory authorities, but said the information provided did not meet her expectations or offer the clarity she required.
She also clarified that at no point was PAC offered to her for sale, nor did she attempt to purchase the party or its presidential candidacy.
Speaking about her next steps following the breakdown with PAC, Banda expressed openness to forming new alliances but only under the right conditions.
“For me, an alliance is important and if that’s the path to building the Zambia we want, then it makes sense. But it must be an alliance grounded in shared ideologies, common values and a collective vision for the future of this country,” she said.
“If in an alliance everyone is only focused on becoming president, then that’s not good for Zambians. It might make sense if the only goal is to gain power, but if that’s the foundation of the alliance, then it’s poorly constructed and weakly serves the people.”
She firmly stated that she was not and is not a member of PAC.
Despite the fallout, Banda maintained that she respects the party’s internal structures but emphasised the importance of aligning on values and governance principles in any political partnership.
Banda further pledged to deliver meaningful and transformative change once elected as president, promising a leadership style rooted in integrity, accountability and a clear vision for Zambia’s future.
President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera has pledged to provide free laptops to every student enrolled in Malawi’s public universities over the next five years if re-elected.
Speaking on Friday at a campaign rally held at Salima Primary School Ground ahead of the September 16 Tripartite Elections, Chakwera said his administration is committed to advancing education as part of the country’s broader development agenda.
He urged Malawians to give him a second term to continue improving infrastructure and raising educational standards.
“This initiative is about empowering our youth with the tools they need to succeed in a digital age,” said Chakwera.
Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda echoed the call, urging the crowd to vote overwhelmingly for Chakwera to sustain Malawi’s development path.
Zambia’s Economic Report Card: A Tale of Two Realities
President Hichilema’s yesterday’s address painted a picture of a nation on the rise, citing impressive statistics on economic growth, inflation, and the Kwacha’s stability. However, for many Zambians, this rosy official narrative feels disconnected from their daily reality.
While the government’s report card looks good on paper, a closer look at the lived experiences of ordinary citizens reveals a different story. one of persistent struggles with the high cost of living, inadequate power supply, and a deep-seated battle with corruption.
The President’s address proudly announced that the Kwacha has “stabilized” and that inflation has dropped from 23.1% to 12.6%. Yet, for the average Zambian household, these figures are just abstract numbers. The cost of living remains stubbornly high. Reports from organizations like the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) consistently show that the Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) is far beyond the reach of most families.
A small drop in the cost of a few items is a minor relief in the face of skyrocketing prices for essentials like cooking oil, charcoal, and transport. The Kwacha’s “stability” means little when its purchasing power is so weak. It’s a classic case of statistical success not translating into tangible relief for citizens.
The government touts an average economic growth of 5.2% and the creation of 48,000 jobs in Special Economic Zones. But the critical question is, who is benefiting from this growth? The majority of the population, especially the youth, are still struggling with unemployment.
The focus on large-scale mining projects, while bringing in foreign investment, often doesn’t create widespread employment opportunities for local communities.
Instead, a large number of Zambians are still in the informal sector, where incomes are low and precarious. The reported growth is a national average that masks a deeper inequality. The economic success stories are often isolated to a few sectors, while the broader population feels left behind.
The President’s address celebrated a record maize harvest of 3.7 million metric tonnes. While this is a welcome development, it’s a misleading portrayal of a fundamentally resilient agricultural system. The record harvest is primarily a rebound from the catastrophic drought of 2023/24, not a sign of lasting strength.
Zambia remains heavily dependent on rainfall, and the government’s stated goal of irrigating 500,000 hectares by 2027 is a long-term target, not an immediate solution. The slow pace of progress on irrigation means that any future drought could once again devastate the country’s food security. The focus should be on building lasting resilience, not celebrating a temporary recovery.
President Hichilema’s address failed to provide a concrete, immediate-term solution for the ongoing power loadshedding. Instead of addressing the core issue of insufficient generation capacity, the government appears to be engaged in a calculated political maneuver.
The problem of loadshedding, which once disproportionately affected high-density areas, has now been shifted to low and medium-density areas. This move, which reduces the number of hours of loadshedding in the most populous urban areas, is widely seen as an election ploy to secure votes in the 2026 general elections.
There is a glaring lack of strategic reasoning for this shift, especially when the government could have explored reducing the export component of electricity to meet domestic demand. By prioritizing certain areas for political gain, the government is essentially moving the problem from one group of citizens to another, rather than solving it for everyone. This lack of a genuine, sustainable solution highlights a worrying trend of prioritizing short-term political gains over long-term national stability.
The official report highlights an improvement in the Corruption Perception Index, raising Zambia’s ranking. This is a positive development, but it exists in stark contrast with the findings of the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC).
The 2024 FIC report uncovered 3.5 billions of dollars in illicit financial flows, with a significant number of cases involving shell companies and smuggling of high value minerals like gold. The report suggests that despite the improved index, corruption, particularly in the form of tax evasion and money laundering, remains a pervasive problem.
Many citizens feel that while the government has been vocal about fighting corruption, the focus has been on former officials, and not enough has been done to address new forms of corruption.in UPND government. The improved index may reflect international perception, but it does not fully capture the complex reality of corruption on the ground, which has continued under the new administration.
President Hichilema’s address paints a picture of a nation on the path to recovery and prosperity. The numbers presented are impressive and, on the surface, signal a bright future. However, a closer look at the reality on the ground reveals a different story. The government’s statistics on economic growth and inflation often clash with the daily struggles of ordinary Zambians.
The agricultural rebound is presented as a long-term win, while the real issue of climate resilience is left unaddressed. The fight against corruption, while celebrated in international reports, is undermined by the ongoing revelations from the FIC and a sense of selective justice. And perhaps most worryingly, the government’s approach to the power crisis seems to be a politically motivated gamble, not a sincere effort to fix a critical national problem.
It seems that more often than not, the statistics generated by government agencies under the UPND administration are different from the lived reality of many Zambians.
This creates a tale of two Zambias: one that exists in official reports and international headlines, and another that is experienced in the form of rising prices, power cuts, and persistent insecurity.
The challenge for the government is to bridge this gap and ensure that its statistical successes are translated into meaningful improvements in the lives of all citizens, not just a select few.
The Struggle Continues
Sensio Banda Former Member of Parliament Kasenengwa Constituency Eastern Province
BREBNER CHANGALA: A FOREIGN PUPPET IN ZAMBIAN POLITICS
Brebner Changala has exposed himself as nothing more than a mouthpiece for foreign interests. His daily obsession with visiting Western embassies—be it the United States, Sweden, or the United Kingdom—is not about Zambia’s democracy or development. It is about currying favour, spreading gossip, and selling out his country’s sovereignty for the hope of political relevance.
Changala naively believes that by spoon-feeding diplomats with anti-government narratives, these envoys will turn around and sway the people of Zambia to revolt. Nothing could be further from the truth. Ambassadors are not in Zambia to hand out power. They are here to represent their governments’ interests. They sit, listen, and take notes while using desperate figures like Changala as sources of cheap intelligence to send back home. He is not influencing them—they are using him.
Sadly, Changala is not alone. He is in the company of equally desperate opportunists: Raphael Nakacinda, Given Lubinda, Harry Kalaba, Miles Sampa, and Fred M’membe. Together, they move from embassy to embassy as if state power is hidden in diplomatic wine glasses. They seriously believe that the road to State House in 2026 runs through the doors of Western embassies, instead of through the people of Zambia.
Changala’s selective engagement is even more telling. He has never lined up meetings with Ambassadors from SADC or the African Union—leaders who share Zambia’s realities and could offer genuine solidarity. No, his eyes remain fixed on the West, where the dangling carrot of funding is too tempting. Let us be clear: this is not patriotism. This is stomach politics.
Zambians should also remember that the muzungu solution has never been the African solution. Countries that have risen from poverty, such as China, did so by depending on their own people, not by kneeling before foreign masters. Yet here we are, watching Changala cling to a colonial mentality that undermines our very sovereignty.
The 2026 election will not be decided by foreign Ambassadors. It will be decided by Zambians—farmers, traders, teachers, miners, students, mothers, and fathers who know their struggles and their dreams. No amount of embassy lobbying will overturn that fact.
By choosing to serve foreign interests over his own people, Changala has crossed the line. He is not a defender of democracy. He is a willing puppet—and Zambia has no place for puppets.- Koswe
2026 presidential hopeful Dorika Banda has voiced concern over the prolonged legal and diplomatic standoff surrounding the burial of former President Edgar Lungu, describing the 3-month delay as disheartening and damaging to Zambia’s national image.
Speaking on Hot FM’s Breakfast Show, Ms. Banda criticized the impasse, stating that the matter has dragged on unnecessarily and should have been resolved with greater urgency and sensitivity.
She stressed that the late President deserves a dignified sendoff, one that honors his legacy and respects the sentiments of his family.
Despite the ongoing legal battle, the opposition leader expressed hope that a resolution could be reached soon, urging all parties to prioritize compassion and national unity..
Former President Edgar Lungu passed away on 5th June 2025 while receiving medical treatment in Pretoria, South Africa.
His death has since sparked a complex dispute over burial rights, with the family advocating for a private ceremony, while the government insists on a state funeral at Embassy Park.
The case has exposed a legal vacuum in Zambia’s statutes regarding presidential funerals, revealing the absence of clear guidelines and stirring emotional and political tensions across the country and the region. #SunFmTvNews
Lusaka… Friday September 12, 2025 – The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has raised concerns over the ongoing electricity crisis in Zambia, accusing the government of neglecting citizens while prioritizing foreign contracts.
In a statement issued by party president Antonio Mourinho Mwanza, the DPP said the country was facing a serious power deficit despite ZESCO generating 1,806 megawatts (MW) per day against a national demand of 2,400 MW.
Mwanza explained that this represented about 75 percent of the national requirement, which should be enough to guarantee at least 18 hours of electricity supply daily.
However, the opposition leader claimed that Zambians were only receiving three hours of electricity per day, while 15 hours of power was allegedly being exported to other countries.
He described the situation as “unacceptable,” arguing that it was crippling productivity and undermining economic growth.
Mwanza stressed that reliable electricity was critical for farming, industry, education, health services, and job creation.
He questioned how the nation could expect to grow its economy when productive sectors were “shut down for 21 hours a day.”
The DPP further demanded answers on why Zambians were being “sacrificed” while electricity was exported, and why government contracts with foreign buyers were being given priority over domestic needs.
According to Mwanza, the first duty of government was to its citizens.
He insisted that ZESCO must prioritize local consumers before selling electricity abroad.
Only then, he argued, could the country restore productivity, protect jobs, and build a strong economy that worked for all Zambians.
Meanwhile, Mwanza declared that “the era of darkness must end” and emphasized that the Zambian people deserved a reliable power supply.
TWO TRADITIONAL HEALERS CONVICTED IN WITCHCRAFT CASE INVOLVING PRESIDENT HH
Traditional doctors Leonard Phiri and Jasten Mabulesse Candunde have been found guilty by the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court on two counts: professing knowledge of witchcraft and possession of charms.
The pair is scheduled to be sentenced on Monday.
The charges stem from an alleged plot to bewitch President Hakainde Hichilema, with prosecutors stating that between 22nd and 23rd November 2024, the two men—acting jointly—pretended to exercise supernatural powers intended to instill fear.
Their conviction marks a rare enforcement of Zambia’s Witchcraft Act.
HH VOWS ACTION AGAINST LOADSHEDDING: “WE FEEL THE PAIN, OUR GOVERNMENT IS SLEEPLESS ON THIS MATTER”
By: Justin Banda & Mwema Shanshima
Laying the groundwork for the country’s legislative and policy agenda, President Hakainde Hichilema opened the 5th Session of the 13th National Assembly with a strong appeal to build on economic and social progress.
At the ceremonial opening, President Hichilema delivered a keynote address themed “Consolidating Economic and Social Gains Towards a Prosperous, Resilient and Equitable Zambia.”
In his speech, the President reaffirmed his Administration’s unwavering commitment to expanding access to reliable energy across the country, underscoring its pivotal role in driving economic growth and improving livelihoods.
President Hichilema described energy as a cornerstone of Zambia’s development strategy, emphasizing that enhanced access and reliability are critical to unlocking industrialization, creating jobs, and transforming rural communities.
He noted that a robust energy sector is essential not only for powering businesses and homes but also for enabling inclusive progress across all regions.
To meet growing demand and mitigate climate-related risks, the President announced that the Government is actively investing in both traditional and renewable energy sources.
He acknowledged the vulnerability of hydroelectric power to droughts and other environmental disruptions, and stressed the importance of diversifying Zambia’s energy mix.
Highlighting recent milestones, Mr. Hichilema pointed to the rollout of new solar and wind energy projects, the expansion of grid infrastructure, and strengthened partnerships with private investors aimed at boosting generation capacity.
These efforts, he said, are part of a broader national agenda to ensure that every Zambian, regardless of geographic location, can benefit from affordable, sustainable, and accessible energy.
The President assured that energy reforms will continue to be prioritized as a catalyst for economic resilience, social equity, and long-term prosperity. #SunFmTvNews
⬆️ ANALYSIS | Hichilema’s Last Parley Address Before 2026: Promises, Numbers, and the Road Ahead
President Hakainde Hichilema’s address to Parliament today was no ordinary speech. It was the last time he stood before lawmakers in his first term, with 2026 already looming in the minds of citizens and politicians alike. The theme, “consolidating economic and social gains towards a prosperous, resilient and equitable Zambia”, was a reminder that the President is asking voters to judge him not just on promises but on delivery. The question is whether Zambians will agree that enough has been delivered.
The Economy: Numbers That Shine, Pain That Persists
The President opened with economic growth. Between 2021 and 2024, Zambia averaged 5.2 percent growth, more than triple the 1.5 percent under the previous government. He also pointed to restructuring 92 percent of external debt and bringing inflation down from 23 percent in 2021 to around 15 percent today. These are no small wins. But while the macro numbers look better, the reality in markets and households tells another story. Prices for essentials remain high. Inflation at 15 percent still eats into salaries. The question in 2026 will be: have these numbers translated into cheaper food, stable jobs, and cash in ordinary people’s pockets?
✅ Agriculture: The Record Harvest
Hichilema’s strongest bragging right was agriculture. The country harvested 3.7 million tonnes of maize this year, the largest in its history. Soya production nearly doubled. A crackdown on ghost farmers cleaned up the e-voucher system, and most farmers got inputs before the rains. For a nation haunted by food shortages, this is a real achievement. Yet food prices have not dropped in proportion, leaving citizens to wonder why “record harvest” has not yet meant “record relief.” Logistics, storage, and pricing remain weak spots.
Mining: Copper Dreams or Copper Reality?
On mining, the President painted a picture of revival. Mopani has seen new investment, Kansanshi is expanding, Lumwana is upgrading, and a million tonnes of copper production is targeted by 2025. Jobs have been created, 2,000 at Mopani alone. But Zambians have heard mining promises before. The true test will be whether new investment creates lasting jobs beyond the Copperbelt and whether copper profits stay in Zambia or continue to leak abroad.
⬆️ Energy: The Elephant in the Room
Nothing drew more attention than load shedding. Citizens on Facebook had pleaded with him: “Talk about load shedding the whole day, kwasila.” The President acknowledged the pain. He promised over 1,000 megawatts of new power from solar and thermal plants in the next year, with projects in Chisamba, Maamba, and on the Copperbelt. Still, promises will not power homes tonight. For many Zambians, this one issue, electricity, will weigh heavily in 2026.
✅ Education and Health: Tangible Delivery
Here, the President’s case is clearer. Free education brought 2.3 million children back to school. Over 42,000 teachers were recruited, 1.6 million desks procured, and new schools are under construction. In health, 282 new facilities have been built, 18,000 health workers hired, and drug availability has improved to 85 percent. These are visible changes that touch households directly. They are achievements Hichilema will lean on in 2026.
Tourism and Digital Growth: The Rising Sectors
Tourism has quietly been a star performer, with international arrivals jumping from 554,000 in 2021 to 2.2 million in 2024, the biggest in history. Roads to national parks are being improved, and the visa waiver for 167 countries is paying off. Meanwhile, mobile money hit K486 billion in transactions last year. This digital leap is reshaping commerce, but also exposes risks of fraud and data abuse if regulation does not keep pace.
The Politics Behind the Numbers
The President warned again on corruption: “Stay away from crime and no one will touch you.” But critics argue the fight is too selective. Convictions of PF-era officials are being celebrated by government, while questions about today’s deals in energy, roads, and fertiliser remain unanswered. In 2026, voters will ask whether “no sacred cows” really meant everyone.
The 2026 Question
Four years in, Hichilema’s record is mixed. On paper, Zambia looks more stable, with debt relief, food surpluses, and new investments. On the ground, citizens still face power blackouts, high mealie meal prices, and weak job growth. Will he make it in 2026? Much depends on whether the coming months bring light back into homes, food security into kitchens, and real relief in wallets.
The President wanted to project confidence. The numbers back him up in some areas. But numbers do not vote. People do. And people will measure 2026 not in growth percentages, but in hours of power, the cost of food, and whether their children’s future feels more secure than their own.
At The People’s Brief, our analysis series break down events beyond the applause.
Gathering by Goran Handya, drafting by Joshua Illya & editing by Ollus R. Ndomu.
BREAKING NEWS|| CHIKUMBI APPOINTED AS FAZ MANAGER IN CHARGE OF MEDIA
FAZ APPOINTS NKWETO TEMBWE AS HEAD OF MEDIA
Press Statement (For Immediate Release) Football Association of Zambia Football House, Lusaka
12th September 2025
FAZ APPOINTS NKWETO TEMBWE AS HEAD OF MEDIA
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has made changes in the media department at Football House with the appointment of Nkweto Tembwe as Head of Media and Communications and Godfrey Chikumbi as Manager in charge of media, while Sydney Mungala continues as Communications Manager.
The Department has been restructured to a full directorate in order to align it with the current best practice in media and public relations in football.
Tembwe previously served as Communications Manager at Football House and boasts of over 30 years of journalism, broadcasting, and public relations experience. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication with Public Relations from Mulungushi University and a Diploma in Journalism from Evelyn Hone College.
Chikumbi is a practicing journalist and TV Producer at the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS). He holds a Bachelor of Communication in Journalism and a Master of International Relations and Development, both from Mulungushi University.
FAZ is confident that the two gentlemen will help strengthen media relations and the department at Football House.
For and on behalf of: FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF ZAMBIA Machacha Shepande GENERAL SECRETARY
PRESIDENT HICHILEMA URGES CITIZENS TO REGISTER AND EXERCISE THEIR DEMOCRATIC RIGHTS AHEAD OF 2026 ELECTIONS
President Hakainde Hichilema emphasized the importance of credible elections as a cornerstone of democracy and has urged citizens to register and exercise their democratic rights ahead of 2026 elections.
Speaking during the official opening of the Fifth Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly today, said credible elections constitute a critical hallmark of a functioning democracy.
“As a country, we pride ourselves in having peaceful and credible elections, with a seamless transition from one administration to another,” President Hichilema said.
Highlighting preparations for the 2026 general elections in August, the President noted that the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) will undertake a countrywide voter education campaign alongside mass registration of voters.
“We urge every eligible citizen to register and exercise their democratic right to vote,” President Hichilema added, stressing the importance of active participation in strengthening Zambia’s democratic processes.
He called on all Zambians to engage responsibly in the upcoming electoral process, ensuring that the nation continues to uphold its proud tradition of peaceful and credible elections.
CHAKWERA BEGS MALAWIANS FOR “ONE LAST CHANCE” PLEASE VOTE FOR ME AGAIN
Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera has pleaded with citizens to grant him one final chance at the ballot in next Tuesday’s elections, admitting past arrogance and unfulfilled promises.
Chakwera said he is deeply sorry for being boastful during his term and vowed to prioritize the people’s needs if re-elected. He promised to deliver a cheaper cost of living and ensure Malawians begin to feel real economic relief.
The President accused the opposition of distracting him from fulfilling his development agenda but said he has now learned from his mistakes.
He also pledged to uphold freedom of speech, assuring the public that critics will not face intimidation or arrests under his leadership.
“I am pleading with all Malawians trust me this time, and I will not let you down,” Chakwera declared.
Malawians go to the polls to elect their new President next week on Tuesday.
South Sudan’s First Vice President Riek Machar has been charged with murder, treason, and crimes against humanity.
The charges stem from his alleged involvement in attacks by a militia against federal forces in March, the justice minister announced on Thursday.
South Sudan’s government claims the White Army, a loose band of armed youths, attacked a military base in Nasir, northeastern South Sudan, and killed more than 250 soldiers on Machar’s orders.
Seven others, including the former minister of petroleum, were charged alongside Machar following investigations into a suspected rebellion plot.
“These crimes were marked by gross violations of the Geneva Conventions and international humanitarian law, including the desecration of corpses, persecution of civilians and attacks on humanitarian workers,” Justice Minister Joseph Geng Akech said.
Machar and President Salva Kiir have long been rivals. Civil war broke out in oil-producing South Sudan in 2013, less than two years after the country gained independence from Sudan — after Kiir sacked Machar as vice president, accusing him of plotting a coup.
The conflict killed an estimated 400,000 people and forced roughly four million — one-third of the population from their homes before a 2018 peace deal saw the pair form a government of national unity.
That power-sharing deal began unraveling earlier this year, when, in response to fighting since late February in the northeastern Upper Nile state, Kiir’s government detained several officials from Machar’s party, including the petroleum minister and the deputy head of the army.
APPROXIMATELY 90% OF DEPOSIT ACCOUNTS IN ZAMBIA HOLD BALANCES BELOW K50,000 – BANK OF ZAMBIA
By: Augustine Kapambwe
The Bank of Zambia has acknowledged significant progress in financial inclusion, banking sector stability, and fiscal consolidation, while emphasizing ongoing reforms to further strengthen the financial system.
Speaking at the 2025 Banking and Financial Services Conference hosted by the Zambia Institute of Banking and Financial Services in Livingstone, BOZ Governor Dr. Denny Kalyalya revealed that approximately 90% of deposit accounts in Zambia hold balances below K50,000.
However, these accounts represent only 70% of total deposit value, indicating a concentration of deposits among a few large players
Dr. Kalyalya said this reflects both the resilience and vulnerabilities of the financial sector, and presents an opportunity to expand financial services to more Zambians.
He noted that non-performing loans remain well below benchmark thresholds, signaling stability in asset quality.
To further enhance public confidence, the Governor announced the introduction of a Deposit Insurance Scheme by the end of 2025, aimed at providing structured protection for depositors.
He also highlighted a decline in the banking sector’s reliance on government securities, which dropped from 23% in 2020 to 20% in 2024, reflecting improved fiscal management and progress in debt restructuring.
He pointed out that fiscal deficits, which were around 40 percent of GDP in 2020, have now fallen sharply to approximately 3.4 percent, underscoring Zambia’s strengthened public financial position.
Dr. Kalyalya emphasized the central role of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in driving financial inclusion, noting that the Bank of Zambia is leveraging technology to reduce service costs and expand access.
This was in a speech delivered on his behalf by Bank of Zambia Deputy Governor Francis Chipimo.
Meanwhile, Zambia Institute of Banking and Financial Services President, Lishala Situmbeko, highlighted the pivotal role of finance leaders in addressing climate change and social inequality, calling for more inclusive and sustainable financial systems. #SunFmTvNews
PRESIDENT HICHILEMA SAYS UPHOLDING RULE OF LAW, ARRESTING LAWBREAKERS DOES NOT AMOUNT TO THE LACK OF DEMOCRACY IN THE COUNTRY
President Hakainde Hichilema has emphasized that arresting and prosecuting lawbreakers does not equate to a loss of democracy, reiterating his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and constitutionalism.
Speaking on governance and accountability, President Hichilema highlighted the government’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption, noting that convictions and asset forfeitures are already underway.
“There will be no sacred cows in the fight against corruption. If you know somebody who stole public funds, go to the police and report them,” he said, stressing that no one is exempt regardless of political, tribal, religious, or ethnic affiliation.
The Head of State noted that professionalism has been restored in law enforcement, ensuring safe public spaces in markets, bus stations, and other business areas. He thanked citizens for embracing good citizenship and maintaining a peaceful environment as Zambia prepares for the 2026 elections.
President Hichilema also highlighted enhancements in the judiciary, National Prosecution Authority, and Office of the Public Protector. High Court services are now available in all ten provinces, and mobile court sessions are being conducted in correctional facilities to accelerate justice and reduce backlogs.
“Our stance on zero tolerance to corruption and economic crimes remains firm,” he said, pointing to the establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Court and improved funding and capacity for law enforcement agencies. Zambia’s Corruption Perception Index improved from 33 in 2021 to 39 in 2024, with its global ranking rising from 117 to 92 out of 180 countries during the same period.
President Hichilema stressed that government will continue to build a culture of integrity, rewarding ethical conduct, valuing hard work, and ensuring public assets benefit citizens rather than a few individuals.
“What is not yours, is not yours. What is for the public is for the public,” he said.
The President also highlighted efforts to digitize public services, increasing online services through the Zamportal from 116 in 2021 to 368 in 2025. An online citizen support portal has been established to improve engagement with government departments, enhance efficiency, and reduce corruption.
This renewed focus on accountability, transparency, and digital governance underlines the administration’s commitment to a fair, safe, and law-abiding society.
ZAMBIA TO ADD 740MW OF SOLAR POWER ACROSS SEVEN PROVINCES
…..government is targeting energy diversification with major solar and thermal expansion, says HH
Lusaka… Friday September 12, 2025 – President Hakainde Hichilema has emphasized that the new solar projects that will be commissioned over the next 12 months will generate a confirmed total of 740 megawatts for the country.
The Head of State says these solar projects are located across seven provinces which include: Luapula, Central, Southern, Western, Northern, Eastern and Muchinga where the levels of solar energy are most suitable.
Speaking when he officially opened the fifth session of the thirteenth National Assembly in Lusaka, Mr Hichilema said there are numerous private sector driven projects that are currently in development that will take the new solar power generation capacity beyond the target of 1,000 megawatts, over the next 12 months.
“Our fellow citizens. Energy is critical to industrialisation and national development. The current hardships in the power sector have severely affected the livelihoods of our citizens. Small businesses are suffering and incomes are being eroded,” he said.
“We feel the pain and frustration of power outages faced by our citizens which include our families, friends and loved ones. No one has been spared. We strongly recognise that the growth of our economy implies increased demand for electricity and this presents an opportunity for us to increase our generating capacity.”
He committed to deliver new generation capacity through sweeping policy reforms and implement cost reflective tariffs to drive more investment.
“We are undertaking development in transmission infrastructure as well as promoting off-grid power solutions in rural areas beyond the reach of the national grid. We have further liberalised the energy sector with an open access regime which allows access to the grid by any willing developer to any willing off-taker as well as the introduction of private power trading, net metering, tariff blending and interconnectors with neighbouring countries, amongst others,” he added.
“This has created an alternative off-take avenue for developers, in addition to the traditional Zesco off-take. Our over dependence on hydro-electric power which currently stands at 85 percent of our energy mix has exposed our vulnerability to climate change. We are diversifying the energy mix to make the sub-sector resilient to climate change and increase our generation capacity. Notable interventions include the 94 megawatts Copperbelt energy corporation Itimpi solar power station and the 100 megawatts Chisamba solar phase-1 project, which we recently commissioned.”
He said works on the 136 megawatts Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) Itimpi Solar Power Station phase-2 are on-going, while phase-2 of the 100 megawatts Chisamba Solar Project will be commencing soon.
“Last year, we launched the construction of the 300 megawatts Maamba thermal power plant phase-2 expansion project which is targeted for completion mid next year,” he stated.
“In order to ensure energy sufficiency and surplus, our focus is to develop solar and thermal capacity which are not vulnerable to the impact of climate change.”
REPUBLICAN PRESIDENT CHALLENGES MPS, STAKEHOLDERS TO SPONSOR NATIONAL SERVICE VOLUNTEERS
The Republican President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Force, Mr Hakainde Hichilema has appealed to Members of Parliament and other stakeholders to help sponsor candidates for the Voluntary National Service Training Programme, which has already drawn far more applicants than available places.
Speaking at the ceremonial opening of the 13th National Assembly, the Head of State revealed that he is personally sponsoring 200 students drawn from all 156 constituencies and challenged MPs to emulate his example by supporting young people in their respective constituencies.
The President described the training programme as a vital pathway for instilling vocational skills, discipline, and patriotism in the young people.
“When we first spoke about the ZNS Voluntary Training Programme, some thought it was mere pep talk. It is real. We have taken in the first intake, and I am pleased to say it is oversubscribed,” he said.
The Commander-in-Chief highlighted the programme’s proven impact by citing National Assembly Speaker Right Honourable Ms Nelly Mutti, as one of the notable graduates of the earlier compulsory ZNS training and an example of how impactful national service programme is.
“National service training is good training, take it from me. Those of us who went through that programme appreciate its value. You can see the difference in the character of those who trained and those who did not,” Mr President said.
He urged young people across the country to seize the opportunity to attain vocational skills and become productive citizens, stressing that education and practical training remain Zambia’s most important investments.
The President lauded the voluntary initiative revived more than four decades after the end of compulsory national service for attracting far more applicants than available places, calling the oversubscription a sign of the nation’s appetite for discipline, skills development, and self-reliance.
He revealed that despite the oversubscription, his administration did not go back to treasury for supplementary funding but was ingenious enough to mop up the available funds within the resource envelope and also ride on support from volunteer sponsors such as himself.
“We were ingenious and financed the programme within our existing envelope, with support from volunteer sponsors including myself,” he said.
Meanwhile Mr Hichilema, has praised the Defence and Security Chiefs for enhancing the country’s food security and combating hunger during times of peace.
The President noted that ZNS in particular, has taken a leading role in enhancing food security, emphasizing that “food security is national security.”
He explained that through the collective efforts of many stakeholders, the country has been able to produce more than enough to cater for both human and animal consumption.
Earlier this year, President Hichilema directed that in periods of peace, the Defence Force should actively contribute to national development, a directive that ZNS is running with.
Meanwhile, the ZNS Commander Lieutenant General Engineer Maliti Solochi II was among the Defence and Service Chiefs that attended the landmark event.
Pictures courtesy of the Zambia Army and the Zambia Air Force.
WHY CLIFFORD MULENGA’S CALL TO DROP DAKA, FASHION AND LAMECK IS MISGUIDED
By Phillip Banda
Former Chipolopolo winger Clifford Mulenga recently called for the exclusion of Zambia’s key attacking trio, Patson Daka , Fashion Sakala jnr , and Lameck Banda from the national team setup. While every opinion on football deserves respect, Mulenga’s proposition is both ill-timed and impractical. Here is why.
1. JUDGING PLAYERS ON ONE GAME IS UNFAIR
Mulenga’s call comes in the aftermath of Zambia’s 2–0 defeat to Morocco . While the loss was painful, it is wrong to call for the removal of established players based on one match. Morocco, after all, is no ordinary opponent—they were semi-finalists at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The quality they bring to the table is at a level far higher than what most African teams can produce. To suggest an overhaul on the back of a single game is reactionary.
2. LACK OF READY REPLACEMENTS
It is easy to demand change, but the real question is: who replaces Patson, Fashion, and Lameck? Zambia currently does not have forwards of similar pedigree waiting in the wings. Throwing in inexperienced players at this stage would not only weaken the team but also risk burning out young prospects before they mature.
3. THE LEAGUES THEY PLAY IN MATTER
These three players are not just ordinary footballers—they ply their trade in some of the world’s most competitive leagues:England , Italy , and even Saudi-Arabia , which, despite its challenges, remains a more professional environment than the Zambian Super League. As South Africa’s Benni McCarthy once said, “The national team is a different level—you need players competing in the best leagues.” National teams thrive by fusing talent with experience gained abroad.
4. WHY NOW, AND NOT BEFORE?
It is also worth asking why Clifford Mulenga never made such bold suggestions during his time at FAZ. As a former employee of the association, he had a platform and authority to raise concerns. To wait until now, when the team is rebuilding and still within striking distance of success, makes his remarks look more like frustration than foresight.
5. ZAMBIA WAS NOT OUTPLAYED BY MOROCCO
Finally, the statistics from the Morocco game do not support the claim that Zambia was completely outclassed. In fact, Chipolopolo had 72% possession compared to Morocco’s 28%, proving that Zambia matched them in key areas. What was missing were tactical adjustments and sharper finishing. With better coaching and game management, the result could have been very different.
CONCLUSION
Rather than discard our best international players, Zambia should be working on strengthening the tactical approach and supporting the current crop with proper structures. Daka, Fashion, and Lameck represent Zambia’s most potent attacking force in years, and sidelining them now would be an error of judgment.
What the Chipolopolo need is cohesion, tactical discipline, and the right leadership—not unnecessary witch hunts of their star players.
Zimbabwe’s Jean Gasho And Followers Ordered Out Of Scotland Woodland A sheriff in Scotland has ordered the eviction of Zimbabwean-born Jean Gasho, her Ghanaian husband Kofi Offeh, and their American companion after they set up camp in woodland near Jedburgh. The group, calling itself the “Kingdom of Kubala”, claimed it was reclaiming land stolen from its ancestors four centuries ago.
The eviction order On 12 September 2025, the BBC reported that Sheriff Peter Paterson ruled the self-styled African “tribe” must vacate the woodland immediately. The ruling followed weeks of disputes, during which the group ignored an earlier directive to leave by 17:00 on 8 September.
The woodland is privately owned by David and Mary Palmer, who turned to the courts after the group refused to leave. Scottish Borders Council supported the eviction. Councillor Scott Hamilton, the deputy leader, explained why the decision was unavoidable:
“They have rebuffed every opportunity to engage with us. We can help them, but we won’t sit back and let them break the law. The landowners had no option but to seek an order from the sheriff.”
Neither Ms Gasho nor her companions attended Jedburgh Sheriff Court, and they had no legal representation.
Speaking defiantly afterwards, Mr Offeh, who calls himself “King Atehene”, dismissed the authority of the court.
“The creator of the heavens and the Earth is the one with us. And we are not afraid of whatever the court – the so-called court – has granted.”
When asked whether they would relocate, he added:
“If the creator of the heavens and the earth wants us to move from this land, he shall find us a place to go.”
Confrontations with locals The Daily Mail wrote on 2 September 2025 that the group’s presence in Jedburgh had already sparked tensions. Videos posted online showed angry confrontations with residents. In one clip, locals accused Ms Gasho of being “delusional” and shouted abuse at the group. One man was recorded saying:
“This is a rapist cult and I will always stick to that.” [I cannot verify this]
Another man told Ms Gasho:
“Stop pulling the racist card. The only reason why the police and everyone else isn’t getting involved and the group isn’t getting shifted properly – is because they are so scared of being called racist.”
In several of the clips, larger groups, including minors, surrounded the woodland camp, shouting and filming on their phones. Police were later filmed carrying out a welfare check, asking whether the group had been harmed or had their property damaged.
Ms Gasho later said these incidents reminded her of the abuse the group had faced in England the previous year.
“The Kingdom of Kubala suffers violence – this was said 2,000 years ago, that the kingdom will suffer violence. We experienced this on a very large scale in Stockton in 2024 – abuse all the time, people threatening to burn us alive.”
She continued:
“It is always traumatic to experience something like that, but we have faith in something bigger than the physical. We pray while this is happening, and we chant and sing to get us through. That’s what gets us through it.”
Rise of the Kingdom of Kubala online Despite the eviction order, the group has cultivated a large online following, with more than 100,000 people watching their videos on TikTok and Facebook. Their posts feature rituals, campfire gatherings, and declarations about reclaiming land that is said to belong to their ancestors.
Ms Gasho, 42, who calls herself “Queen Nandi”, and Mr Offeh, 36, arrived in Jedburgh in spring 2025 after leaving Stockton-on-Tees in County Durham. They were later joined by 21-year-old American Kaura Taylor, who refers to herself as “Asnat” and describes her role as that of a “handmaiden”.
Their first camp in Scotland, on a hillside above Jedburgh that they renamed “Mount Shungu”, was cleared in July by the council. Instead of leaving the area, the group relocated to woodland near an industrial estate, which led to the latest legal case and eviction order.
For now, the order means the group must dismantle their tents and leave the Borders immediately. But judging by their response, it remains unclear whether they will comply or move elsewhere.
After an extensive search authorities believe they have now identified and caught the man responsible for killing Charlie Kirk, naming him as Tyler Robinson.
The 31-year-old was fatally shot during a talk at Utah Valley University on Wednesday 10 September as he started his American Comeback Tour, leaving behind his wife of four years Erika, as well as a three-year-old daughter and one-year-old son.
Kirk, who founded the conservative organisation Turning Point, was known for his fierce MAGA views and was a huge supporter of Donald Trump and his vice president JD Vance.
On Friday 12 September, it was confirmed by Trump that authorities had a man in custody, with the FBI issuing an appeal on Thursday with images of the suspect, and that man was later named as 22-year-old Robinson, a Utah resident.
Trump was the one to confirm that he was in custody, saying: “You know, getting somebody that you start off with absolutely nothing – and we started off with a clip that made him look like an ant – that was almost useless.
“We just saw somebody up there. And so much work has been done over the last two and a half days.
“You know, it’s amazing really, when you start off with that and then all of a sudden you get lucky, or talent, or whatever it is.”
Shortly after Robinson was named, authorities held a press conference, in which they explained exactly how they were able to land him in custody.
Authorities had sought the help of the general public through pictures and later videos of the alleged shooter, which included shots of him on a roof where it is believed he situated himself before taking the shot which ended Kirk’s life.
Speaking at the conference, Governor of Utah Spencer Cox said: “Good morning ladies and gentleman. We got him. On the evening of September 11 a family member of Tyler Robinson reached out to a family friend, who contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office with information that Robinson had confessed to them, or implied that he had committed the incident.
“This information was relayed to the Utah County Sheriff’s Office and senior investigators at Utah Valley University. This information was also conveyed to the FBI.
“Investigators reviewed additional video footage from UVU surveillance and identified Robinson arriving on UVU campus in a grey Dodge Challenger at approximately 8.29am on September 10.”
He goes on to explain that Robinson was spotted in the same clothing as he was seen in on the video footage.
The family member also confirmed that Robinson had become ‘more political’ in recent years and recounted an anecdote where Robinson spoke about his dislike for Kirk at the dinner table.
Cox also went on to suggest that Robinson’s roommate was vital in the investigation, as he showed Discord messages to police where Robinson discussed leaving a bolt-action rifle in a bush, which is where the weapon was later found.
Kirk was answering a question about gun violence before he was shot, with the bullets that were used also allegedly containing messages which could point towards a potential motive for the murder.
Speaking to Fox News, Trump explained that he was in a meeting at the White House when he learned of the shooting, with the president later confirming that he had passed away with a post on Truth Social and ordering that American flags be flown at half mast as a tribute to the father-of-two.
He said: “They came in and they said, ‘Charlie Kirk is dead.’ I didn’t know what they meant. I said, ‘What do you mean, dead?’
”‘Charlie Kirk was shot.’ And they thought it was dead because it was so horrific.”
“I just told these people, ‘Get out, you gotta go.’”
The 79-year-old ordered for flags to be flown at half-mast following Kirk’s death, with tributes also flooding in from other political leaders across the world.
NATO is said to be on high alert after Russia and Belarus began military drills on the borders of Poland, Lithuania and Latvia.
Known as the ‘Zapad 2025’, the drills started on Friday (12 September) and are expected to last until the beginning of next week, on NATO’s eastern border.
Poland’s prime minister, Donald Tusk, has closed the border with Belarus in response.
He said in a government meeting, as per Reuters: “On Friday, Russian-Belarusian manoeuvres, very aggressive from a military doctrine perspective, begin in Belarus, very close to the Polish border.
“Therefore, for national security reasons, we will close the border with Belarus, including railway crossings, in connection with the Zapad manoeuvres on Thursday at midnight.”
Meanwhile, Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski explained the border would only be reopened once the government was certain ‘there was no more threat to Polish citizens’.
In response, the Belarusian Foreign Ministry said: “The temporary suspension of passage indicates rather an intention to conceal one’s own actions than the existence of any threat from Belarus.”
Meanwhile, of the drills, Russian officials described them as ‘the final stage of this year’s joint training between the two countries’ armies’, adding that troops will be practising at ‘firing ranges in the Republic of Belarus and the Russian Federation and in the Baltic Sea and the Barents Sea’.
Earlier this week, air defences from Poland and NATO were used to shoot down drones from Russia, which had violated Polish airspace.
Tusk said he had been given a report from his country’s armed forces on ‘the shutting down of drones that entered our airspace and could constitute a threat’, adding that he was in ‘constant contact’ with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
He said: “Last night, the Polish airspace was violated by a huge number of Russian drones. Those drones that posed a direct threat were shot down. I am in constant communication with the secretary general of NATO and our allies.”
Search efforts to locate the wreckage of these drones are underway, and Poland’s military called it ‘an act of aggression that posed a real threat to the safety of our citizens’.
Former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense, Jim Townsend, told the BBC said that the Russian incursion was unlikely to be a mistake, explaining: “One drone is a mistake, multiple drones is not a mistake.”
“We’ve got to have more time for Poland to figure out what they are finding and see what their views are. But this is more than likely a test – this is a test that NATO has to answer.”
This event marks a shift in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as it is the first time since the war began in 2022 that NATO military assets have engaged Russian equipment.
Russia has previously used Poland’s airspace in its bid to target Ukraine. Last month, a drone dropped into Poland, and missiles passed through Poland.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the ‘egregious and unprecedented violation of Polish and NATO airspace by Russian drones’.
He said: “I have been in touch with the Polish Prime Minister this morning to make clear our support for Poland, and that we will stand firm in support of Ukraine.”
Apple launched their latest iPhone models at the annual conference earlier this week, but have been accused of ‘messing up’ by some disgruntled customers.
In case you missed it, CEO Tim Cook confirmed the four new models at the conference in California on 9 September, which included its thinnest-ever phone, the iPhone 17 Air.
Other products include the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, which are now available to pre-order, but only if you’re willing to part ways with some pretty significant sums of cash, which have already left fans divided.
If the controversy of increased prices, which were expected in the wake of Donald Trump’s tariffs, weren’t enough, then some fans have pointed out one particular issue that might make them think twice about returning to Apple.
And considering Samsung offers some cool flip phones, which the South Korean company were quick to remind their American counterparts of with a brutal dig, you can see why some folks might want to ditch their iPhones for something a little different.
However, it wasn’t the lack of foldable action that got some people online feeling a little disappointed, but rather the interesting new colours of the phones that have been released.
The iPhone 17 Pro will only be available in navy, silver, and orange, which some people are now saying is a ‘big mistake’ by the company.
One TikTok user named Katlynn Nelson shared her dismay about the decision on the social media platform, saying:
“Wanna know who wants the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max? Women, if they haven’t already switched over to the Samsung little flippy phone that’s pink and cute. Those are the ones that wants a cute iPhone.
“Do you wanna know what you are doing? Pushing them over to Samsung.
“Will my dad probably get the orange or navy iPhone 17 Pro? Probably. But do you wanna know who will pay extra for the Pro for the better camera? Women. Do you want to know what women do not want? Orange, navy and silver.”
She concluded: “We want the Air colours in the Pro model, why is that so hard?”
Now, given that these little things called phone cases exist, I personally can’t see why it’s such a big issue, but it seems as if lots of people in the comments agreed that the colours should be better.
And considering plenty of old iPhones are now considered ‘obsolete’, and plenty of people are looking to upgrade to the latest version, perhaps a more varied colour selection might have been advisable.
One commenter said: “People saying they just cover it with a case have never had the satisfaction of a pink, mint, or lavender phone with a clear glitter case.”
That’s me told, then.
A third commenter said: “They always give the worst colours to the Pros and Pro maxes.”
Cameroon international goalkeeper André Onana has signed for Trabzonspor on a loan move from Manchester United.
The 29-year-old departed Manchester United after the arrival of young Belgian keeper Senne Lammens, which pushed him further down the pecking order at Old Trafford.
Trabzonspor confirmed the deal in a statement, with the loan running until the end of the season.
“An agreement has been reached with Manchester United for the temporary transfer of footballer Andre Onana to our club, free of charge, for the 2025-2026 football season,” reads the Turkish club’s statement.
According to the Daily Mail, the loan deal is set to provide a significant financial boost for André Onana, effectively doubling his current earnings through a combination of a signing bonus and additional performance incentives.
From a club perspective, Manchester United will not receive a loan fee for the transfer, as Trabzonspor didn’t secure an option to make the move permanent at the end of the loan period, which expires on June 30th.
A massive legal cannabis farm in the Netherlands has been ordered to reduce the odor coming from its facility or face closure after more than 2,000 complaints from residents, according to a regional Dutch environmental agency.
If the farm fails to sufficiently limit the smell, CanAdelaar – the company that operates the site – could face fines of up to €3.5 million ($4.1 million) or risk being shut down, local authorities confirmed following a court ruling earlier this week.
The farm, located west of Rotterdam, opened in 2023 as part of a government scheme allowing a limited number of companies to grow cannabis under strict conditions, said the DCMR Environmental Protection Agency, which monitors the business on behalf of the municipality of Voorne aan Zee.
Reports of “odor nuisance” began immediately after the farm’s launch, DCMR noted. “By August 2025, DCMR had received approximately 2,000 reports from nearly 300 different residents,” the agency said. Rotterdam’s judiciary court also confirmed that more than 2,000 complaints had been filed.
Inspectors documented “odor nuisance” during multiple visits and concluded that the company was “not always” complying with regulations. As a result, the municipality imposed customized rules on CanAdelaar to reduce the smell.
This week, a preliminary relief judge upheld those regulations and gave the company one week to “take measures or cease operations,” according to DCMR.
“The judge emphasized that it is undesirable for the odor nuisance to continue. He noted that the odor nuisance has been very severe since 2023,” DCMR said. “He also doubts whether the measures proposed by CanAdelaar itself will bring sufficient improvement in the short term.”
The company’s director, however, expressed confidence they will meet the requirements. “We’ve been installing air filters since the beginning of the month,” he told Dutch broadcaster NOS. “And more are on the way. I think we are on the right track to further limiting the nuisance.”
CanAdelaar is the largest legal cannabis producer in the Netherlands and operates a greenhouse complex the size of seven soccer pitches, NOS reported.
A top state department official has said action will be taken against foreigners in the United States who are considered to be “praising, rationalizing, or making light of” conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s de@th.
Mr Kirk, a married father of two, was struck in the neck by a single bullet while speaking about mass sho0tings at a university campus in Utah yesterday, with a manhunt still underway to find the gunm@n.
In a post on X, the deputy secretary of state, Christopher Landau, wrote that “foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors to our country” and said he had directed consular officials to “undertake appropriate action” against those deemed to be “praising, rationalizing, or making light of” Kirk’s de@th on social media.
Landau invited X users to bring such cases to his attention in the comments of his post, which he said would be monitored by consular officials.
A state department spokesperson said: “This administration does not believe that the United States should grant visas to persons whose presence in our country does not align with US national security interests.”
Previously, the Trump administration had directed investigators at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice), who would typically target human traffickers and drug smugglers, to track down foreign students who may have shown sympathy for the Palestinian cause or criticized Israel in social media posts. The administration has gone after those who have taken part in pro-Palestinian demonstrations across university campuses.
Investigators also now look for “anti-American” views, including on social media, when assessing the applications of people wanting to live in the United States, with diplomats instructed to look for “indications of hostility towards citizens, culture or founding principles of the United States” in someone’s online presence.
Young Thug has released a new song apologizing to several people in his life, including Drake, 21 Savage, Lil Baby, and his girlfriend Mariah the Scientist.
The track, titled “Man I Miss My Dogs”, sees Young Thug addressing remarks he made during leaked jail calls. He opens with an apology to Mariah, acknowledging fears about losing her due to the internet and referencing past admissions of infidelity.
On the song, he also directly addresses Drake, rapping, “Drizzy, you my brother / You know I ain’t going against you / I got manners / Everything you did for the rap community can’t ban you / Never diss you / Came to visit me at Cobb County like my kin do / F*** the jail call, you know the other calls we had.”
Young Thug similarly acknowledges 21 Savage, saying, “Savage, you are a real n**** / Don’t let them tell you different,” reflecting on their conversations during jail calls.
He then addressed Lil Baby directly in another post, pleading for communication. “Wham pick up the phone, talk to me it’s Spider. Taught you everything you know about this s**t. We lifers.”
Future was also mentioned. Thug previously called him out for not organizing a “FreeYoungThug” concert while he was behind bars. “We foundation of men, we learned that s**t from Pluto,” he wrote. “It’s all love and respect on my end.”
The rapper dropped the music video and the song Thursday, September 11, continuing a string of public apologies, including one to GloRilla for a past comment about her appearance.
A 28-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly killing his 86-year-old father with an axe at a farm in Kadoma, Zimbabwe, after accusing him of witchcraft and blaming him for his erectile dysfunction. The incident occurred on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Justright Plot in the Showground area.
Reports indicate that Talent Chirongoma had been drinking beer with a friend, Tichawona Ndlovu, at Mugwachari Shopping Centre before heading to his father’s homestead. On arrival, they found Tinos Chirongoma with members of the Apostolic Church (Mwazha). Talent confronted the church members, accusing them of “talking to a witch,” prompting them to flee in fear.
A witness said Tichawona tried to calm Talent, but he was struck with a wooden log. Talent then turned on his father, initially using logs to beat him before repeatedly striking him with an axe to the head and legs, killing him instantly. Tinos’s sick wife reportedly watched helplessly.
Neighbours said Talent had long accused his father of using witchcraft to cause his erectile dysfunction, which he claimed had contributed to the collapse of three marriages. Some faith healers reportedly reinforced these beliefs, leading Talent to view his father as the source of his misfortunes, including his mother’s illness.
Police confirmed the incident was reported at Eiffel Flats Police Station by Tinashe Magura. A source stated, “The accused assaulted his father with logs and an axe, leading to his death. The suspect has since been arrested and investigations are ongoing.”
The shocking case highlights the dangerous consequences of accusations of witchcraft intertwined with personal grievances, alcohol abuse, and misinformation from unverified spiritual sources. Authorities said investigations will continue as they examine the motive and surrounding circumstances, including the role of local faith healers and the psychological state of the suspect.
Bullet casings from the gun suspected of being used to assassinate conservative activist Charlie Kirk were engraved with messages officials believe hint at a possible motive for the k!lling.
Gov. Spencer Cox confirmed that investigators found the bolt-action rifle and scope wrapped in a towel and discovered, after the sho0ting, engraved bullet casings with messages that referenced fascism and anti-fascist material.
Tyler Robinson, 22, is expected to be charged with aggravated murd£r, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury and obstruction of justice, according to a probable cause affidavit. The offenses are all state charges.
Officials believe the suspect acted alone in Kirk’s sho0ting.
Officials confirmed the suspected sho0ter was turned in by a family member who saw photos released Thursday by the FBI. The family member confronted the suspect, then turned him in to police.
“On the evening of September 11, a family member of Tyler Robinson reached out to a family friend who contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office with information that Robinson had confessed to them or implied that he had committed the incident,” Cox said at Friday morning’s news conference.
Cox added that a family member of Robinson who was interviewed by investigators said that he had become “more political in recent years,” and mentioned Kirk’s name during a recent family dinner.
“In the conversation with another family member, Robinson mentioned Charlie Kirk was coming to UVU. They talked about why they didn’t like him and the viewpoints that he had,” the governor said.
Robinson was admitted to Utah State University on a prestigious academic scholarship, according to a video of him reading his acceptance letter posted to a family member’s social media account. A university spokesperson says he attended for only one semester in 2021.
Utah state records say the 22-year-old was registered as a voter but not affiliated with either political party.
Robinson had become “more political” in the run-up to the shooting and mentioned during a dinner with family that Kirk would be visiting Utah, Cox said.
According to Cox, one casing read “Hey, fascist! Catch!”
One of the inscriptions read, “Hey, fascist. Catch!” and another read, “If you read this, you are gay.” A third casing had the lyrics to the Italian song “Bella Ciao.”
A South Korean woman has been acquitted 61 years after being convicted for biting off her rapist’s tongue in an act of self-defence.
In May 1964, 18-year-old Choi Mal-ja was s3xually assaulted by a 21-year-old man, identified only as Roh, in Gimhae. During the attack, Roh pinned Choi to the ground, blocked her nose, and forced his tongue into her mouth. Choi bit over half an inch off his tongue to escape.
Seventeen days later, Roh broke into Choi’s home, threatened her father with a knife, and later sued her for grievous bodily harm. Choi was sentenced to 10 months in prison, while Roh received a six-month sentence, suspended for two years, for trespassing and intimidation.
Choi, now 79, was vindicated on Wednesday when a Busan district court ruled that her actions were a lawful act of self-defence. She celebrated outside the courtroom, shouting, “I, Choi Mal-ja, am finally innocent!” Supporters held placards reading “Choi Mal-ja did it!” and “Choi Mal-ja succeeded.”
Woman who bit off rapist?s tongue during attack acquitted after 61 years
During a retrial in July, the court ruled that her actions were a proportionate response to “an unjust infringement on her bodily integrity and s3xual self-determination.” Prosecutors apologised for her mistreatment, recognising the “immeasurable pain and suffering” she endured.
Choi had fought to have her case reevaluated since 2018, inspired by South Korea’s #MeToo movement. She said her goal was to give hope to victims who had suffered similar abuse. In her original trial, her testimony was doubted, and the judge suggested she should marry her attacker, a reflection of societal and legal attitudes toward s3xual assault at the time.
The retrial victory has been hailed as a landmark case for self-defence rights and the ongoing push to reform how s3xual violence cases are treated in South Korea.
