Accused Charlie Kirk assassin, Tyler Robinson, reportedly threatened to k!ll himself rather than surrender to authorities after his father confronted him about the sickening murd£r.
The father recognized his 22-year-old son from photos of the suspected shooter that were released by authorities on Thursday, leading the parent to confront his son when he returned home, sources said.
Robinson fessed up to the horrific sho0ting at Utah Valley University when his dad asked if he pulled the trigger, but originally refused to turn himself in to law enforcement, according to sources.
He told his father he’d rather k!ll himself, leading the parent to convince his son to speak with their youth minister, who also works with the US Marshals Service fugitive task force, sources said.
The minister then called a deputy with the federal agency, and the FBI took Robinson into custody on Thursday evening, sources said.
Robinson, a former student at Utah Valley, has been arrested on aggravated murd£r charges. It’s believed he acted alone.
During the authorities’ hunt for Robinson, investigators spoke to his roommate and saw a trove of Discord messages from the alleged murd£rer to him after the sho0ting.
Some messages told the roommate to retrieve a rifle and said where it could be found in a darkly colored wrapped towel, along a wooded area near the school’s campus, law enforcement said.
Another message from Robinson stated that he changed his clothes after the gunfire, according to Cox.
Robinson had expressed his disdain for Kirk in the day leading up to the shooting, claiming the conservative, a married father of two, was “full of hate,” officials said.
After almost three decades together, Akon’s wife, Tomeka Thiam, has decided to call it quits.
According to court filings, Tomeka says she married the singer back in September 1996 but is now pulling the plug on their marriage, citing irreconcilable differences.
According TMZ, the couple share a 17-year-old child, and Tomeka is asking the court for joint legal custody while requesting physical custody. She is also seeking spousal support but at the same time asking the court to block Akon from receiving any spousal support himself.
Over the years, Akon has remained vague about how many “wives” he’s had, but Tomeka is officially making her position clear with this filing.
So far, Akon has not publicly reacted to the divorce news.
The United Nations General Assembly has overwhelmingly approved a resolution aimed at reviving the two-state solution between Israel and Palestine, explicitly excluding Hamas from any future political role.
On Friday, September 12, 142 member states voted in favor of the measure, with 10 against, including Israel and the United States, and 12 abstentions. The text, known as the New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, condemns Hamas, demands the release of hostages, and insists the group surrender its weapons.
Drafted by France and Saudi Arabia, the resolution states that “Hamas must free all hostages” and “end its rule in Gaza,” transferring authority to the Palestinian Authority with international support. It also calls for collective action to end the war in Gaza and establish “a just, peaceful and lasting settlement” rooted in the two-state framework.
Palestinian official Hussein al-Sheikh welcomed the decision, describing it as an important step toward ending Israeli occupation and achieving an independent Palestinian state. Israeli officials rejected the resolution, with foreign ministry spokesman Oren Marmorstein calling it proof that the UN had become “a political circus detached from reality.”
The vote precedes a September 22 summit in New York co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, at which French President Emmanuel Macron and other leaders are expected to formally recognize Palestinian statehood. Analysts say the resolution gives pro-Palestinian states a “shield” against accusations that they condone Hamas, while increasing pressure on Israel to end its military campaign in Gaza.
The declaration also raises the prospect of a temporary UN-led international stabilization mission in Gaza to support civilians.
While about three-quarters of UN member states already recognize Palestinian statehood, years of conflict, settlement expansion in the West Bank, and Israeli government pledges to block the creation of a Palestinian state have cast doubt on the feasibility of the plan. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Thursday that “there will be no Palestinian state,” even as the UN pressed forward with what supporters call a renewed path to peace.
ularly known as Alibaba, has expressed relief that the suspected k!ller of conservative activist Charlie Kirk is not a Black man or an Arab
According to Nigerian comedian Alibaba, Charlie’s a$$assination is a terrible thing but it would have been worse if the perpetrator was a Black or Brown person.
Alibaba added that he can’t put into words how relieved he was when the suspect turned out to not be a black man.
So far, it has been discovered that the alleged shooter of Charlie Kirk is Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old from Utah.
He comes from a pro-gun conservative family and proudly wore a Trump costume for Halloween a few years ago.
Tyler Robinson is registered as a nonpartisan voter in Utah. He is officially listed as “inactive,” which means he had not voted in the last two general elections.
While his own registration was unaffiliated, Tyler Robinson reportedly became more political in recent years. During a family dinner, he openly criticized Kirk, saying Kirk was “spreading h@te” and was “full of h@te.”
Robinson attended Utah State University for just one semester in 2021 after securing a generous scholarhsip but he later dropped out.
He had a strong academic profile: reports say he scored a 34 on the ACT, which is among the top scores possible.
A Bulawayo man stabbed his friend in the eye over a request for an empty beer bottle. Prince Khayelihle Sibanda, a twenty-eight-year-old resident of Pumula East, has been remanded in custody after a shocking incident that left his drinking companion nursing a severe facial wound. The case was heard before the Western Commonage magistrate’s court.
The prosecution, led by Tafara Dzimbanhete, outlined the chilling sequence of events that unfolded on the final day of August at the DNM Sports Bar. The court was told that Sibanda had been enjoying a drink with his friend, thirty-one-year-old Nation Nduna, when the atmosphere turned sinister. The catalyst for the violence was not a heated argument or a longstanding grievance, but a seemingly innocuous question.
“The complainant approached the accused and politely asked if he could have an empty beer bottle,” Dzimbanhete stated,
Bulawayo Man Stabs Friend In The Eye Over Empty Beer Bottle Request What happened next was a sudden and ferocious assault that left other patrons in a state of shock. Instead of replying, Sibanda is accused of seizing a broken beer bottle and launching a vicious attack.
“Without any warning, the accused became aggressive and armed himself with the weapon,” the prosecutor told the magistrate, Jeconia Prince Ncube.
Sibanda allegedly thrust the jagged glass directly into Nduna’s face, striking him once and with significant force on his left eye. The unprovoked nature of the assault has baffled both officials and witnesses alike.
The aftermath of the attack was described as bloody and chaotic. Nation Nduna was left with a deep and serious laceration to his upper eyelid, an injury that required immediate medical intervention. He was promptly rushed to the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) to receive urgent treatment for the damage. Local law enforcement was alerted to the incident and moved quickly to apprehend the alleged perpetrator, taking Prince Sibanda into custody at the scene.
Zimbabwe’s Health and Child Care Minister, Douglas Mombeshora, has publicly stated that 60% of Zimbabweans are relying on traditional healers for medical assistance. The minister’s comments have thrown a spotlight on the deteriorating state of public healthcare, which has been crippled by a mass exodus of medical professionals seeking better opportunities abroad.
The foundation of Zimbabwe’s healthcare system has been weakened by decades of economic hardship, leading to a severe brain drain. It is reported that approximately 4,000 nurses, doctors, and other health workers have left the country for nations like the United Kingdom and South Africa in recent years.
This flight is primarily attributed to the government’s struggle to offer competitive salaries, with many professionals earning less than US$200 a month. The resulting shortages have left hospitals understaffed, under-equipped, and often lacking essential medicines, creating an environment where patients frequently fail to receive adequate treatment.
60% Of Zimbabweans Use Traditional Healers Speaking at the inauguration of the Tait Medical Centre in Rusape, Minister Mombeshora made a direct appeal to the public, acknowledging the widespread use of traditional practitioners while urging a return to conventional medicine.
“I know 60% of people, who are gathered here, are seeking the services of n’angas (traditional healers) to get medical assistance,” he stated. “I know that I am not saying n’angas are not good, but there is a time you need to go to a hospital.”
His remarks are a rare official admission of the scale of the problem, coming at a time when reports consistently highlight the dire conditions within public health institutions.
Former All Blacks Coach Insists Team Was Poisoned Ahead of World Cup Showdown Against Springboks
Laurie Mains, the former All Blacks coach, has reiterated his long-held belief that members of his 1995 squad were deliberately poisoned in the build-up to the Rugby World Cup final against South Africa.
Mains says the suspicion has haunted him for years and prompted him to hire a private detective to investigate the events surrounding the team’s preparation for the showpiece match.
A final remembered for more than rugby The 1995 final at Ellis Park was South Africa’s debut World Cup and has gone down in history for its drama.
Mains, who stepped down as coach after the tournament, noted that it was “a great game,” but maintained that factors beyond form influenced the outcome.
“I’ve never stopped thinking about it. “And it’s not that we lost. It was a great game. It’s not even how we lost,” Mains said.
The night before: sickness, and suspicion According to Planet Rugby, Mains recalled returning to the team hotel after a managers’ dinner on the Thursday and immediately sensing trouble when he saw Zinzan Brooke at reception. Within minutes the camp learned many players were violently ill.
“We were all set to go for that final, and as was tradition, we’d leave the team to their devices on a Thursday, and the management would go out to a restaurant somewhere for dinner. Well, we did that, and when we came back into the hotel, standing at reception was Zinzan Brooke, and from the minute I saw him, I turned to Colin and said, ‘There are problems.’
And he said, ‘Oh, half the team are up in the doc’s room vomiting and they’re sick as hell.’
He revealed that only three players did not get sick as they had eaten elsewhere.
Mains stated that the sickness rendered the squad unable to train properly the next day. Management considered delaying the match but rejected the idea because of the disruption it would cause.
Bookies, and a suspicious waitress Mains revealed that a waitress who worked at the hotel for only a short period disappeared after the incident, and he suspects she may have been planted by outsiders with a financial motive. He believes bookies in the United Kingdom who favoured a South African win could have orchestrated the sabotage.
“There was no doubt that we were poisoned,” he said, recounting a conversation with Eion Edgar, a businessman who returned from the UK with alarming information.
The former coach expressed his certainty that the initial batch of tea and coffee served to the team had been poisoned.
I’m convinced it was that first batch of tea and coffee that had been poisoned.”
Mains Admits 1995 World Cup Final Was Career’s Lowest Point Mains admitted that watching his team go out knowing they couldn’t perform at full capacity was the worst moment of his coaching career.
“The worst moment in my coaching career was seeing that team go out and play, knowing that they probably couldn’t give better than 85% because of what they’d been through.”
Police detain youthful presidential candidate, Ethel Chisono Edwards, a Zambian national based in the United States.
The Police are said to have noted her entry at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and alerted the cyber crimes unit at Service Headquaters that have been pursuing her.
In 2022 and 2023, Ethel issued a series of videos characterised by strong language, condemning President Hakainde Hichilema’s dictatorship and pledging to single-handedly remove him.
AS Parley readies itself for the commencement of debates on the speech delivered today by President Hakainde Hichilema during the 5th Session of the 13th National Assembly next week Tuesday, various stakeholders have called on sobriety and maturity over the various policy pronouncements made by the Head-of-State.
Wynter Kabimba, who is Economic Front (EF) leader, observes that lawmakers should shy away from amplifying the notion that making a point during debates in the House can only be achieved through the use of vulgarities
Kabimba further observes that as representative of the electorates, parliamentarians had a duty to engage in constructive discourse that answers to the aspirations of the people who ushered them into office.
Mr Kabimba, who said there was need for parliamentarians to set the pace of the general citizenry, argued that it was regrettable that there were a number of MPs who didn’t know why they are in Parliament.
He also argued that a number of lawmakers where misled that one needed to insult to make a point during parliamentary debates.
Mr Kabimba was speaking ahead of the ceremonial opening of parliament yesterday.
HH’S AIDES OFTEN ACT AGAINST HIS RHETORIC – NYASULU … as he explains decision to join PF
Lusaka businessman Victor Nyasulu says he does not regret voting against PF in 2021 but believes the party has now taken stock of why it was ousted, aided by the ruling UPND’s loss of the plot on account of unfulfilled promises.
And Nyasulu has said that while President Hakainde Hichilema was always proclaiming on the podium that Zambian businesses must be prioritised, in the background his aides worked earnestly to disparage local businesses such as in the US $20 million mop-up contract at the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) when he served there as director general.
Explaining his decision to ditch the UPND for the PF, in an interview with Daily Revelation yesterday in Lusaka, Nyasulu said that the ruling party had lost the plot.
“Now, since resigning from the UPND, I returned to my home ZWWP (Zambia We Want Party) who became uncomfortable with [the] arrest allegations against me regarding
DA applauds re-opening of Steve Biko inquest, 48 years after anti-apartheid icon’s death
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has expressed strong support for the re-opening of the inquest into the death of anti-apartheid icon Bantu Stephen Biko, who died in police custody on 12 September 1977.
The decision to revisit the case comes exactly 48 years after Biko’s tragic death, which sent shockwaves through South Africa and the world, exposing the brutality of the apartheid regime.
The High Court in Gqeberha has postponed the inquest to 12 November 2025 for case management, signaling a renewed effort to uncover the truth behind the circumstances of Biko’s death.
The Black Consciousness Movement leader, whose activism inspired millions, was 30 years old when he died after being detained and tortured by security police in Pretoria.
The original inquest in 1977 controversially ruled that no one was responsible for his death, a decision widely criticized as a cover-up.
DA Federal Chairperson Helen Zille emphasized that Steve Biko did not die of a hunger strike but from brain damage, likely sustained during a scuffle with police in his final days. She stressed that all related information must be thoroughly examined and evaluated by an objective court of law.
The re-opening has reignited calls from activists and Biko’s family for a thorough investigation into the events leading to his death, including the role of state actors.
The case will resume in November, with the nation watching closely for answers long overdue.
Giorgio Armani’s will opens door to sale of fashion empire
The last will and testament of the late Giorgio Armani has revealed plans that could reshape the future of his world-renowned fashion house. Armani, who died at 91, directed his heirs to sell significant stakes in the company, potentially paving the way for a takeover by global luxury giants.
According to the will, heirs must divest a 15% stake within 18 months, with the option to sell up to 54.9% more thereafter. This would leave the Giorgio Armani Foundation holding at least 30%, ensuring influence over the brand’s direction while honoring Armani’s philanthropic and creative legacy.
The will gives preference to LVMH, L’Oréal, and EssilorLuxottica as potential buyers, though it also leaves room for an initial public offering (IPO). Industry experts say this could spark intense competition, with LVMH seen as a natural contender given its dominance in fashion, while L’Oréal and EssilorLuxottica could expand Armani’s reach in cosmetics and eyewear.
The foundation is now tasked with appointing a new CEO to navigate the transition. For decades, Armani fiercely resisted selling to luxury conglomerates, but his final wishes suggest a pragmatic turn toward securing the brand’s future.
As the fashion world reacts, one of Italy’s last great independent houses faces the prospect of corporate stewardship marking the beginning of a new era for Armani’s timeless legacy.
KABESHA IS INSULTING CITIZENS WHOSE SWEAT SUSTAINS THE PRIVILEGES HE ENJOYS – Antonio Mourinho Mwanza
He writes
When the Attorney General of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Mulilo Kabesha, carelessly brands our people as “lazy,” he insults the very citizens whose sweat sustains the privileges he enjoys.
Every day, long before dawn, ordinary Zambians rise—farmers in the fields at 04:00, marketeers braving the dust and sun to sell a tomato, bus drivers and conductors fighting through traffic, students burning the midnight candle for exams, and workers scraping a living in offices, factories, and on the streets. These are not the marks of a lazy people; they are the marks of a resilient nation surviving against all odds.
What Mr. Kabesha calls “laziness” is, in truth, a struggle against an unfair system where those in government corridors live off free taxpayers’ money while the majority fight tooth and nail to feed their families. It is the height of arrogance and insensitivity for a man paid by the very people he mocks to demean their sacrifice.
The Zambian people deserve leaders who recognize their hard work, not opportunists who mock their suffering from positions of privilege.
Attorney General Kabesha’s remarks are not only wrong—they are an insult to the dignity, resilience, and determination of our people.
Antonio Mourinho Mwanza President Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) 12/09/2025
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema says he feels the pain and frustration caused by power outages which have severely affected the livelihoods of citizens
Speaking during the ceremonial opening of the Fifth Session of the 13th National Assembly, President Hichilema expressed concern that small businesses are suffering and household incomes are being eroded.
“In the 57 years prior to 2021, growth in demand for power consumption outstripped investment in power generation, transmission and distribution. For too long, this issue did not receive the needed attention. Our government is actively addressing this challenge,” he said.
The Head of State assured the nation that Government is committed to delivering new generation capacity through sweeping policy reforms and implementing cost-reflective tariffs to attract more investment.
He said Government has further liberalised the energy sector with an open access regime that allows developers access to the grid, as well as the introduction of private power trading, net metering, tariff blending and interconnectors with neighbouring countries.
President Hichilema noted that Zambia’s over-dependence on hydroelectric power, which accounts for 85 percent of the energy mix, has exposed the country’s vulnerability to climate change.
“We are diversifying the energy mix to make the sub-sector resilient to climate change and increase our generation capacity,” he said.
Meanwhile, President Hichilema said over the past four years, the New Dawn administration has restored economic growth and the rule of law.
He said Government has made positive strides in its economic and social transformation agenda, with results beginning to show.
“We remain firmly committed to our national mission of building a prosperous Zambia, a Zambia where business and job opportunities are available for all, where quality education and accessible healthcare are assured for all, and where every citizen lives a dignified life and can achieve their full potential,” President Hichilema said
PRESIDENT HICHILEMA OPENS FIFTH SESSION OF 13TH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY WITH BOLD AGENDA ON ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION, JOBS, AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
President Hakainde Hichilema has officially opened the Fifth Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly, delivering a wide-ranging address focused on economic transformation, job creation, social development, and the fight against corruption.
Speaking under the theme “Consolidating Economic and Social Gains Towards a Prosperous, Resilient and Equitable Zambia,” President Hichilema said his administration is laying a strong foundation for national progress through reforms in mining, agriculture, energy, tourism, manufacturing, education, and health.
Highlighting progress made, President Hichilema said Zambia’s economy grew by 5.2 percent in 2024, with 92 percent of external debt successfully restructured.
He reaffirmed that Zambia is “back in the champions league” of global economies, adding that reforms have attracted record investment in mining, agriculture, energy, and tourism while creating thousands of jobs for young people.
“Our methodical approach is working. We are restoring growth, the rule of law, and a Zambia where every citizen lives a dignified life,” he said.
The President announced a bumper maize harvest of 4 million metric tonnes and revealed that Zambia has begun exporting seed across sub-Saharan Africa. He thanked farmers for their resilience despite drought and reiterated government’s commitment to produce 10 million tonnes of maize by 2030.
“Food security is national security,” he stressed, adding that surplus maize will be exported mainly as mealie meal to boost the value chain.
He also highlighted job creation in agriculture, irrigation development, and mechanisation, while confirming the removal of “bogus” beneficiaries from the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) through the e-voucher system.
On livestock, he said Zambia is targeting $1 billion from beef exports, supported by increased vaccination campaigns and the establishment of disease-free zones.
The Head of State underscored government’s ambition to produce three million tonnes of copper annually by 2030. For the first time in history, Zambia is on track to produce one million tonnes this year.
Key developments include Kansanshi Mine’s life extension, the $2 billion Lumwana Super Pit expansion, reopening of Luanshya Mine’s Shaft 28 with 3,000 new jobs, and issuance of 1,400 artisanal licenses to support safe and legal mining.
He noted that the Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) impasse was resolved by re-engaging Vedanta: “Mining cannot be done in court. Courts must be the last resort.”
Tourist arrivals surged to 2.2 million in 2024, the highest in Zambia’s history. The President attributed this to visa waivers for 167 countries, direct flight campaigns, and domestic tourism initiatives. He also announced the commissioning of new tourism blocks to diversify Zambia’s attractions.
Energy reforms, including open access to the grid, net metering, tariff blending, and regional interconnectors, have made the sector more attractive to investors. Approvals for new projects have been cut from 25 months to 48 hours.
Solar projects like the 100MW Chisamba plant are underway, while petroleum reforms via TAZAMA have reduced diesel pump prices by 30 percent.
On infrastructure, the President highlighted savings on the Lusaka–Ndola dual carriageway, reduced from $1.3 billion to $645 million, alongside upgrades on other key roads and provincial airports.
President Hichilema announced the construction of 283 new health facilities, including seven level-one hospitals, 101 mini-hospitals, 33 health centres, and several maternity wings, many supported through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
He said 18,000 health workers have been recruited so far, with another 2,000 to be added. Government is also investing in cancer hospitals in Lusaka and Ndola and prioritising local vaccine production.
To strengthen medical supply systems, he said the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMSA) is being reorganised for efficiency, while warning against theft in the health sector: “The law will visit those found wanting.”
On education, he reaffirmed government’s free education policy, which has brought over two million children back into school, alongside the reintroduction of meal allowances at seven universities and the expansion of classrooms through CDF.
The President revealed that 200 students are being sponsored to undergo voluntary national service, describing it as valuable training for skills development. He urged youths to take advantage of government’s ongoing skills training initiatives to build their future.
President Hichilema reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption, saying convictions and asset forfeitures are already being secured.
“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.
He warned that more arrests and asset recoveries will follow based on forensic audits, stressing that no one is being targeted on political, tribal, religious, or ethnic grounds: “Corruption has no face, and it will not be shielded by any affiliation.”
President Hichilema urged citizens to rally behind the national transformation agenda, assuring them that his government is committed to building a prosperous, resilient, and equitable Zambia.
The President also paid tribute to the late Sixth Republican President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, who died in Pretoria, South Africa, extending condolences to his family and the nation. He welcomed new MPs, including Lufeyo Ngoma of Lumezi and the new Mfuwe representative Malama Mufunelo, and mourned the passing of Clerk of the National Assembly, Ms. Doris Lombe.
RAMPANT CORRUPTION WILL GET UPND VOTED OUT – LUBINDA
PF acting President Given Lubinda says in addition to the UPND government’s poor governance record, Zambians will also vote them out due to rampant corruption.
Meanwhile, Lubinda says people will know his stance regarding his presidential ambitions once the body of the late former president Edgar Lungu is put to rest.
Lubinda was reacting to remarks by UPND Director General for Media under the Presidential Support Programme (PSP), Frank Bwalya, who said corruption was not one of the things that Zambians would use to vote out the UPND.
In an interview, Wednesday, Lubinda said Bwalya’s statement suggests to Zambians that in addition to corruption, there are actually more reasons why the UPND must be voted out.
“What Frank Bwalya is actually doing is telling the Zambian people that in addition to the corruption of the UPND, there are actually more reasons why the UPND must be voted out. In his statement in the article that I read today in your newspaper, Frank Bwalya is saying the people are complaining about the high cost of living and the people are complaining about load shedding, but they are not complaining about corruption. What that means is that he himself is aware of the fact that in addition to the high cost of living and in addition to the load shedding, there are also issues that people may not have told him,” he said.
“And Frank Bwalya must be reminded that the Zambian people are not capable of speaking, especially against the UPND, because whoever speaks against the UPND is arrested. People now are speaking in little corners, and he has not heard that because people are afraid. When people talk about load shedding and they talk about the cost of living, they are not pointing at any individual. The moment people start to speak about corruption, then they are talking about individuals, and that will be turned into hate speech. So I would like to remind Bwalya that unfortunately, they are not hearing what the people are saying because they have decided to gag the citizens using the Cybercrime law”.
Lubinda said Zambians were concerned about corruption cases, such as the Airport Gold scandal, and others that have not been fully addressed.
“The Zambian people are concerned about the Airport Gold scandal. Up to now, Zambians are still asking who was involved in that ‘Goldgate’ scandal. Where is that fake gold? Where is the $5.6 million that was found on that plane? People are asking why that corruption case was handled behind cameras in court. Why didn’t they hear that matter in open court? Why didn’t they take reporters? Why didn’t they take ZNBC to go and cover that case for the public to follow in the same manner that they got ZNBC to cover Edgar Lungu’s eligibility case? In the same manner that they got cameras to cover the witchcraft ‘chameleon’ case, people are asking why they were hiding that court case,” Lubinda said.
“Zambians are still asking who was involved with those containers that were cased at a private yard after the Zambian taxpayer paid a colossal amount of money to import those drugs. Why was there a lack of disclosure on the company that supplied those drugs? Why did the minister mislead the Zambian people that those drugs were bought on a government-to-government contract when the truth of the matter was that they were bought from a private company? The Zambian people are asking who is it who is exporting their power to Botswana because it is not Zesco that is exporting. Who is pocketing the money from the sale of power to Botswana and Congo? The Zambian people are asking questions about ZAMMSA. Who was involved in ZAMMSA? Why are heads not rolling? The Zambian people are asking questions about all these scandals that we are hearing about”.
Lubinda insisted that in addition to the UPND government’s poor governance record, Zambians would also vote them out due to rampant corruption.
“Now, former priest, my former parish priest Frank Bwalya must be informed that unfortunately, they will not hear these questions because the people are threatened to speak out publicly. But the truth of the matter is that in addition to the poor governance record of the UPND government, the Zambians will vote this government out also [because of] the rampant corruption”.
“We have heard about how government people were extorting money from small-scale miners in North-Western Province and yet nobody has been brought to book. We have heard about how the Americans have told us that this government paid $20 million to Tanzania to export maize which didn’t come. Who stole that $20 million?” he asked.
“We have been told about the $80 million which was sent to a wrong account in China. Who sent it? Why did they send it to a wrong account? Can the whole sovereign state called Zambia, with all the systems it has, make such a foolish mistake as to send $80 million to a wrong account in China? All these questions are being asked by people, but they are asking them behind closed doors”.
“They will not talk about them in the newspaper; they will not talk about them on social media because everybody is scared that the moment they just point a finger and say this government is corrupt, they will be arrested for hate speech. Even as I speak now, I’m saying it because I don’t mind whether they decide to arrest me or not. But for the majority of Zambians, they have been gagged”.
He added that if Bwalya thinks the people’s silence means they are content with the government’s governance, he is totally wrong.
“And if Frank Bwalya thinks that the silence of the people means that the people are content with their governance, he is totally wrong. This is the reason why in any thriving democracy, the government allows people to express themselves so that they hear the views of the people. We are extremely happy that they have gagged the people because now the people are bottling up. And come elections in 2026, then Frank Bwalya will realise that the people actually knew about the corruption that is taking place in the UPND regime,” Lubinda said.
Meanwhile, when asked for his thoughts on suggestions that he is the right person to lead the PF and the Tonse Alliance, Lubinda said people will know his stance regarding his ambitions once Lungu is laid to rest.
“People must rest their ambitions; they must hold on to their ambitions until after we lay President Edgar Lungu’s remains to rest, and as for me, I am going to do just that. In the event that at the meeting to be held on September 20, the Central Committee of the Patriotic Front decides that people can start making their applications, then people will be at liberty to announce their ambitions. So, that question, please keep it to yourself until such a time that the Patriotic Front has decided that they have opened for people to express their ambitions. That is when you will know where I stand,” said Lubinda.
“For now, I just want to say thank you to those people who have told you that they think that I’m the best person to lead the PF and to lead the Tonse Alliance. I’m grateful to them for their kind thoughts, but I will only make my position known when the time is right. Now I’m concentrating on doing what is most important: holding the party together and holding the Tonse Alliance together. Until such a time that all of us have agreed that now the race is open, I’m not going to start running in a race before the referee blows the whistle”.
JOINT CSO STATEMENT ON THE RESURGENCE OF BILL 7 DATED 12th SEPTEMBER 2025
We, the undersigned civil society organisations met President Hichilema and other senior government officials at State House on 24th June 2025. This meeting was held in a spirit of honest and mutually respectful interrogation and discussion of the concerns of civil society on the Constitutional Amendment Bill 7, and other laws that were a source of concern for CSOs. At the end of that meeting, the Republican President categorically promised civil society that broad consultation on Bill 7 would be carried out and directed that representatives of CSOs and those of government create a committee to reach consensus on the path of the proposed constitutional amendment.
Further to the meeting the President announced the deferment of the Bill citing the need for broad consultation.
Following the deferment, on 27th June 2025 the Constitutional Court declared Bill 7 unconstitutional due to inadequate public consultation; a decision we believe is binding, and final. Thus, any effort to revive Bill 7 without remedying the defects identified by the Court goes against the rule of law and Zambia’s democratic foundations. We urge the Executive and the Legislature to publicly commit to implementing the Constitutional Court’s judgement, and to desist from any actions that would override or neutralise judicial authority.
The State House meeting and judgement of the Constitutional Court gave civil society the view that a healthy environment had been created for wide and inclusive citizen participation in the constitutional amendment process. Against this background, the undersigned CSOs are deeply concerned at statements of the Speaker of the National Assembly Ms. Nelly Mutti, and the Chief Whip of Parliament, Mr Stafford Mulusa, which suggest that Bill 7 will be reintroduced in the upcoming session of Parliament.
We believe transparency and genuine consultation are vital in any legislative processes especially one that speaks to the supreme law of our Land. Any approach perceived as circumventing proper procedures or lacking broad-based engagement may undermine the trust of the people. Some of our concerns on Bill 7 remain as follows:
1. The fact that Bill 7 lacked wide consultation with the citizens to whom the constitution belongs.
2. Fast-tracking constitutional change, when the country has entered the competitive electoral season, results in partisan interest informing constitutional change and public trust being corroded.
3. Multiple provisions that the government suggests are non-contentious which when interrogated are so complicated that they require sober consensus building.
4. Proposed amendments being made in such a manner that they do not make any substantive change to the problem they seek to resolve.
Constitutional reform is a sacred public responsibility that belongs to the people of Zambia. Considering the above, the undersigned civil society organisations are unequivocally against Bill 7 being reintroduced to Parliament in the next session. Therefore, we oppose any covert or overt efforts to subvert democratic norms and to impose constitutional change without genuine public consent. We therefore call upon the Republican President to use the opening of Parliament tomorrow to assure citizens that Constitutional reforms will be broad based and in line with pronouncements from the Constitutional Courts as expected by rule of law principles.
Mwamba Ngoma-Milambo (Mrs)
Acting Executive Director
Chapter One Foundation
Signed on and Behalf of:
ActionAid Zambia
Advocates for Democratic Governance Foundation
Alliance for Accountability Advocates Zambia
Alliance for Community Action
Chapter One Foundation
Civil Society for Poverty Reduction
Free Press Initiative
Law Association of Zambia
Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council
Panos Institute of Southern Africa
Peoples Action for Accountability and Good Governance Zambia
ZESCO TARIFF HIKE: A BURDEN ON CITIZENS AND A POLITICAL TRAP AHEAD OF ELECTIONS
The proposed electricity tariff hike is an insult to Zambians. People are already complaining about blackouts and poor service, yet Zesco Limited and ERB are shamelessly talking about more increments. Just months ago, tariffs were adjusted upwards, but has anything changed? No—load shedding is still here, and electricity is still unreliable.
This is nothing but economic sabotage. Instead of fixing mismanagement and wastage within ZESCO, they want to push the burden onto ordinary citizens. The truth is, such decisions only increase the cost of living—transport, food, rentals, production—everything will go up.
And let’s not pretend: with elections just around the corner, these actions are deliberately working against the government and the President. Zambians can see through this—it’s a clear attempt to frustrate people, discredit leadership, and create unnecessary anger in the country.
President Hakainde Hichilema is working tirelessly, day and night, to transform this country into a paradise. He has already delivered a lot of projects in his four years in government, and what he needs now is time and support—from both citizens and those in government. Let us not sabotage him, but stand with him for the progress of our nation.
“I USE TO WATCH SYLVESTER STALLONE PLAY RAMBO IN ACTION MOVIES, I HAVE NEVER IMAGINED IT COULD HAPPEN TO ME!”
– Nepal’s Vice Presido Ram Sahaya Prasad voices out after escaping getting nacked wetin no good by the angry Gen Z of Nepal for corruption.
“My experience yesterday was very traumatic, and I hope the leaders of every nation learn from it—not to anger the masses.
I mean, I couldn’t imagine myself playing a Sylvester Stallone role in Rambo just to stay alive.
I’ve got the message, and we will put in all efforts to make sure the coming government does better, so that our nation doesn’t get thrown under the bus again.”
“WE PROVIDED NIGERIA WITH OPPORTUNITIES TO EMBRACE LIGHT IN 1979, BUT THEY CHOSE THEIR OWN PATH”
-Russian Presido and �Point One Vladmir Putin opens up in-debt analysis of how Nigeria denied accepting the light.
“In the early days of 1979, the Soviet Union envisioned fostering friendship across Europe and beyond, with an eye on the future. Nigeria, a vibrant African nation, stood out due to its potential for success, fueled by reports of its booming oil deals in the global market.
The Soviets sought not dominance but genuine partnership, believing that two great nations could coexist and create something extraordinary from nothing. In 1980, the Ajaokuta Steel Company was established as a landmark of this vision, showcasing what such a collaboration could achieve.
However, Western influences intervened, as they often do, swaying Nigeria and leaving our Ajaokuta project abandoned and left to deteriorate. Today, Nigeria continues to struggle to find its footing, yet that project could have positioned them as a global leader in the steel industry. I hope future generations of Nigerians learn to choose their allies wisely!”
“I WILL DONATE HALF OF THE $1.1B TO AFRICA ONCE I RECEIVE IT”
– Football Superstar Neymar pledges as the sole heir to a Brazilian billionaire’s fortune
“I have always wanted to work hard and give back to the most needy communities. I have earned enough money for myself and my community to last a lifetime.
I was not expecting to be named in the inheritance of a fan who admired my work and made me the heir to his fortune. I sincerely appreciate the love, but I will donate half of it to people in Africa who need it more.
My ancestral roots are in Africa, and they deserve to be happy too”.
BURKINA FASO 🇧🇫 CANCELS ALL VISA FEES FOR AFRICANS TRAVELLING TO THAT COUNTRY
Burkina Faso has cancelled all visa fees for African nationals traveling to the country, effective as of September 2025, a significant move towards fostering greater African unity.
While African citizens from outside the Economic Community of West African States ECOWAS region may still require a visa to enter the country, this visa is now completely free of charge.
This initiative by the country’s visionaries aims to ease travel and promote connection across the continent, aligning with the aspiration for a borderless Africa.
OPPOSITION UNITY IN DOUBT AHEAD OF 2026 ELECTIONS, SAYS LUSAKA LAWYER
Lusaka… Thursday September 11, 2025 – Lusaka lawyer and 2026 aspiring mayoral candidate, Simon Mulenga Mwila, has said that Zambia’s opposition parties remain their own worst enemy as the country heads toward the next general election
Mr. Mwila observed that every election season, the opposition engages in talks about forming a grand coalition to challenge the sitting President.
However, he noted that such efforts consistently collapse after initial meetings, public statements, and promises of unity.
According to him, the main obstacle has been the unwillingness of opposition leaders to rally behind a single leader.
He argued that opposition politicians appear more driven by personal ambition than by national interest.
Mr. Mwila pointed out that many leaders want to be seen as “the chosen one,” even when their support base is too small to make a significant impact.
He explained that this obsession with self-promotion had left President Hakainde Hichilema without a serious challenger as 2026 approaches.
The aspiring mayor further remarked that most opposition parties lack real structures, describing them as “one-man projects” created for bargaining power or financial gain.
He stressed that coalitions have often failed because of mistrust, suspicion of secret deals with the ruling party, and the absence of internal democratic processes.
Mr. Mwila also highlighted the frustrations of ordinary Zambians, saying the public is tired of leaders who speak of change but fail to demonstrate unity.
https://youtu.be/0WLgwHzck_s?si=n-9lDUnreQGxFLjh
He warned that clinging to small political outfits while the ruling party consolidates power amounts to a betrayal of the people.
He added that humility was the only way forward for the opposition.
In his view, some leaders must be willing to accept junior positions in a coalition rather than risk total irrelevance.
He emphasized that leadership should be defined by sacrifice, not titles, and that opposition leaders must prove they can govern themselves before convincing the nation that they are ready to govern Zambia.
Simon Mulenga Mwila shares:
Zambia’s opposition is its own worst enemy. Every election season, we hear talk about forming a grand coalition to challenge the sitting president. And every election season, the same story plays out: meetings, statements, promises of unity then silence, betrayal, and collapse. The truth is simple. Our opposition politicians don’t want to be led. They all want to lead, even when it’s clear that only one person can be president at a time.
This obsession with self ambitions over country is the single biggest reason Hakainde Hichilema faces no serious threat as 2026 approaches. Opposition leaders know that, divided, they are weak. They know that splitting the vote hands victory to the incumbent. But ego is stronger than reason. Each one of them believes they are “the chosen one,” even when their political base is too small to fill a classroom.
The problem runs deeper than just ambition. Most of these parties are not really parties at all. They are one-man projects, created to give individuals bargaining power at the negotiation table and get a few coins from “funders”. That’s why coalitions never last because there’s no real structure, no democratic process, and no willingness to sacrifice personal ambition for the bigger picture.
And let’s be honest: many of these leaders don’t trust each other. They suspect one another of cutting secret deals with the ruling party, or of using alliances as stepping stones to future positions. With this level of paranoia and mistrust, how can they ever agree on a single flag bearer?
Meanwhile, ordinary Zambians watch this circus with frustration. People are tired of leaders who talk about change but behave no differently from the ones they criticize. They see politicians clinging to their small political parties while the ruling party consolidates power. It’s a betrayal of the very people they claim to represent and desire to lead.
The reality is harsh but unavoidable: only humility will save the opposition. Someone has to swallow their pride and accept that being number two, three, or even four in a coalition is still better than being irrelevant on their own. Until opposition leaders understand this, Zambia will remain stuck in the cycle of a fractured opposition and an unbeatable incumbent.
Leadership is not about titles. It’s about sacrifice. If the opposition truly wants to offer Zambians an alternative, they must first prove they can lead themselves before asking to lead the nation. 📌
….seditious charges and cyber crime are laws being used by the UPND to silence opposition, charges DPP
Lusaka… Thursday September 11, 2025 – The newly launched Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) says democracy in the country under the UPND administration is under massive threat.
DPP President Antonio Mourinho Mwanza has accused the UPND government of used laws such as seditious and cyber crime laws to silence the opposing voices.
Mr. Mwanza has called on fellow opposition leaders to continue speaking for the people over the ills of the UPND.
Speaking during the official launch of the DPP in Lusaka yesterday, Mr Mwanza accused the ruling party of not allowing state institutions to work freely, professionally and independently.
“We should not be afraid to speak. Democracy under the UPND is under massive threat. Seditious charges, cyber crime, these are laws that have been used by the UPND to silence the opposition. Right now as I am speaking to this nation, they are looking through every word that I speak to, they want to find somewhere where there is hate speech, somewhere where they can charge me with sedition, somewhere where they can use the cyber crime law to pin me down,” he charged.
“We are not afraid, we will speak for this country because it belongs to all of us. The UPND must stop abusing the justice system, using cyber crime laws and using seditious laws to clamp down on opposing voices.”
He said it is difficult at the moment for the opposition to have rallies or even conduct peaceful protests.
“They (UPND) should allow the Zambia Police Service to work independently and as professionals to do their job and allow us from the opposition to to freely mobilize and speak to our people and have rallies. They should allow us to have peaceful protests as provided for in the constitution of Zambia,” he stated.
“We are worried and concerned with the state of the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ). We believe the ECZ has reduced itself to an appendage of the UPND. We all believe that the ECZ in its current structure cannot produce free and credible election in 2026. The ECZ has the Electoral Process Act Number 35 of 2016, they have the Electoral Commission of Zambia Act of 2018, but it has failed to enforce these Acts to stop the violence on by-elections, to stop the vote buying in by-elections, to stop the abuse of state resources where those in government are using government facilities, vehicles to do their campaigns.”
He urged the ECZ to work professionally and enforce the Electoral laws accordingly.
“The Electoral Commission of Zambia must become professional, enforce the laws equitably and ensure that they provide free, fair and credible elections in 2026,” he added.
Meanwhile, the DPP leader has accused the UPND of failing to fight corruption and shielding some of the ministers involved in corruption.
“We were told that there will be zero tolerance to corruption, today the Auditor Generals Office does an audit and they keep it a secret. Today the Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) tells you that they have ministers who they are investigating but they do not have the power nor the courage to name them. ACC has been taken to Community House, it is being housed under State House,” he told Journalists.
“We as Democratic Progressive Party will ensure autonomy and total separation of powers. The ACC, DEC, Zambia Police shall operate professionally under the DPP and independently without any interference from the politicians.”
WE NEED A SINCERE NATIONAL DIALOGUE, THINGS ARE NOT GOING WELL
Today, our country is bedeviled with a lot of difficulties; ranging from the economy, politics and social issues.
There is an intensifying crisis of governance, rule of law, democracy and social cohesion in Zambia under Mr Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND.
The sharp rise in repression, ethnic bigotry, grand corruption, tribalism and many other vices has left a dark spot on the unity, patriotism, and democracy of our country. The truth is, things are no longer the same anymore. This country is deeply divided. It is in unfathomable problems. Political competitors, private citizens, and other critical voices are degraded and brutalized through unseen repression, and hardship without any tolerance and restraint.
It is no longer a secret that Mr Hichilema has set this country on a risky path of destruction. The thoughtless manner in which this administration has been circumventing the law and abusing state institutions is a clear testimony of the illegitimate intentions of this administration.
Mr Hichilema and the UPND have literally incapacitated the rule of law and constitutional order in the country, and are going about their daily business with impunity, without oversight or regard for the ethical, cultural, political and economic consequences of their actions.
They have been unashamed with their systematic destruction of state institutions with the single resolve of reigning with fear and terror. But what is the end game? For how long will they be on this path before the citizens push back? What type of country do they think will be built and developed on the back of repression, tribalism, corruption, and so on and so forth?
Mr Hichilma needs to know that a leadership that reigns with force, fear, and terror, and is devoid of consent and understanding of the citizens, ends up in grief. This country has come a long way to come and self-destruct in such a manner. There is need for stakeholders – the Church, political parties, civil society, traditional leaders, among many others – to find a clear path that can strengthen and repair relationships, nurture a deep sense of political and cultural or ethnic harmony as well as achieve consensus on critical economic, governance, development and democracy problems.
We need a sincere National Dialogue on Values, Governance, and Constitutionalism, Human Rights, Reconciliation, the Economy, Social Cohesion, and many more. We need to begin to find collective solutions to these problems.
Things are not going well. Let us avert any future and worse crises now. There is a need to build social cohesion and trust before the 2026 general elections.
RESOLVE LEADERSHIP RECORDS TO STRENGTHEN TONSE ALLIANCE, KAUNDA URGES PF
Lusaka… Thursday September 11, 2025 – Socialist Party (SP) National Youth Chairperson Kelvin Kaunda has urged the Patriotic Front (PF) to resolve its leadership disputes in order to strengthen the Tonse Alliance.
Speaking on Crown TV in Lusaka, Mr. Kaunda said the Tonse Alliance constitution stipulates that the PF President automatically becomes the Alliance’s presidential candidate.
However, he explained that current records at the Registrar of Societies recognize Robert Chabinga as PF President, a situation that complicates the SP’s collaboration.
“This is something that we are managing very cautiously. If you are able to look at things from where we stand today, the only eligible presidential candidate under Tonse Alliance is Robert Chabinga. The Tonse Alliance constitution says the PF President shall be the presidential candidate for Alliance. And if you are to follow, forget about the manipulation around, we all know that the UPND has had a hand in the manipulation of the changing of the PF leadership. In terms of records, when you go to the Registrar of Societies today, the one who is being recognized as PF President is Chabinga yet we have the acting PF President on the other hand,” he said.
“If you had an opportunity to read the Tonse Alliance constitution, it clearly states that the leader of the PF shall automatically become the presidential candidate for the Tonse Alliance. But the question is, must we hasten the process of being part of an Alliance which is going to peach up a leader we do not agree with as a party? So there are a lot of issues that must be resolved.”
Mr. Kaunda said his party is not against any collaboration with other political parties but that there must be clear terms and conditions before any collaboration.
He stressed that the SP cannot support a leader it does not recognize, and therefore, PF must put its house in order before any meaningful coalition-building can take place.
Meanwhile, Mr. Kaunda cautioned the ruling UPND against celebrating victories in recent by-elections, noting that by-elections typically favor ruling parties.
He pointed out that the PF also won by-elections prior to the 2021 general elections, yet went on to lose the national vote.
….they are playing with arrogance of power, says Dr. Nkhoma
Lusaka… Thursday September 11, 2025 (SMART EAGLES)
African Institute of Leadership and Governance Director Dr Emmanuel Nkhoma has advised the ruling UPND to cautiously realize that they are trending on a dangerous storm.
Dr. Nkhoma says it is very much erroneous for UPND National Youth Chairperson Gilbert Liswaniso to state that it will be a criminal offense for the UPND to loose power saying that is arrogance of power.
He says once a party in power play with arrogance of power, the citizens becomes their greatest opposition.
“There is what we call arrogance of power in Political Science. In the late 1980’s coming into 1990’s, the UNIP had been in government for 27 years. I remember in one particular time, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda when the Catholic Church tried to advise him he came out and stated that ‘you will walk by the rosary. And he spoke in Bemba and he said ‘mukendela pali kolona’. Guess what, in 1991 they were removed from power,” he said.
“The ANC government at one particular time had said the ANC will rule until Jesus comes. But guess what? Right now, they are in a forced marriage with the opposition. In 1999/2000, President Fredrick Chiluba came out and he thought he can abrogate the Constitution by going for a third term, guess what…they removed him out of power.”
Dr. Nkhoma further said it was wrong for Mr Liswaniso to come out like that saying the UPND are playing with arrogance of power.
“In 2021, a President came out and said I will handle over power to myself, guess what…he was removed out of power. Therefore it is an error and I wish to advise the UPND government to realize that they are trending on dangerous storm,” he added.
“It is very much erroneous for a UPND Youth Chairperson to come out and say it will be a criminal offense for the UPND to loose power. Guess what, that is called arrogance of power and once you play with arrogance of power like that, the citizens becomes your largest opposition.”
SANITY HAS COME IN THIS COUNTRY BECAUSE OF PRESIDENT HAKAINDE HICHILEMA.MWALITETA
By Brian Kayange
Lusaka _12 September 2025
UPND Provincial Chairman Obvious Mwaliteta says that, sanity has come in this country because of President Hakainde Hichilema’s Leadership quality.
Speaking at Millennium TV at Four Years of UPND in Power program last Night ,Mwaliteta said that ,24th August 2021 was the day that Marked the end of tribalism, Civil servants been retired on National interest, kamugodi torturing, Bloodshed during campaigns ,Machete campaigns and Partying.
He went on to say that 24th August 2021 is also the day that birthed Free education, Increased CDF,New life in Mines ,Napsa partial withdraw and many other good things.
HH NOT SELECTIVE IN DELIVERING DEVELOPMENT – NGOMA September 11,2025
Special Assistant to the President for Political Affairs, Levy Ngoma, has emphasized that President Hakainde Hichilema is delivering development across the country without bias.
Mr. Ngoma stated that the President has remained committed to uplifting every part of Zambia, including areas where he did not receive votes in the 2021 general election.
He noted that critics who doubted the President’s inclusiveness have been proven wrong by the tangible progress on the ground even in those areas that didn’t vote for him.
According to Mr. Ngoma, all Zambians, regardless of their political affiliation, are reaping the benefits of the government’s people-centered policies.
“Even the opposition are enjoying good policies through Free Education and CDF brought by President Hakainde Hichilema and UPND government,”Said Mr Ngoma.
Falcon News Reports that Mr Ngoma made these remarks during a community engagement held in Mutumpike village in Nsama District.
Meanwhile, UPND candidate for the upcoming Chishi Ward by-election, Pevious Kapembwa, appealed for support from the local community.
Mr. Kapembwa stated that his success depends on the backing and unity of the people.
He has appealed to the people of Chishi ward to vote for him in the forthcoming local government by-election.
HIGH EXPECTATIONS AHEAD OF PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS TO PARLIAMENT
Nalolo… Thursday September 11, 2025 – As the nation awaits President Hakainde Hichilema’s address to Parliament during the official opening of the Fifth Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly tomorrow, stakeholders have expressed keen anticipation over the key policy directions to be outlined.
Nalolo Member of Parliament, Hon. Imanga Wamunyima Jr., said the occasion was historic as it would mark President Hichilema’s last official opening of Parliament before the 2026 general elections.
He noted that the moment carried immense national significance, as it was expected to set the tone for the country’s political and economic agenda in the coming years.
The lawmaker explained that his expectations were shaped by feedback from constituents during the parliamentary recess.
He stressed that Zambians were eager to hear the President provide clarity on the way forward regarding Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 7, which had been deferred for wider consultation.
He further indicated that there was strong public demand for a clear framework on artisanal and small-scale mining, especially in the aftermath of the Mufumbwe gold rush incident.
Such measures, he said, would help spur job creation and stimulate local economic growth.
On matters of climate justice and environmental accountability, Hon. Wamunyima expressed concern over cases such as the Sino-Metal controversy, urging the President to take a firm stance against polluters and ensure compliance with environmental standards.
The Nalolo lawmaker also highlighted the importance of peace and political tolerance as the nation moved towards the 2026 elections.
He said citizens expected the Head of State to give firm assurances on safeguarding democracy and fostering unity.
Turning to foreign affairs, he said the public awaited the President’s foreign policy position in light of shifting global geopolitics, particularly the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as the recent U.S. visa bond requirements that had affected many Zambians.
He added that the President was expected to deliver an honest progress report on the achievements of the UPND administration while addressing pressing domestic issues such as the high cost of living, inflationary pressures, and the challenges facing small and medium enterprises.
On governance, Hon. Wamunyima emphasized the need for renewed commitment to human rights, the fight against corruption, and upholding the rule of law, especially given rising criticism regarding constitutionalism.
He also said citizens would be looking for decisive policy direction on the ongoing energy crisis, noting that load-shedding continued to disrupt livelihoods despite existing interventions.
Above all, the legislator stressed the importance of a unifying message that would inspire confidence, promote national healing, and reaffirm reconciliation efforts, particularly between the State and the family of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
Meanwhile, Hon. Wamunyima asserted that tomorrow’s address would not only be procedural but also pivotal, as it was expected to shape Zambia’s governance and development agenda heading into the next election cycle.
Ballot Papers for Three Ward By-Elections in Northern Province Arrive
On Thursday, 10th September 2025, ballot papers for the upcoming by-elections in Mufili Ward (Lupososhi District), Chibulula Ward (Mpulungu District), and Chishi Ward (Nsama District) in Northern Province arrived in Lusaka aboard an Emirates flight at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport.
The arrival was witnessed by representatives from participating political parties, namely; the New Congress Party (NCP) and the United Party for National Development (UPND), as well as the Zambia Police and ECZ staff.
Verification of the ballot papers with stakeholders is scheduled for Friday, 11th September 2025, at 10:00 hours, at the ECZ Head Office. [ ECZ ]
⬆️ NEWS NIGHT | Zambia Awaits Hichilema’s Speech Amid Power and Politics
The stage is set. Tomorrow President Hakainde Hichilema will walk into Parliament for what could be the most scrutinised address of his term. At stake is not just the government’s record, but its ability to convince Zambians that the nation will not remain trapped in the dark.
Leader of the Opposition Robert Chabinga has drawn a line in the sand. “Parliament is a House of rules,” he warned, cautioning opposition MPs against boycotting the session. “Any member that decides to abscond with impunity will be dealt with accordingly.” His message was clear: the opposition must show up and face the President, not retreat.
Mporokoso lawmaker Brian Mundubile sharpened the critique, demanding “20 hours of electricity for every Zambian.” He has argued that the UPND’s promise to end load shedding within five years had already collapsed.
“Now they talk of 2029. That is an admission of failure,” he said. In his words, power is not a luxury but a precondition for national survival.
Mundubile also sounded alarms on the country’s cohesion. “The President must introspect. Is Zambia more united or more divided since he came into power?” he asked. He urged Hichilema to examine appointments in the civil service, the judiciary, and the foreign service against Article 259 of the Constitution, warning that citizens are now more conscious of ethnicity than ever before.
The economic record is under equal pressure. Mundubile pointed to successive budgets worth more than K800 billion, yet argued that little development has been visible. He dismissed the government’s heavy reliance on the Constituency Development Fund as “a distraction,” saying, “There is K850 billion outside the CDF. Where is the impact?”
On Facebook, the President had asked Zambians for input on his speech. The comments were unfiltered and uncompromising. “Talk about load shedding the whole day kwasila,” one user wrote. Another added, “We cannot be having only three hours of power.” The digital town hall turned into a chorus of anger, underscoring how electricity has become the single most urgent demand.
Political analysts note the irony. Hichilema’s path to State House was paved on social media mobilisation. Four years later, those same platforms are now serving as his courtroom, where citizens deliver their verdicts before Parliament does. “If this address dodges the energy crisis, it will be remembered as the speech written in the dark,” one analyst told The People’s Brief.
Tomorrow’s moment will not be judged by its ceremony but by its substance. Zambians are looking for answers, not slogans. The question is whether Hichilema will offer a credible roadmap or leave the nation still searching for light.
ZAMBIA ARMY TO DEPLOY TROOPS IN KAZUNGULA TO BOOST SECURITY
By Hellen Makayi
Kazungula –11th September 2025
The Zambia Army has announced plans to station troops in Kazungula District to strengthen security and curb cross-border crimes.
Army Commander Lieutenant General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele disclosed the move today when he met Chief Sekute of the Toka Leya people at his palace. He said the deployment was aimed at safeguarding investments in the area and preventing illegal activities along the border.
“There are growing economic activities taking place here, and we want to ensure they are protected. Our presence will also help curb criminal activities that undermine national security,” Lt Gen Zyeele said.
Chief Sekute welcomed the development, describing the return of troops as timely and vital for restoring order. He noted that the chiefdom had once hosted military presence in strategic areas, which helped deter crime.
The Army Commander assured residents that the troops would work closely with the community and operate within the law to create a safe environment for both business and local livelihoods.
TWO SUSPECTED MEALIE MEAL SMUGGLERS DIES AFTER ZNS SHOOTING IN CHILILABOMBWE
BY DINA SOKO
Tragedy has struck in Chililabombwe after a second suspected smuggler, Felix Wakasu, died while receiving treatment at Nchanga Hospital in Chingola.
Wakasu had been rushed to the facility earlier today after being shot by Zambia National Service (ZNS) officers in Konkola Township.
Wakasu and another man, Prosper Kashita, were allegedly shot this afternoon as they attempted to smuggle mealie meal ,Kashita died on the spot, and his body was later deposited at Kakoso Level One Hospital mortuary.
Authorities are yet to release an official statement on the incident, which has stirred tension among residents. Police are expected to provide details on the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the next steps in the investigation.
Lusaka – President Hakainde Hichilema has been honoured with the Energy Forum for Africa sectoral recognition for his bold leadership in Zambia’ s energy sector.
Energy Forum for Africa Conference convenor and chief executive officer Hope Chanda presented the recognition award to the head of State yesterday during the official opening of the second edition of the meeting.
Ms Chanda said visionary leadership and transformative contribution to Zambia’ s energy landscape through bold reforms, championing private sector participation, open access and net metering, Mr Hichilema has strengthened investor confidence.
She said the head of State has also accelerated Zambia’ s energy transition. This commendation celebrates a legacy of innovation, resilience and inclusive leadership, Ms Chanda said.
And Lunsemfya Hydro Power Company Limited chief executive officer Alpha Mwale said President Hichilema has demonstrated unwavering commitment to energy sector reforms.
The contributions you are making to the energy sector, Mr President, are profound and cannot go unnoticed. He said Mr Hichilema and his administration has deregulated the energy sector by bringing in the open access and net metering.
According to Mr Mwale, the single buyer model is now a thing of the past as a result of the ongoing energy reforms. You have done away with the single buyer model completely and at the point now, any off-taker in Zambia or a generator can buy electricity or they can transact with complete access to the grid.
So, a generator can produce and has the choice on where to sell. The buyer also has a choice on where to buy because the single buyer model is no more, he said. Mr Mwale said with the reforms, Zambia has what it takes to resolve its current energy deficit.
WOMAN DIES DURING FOOD STAMPEDE AT KAMWALA MOSQUE, SEVERAL LEFT INJURED
Councillor Hon. Mainda Simataa Mourns Death, Calls for Enhanced Saftey/Security Measures During Food Distribution =======================================
A 53 year old woman of Misisi Compound, Maureen Zulu, died on the spot during a food stampede that left several others injured and hospitalized, during an alms giving event held at the Kamwala’s Ghausia Mosque, Lusaka.
The incident happened on Monday 8 September 2025, as hundreds of would-be beneficiaries, predominantly from Misisi compound, pushed and shoved as they impatiently waited for the gates of the mosque to open so as to secure the coveted 10 Kg bag of breakfast meali-meal.
When the gates opened, an uncontrollable rush for the limited commodity resulted in a stampede that left Maureen Zulu with fatal head injuries as she bled from the ears and nose, while several other victims were left injured and received treatment from the nearby Kamwala Urban Clinic.
And Kamwala Ward Councillor Mainda Simataa who has confirmed the incident has described it as unfortunate, and has promised to engage the organizers to enhance safety measures, as they carry out their charitable causes.
METROGOLD, ZESCO SIGN LUANSHYA 200MW SOLAR PV PROJECT WORTH US$240 MILLION
METROGOLD Limited and ZESCO Limited have entered into an agreement for the sale and purchase of electrical energy generated from a 200 megawatt Solar PV Plant.
The total project cost is estimated at US$240 million.
METROGOLD Director Elias Mulenga said the plant will be constructed in Luanshya District, Copperbelt Province.
Mulenga explained that METROGOLD, registered under the Companies Act of Zambia, will supply all generated electrical energy to ZESCO, which is also a Zambian-registered entity.
He also extended gratitude to President Hakainde Hichilema, for fostering a favourable business environment that enables renewable energy investments to flourish.
Mulenga said METROGOLD has secured the necessary licences, demonstrated financial capacity, and is finalising the Connection and Wheeling Agreements.
He said all the necessary statutory obligations have been achieved.
Mulenga noted that both parties have agreed on procedures for ground breaking, commissioning and assessing the capacity of the Solar PV Plant.
He emphasised that the agreement represents a pivotal moment in Zambia’s efforts to expand renewable energy and diversify its power supply.
Mulenga highlighted that the project is anticipated to generate approximately 500 jobs during construction and 200 permanent jobs during operations, thereby boosting local economic development in Luanshya and beyond.
He remarked that by increasing the availability of clean energy, the Solar PV Plant will contribute to reducing the effects of loadshedding and support Zambia’s shift towards a low-carbon economy.
Mulenga affirmed that the initiative is aligned with sustainability objectives and incorporates Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) principles to ensure inclusive benefits for surrounding communities.
ZIMBABWE SCRAPS TRANSIT DUTIES ON PETROLEUM PRODUCTS TO BOOST TRADE WITH ZAMBIA
The Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe has announced the scrapping of transit duties on petroleum products with immediate effect, a move aimed at enhancing trade and strengthening bilateral cooperation with Zambia.
The decision was revealed during bilateral talks held in Harare on the sidelines of the Mid-Term Review of the 18th Session of the Zimbabwe-Zambia Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation (JPCC).
The discussions were conducted in the spirit of longstanding solidarity and friendship between the two nations, with a focus on efficient collaboration in the energy sector.
Zambia was represented by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe and Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote. Zimbabwe was represented by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Prof. Amon Murwira.
Prof. Murwira informed the meeting that Zimbabwe’s Cabinet had approved the removal of transit duties on petroleum products with immediate effect.
In response, Mr. Haimbe expressed Zambia’s deep appreciation for the decision, noting that it marked a significant step toward reducing barriers that have long hindered trade between the two countries.
Both governments reaffirmed their commitment to eliminating obstacles affecting trade and pledged to continue fostering stronger economic and energy cooperation.
The Mid-Term Review of the 18th Session of the Zimbabwe-Zambia JPCC was held from 9th to 11th September 2025.
