Passenger Rights Under Threat – Buses Operating Outside Stations Exploit Commuters
The plight of passengers using Lusaka’s public transport has once again come under the spotlight, with mounting complaints that some bus operators especially those picking passengers outside designated stations are engaging in deceptive and exploitative practices.
Investigations by Kumwesu reveal that commuters are being misled about destinations, forced to change buses mid-route, and even abandoned at undesignated points. Many of these cases involve buses that deliberately avoid official terminals to dodge monitoring and fees, leaving passengers exposed to abuse.
Passengers say they are routinely tricked into boarding buses that promise to take them to specific destinations, only to be dropped halfway or “sold” to another bus. “We are often told we are going straight, but after paying, they stop short and order us out. It is both frustrating and humiliating,” complained a commuter caught up in the scheme near Kamwala.
Beyond deception, passengers also report a worrying culture of disrespect and harassment from conductors. Verbal abuse and intimidation are common, especially after fares are collected. “Once they get the money, they insult us as if we are begging for free transport,” said one regular traveler from Matero.
Transport analysts point out that these practices amount to unfair trading and highlight the absence of effective regulation in the sector. Passengers pay for a service that is never fully delivered, yet there are no consequences for the operators who cut corners. The result is a system where dishonesty has become normalized.
The issue extends beyond Lusaka. Reports from Ndola, Kitwe, and Kabwe show similar patterns, with commuters stranded late at night after buses refuse to complete journeys. Experts note that buses operating outside official stations are the worst culprits, as they operate beyond the immediate oversight of the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) and station managers.
Consumer rights advocates have called for urgent intervention by both the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) and RTSA. They argue that while awareness campaigns are needed, stronger penalties must be enforced against operators who exploit passengers. “Passengers are not cargo. They are paying customers who deserve honesty, dignity, and safety,” said one activist.
The broader picture points to a broken public transport system dominated by privately run minibuses with little accountability. While these buses remain the most affordable means of travel for thousands, the lack of professionalism and weak enforcement continues to erode trust.
Until authorities take decisive action, passengers remain vulnerable enduring daily dishonesty, harassment, and abandonment, in a system where their rights are routinely ignored.
South African Xenophobic Groups Chasing Africans from Hospitals and School
Anti-immigrant groups like Operation Dudula have been actively harassing and chasing foreign nationals from hospitals in South Africa, and have also announced intentions to target schools.
These actions are fueled by widespread xenophobia and misinformation, despite constitutional guarantees for basic healthcare and education for all people in the country.
CHIPATA MAN ARRESTED IN MALAWI FOR SMUGGLING 1,080 LITRES OF PETROL
By: MBC Digital
Police at Mchinji One Stop Border Post have arrested John Soko, 42, of Naniya Village, Chief Mpezeni in Chipata District, for allegedly smuggling 1,080 litres of petrol into Zambia.
Malawi Police publicist Foster Benjamin said the arrest followed a patrol at Gwedeza Village along the border around 3 a.m. on Friday, when officers intercepted a Toyota Corolla, registration number ABT 5417. Inside the vehicle, they found 27 jerrycans of petrol weighing about 1,080 litres, which were immediately seized.
According to Malawi Broadcasting Corporation, and monitored by Chipata EP Legacy, Soko has since been charged with smuggling and being found in unlawful possession of liquid gas (petrol) and is expected to appear in court soon.
FAZ CHIEF PUTS TO BED MONEY ISSUES AHEAD OF MOROCCO CLASH
Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) President Keith Mweemba and his deputy Mutale Ng’andu visited the Chipolopolo camp in Ndola and addressed wide-ranging issues with the lads and technical staff.
Mweemba who was also in the company of the general secretary Machacha Shepande assured the players that the outstanding allowances from previous games would be unbundled with the first step being before they play Morocco on Monday.
He disclosed that FAZ had engaged various stakeholders in ensuring that the debt situation is sorted out.
“We have come here to meet you and ensure that we address some of your concerns. The idea is to make sure that by the time you walk onto the field on Monday you will have clearer heads with no worries,” he said.
“We know that you are owed money from previous games but our duty is to ensure that we own up because that is leadership. We have made great strides in liquidating various debts. At the right time we will come and say how much work we have done.”
He also urged the players to place patriotism at the core of their duty to the nation.
“It is very important that you also do your part as we also do these things for you. I also urge you to be patriotic; you have to play for the badge. I am sure you know that you don’t get rich by playing for the national team because your full time job is at the club,” he said.
Mweemba said although the automatic qualification spot in Group E had been taken by Morocco, the Chipolopolo needed to battle for any of the four second best-placed positions in the CAF qualifiers for play-offs.
And captain Lubambo Musonda thanked the FAZ president for addressing the team’s concerns ahead of the Morocco game.
“We want to thank the president and his delegation for coming here to address our concerns. We are grateful for the issue of the allowances and thank you the money we will receive by Monday,” Musonda said.
The Chipolopolo play Morocco on Monday at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium at 15h00 in Ndola in a Group E encounter.
NKANDU STEPS UP GRASSROOTS MOBILIZATION AHEAD OF 2026 ELECTIONS
Kaputa Member of Parliament Elvis Nkandu has intensified grassroots engagement as part of broader efforts to strengthen the United Party for National Development (UPND) ahead of the 2026 general elections.
During a visit to Kapisha Primary School, Kasungwe Primary School, and Choma Mutima Primary School in Mowa Ward, Mr. Nkandu met with residents to better understand the challenges facing the community, reinforcing his commitment to development-driven leadership.
The visit also saw the establishment of a new UPND branch in the area, a strategic move aimed at growing the party’s local presence, identifying new members, and solidifying its support base in Kaputa.
Mr. Nkandu emphasized that active community engagement and service delivery are essential not only for addressing local issues but also for maintaining political trust and support.
With the 2026 elections approaching, Mr. Nkandu’s focus remains on strengthening party structures, expanding outreach, and ensuring that the UPND remains deeply rooted in local communities.
Mswati accused of securing R10 billion US deal to house dangerous criminals
King Mswati III of eSwatini faces allegations of accepting a R10 billion ($500 million) deal with the United States to detain deported dangerous criminals, a move critics warn could threaten regional security within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
According to a report by The Swaziland News, corroborated by The New York Times and other international outlets, the agreement was reportedly signed by Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini without consultation with Parliament, Cabinet, or the Office of the Attorney General.
The deal which see eSwatini house dangerous individuals deported from the U.S., including criminals convicted of murder, sexual assault and violent crimes.
Five deportees arrived in July 2025 under this arrangement, with eSwatini initially promising short-term detention. Documents suggest, however, that the kingdom may host up to 150 individuals for additional payments exceeding $10 million.
Acting Government Spokesperson Thabile Mdluli defended the bilateral relations, noting the “meticulous care” taken in agreements with the U.S. Meanwhile, King Mswati’s spokesperson Percy Simelane previously denied royal involvement, though emerging reports indicate the monarch was fully aware.
Civil society organizations, such as the Swaziland Solidarity Network, criticized the deal as “human trafficking disguised as deportation,” while opposition figures warned of the risks to the kingdom’s limited resources.
South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola, through DIRCO spokesperson Chrispin Phiri, expressed concern over the potential impact on South Africa’s national security due to porous borders.
The deal has ignited calls within SADC for transparency and review, highlighting the tension between eSwatini’s international engagements and regional stability.
Motsepe rules out politics, pledges focus on business and social impact
Billionaire businessman and CAF President Patrice Motsepe has dismissed speculation about a political career, saying his efforts to support South Africa are best made through business and philanthropy.
Speaking at the release of African Rainbow Minerals’ (ARM) financial results, Motsepe stressed, “I don’t need to enter politics to make a difference in South Africa. My focus remains on creating jobs, supporting communities, and driving economic growth.”
ARM’s latest results showed steady performance amid global market challenges, reflecting Motsepe’s business acumen. Beyond mining, he has championed African football as CAF President and invested in education, healthcare, and community initiatives through the Motsepe Foundation.
Motsepe concluded, “I’m committed to South Africa and Africa’s progress. That’s where my energy lies, and that’s where I’ll continue to make a difference.”
Ndola man assaults his wife after finding ARV drugs in the house
A Ndola man has been sentenced to two years imprisonment with hard labour for assaulting his wife after he discovered hidden Antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in the house.
This is a matter in which George Mweetwa, 38, a general worker of Nkwazi Township was facing one count of unlawful wounding.
It was alleged that Mweetwa wounded his wife Racho Kunda, 33, after he found her with ARVs in their house.
When the matter came up before magistrate Peggy Banda, the court heard that on the fateful night, Mweetwa allegedly wounded his wife on her chin using a chain.
Kunda then reported the matter to Nkwazi Police but Mweetwa failed to justify his actions.
LUSAKA MARRIED WOMAN IMPREGNANTED BY HER HUBBY’S BEST FRIEND OVER A K20 CREDIT
“My husband is still abroad for peace keeping mission”, she told the court.
A 21 year old beautiful married woman in Lusaka has been impregnated by her neighbor after she failed to pay back K20 credit and decided to square it off with seexx.
Mrs Melody Nalwamba Mwale narrated in the Matero Local Court that her married neighbour Gabriel Siwale aged 30, had given her K20 on credit which she failed to pay back in good time and ended up sleeping with him to pay it off but unfortunately she got pregnant before her husband (Edgar Mwale a police officer) could return from peace keeping mission abroad.
“This man is married, I am not happy that he impregnated me over a K20 despite knowing that am also married. He has ruined my marriage and he is refusing to accept responsibility”, Melody told the court as she shaded tears.
Ironically, Melody who is now 5 months pregnant by another man over a K20, has been receiving her husband’s fully salary every month and the court wondered why she decided to sleep with another man over a small credit.
Mrs Mwale has a 2 year old child with her husband who is still abroad for peace keeping mission but decided to sleep with her hubby’s best friend when she got broke and ended up pregnant. Sad!
Mark S Zuckerberg Sues Meta Over Account Shutdowns
A US lawyer with the same name as Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg is suing the social media platform, arguing it keeps suspending his account while falsely accusing him of “impersonating a celebrity”.
Mark S Zuckerberg says his account has been disabled five times over the past eight years, and it has cost him thousands of dollars in lost business.
The Indiana bankruptcy attorney’s lawsuit states that he has been practising law for 38 years – ever since Mark E Zuckerberg, now one of the richest men in the world, was a toddler.
Meta said it had reinstated the lawyer’s account and was taking steps to prevent the mistake recurring.
“It’s not funny,” Mr Zuckerberg told WTHR-TV in Indianapolis, Indiana. “Not when they take my money.”
🇿🇼 Zimbabwe’s Lost Businesses: The Looted, Collapsed & Forgotten Giants
Zimbabwe was once home to thriving industries and iconic brands that powered its economy — but decades of mismanagement, political interference, hyperinflation, and economic shocks have left many in ruins.
⚠️ The takeaway: Zimbabwe’s industrial landscape is a mixture of decayed giants, lost jobs, and a few rare revivals — a stark reminder of how political, economic, and social challenges can dismantle even the most iconic companies.
💡 South Africa, take note — don’t let history repeat itself! Protect your industries, jobs, and future.
Lamola Accepts Trump’s Decision to Send JD Vance to G20 Instead of Attending
South African authorities have confirmed that Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola respects U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to send JD Vance as the official representative to the G20 summit, rather than attending personally.
While diplomatic circles noted the change, Lamola emphasised continued cooperation and engagement with the United States on key bilateral and multilateral issues.
I WAS SENTENCED TO DEATH IN MALAYSIA BARACK OBAMA AND POPE SAVED ME -PEACE.
A Nigerian woman, identified simply as Peace, has shared her harrowing ordeal of being sentenced to death by hanging in Malaysia after unknowingly trafficking drugs at the behest of her husband. Speaking during an interview on Brekete Family, Peace recounted how her marriage, which began in 2009, spiraled into a nightmare that nearly cost her life.
According to her, she married a man named Mr. George in 2009, and by 2010, he had relocated to Malaysia. The following year, while she was pregnant with their second child and battling a painful growth in her eye, George persuaded her to join him abroad for medical treatment. He insisted that surgery in Malaysia would be safer than in Nigeria and quickly made arrangements for her visa and ticket. Before her departure in April 2011, Peace stayed with George’s elder sister in Lagos to finalize her travel documents. It was during this period that her husband asked her to travel with a bag delivered by his friend. Though she already had her luggage packed, George insisted that the bag looked more “appropriate” for international travel.
Unaware of what was hidden inside, Peace agreed to carry the bag. On arrival in Malaysia, however, she was arrested by security officials who discovered drugs concealed in the luggage. She was immediately charged with drug trafficking, a crime that carries the death penalty in the Southeast Asian country.
“It was death by hanging. On May 24, 2015, they sentenced me to death by hanging,” Peace recalled, her voice heavy with emotion.
She explained that she endured a lengthy trial, during which she tried to prove her innocence but was ultimately convicted. Her world crumbled as she faced the grim reality of execution.
However, fate took an unexpected turn. According to Peace, her execution was halted after international intervention. “At that time, they put a stop to hanging women because Barack Obama and the Pope came to beg Malaysia, saying the killings were too much. So they gave me life imprisonment,” she recounted.
Peace described her years in prison as a period of pain, reflection, and survival. She explained that she had been thrust into a nightmare not of her making, betrayed by the man she trusted most.
“I never knew the bag had drugs. My husband deceived me, and I became the one to suffer for it,” she said.
Her testimony highlights the plight of many Nigerians who have fallen victim to drug trafficking rings, often manipulated by close associates or lured with promises of opportunities abroad.
Rights activists have repeatedly called attention to cases like Peace’s, urging Nigerians to be vigilant and to avoid carrying items they cannot personally verify.
Malawi heads to the ballot on 16 September 2025 with the political atmosphere tightening by the day. The election will be the second under the reformed system introduced after the annulled 2019 vote. Over 7.2 million Malawians have registered, with women accounting for more than half of the roll.
The race has taken a sharp turn. Peter Mutharika, the 84-year-old former president, is back in the spotlight. An IPOR opinion poll has placed him at 43 percent, comfortably ahead of incumbent Lazarus Chakwera who sits at 26 percent. Another survey showed Chakwera inching up to 31 percent, but still trailing significantly. Dalitso Kabambe, a technocrat and former central banker, hovers around 5 percent, while smaller parties are splintered across the margins.
The numbers tell a deeper story. In 2020, Malawians voted in fresh elections after the courts threw out the disputed 2019 poll. Chakwera rode a wave of hope, promising reform and renewal. Five years later, that goodwill appears to be slipping. Food shortages, soaring prices, and perceptions of slow delivery are dominating the political discourse. In a recent survey of 2,400 adults across 27 districts, 29 percent of respondents cited food insecurity as their top concern, another 29 percent pointed to economic management, while a staggering 51 percent said corruption would determine their vote.
Mutharika’s return is both a rebuke and a reminder. Critics point to his age and past record, yet supporters argue he represents a steady hand and a protest against unmet promises. Chakwera, meanwhile, faces the difficult task of convincing voters that his government deserves a second chance despite the economic turbulence.
The credibility of opinion polls has itself become political theatre. The ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has accused the opposition of influencing survey results to create a bandwagon effect. The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has dismissed those claims, framing them as excuses from a nervous incumbent. Even the British government has come under fire for commissioning a last-minute poll, sparking accusations of foreign interference
Malawi’s constitution requires an outright winner to secure 50 percent plus one of the vote. With no candidate projected to reach that mark, a runoff looms as the most likely outcome. That would extend the contest into a bruising second round, with coalition building and cross-party bargaining determining the final winner.
For ordinary Malawians, the election is not about personalities but about survival. The message from the electorate is clear: deliver food security, restore economic stability, and take corruption head-on. Anything less risks rejection at the ballot.
Across Africa monitors the big stories shaping the continent. With Malawi now entering the home stretch of a high-stakes campaign, the question is not just who wins, but whether whoever emerges can meet the demands of a restless electorate.
Reporting by Goran Handya, McCarthy Lumba; language stylistics by Ollus R. Ndomu.
ANC rejects Stantley Mathabatha’s request to step aside
The African National Congress (ANC) has declined Limpopo Provincial Chairperson Stanley Mathabatha’s request to step aside, following a high-level meeting at Luthuli House on Thursday.
Mathabatha had sought to temporarily relinquish his duties amid allegations of misconduct and internal tensions within the province.
However, the ANC resolved not to accept his request and referred the matter back to the Limpopo Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) for internal resolution.
The party emphasized that the process will be guided by principles of unity, accountability, and organisational renewal. ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu condemned the leak of Mathabatha’s step-aside letter on social media, urging adherence to proper internal procedures.
The decision comes as Limpopo completes its regional conferences, with the party now focusing on service delivery and maintaining stability ahead of upcoming political cycles.
Mkhwanazi must face Parliament over ‘mess’ he created, says Malema
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has called for KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi to appear before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee to address allegations of corruption and interference within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Speaking at a virtual committee meeting on Friday, Malema insisted that Mkhwanazi, who sparked controversy with claims of senior police officials colluding with criminal syndicates, must take responsibility for what he described as a “mess” of his own making.
“The nation will not be told by Mkhwanazi what must happen,” Malema declared, rejecting suggestions that the commissioner could avoid scrutiny. “He started this mess, and he must come and account.”
Malema’s remarks followed concerns raised by committee members about Mkhwanazi’s availability, with the EFF leader emphasizing that the committee’s work would not be dictated by the Mkhwanazi’s schedule.
The Ad Hoc Committee, established to investigate Mkhwanazi’s explosive allegations, has confirmed that the commissioner will be the first witness to testify, with a scheduled appearance after September 24, as confirmed by chairperson Soviet Lekganyane.
Other senior figures, including former Police Minister Bheki Cele and suspended Minister Senzo Mchunu, are also expected to appear.
Malema, a vocal supporter of Mkhwanazi’s efforts to expose police corruption, previously praised the commissioner as a “hero” and even offered him a position in the EFF should political pressure lead to his dismissal.
However, Malema stressed the urgency of the committee’s work, warning that delays could undermine efforts to address the police crisis.
The committee’s probe, which began in August, aims to uncover the truth behind Mkhwanazi’s claims, with Malema advocating for a thorough investigation that includes summoning prisoners with relevant information on crime syndicates.
As the inquiry progresses, all eyes will be on Mkhwanazi’s testimony, which could have far-reaching implications for South Africa’s law enforcement.
Nigeria urges FIFA to deduct three points from South Africa over ineligible player
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has called on FIFA to strip South Africa of three points for fielding an ineligible player in their 2-0 victory over Lesotho during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teboho Mokoena featured in the March 21 match despite having accumulated two yellow cards in earlier games against Benin Republic and Zimbabwe, triggering an automatic suspension under FIFA rules.
Both the NFF and the Lesotho Football Association (LFA) filed protests, though Lesotho’s complaint reportedly missed FIFA’s tight submission deadlines. Even so, sources claim FIFA may still act.
FIFA has yet to issue an official ruling, but the potential points deduction could deal a significant blow to South Africa’s World Cup qualifying campaign.
JAILED former Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji alias Bonanza, and his co-convict, Fredson Yamba, have appealed against their jail terms.
The convicts also want to be released on bail pending determination of their appeals before the Lusaka High Court.
On Thursday, the Economic and Financial Crimes Court jailed Mr Malanji to four years imprisonment with hard labour for possession of illicitly obtained properties.
The assets include two helicopters, three houses plus over US$200,000 cash, all deemed to be proceeds of crime.
On the other hand, Mr Yamba, who is former Secretary to the Treasury was jailed three years for wilful failure to comply with the law and procedure guideline procurement of public properties.
This is linked to the manner he authorized transfer of K108million and K45million for purchase of a chancery at the Zambian Mission in Turkey.
The prosecution had alleged that the transfered money was later diverted and used to acquire assets belonging to Mr Malanji
Acting Lusaka chief resident magistrate Irene Wishimanga said the allegations against the accused were proved on a balance of probability, before she jailed them.
Mr Malanji was jailed four years on each of the seven counts he was found guilty while Mr Yamba was jailed three years on each of the two counts, to all run currently(side by side).
Unhappy with the judgement, the convicts have appealed against their sentences and also applied to be released on bail pending determination of their appeal.
The magistrate is scheduled to hear the bail application on September 15, 2025.
But some sections of society feel the four year jail term imposed on Mr Malanji is too lenient considering the high value assets involved in the money laundering scandal.
Vision Network Foundation executive director Maxwell Luchile says the punishment on the former Kwacha lawmaker is not deterrent in the fight against corruption.
Bishop Luchile has urged Drug Enforcement Commission, who were prosecuting the case, to consider appealing against the ‘small’ sentence.
“We also call on the Director of Public Prosecutions to promptly appeal this sentence,” Bishop Luchile said in a statement.
“We regret that the Honourable Magistrate missed a critical opportunity to set a stern example for future offenders.
“This degree of leniency risks sending the message that politically connected individuals are above the law and can escape with minimal consequences when they misuse the people’s resources. It is crucial to remember that any elective public office is a position of trust, held on behalf of the citizens of Zambia,”.
Bishop Luchile has urged Minister of Justice Princess Kasune to consider introducing a public bill in the National Assembly to strengthen penalties for such offenses.
DEC SAYS IT WILL NOT APPEAL MALANJI’S 4-YEAR JAIL SENTENCE FOR A LONGER TERM.
By: Thomas Afroman Mwale
The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has disclosed that further investigations into the case of former Foreign Affairs Minister Joseph Malanji have revealed that more money linked to the matter remains unaccounted for, with high chances of capturing other high-profile individuals involved in related financial crimes.
The Commission says more details will be released as investigations progress.
Speaking during a press briefing, DEC Director General Nason Banda announced that the Commission will not appeal the four-year jail sentence handed to the former Kwacha Constituency lawmaker, who was convicted for possession of tainted property worth 11 million US dollars.
Mr. Banda explained that the Commission’s mandate ends at securing convictions, while the courts independently determine sentences.
He emphasized that the verdict against Malanji and his co-accused, former Secretary to the Treasury Fredson Yamba, reflects Zambia’s commitment to the rule of law and the recovery of stolen assets.
He described the case as a demonstration of how far-reaching transnational crimes can be, recalling how Malanji allegedly used the presidential jet to haul millions of dollars from Turkey, deposited large sums in a short period, and went on to purchase two helicopters.
Mr. Banda stressed that the outcome represents the fruits of diligent local, regional, and international collaboration in intelligence and law enforcement.
Meanwhile, on the three-year sentence given to Fredson Yamba, Mr. Banda said the conviction shows abuse of authority, as Mr Yamba was found guilty on two counts for deliberately bypassing financial accountability mechanisms, thereby enabling the misappropriation of funds.
He noted that the convictions signal a new era in tackling organized transnational crimes, warning that public officers engaging in such offenses will face tougher investigative and prosecutorial measures.
Mr Banda has further announced that DEC has since applied for the forfeiture of properties linked to the case, with the courts expected to make a ruling on 15th September 2025.
KANG’OMBE CALLS FOR ZAMBIAN OWNERSHIP IN MINING AND ENERGY REFORM
By Brian Matambo – Lusaka, Zambia
Kamfinsa Member of Parliament Hon. Christopher Kang’ombe has called for sweeping reforms in Zambia’s mining and energy sectors, insisting that citizens must be placed at the center of ownership and benefit if the country is to move from resource dependency to real economic empowerment. Speaking on EMV Tonight while on a tour of the United States, the youthful legislator laid out a set of proposals that seek to rebalance power away from foreign investors and toward Zambians.
MINING POLICY: PARTICIPATION BEYOND JOBS Kang’ombe argued that Zambia’s biggest error has been to limit citizen participation in mining to wage employment. “We have been at the tail end,” he said, noting that billion-dollar projects announced by international mining companies rarely translate into broad-based local value. His proposal is that Zambians should take part in exploration—the costly but decisive stage that determines ownership. Exploration data, he said, must be controlled locally, and mining licenses must reflect a stronger citizen stake.
He also pressed for strict rules on value retention. “The question we must ask is how much of every billion dollars pledged will remain in Zambia—in contracts, jobs, and services,” he told the diaspora audience.
GOLD: FOR ZAMBIANS ONLY On the gold subsector, Kang’ombe was emphatic. “Gold should be mined by Zambians only, and I have no apology to make for that.” He urged government to strengthen the role of the state-owned aggregator, which buys gold at a fair price and delivers it to the Bank of Zambia, while ensuring artisanal miners are equipped with training and tools. Citing Ghana’s policy shift that restricted small-scale gold mining to nationals, he argued that Zambia could generate billions in retained income within a few quarters if a similar model were adopted.
LITHIUM: LESSONS FROM BOLIVIA Kang’ombe pointed to southern province’s lithium reserves as a game-changer if harnessed through large-scale local participation. Drawing parallels with Bolivia’s state-led lithium model, he urged that Zambia must not repeat the pattern of exporting raw minerals while missing out on the industrial chain. “Farmers in southern province should not only be known for maize and cattle, but also as participants in lithium mining,” he said, proposing financial models that mobilize domestic investors, including the diaspora.
ENERGY: BEYOND SOLAR HYPE Turning to the energy crisis, Kang’ombe cautioned against what he called “noise” around solar as a national solution. As an electrical engineer, he argued that Zambia needs baseload power—hydro and thermal—to stabilize the grid before solar can meaningfully contribute.
He outlined three priorities: 1. Open Access Guidelines: Government should quickly publish rules that allow private producers to feed into the grid under clear conditions. 2. Hydropower Sites: Potential projects along the Luapula and Lower Zambezi rivers should be reserved for public-private partnerships with ZESCO, to avoid privatization that compromises national security. 3. IPP Transparency: Independent Power Producer contracts must be awarded through open bidding to guarantee efficiency and public trust.
“Industrialization cannot run on household solar panels,” he said, pointing to cement plants that already generate their own coal-fired electricity to keep operations steady.
FUEL SECURITY: NATIONAL SECURITY Kang’ombe described Zambia’s fuel security as “a matter of national security” and questioned government’s decision to allow a new Chinese-run refinery in Ndola instead of recapitalizing the existing Indeni facility. According to him, a $250–300 million investment could restore Indeni’s efficiency under a joint venture model, preserving national control over strategic assets.
He also warned against over-reliance on the 1,700-kilometer TAZAMA pipeline, urging government to plan a second line to secure supply. “We cannot gamble with fuel,” he stressed. “Every government since President Kaunda has failed to build on the infrastructure he left, and today we are paying the price.”
A BLUEPRINT FOR ECONOMIC SOVEREIGNTY Kang’ombe’s proposals align on one principle: Zambia must stop outsourcing control of its natural wealth. Whether in gold, lithium, energy, or fuel, he argues, the country must leverage domestic capacity and craft financial models that give citizens—not foreign multinationals—the first claim to national resources.
“If we get the financial modeling right, Zambians will participate at all levels of mining and energy,” he said. “That is how we begin to see the wealth that has always been promised but never delivered.”
GOVERNMENT AND ECL FAMILY VOW TO AVOID ACTIONS THAT COULD ESCALATE TENSIONS AS BURIAL NEGOTIATIONS RESUME
By: Mwema Shanshima
Government and the family of the late sixth president, Dr. Edgar Lungu, have officially commenced formal discussions aimed at honouring his legacy and fostering national reconciliation.
In a joint statement released today, both parties affirmed their shared commitment to a mediated process that will address outstanding issues while promoting trust and unity.
The statement, signed by Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa and family spokesperson Makebi Zulu, emphasized the importance of mutual respect and collaboration.
It noted that both government and the Lungu family have agreed to avoid actions that could escalate tensions, pledging instead to keep the public informed as discussions progress.
The talks are expected to cover a range of matters, including memorial arrangements, historical recognition, and the preservation of Dr. Lungu’s legacy in national discourse.
EXPOSING THE $11 MILLION DIVERSION, PF AND EMMANUEL MWAMBA’S COVER-UP COLLAPSES
By Tobbius Hamunkoyo- LLB
As a lawyer who has taken time to carefully study, understand, and expose the lies surrounding the so-called “$11 million saga,” I am compelled to set the record straight. The Patriotic Front (PF) and its mouthpieces, including Emmanuel Mwamba, have gone out of their way to distort facts in order to mislead the Zambian people.
They claim it is impossible to withdraw such an amount from Turkey, but this is nothing more than a smokescreen designed to cover up corruption that unfolded here at home. The Malanji case was never about armored planes carrying sacks of dollars out of Europe. It was about unexplained wealth and suspicious transactions within Zambia, backed by hard evidence presented in our courts by the National Prosecution Authority (NPA).
The record of evidence is clear. The National Prosecution Authority (NPA) demonstrated that of the US$7.1 million allocated for property purchases in Turkey, only US$1.1 million was accounted for, while US$4.6 million vanished into unexplained withdrawals, where did it go?. Soon after his return, Joseph Malanji began making massive deposits into Zambian banks.
In October 2020, he deposited K10 million in K2 million tranches. In December 2020, he casually walked into the bank with US$204,500 and US$100,000 in cash. By March 2021, he was depositing US$100,000 at a time, and on 31 December 2020, he purchased houses in Silverest Gardens worth US$50,000, paid entirely in cash. These were not theoretical transfers, they were concrete domestic transactions and Emmanuel Mwamba is aware about this despite hiding behind a lot of PF pages to distort the truth.
The investigations further revealed the quick conversion of these funds into luxury assets. Malanji acquired two helicopters, a Bell 430 and a Bell 206, both traced, frozen, and eventually repatriated to Zambia as proceeds of crime. Several properties purchased under suspicious circumstances were also seized. These are not the figments of PF’s imagination or Mwamba’s propaganda; they are material assets, identified, recovered, and presented before court of competent jurisdiction as part of the prosecution’s case.
PF’s “$11 million lie” narrative deliberately omits one key fact, government-to-government transfers do exist, but they must strictly comply with the Public Finance Management Act. This is why former Treasury Secretary Fredson Yamba was convicted, for unlawfully authorising transfers to the Turkey mission outside prescribed financial procedures. So yes, governments can transfer money under special circumstances, but not in violation of the law. PF’s attempt to use this argument as a shield for corruption is both dishonest and insulting to Zambians.
I repeat, I have taken time, as a lawyer, to examine this case and expose the truth. Emmanuel Mwamba and PF have tried to confuse the people with half-truths and lies as usual, but the facts remain facts. The corruption was here at home, the money was deposited here, the assets were bought here, and the courts acted on evidence, not speculation. Zambians deserve better than leaders who insult their intelligence with diversions. The $11 million diversion is a failed attempt to rewrite history, and the truth about Malanji’s unexplained wealth cannot be erased.
TONSE YOUTH LEADERS MEET FDD PRESIDENT CHIFUMU BANDA
Lusaka Saturday September 6, 2025
Youth leaders from the Tonse Alliance on Saturday held a consultative meeting with FDD President and member of the Tonse Alliance Council of Leaders, Hon. Chifumu Banda, to discuss youth participation and national priorities ahead of the upcoming electoral processes.
Speaking after the engagement, Tonse Alliance National Youth Liaison and President of OFYDAT, Mr. Bwembya Mubanga Wisdom, said the meeting focused on three key areas.
“We discussed the ongoing National Registration Card (NRC) registration exercise and explored strategies to increase awareness and participation among young people. We also looked at preparations for voter registration, particularly the training of polling agents and election monitors, to ensure transparency and integrity in the electoral process,” Mr. Mubanga said.
He added that the meeting also highlighted the importance of unity within the Tonse Alliance.
“As young leaders, we believe that unity within the Tonse Alliance is vital for strengthening democratic development. We are committed to working together to promote youth participation and ensure that young voices are represented at every stage of the democratic process,” he said.
The meeting was attended by Mr. Ibrahim Kabwe Mwamba, Tonse Alliance Vice Chairperson in charge of Students and President of SASYDA; Mr. Jason Mwanza, Tonse Alliance National Youth Vice Chairperson and Founder of Gen Z; and Mr. Jeff Chibwe Mulubwa Banda, President of the Kupyela Youth Foundation and Interim Tonse Alliance National Youth Secretary.
Mr. Mubanga emphasized that the dialogue marked the beginning of sustained collaboration between youth leaders and senior members of the alliance.
“Together, we can shape a brighter future for Zambia,” he concluded.
….as police pick up SP Mufili Ward candidate Justin Mulenga
Lupososhi… Saturday September 6, 2025 – The opposition Socialist Party (SP) has condemned the arrest of its candidate for Mufili Ward in Lupososhi District, Northern Province.
SP President Dr. Fred M’membe accused the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) of attempting to disadvantage the opposition, saying the ruling party is aware of its declining popularity.
Dr. M’membe said police arrested SP candidate Justin Mulenga on allegations of malicious damage to a UPND vehicle, claims he described as false.
“Last night, the police arrested our candidate Justin Mulenga, our candidate for Mufili Ward in Lupososhi District. They alleged that he broke the handle of a UPND-owned vehicle, which is not true,” Dr. M’membe told journalists.
He explained that on August 30, 2025, the SP held campaigns at Malashi Polling Station from 09:00 to 16:00 hours.
However, he said between 10:00 and 15:00 hours, UPND cadres disrupted the event by playing loud music, making it difficult to conduct the meeting.
Despite complaints to the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) and the police, Dr. M’membe said no action was taken.
He added that frustrations led to SP members confronting the UPND team.
He further narrated that Mr. Mulenga allegedly approached the vehicle in question to speak to those inside whom he recognized, but UPND members accused him of damaging the handle of the door.
“Our candidate denies this allegation. But last night he was picked up by the police around 22:00 hours. They want to curtail his campaign or derail him from fully participating in the elections,” Dr. M’membe charged.
He further accused the ruling party of attempting to weaken the competition.
“They know they are not doing well in this ward and their intention is to disadvantage their opponents. They want to kill the competition,” he stated.
65 PEOPLE TO SUE ABSA BANK FOR CLOSING ALL MAJOR ROADS IN LUSAKA CAUSING MISSED FLIGHTS, DEMAND K5 MILLION COMPENSATION
Sixty-five aggrieved travelers say they will take legal action against ABSA Bank, accusing the financial institution of causing massive disruptions in Lusaka after all major roads were closed today for its corporate event.
The group claims the closures resulted in them missing pre-booked, non-refundable international flights purchased a month in advance. They argue the ordeal caused significant financial losses, particularly for those traveling on business.
The group says in their lawsuit, they will seek K5 million in compensation for the alleged losses.
EMMANUEL CHIKOYA ELECTED BISHOP OF CENTRAL ZAMBIA.
The Church of the Province of Central Africa has elected Emmanuel Chikoya as the new Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Central Zambia.
The decision was made during a meeting of the Episcopal Synod held on Wednesday, 3rd September 2025.
In a letter dated 5th September 2025, Archbishop of the Church of the Province of Central Africa, Most Reverend Dr. Albert Chama, announced that Bishop Chikoya will be enthroned at the Cathedral of the Holy Nativity as Diocesan Bishop of Central Zambia on Sunday, 19th October 2025.
Dr. Chama has since urged the faithful to keep Bishop Chikoya and his family in their prayers as he takes up his new role in Episcopal ministry.
Bishop Chikoya, who was consecrated on 25th August 2024, has been serving as Suffragan Bishop in the Diocese of Lusaka.
One of the difficulties of being Zambian is dealing with people who have refused to use logic and reason instead they prefer to think based on who is being mentioned and not what is being mentioned.
For instance, whenever Hakainde Hichilema is mentioned his minions though known as Praise Singers jump up to react to each and every criticism of the man, calling everyone who says anything negative about Hichilema, bitter and a Job seeker who failed to get a job. What these shallow minded people fail to grasp, is that any right-thinking Zambian cannot possibly have time to hate a President just because he is president and it is not possible for all Zambians to be employed by the government.
Zambians must get serious and migrate from such primitive behavior where something is only good if it benefits you and bad if it doesn’t benefit you.
Joseph Malanji, a former Foreign Affairs Minister often Dubbed “Bonanza” for his flamboyant distribution of wealth, has become a symbol of unchecked corruption and the betrayal of public trust. His conviction for orchestrating what can be described as one of the greatest thefts in Zambia’s history, $11 million (approximately ZMW 270 million) in cash withdrawn from a bank in Turkey is mind boggling by any standard.
Malanji’s nickname, “Bonanza,” was not born in a vacuum. During his time in power, he was known for his lavish generosity, distributing cash and resources to allies, associates, and even communities. To some, this made him a folk hero—a Robin Hood figure who, while dipping in the public purse, shared his spoils with the less fortunate. But this narrative crumbles under scrutiny. The money he so freely handed out was not his to give. It belonged to the Zambian people—intended for schools, hospitals, and infrastructure, not for personal aggrandizement or political patronage.
Can generosity with stolen wealth absolve a thief? The answer is a resounding no. A thief remains a thief, regardless of how they spend their ill-gotten gains.
Those who benefited from Joe Malanji have been all over social media platforms saying things like he was a good man he donated this and that. One facebook user Kanina Ka Mano kz posted “(When you are good u are good) this man helped a lot of people including me and my brother Godfrey Mwiza Silungwe. He helped a lot of us through empowerment money which he used to donate in his former constituency’s kabala area in kitwe. He by using public money, contributed to where we are right now as a country. Thank God for his life. He does not know me, but I know him. Thank you so much sir, may the good Lord see you through and speak for you.’
Maybe the question to ask Kanina is, was it his money? Or may be, is being generous a reason for people not to be convicted?
Malanji cannot be innocent just because he helped a few individuals after looting the country’s resources. Just like we warn Ministers Like Makozo Chikote and others, Malanji was warned, but at the time he was in power and all warnings fell on deaf ears.
Supporters within the PF and some opposition circles have cried “political persecution.” The evidence presented in court leaves little room for doubt. This was not a politically motivated witch hunt but a judicial reckoning for a crime of unprecedented scale. The attempt to frame Malanji’s conviction as persecution is a distraction from the undeniable truth: $11 million of Zambia’s money was stolen, and Malanji was at the center of it.
A thief is a thief, even if He is a generous thief. The details of Malanji’s crime, as revealed in court, read like a script from a crime thriller. In an act of staggering boldness, Malanji and his associates walked into a bank in Turkey and withdrew $11 million of Zambia’s public funds in cash. This was not a sophisticated scheme involving hidden accounts or complex financial maneuvers—it was a blatant, over-the-counter withdrawal, executed with the kind of impunity that suggests a deep sense of entitlement. The bank, unprepared for such a massive cash transaction, reportedly struggled to process the request, forcing Malanji and his team to wait for hours as the money was being counted.
Malanji allegedly used a Zambian Presidential plane to transport the stolen funds, raising serious questions about the complicity of higher authorities. Who authorized the use of state resources for this criminal endeavor? The investigation revealed further audacity: Malanji deposited $100,000 daily for 14 consecutive days, a reckless display of confidence that underscores how comfortable he had become with his loot. Yet, only about $5 million of the stolen funds have been traced or recovered, leaving millions unaccounted for.
“A thief is a thief, even if he is a generous thief” finds its perfect embodiment in Malanji. Generosity with stolen goods does not erase the crime; it merely compounds the injustice by masking it with a veneer of benevolence. The $11 million Malanji stole could have funded critical public services in a country where poverty remains rampant, schools are underfunded, and healthcare is often inadequate. His actions deprived millions of Zambians of a better future, no matter how many hands he shook or how many gifts he bestowed.
The Bible, a moral compass for many Zambians, is unequivocal about theft: “Thou shall not steal” (Exodus 20:15). Scripture further instructs that a thief must make restitution, often paying back double or more for what was taken (Exodus 22:4). If we are being honest, Malanji’s four-year sentence is lenient, looking at the gravity of his crime. In a country where a person can face five to seven years in prison for stealing a chicken out of desperation, the disparity in sentencing raises questions about justice and equality before the law.
Malanji’s actions challenge Zambia’s moral fabric. The defense of his “generosity” echoes the flawed logic of those who justify wrongdoing with good deeds.
URGENT – Reference: Pending Petition in Law Association of Zambia v The Speaker of the National Assembly (2023SCC/0015) – Request for Undertaking to Preserve Status Quo on Bill No. 7
1. We act for the Petitioner in the proceedings concerning Bill 7 presently before the Constitutional Court. We write with reference to the National Assembly press release dated 22nd August 2025, wherein the National Assembly announced its intention to “readily to resume” the constitutional review process, “awaiting the indication by the necessary.”
2. In context, that statement appears to refer to the resumption of Bill 7, the very subject of our client’s Petition. As the matter is sub judice, any step by the schedule, or otherwise advance Bill 7 risks rendering the Petition nugatory and raises concerns of propriety and neutrality while the Constitutional Court is seized.
3. Accordingly, and without prejudice, we respectfully request a written undertaking by 16:00 hours, Monday, 8 September 2025, that the National Assembly will not fast-track, or in any way advance Bill 7 pending the determination of any interlocutory application, motion, or process with equivalent effect) pending the Constitutional Court’s determination of the Petition or further order.
4. If there is any misunderstanding, and the phrase “resume the process” was not intended to refer to Bill 7, kindly clarify this in writing by the same deadline.
5. In the absence of the undertaking or clarification sought, our instructions are to approach the Court for appropriate conservatory relief and directions. Our client reserves all rights, including as to costs.
We trust that Your Office will respect the Constitution and give this request the urgent consideration it merits, in the public interest.
UPND HAS DONE MORE IN FOUR YEARS THAN PF IDIOTS – MWAMBA
MINISTER of Community Development and Social Services Doreen Mwamba says the UPND government has achieved in four years what the Patriotic Front (PF) failed to do in a decade.
Mwamba, who referred to PF members as “idiots”, challenged them to explain how many lives they had uplifted during their 10 years in power.
She said her ministry alone had expanded social protection coverage to over 1.3 million households between 2021 and 2025.
On Tuesday, the PF, through its official Facebook page, accused eight women, including Vice-President Mutale Nalumango, Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti, ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis, Justice Minister Princess Kasune and Mwamba herself, of being used to “destroy Zambia”. Reacting to the post in an interview, Mwamba…
Last minute disagreements hindered Dolika’s unveiling as PAC president – Andyford Banda
PEOPLE’s Alliance for Change (PAC) president Andyford Banda has shed light on the abrupt change of plans for the party’s president unveiling ceremony, revealing that last-minute disagreements with the intended candidate, Dolika Banda, prevented the union.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19ebCQyNsD/
The planned announcement was set to take place during the party’s second convention which was held on Thursday, with Dolika taking the helm of the party as president but to everyone’s shock, Dolika was not present on the panel and only Banda was.
However, Banda was re-elected as party president, with him winning unopposed in all ten provinces respectively.
According to Banda, last minute disagreements with Dolika led to her not being unveiled as president, resulting to him retaining his position.
Speaking on HotFM yesterday, Banda explained that the disagreement with Dolika stemmed from irreconcilable differences in their approaches to politics and party building.
He emphasised that the issue was not financial, but rather about uniting individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences to create a broad appeal for the PAC party.
He acknowledged that despite their initial agreement to collaborate, last-minute differences in their professional backgrounds and political experience led to the breakdown of their partnership.
Banda highlighted Dolika’s extensive banking career and his own decade-long involvement in politics, suggesting that their divergent skill sets and perspectives may have contributed to the impasse.
“Despite our efforts, we ultimately decided that it wasn’t feasible to move forward with the arrangement, as we realised our differences were too significant to overcome. We both invested considerable time and energy into making this work, but in the end, we concluded that parting ways was the most practical decision,” he stated.
“Yes we have been having discussions and we agreed to work together in an arrangement but it didn’t work in the final minute.”..https://kalemba.news/politics/last-minute-disagreements-hindered-dolikas-unveiling-as-pac-president-andyford-banda/
MALANJI’S 11 MILLION THEFT, DARKEST MOMENT, HE NEEDS MORE YEARS IN PRISON – CHABINGA
Robert Chabinga who holds himself as the legal president of the opposition Patriotic Front has described the theft of $11 million by former Foreign Affairs Minister Joseph Malanji as a dark moment in the country’s history.
Malanji and his co-accused former Secretary to the Treasury Fredson Yamba were this week convicted and imprisoned for stealing public money which is said to have been sent to Turkey and withdrawn, brought back to Zambia on a presidential jet.
Below is Chabinga’s statement:
STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PATRIOTIC FRONT, HON. ROBERT CHABINGA, MP
The revelations surrounding Hon. Joseph Malanji’s conviction are a painful but necessary reminder of the damage caused when entrusted leaders abuse the confidence of the people and the resources of our nation.
The theft of $11 million (ZMW 270 million), withdrawn in cash over the counter in Turkey and flown back to Zambia on a Presidential Jet, represents one of the darkest chapters in our nation’s history. The use of a State aircraft to commit what can only be described as Zambia’s biggest robbery is shameful, dishonourable, and must be condemned in the strongest terms.
As Acting President of the Patriotic Front, I wish to state clearly:
1. Those who served as leaders in the PF but chose to enrich themselves at the expense of the people must show remorse, stand down, and pave the way for the party’s renewal and rebranding.
2. We cannot rebuild trust with the Zambian people while clinging to individuals who betrayed that trust.
3. To those who abused ministerial office to plunder public funds, let this be a warning: you must be ready to face justice.
4. I also call upon the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to appeal this sentence. It is unconscionable that poor Zambians face five to seven years in jail for stealing a chicken out of hunger, yet those who looted millions from the State walk away with lighter sentences. Justice must not favour the powerful.
To our members and to the nation, let us be reminded that it was by God’s providence that PF lost power in 2021. The depth of corruption in that Cabinet was such that, had you thrown a stone, it would almost certainly have landed on a thief. This was a painful but necessary cleansing moment.
As we move forward, PF must demonstrate humility, integrity, and a genuine break from the past. That is the only path to renewal and the only way we can again be trusted by the Zambian people.
Hon. Robert Chabinga, MP President – Patriotic Front
THE country is in its darkest moments under President Hakainde Hichilema, Patriotic Front (PF) acting president Given Lubinda has said.
Addressing the media shortly after acting Chief Resident Magistrate Irene Wishimanga convicted former Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji and former Secretary to the Treasury Fredson Yamba yesterday, Lubinda said victory was certain for the opposition next year.
Lubinda urged Zambians should not >>READ MORE>>https://mastmediazm.com/2025/09/victory-is-certain-next-year-says-lubinda/
The Cost of Consent: Is Bill 7 a Trojan Horse for Our Traditional Leaders?
The recent announcement by the government to increase allowances for traditional chiefs and their retainers has been met with mixed reactions. While some see it as a commendable gesture of appreciation for the role chiefs play in national development, a closer look at the timing and context of this move reveals a more calculated political strategy.
It is not a coincidence that this announcement comes at a time when the government is reportedly preparing to reintroduce the contentious Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Bill No. 7 of 2025. The unspoken question on the minds of many Zambians is: is the government seeking to buy the support of our traditional leaders to push through a bill that the people have already rejected?
The facts on the ground are clear. Bill 7, in its initial form, was a legislative proposal that drew sharp criticism from a broad spectrum of Zambian society. Civil society organizations, political commentators, and even church leaders voiced serious concerns that the bill, which sought to expand Parliament and introduce a mixed-member proportional representation system, could consolidate power and undermine democratic accountability.
The public outcry led to a significant victory for the people when the Constitutional Court ruled that the process used to introduce the bill was unconstitutional. The message from the court and the people was unambiguous: halt the process and restart with proper, inclusive consultation.
However, despite this clear directive, reports from the media indicate that the Speaker of the National Assembly is waiting for the executive to bring back the bill. This raises the alarming possibility that the government is determined to push through the amendments at all costs, sidestepping the very stakeholders who were so clear in their opposition. This is where the proposed increase in chiefs’ allowances becomes a source of deep suspicion.
For too long, traditional leaders have been the custodians of our culture and the voices of their communities. Their influence is immense and their counsel is sought after. But this influence also makes them a prime target for political maneuvering. The timing of the allowance increase suggests a transactional approach to governance, where the government is attempting to secure the consent of traditional leaders, not through a genuine partnership, but by financial inducement. This is a dangerous precedent that risks compromising the integrity and independence of our chiefs, turning them from partners in development into political pawns.
Zambians deserve a government that governs with their consent, not one that seeks to purchase it. The legitimate and legal route to constitutional amendment is through a broad, transparent, and inclusive consultative process. The government must respect the will of the people and the ruling of the Constitutional Court. Any attempt to circumvent this process by using financial incentives to gain support is not only morally questionable but a grave insult to the intelligence of the Zambian people and the dignity of our traditional leaders.
The government must demonstrate its commitment to the rule of law and the democratic principles it espouses. The future of our democracy depends on it. We must hold our leaders accountable and demand that they listen to the voice of the people, not just the voices they can afford to pay.
The Struggle Continues
Sensio Banda Former Member of Parliament Kasenengwa Constituency Eastern Province
PF UNLEASHES ON KBF … he appears to legitimise illegality and lawlessness
Opposition PF members have responded to Zambia Must Prosper (ZMP) leader Kelvin Bwalya Fube in the Tonse Alliance Council of Leaders whatsapp group and other platforms over his argument that the consent judgment entered into between the former ruling party and Miles Sampa won’t help them resolve their intra-party matters.
Fube posted several messages in the group where he denounced the consent order entered into between PF Mporokoso member of parliament Brian Mundubile and seven others, and Sampa, in which it was agreed that the meeting conducted by the latter on October 24, 2023 was null and void, and that all actions, decisions and appointments made by Sampa were null and void.
The PF has questioned the court’s refusal to sign the consent since it was entered into by the involved parties in April, 2025.
But in his messages posted in the group, and seen by Daily Revelation, Fube argued that the PF was in a hurry and thereby making mistakes.
Fellow Zambians, let’s tell the truth straight to Emmanuel Mwamba’s face! You will not, and you cannot, divert our attention from the theft of USD 11 million stolen using the presidential jet,who does that? Someone elected to serve the interest of Zambians? . Who in their right mind withdraws that kind of money over the counter sure , flies it back in a luxury jet, and then deposits USD 100,000 every day like a street gambler? Truth be told ,. That was not governance, that was pure theft!
And Mwamba wants to lecture us? He is a spoilt mwankole, a parasite who fed fat while Zambians suffered.
When our children sat on floors in grass-thatched classrooms, when students went hungry in public universities, when hospitals collapsed without medicines, what were they doing? Flying stolen money, buying choppers, and building mansions for themselves! That is the PF record, and Mwamba is its ugly face!
Let us remind them, they shut down the mines, they looted KCM, and they strangled the economy, just so they could pocket resources meant for the people. Today Mwamba walks around defending thieves, insulting our intelligence, and pretending as if PF are victims. Victims of what? Victims of their own greed and corruption!
Emmanuel Mwamba is not a leader. He is not a patriot. He is a walking testimony of PF’s rot, arrogant, shameless, and unapologetic.
Zambians will never forget, and Zambians will never forgive. Mwamba and his PF thieves belong nowhere near public office; they belong in the dustbin of history, and yes, in a special place reserved for those who chose to loot instead of to lead.
Fellow citizens, let us stand firm. Never again shall we allow thieves like Emmanuel Mwamba and his PF clique anywhere near our state coffers. Never again!
WE WILL STABLIZE POWER SUPPLY BY DECEMBER- MINISTER
By Morgan Chomba
Energy Minister Makozo Chikote has assured the nation that load shedding will come to an end by December this year, with measures underway to restore normal power supply.
Speaking during a courtesy call on the Copperbelt Provincial Administration in Ndola, Mr. Chikote revealed that government interventions include the return of 300 megawatts from Maamba Collieries, whose maintenance works are nearing completion.
Meanwhile, Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo has cautioned ZESCO over its failure to stick to the load shedding schedule, saying it undermines the government’s progress and continues to hurt small-scale businesses in the province.
Hon. Given Lubinda–A Pillar of the Patriotic Front.
By: Chanda John Chimba.
Honourable Given Lubinda, former Member of Parliament for Kabwata and former Minister of Justice, stands out as one of the most consistent and resilient leaders the Patriotic Front (PF) has ever produced. His political journey has been defined by calmness, focus, and a rare ability to steady the ship even in the most turbulent of times.
As Vice President of the PF and later Acting President, Lubinda demonstrated remarkable maturity and foresight. Many forget how fragile the PF once stood, split by internal divisions, weighed down by arrogant voices from both youth and senior leadership ranks, and weakened by the departure of key figures. At moments when the party could have collapsed, it was Lubinda’s steady hand that kept it alive.
When President Edgar Chagwa Lungu (ECL) traveled abroad for medical treatment, and even after his passing, it was Lubinda who provided direction to the party. He carried a heavy burden with grace, ensuring that PF did not lose its identity or relevance during uncertain times. His leadership style, brave, calm, and focused, has been an anchor for the party.
Managing a party like PF, with its fiery youth and ambitious leaders, has never been an easy task. Yet, Lubinda has navigated those challenges with wisdom, showing patience where others would show anger, and firmness where others would give in. His ability to keep people together when the odds are against him is a rare gift in Zambian politics.
Today, i appreciate Hon. Given Lubinda not just as a politician, but as a man who has held the PF together when many expected it to be dead and buried. He deserves respect for his sacrifice, his resilience, and his unwavering commitment to the party and to the people he serves.
Indeed, Given Lubinda is a good man, brave, calm, focused, and a true pillar of the PF and democracy.
2026 presidential candidate Dolika Banda says she will soon launch her manifesto.
But meanwhile she writes:
My detailed vision is well explained in my Manifesto soon to be circulated, i cannot leave it at that.
My vision for Zambia is to restore economic dignity, invest in our people, and rebuild trust in leadership.
I will lead with an uncommon style that involves listening before deciding, serving before ruling, and proving integrity through action. I believe that development must be people-centered: agriculture that ensures food sovereignty and exports value-added products, mining that benefits local communities through established Community funds, schools that prepare our youth for tomorrow’s jobs instead of learning about grasshoppers, and health care that treats every
Zambian with dignity. My benchmark is measurable change, such as jobs created, industries owned by Zambians, small businesses thriving, and no citizen left behind.
The Zambia we must see is debt-responsible, food-sovereign, energy-sufficient, and united across tribes and regions, with youth and women at the center of decision-making.
My willpower is rooted in faith, discipline, and love for country, and with your support we can turn this vision into reality.
KITWE residents have demanded immediate release of jailed ex MP Joe Malanji citing the help he renders to thousands of people in need.
By: Thomas Afroman Mwale
The sentencing of former foreign affairs minister joseph malanji to four years imprisonment with hard labour has stirred mixed reactions among residents of kwacha constituency, following his conviction for possessing tainted property.
in separate interviews, residents described the judgment as unjust, arguing that mr. malanji had built his business profile long before entering politics.
beatrice kafwamba said the constituency was “in tears” over the ruling, noting that many were struggling to accept the outcome given the former minister’s continued contributions even after leaving office.
justin nsonge highlighted mr. malanji’s role in supporting livelihoods through community development initiatives, describing his generosity as a defining trait of his leadership in kitwe.
meanwhile, alice banda called for unity among opposition political players, expressing concern over what she termed the ongoing prosecution of senior political figures. #SunFmTvNews
Corruption Fight Under UPND, A Double-Edged Sword of Justice:
The recent convictions of former Zambian government officials Joseph Malanji and Fredson Yamba have been praised as a significant step towards justice.
Civil rights activist Laura Miti celebrated these convictions, highlighting the “audacity” of their alleged crimes, which included the misuse of a presidential jet and the unauthorized release of millions of dollars. Miti’s remarks raised questions about whether such actions could have occurred without the knowledge of then-President Edgar Lungu, suggesting a systemic lack of accountability.
However, these convictions have also reignited a critical debate: Is the fight against corruption in Zambia selective? This argument does not aim to downplay the seriousness of the previous administration’s corruption but rather to scrutinize the current government’s approach. I believe that for anti-corruption efforts to be truly effective and just, they must be impartial and applied universally.
While the UPND administration has been proactive in prosecuting former officials from the Patriotic Front government, it has not shown the same intensity in pursuing similar cases involving high-ranking officials within its own United Party for National Development government. The latest Financial Intelligence Centre report, for example, revealed financial and economic crimes worth billions of dollars, a figure that dwarfs PF’s corruption. Therefore, activists like Miti, who were vocal during the previous government, should extend their scrutiny to the current administration as well. The perceived cherry-picking of corruption fight has led to accusations of a double standard and raises a fundamental question: Should justice be dispensed based on which political party is in power?
The principle of “fair and equitable” justice dictates that anyone found to be corrupt, regardless of their political affiliation, must be held accountable. Those involved in alleged corruption within the current government should not feel safe. While they may not face prosecution now, their day of reckoning may still come, potentially leading to more severe consequences after they leave office.
Ultimately, a genuine anti-corruption campaign should be a commitment to the rule of law, not a political tool. It requires consistency and a willingness to prosecute without fear or favor. Anything less risks eroding public trust and perpetuating the very cycle of impunity it claims to be fighting.
The Struggle Continues
Sensio Banda Former Member of Parliament Kasenengwa Constituency Eastern Province
