UPND VOWS TO HAVE PATRICK BANDA ARRESTED OVER IMPERSONATION CHARGES
By Patricia Mbewe
UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe says the party will take legal action against Mr. Patrick Banda, who recently declared himself the sole authority over the ruling party.
Mr. Simuuwe is urging party members to report Mr. Banda to the police for impersonation, stressing the UPND’s commitment to handling the matter within the law.
In an interview with Phoenix News, Mr. Simuuwe says Mr. Banda’s actions of taking over a legitimate organization are an offense.
Mr. Banda, a founding member, claims authority rooted in the party’s 1998 formation and constitution and has halted internal electoral processes and appointed Mr. Charles Longwe as interim Secretary General.
But Mr. Simuuwe says that the party is focusing on resolving the matter through proper channels and has emphasized the UPND’s firm stance on legal matters, saying Mr. Banda will be arrested.
CF ORDERS MEMBERS NOT TO PARTICIPATE IN THE “CHRISTIAN COALITION POLLS” IN THE INTEREST OF ADVANCED OPPOSITION UNITY DISCUSSIONS
“Fellow Members,
The leadership of the CF wishes to address the ongoing so-called “Christian Coalition Polls” and provide clear guidance to all members.
After careful review and internal consultations, the CF has resolved not to participate in these polls for the following reasons:
Concerns over credibility – Our assessments indicate that the internal system underpinning these polls is compromised and appears to be structured in a manner that favors a particular candidate, thereby projecting a predetermined outcome rather than reflecting the genuine will of participants.
Questionable independence of promoters – Evidence suggests that the promoters of these polls are not neutral stakeholders, but rather a veiled formation aligned with one of the candidates being advanced through this process.
Ongoing unity discussions – The CF is currently engaged in advanced and constructive discussions with several candidates featured in these polls. In the spirit of fostering unity and building consensus, we will not allow external distractions or partisan mechanisms to undermine the progress that has been achieved thus far.
Technical irregularities – Our Systems Engineers have conducted a detailed review of the platform architecture and have identified a flaw that appears to redirect or disproportionately allocate votes in favor of a preferred candidate, further undermining the integrity of the process.
In light of the above, we strongly advise all CF members to refrain from participating in or promoting these polls.
Instead, we call upon all members to remain focused on the broader national objective:
Strengthening unity across all opposition stakeholders
Mobilizing and supporting nominations for Ward Councilors, Council Secretaries, Mayors, and Members of Parliament across the country
Building a strong, inclusive, and representative national structure in preparation for forming government after the August 2026 polls
We further encourage members to actively engage with all opposition parties, as well as disenfranchised individuals within the ruling party, to advance a unified and cross-cutting alliance that reflects the aspirations of our people.
Let us remain disciplined, focused, and committed to the greater goal of national transformation through unity.”
UPND LAUNCHES INTRA-PARTY ELECTIONS AHEAD OF 2026 GENERAL ASSEMBLY
The United Party for National Development (UPND) has officially announced the commencement of intra-party elections leading to the General Assembly scheduled for April 15, 2026, where the party president and members of the National Management Committee (NMC) will be elected.
UPND Chairman for Elections and Campaigns Likando Mufalali, flanked by National Chairman Collins Maoma, said the party has already issued guidelines and regulations to members to guide the electoral process.
Mr Mufalali disclosed that nomination fees have been set at K100,000 for the position of party president, K2,000 for National Management Committee positions, K500 for provincial leadership, and K10 for lower party structures.
He explained that elections are being conducted from branch level up to provincial assemblies, which will in turn constitute the General Assembly. He emphasised that the process is open to all bona fide members in good standing with the party.
Speaking at the Anderson Kambela Mazoka Party Secretariat, Mr Mufalali stated that the party’s constitution does not allow for any leadership vacuum, hence the timely commencement of the electoral process, which will run up to April 15, 2026.
He said all aspiring candidates, including those contesting the party presidency, are free to participate, stressing that there are no shortcuts as the party strictly adheres to its constitution.
Mr Mufalali further assured members that the elections will be conducted in a peaceful and transparent manner, with representation from all regions.
He added that the process will ensure at least 30 percent participation by women, including persons with disabilities.
Cameroon’s President Paul Biya has reportedly appointed his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as his Vice President of the Republic and the Head of the Armed Forces.
The appointment, confirmed in an official decree dated April 4, 2026, also names Franck Biya as Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence, positioning him at the heart of Cameroon’s security structure.
The document states: “Mr Franck Emmanuel BIYA is appointed Vice President of the Republic of Cameroon.”
It further adds: “Mr Franck Emmanuel BIYA is appointed Head of the Armed Forces.”
Expanding his role, the decree notes: “The Vice President of the Republic, Mr Franck Emmanuel BIYA, is also appointed Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Cameroon.”
Citing constitutional provisions and defence laws, the presidency said the appointments were made in line with “service requirements,” adding that the decree “shall be registered, published according to the procedure of urgency, and inserted in the Official Gazette.”
The new development comes just months after Biya, 92, was sworn in for an unprecedented eighth term in office after a contested election that sparked nationwide protests and drew international scrutiny.
Biya secured 54 percent of the vote in the election, defeating opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who polled 35 percent. Tchiroma Bakary has rejected the outcome, insisting he was the rightful winner and accusing authorities of electoral fraud, claims the government denies.
He described the election as “satisfactory” and commended the electoral body for its conduct, while congratulating security forces for containing the demonstrations without addressing allegations of excessive force.
The Constitutional Council dismissed multiple petitions challenging the results, citing insufficient evidence or lack of jurisdiction.
Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982 after succeeding former president Ahmadou Ahidjo, now faces renewed criticism from opponents who accuse him of tightening his grip on power through both political and military channels.
Navy SEAL Team 6 just pulled off one of the boldest rescues in modern American warfare, extracting a downed U.S. Air Force colonel from deep inside enemy territory while Iran hunted him.
The New York Times confirmed the unit behind the operation, the same elite operators who took out Osama bin Laden in 2011. This time they went into the Zagros Mountains of Iran, fought through hostile ground, and brought every American home safely. No U.S. casualties. Just raw competence against determined foes.
The F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down on April 3 during the ongoing conflict with Iran. Both crew ejected. The pilot was recovered quickly under fire. The weapons systems officer, a colonel, landed farther into rugged terrain and spent more than 24 hours evading capture using his SERE training. He climbed a high ridgeline, hid in a rock crevice, and activated his encrypted beacon while Iranian state media broadcast a bounty and IRGC forces plus local militias swept the area. CIA deception ops threw the hunters off track, and Israeli intelligence fed real-time data on enemy movements.
A massive rescue package rolled in under cover of night. Hundreds of special operations personnel, Night Stalkers helicopters, A-10 Warthogs for close air support, and supporting transports established a forward arming and refueling point on a remote Iranian airstrip.
Two MC-130J Commando II aircraft got stuck. Rather than let classified gear fall into Iranian hands, U.S. forces destroyed them on the ground, exactly as SEALs did with the crashed Black Hawk in Abbottabad. More aircraft came in under fire, loaded the colonel and the rescue team, and exfiltrated everyone to safety. The colonel is recovering in Kuwait and expected to be just fine.
The parallels to the Bin Laden raid are striking, yet the scale reveals the difference. Abbottabad used two stealth helicopters and two dozen operators for a quick in-and-out. Dehdasht required an air armada, cyber and space assets, Israeli coordination that paused their own strikes, and boots on the ground deep in Iran.
American forces engaged Iranian convoys with precision strikes and established a temporary no-go zone. The doctrine stayed ironclad: hardware is expendable when secrets are at stake. This was no Hollywood script. It was deliberate, overwhelming American power proving it can reach anywhere necessary.
Forty-six years after the Desert One disaster in Iran left eight Americans dead and a rescue mission in ruins, the same special operations community born from that failure just succeeded where it once stumbled. SEAL Team 6, Delta operators, Pararescuemen, and the full joint force showed what resolve and preparation deliver.
Iran’s regime can broadcast bounties and flood the mountains with militia, but they could not stop one determined American from coming home. In a war where strength matters more than spin, this operation sends a clear message: the United States still protects its own, no matter the cost or the distance.
A top African Union (AU) human rights organ has cast serious doubt on the legitimacy of Zimbabwe’s move to amend its constitution, a process that could allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to extend his time in office.
Following a fact-finding mission that concluded last week, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights) (ACHPR) raised concerns over the transparency and inclusivity of the ongoing constitutional review process, which critics say is aimed at bypassing established term limits.
The controversy centres on Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, which proposes extending Mnangagwa’s current term by two years. The changes would also benefit sitting senators and parliamentarians, a move seen as an attempt to secure legislative backing for the proposals
The ACHPR mission, led by commissioner Janet Ramatoulie Sallah-Njie, coincided with public hearings that were reportedly marred by violence and intimidation during constitutional outreach meetings.
Opposition figures including Jameson Timba, Lovemore Madhuku, Tendai Biti and Munyaradzi Gwisai had earlier instructed supporters to withdraw from the process, citing alleged violence and exclusion of dissenting voices.
The withdrawal followed chaotic scenes at the City Sports Centre in Harare, where proceedings were disrupted and journalists reportedly faced harassment.
During the incidents, human rights lawyer Doug Coltart was assaulted and his cellphone was stolen, while journalists were allegedly forced to delete footage.
While acknowledging Zimbabwe’s sovereign right to pursue constitutional reforms, the ACHPR urged greater inclusivity to restore public confidence.
“The commission recognises the sovereign prerogative of Zimbabwe in advancing its constitutional reform agenda; however, the mission encouraged more inclusivity to further strengthen transparency and public confidence in the ongoing reform process,” it said.
The Commission recommended that authorities broaden participation by involving civil society and other stakeholders.
It also warned of potential “rollback” risks in the proposed amendments, including concerns that the Zimbabwe Gender Commission could be dissolved, which it said may undermine gender equality protections.
The ACHPR further highlighted gaps between Zimbabwe’s 2013 Constitution and its implementation, citing child labour in agriculture and mining, ongoing child marriages in some communities, and the low age of criminal responsibility.
It also raised concerns over overcrowding in prisons despite reforms such as the open prison model.
Critics argue the constitutional changes lack broad consensus and risk undermining regional and international legitimacy.
Mnangagwa, who came to power following the 2017 events that ousted former president Robert Mugabe, has previously faced criticism over perceived plans to extend his stay in office beyond expected constitutional limits.
By Eddison Arnold Mombera, MBA (Oil, Gas & Energy Management Expert)
Africa’s energy map is being redrawn, and Malawi risks being left behind. While we continue to rely on the same fuel import routes and systems that existed before many of us were born, our neighbours are making bold, future‑shaping decisions as the old saying reminds us, tsoka la wina ndi mwayi wa wina—and indeed, pachoka nzako pali malo.
Today, Botswana, Zambia, and Angola are proving that energy security is not achieved through speeches, but through infrastructure, ownership, and strategic courage.
A New Regional Energy Bloc Is Emerging
Angola, Zambia, and Botswana have embarked on one of the most ambitious energy collaborations in Southern Africa: a massive oil refinery in Lobito, Angola, supported by a multi‑product pipeline stretching to Lusaka.
This is not a feasibility study destined for a shelf. It is a funded, structured, multi‑billion‑dollar project with clear timelines and shared ownership.
Key features include:
A 200,000-barrel-per-day refinery, with 100,000 barrels per day allocated to Zambia
A 1,400 km pipeline delivering petrol, diesel, jet fuel, and LPG directly into Zambia
Joint stakes held by Angola, Zambia, and Botswana ensuring supply security and shared value
Commissioning expected in 2026, positioning the bloc as a regional energy anchor
For Zambia, this marks a historic shift from being a perpetual importer of refined products to becoming a co‑owner of the very infrastructure that determines its energy destiny. For Botswana, it is a strategic hedge against global volatility. For Angola, it is a chance to capture more value from its crude oil rather than exporting it all.
This is what “walking bigger” looks like.
The Global Context: Volatility Is the New Normal
Oil markets are increasingly shaped by geopolitics rather than geology. Conflicts in the Middle East, disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, and supply chain shocks have made long‑distance fuel procurement a high‑risk affair. Countries that depend on imported refined products especially landlocked economies are the most exposed.
Zambia and Botswana have responded by shortening their supply chains, reducing transport costs, and insulating themselves from global turbulence. They are not waiting for crises to dictate their fate.
Meanwhile, Malawi Still Uses the Longest, Oldest Route
Malawi continues to import nearly all its fuel through Tanzania, primarily via Dar es Salaam and Tanga, using long-haul road tankers. This model has remained unchanged for decades. It is expensive, risky, and vulnerable to disruptions beyond our control.
Recent events exposed this fragility:
Over 120 fuel tankers were stranded at the Tanzania–Malawi border during political unrest
Millions of litres of fuel were delayed due to congestion and suspended berthing at Tanga
Emergency volumes had to be sourced from Beira, Nacala, and Zimbabwe
Even in stable times, our dependence on road tankers inflates:
Transport costs
Pump prices
Accident and pilferage risks
Border delays
Carbon emissions
Tanzania remains a reliable partner, but reliance on a single corridor is not a strategy—it is a gamble.
How Malawi Can Leverage Cheaper Upstream Logistics
There is another lesson Malawi must urgently absorb: long-distance fuel movement should never rely on road tankers. Globally, countries that have mastered energy security use pipelines and rail for upstream transport, and reserve road tankers for short-distance downstream distribution.
Pipeline transport costs as little as US$0.01–0.03 per litre, compared to US$0.06–0.12 per litre for long-haul tankers. Malawi is currently using the most expensive method for the longest distance a structural inefficiency that guarantees high pump prices.
If Malawi connects to a regional pipeline whether through Zambia, Mozambique, or a future Lobito Corridor extension the expensive part of the journey becomes cheap. Road tankers would only be used within Malawi, for the final 50–150 km. This is how countries like Uganda, Rwanda, and Botswana have reduced logistics costs despite being landlocked.
In parallel, Malawi must build distributed strategic reserves across the country, connected by pipeline or rail. Instead of one or two central depots, we need multiple storage points each holding 30–60 days of cover, giving the nation 90–120 days of resilience. This model reduces national vulnerability, stabilizes prices, and allows bulk procurement at lower cost.
This is the kind of structural reform that transforms an energy system from fragile to future-proof.
What Lessons Should Malawi Learn?
1. Ownership Matters More Than Importation
Zambia’s 25% stake in the Lobito refinery guarantees supply and reduces forex pressure. Malawi has never owned any upstream or midstream asset in its fuel supply chain. We buy what others produce and transport.
2. Pipelines Are the Future
Pipelines are cheaper, safer, and more secure than road tankers. The Angola–Zambia pipeline will cut transport costs dramatically.
3. Energy Diplomacy Is a Strategic Tool
Angola and Zambia negotiated a deal that reshapes their economic futures. Malawi must elevate energy diplomacy to the same level as food security and water governance.
4. Infrastructure Must Evolve
Our storage depots, procurement systems, and logistics models are outdated. Meanwhile, our neighbours are modernizing at speed.
5. Fuel Security Is Economic Security
In an agri-based economy like ours, fuel price shocks hit hardest. They raise the cost of farm inputs, transportation, and food—deepening rural poverty.
A Strategic Roadmap for Malawi
Short-Term
Expand fuel storage to at least 90 days of cover
Strengthen alternative routes (Beira, Nacala, Zimbabwe)
Digitize procurement and logistics
Medium-Term
Explore a Malawi–Zambia pipeline interconnector
Secure equity in regional refining projects
Develop a national strategic fuel reserve policy
Long-Term
Participating in regional energy blocs
Invest in domestic biofuels and synthetic fuels
Build a multi‑product pipeline in partnership with neighbours
Conclusion: Malawi Must Decide Whether to Walk Bigger
The Angola–Zambia–Botswana refinery and pipeline project is a bold declaration that Africa can build its own energy future. Malawi must not remain a spectator.
We must choose whether to continue relying on the longest, most vulnerable supply chain or to step into a future where energy security is built, not begged for.
-Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa is planning to amend the constitution to extend his tenure to 2030 and possibly beyond, sparking concerns about his grip on power.
The proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3 would allow Mnangagwa to claim eligibility for a third term and potentially make him president for life.
Mnangagwa’s guile and ruthlessness have earned him the nickname “the Crocodile”, and he appears determined to maintain his leadership.
The bill, which is subject to a 90-day public consultation period, would also change the way the president is elected, shifting from popular vote to parliamentary selection.
Critics argue that Mnangagwa’s intentions are driven by a desire to stay in power, rather than serving the people.
“This whole thing is driven by his desire to die in power,” said Hopewell Chin’ono, an investigative journalist and anti-corruption campaigner.
The proposed changes have sparked widespread criticism, with some comparing Mnangagwa’s rule to that of his predecessor, Robert Mugabe, who clung to power for 37 years. “It’s just repression,” said Tendai Biti, a veteran opposition politician.
Mnangagwa’s bid to extend his tenure is a far cry from the hope that briefly flickered in 2017 when he replaced Mugabe.
At the time, Mnangagwa pledged to open Zimbabwe up for business and repair relations with the international community.
However, his honeymoon was short-lived, and allegations of corruption and human rights abuses have surrounded his administration.
The US Treasury sanctioned Mnangagwa in 2024 for his involvement in “corrupt activities” and human rights abuses.
Despite the improving macroeconomic outlook, ordinary Zimbabweans continue to struggle. Economists say the economy has stayed afloat thanks to remittances from abroad and high gold prices.
The constitutional court must now decide whether a referendum on the proposed changes is necessary.
One political observer said that with or without a referendum, Zanu-PF would find it easier to pick the president through a pliant parliament than through a fractious electorate.
Zanu-PF provincial leaders are reportedly lobbying for their terms of office to be extended to 2030, aligning themselves with a controversial push to prolong President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s stay in power.
The move follows the introduction of Constitutional Amendment Bill 3 (CAB3), which seeks to extend Mnangagwa’s presidency by two years beyond the current 2028 constitutional limit.
Under the proposed changes, the terms of Members of Parliament and local councillors would also be extended to 2030, alongside broader constitutional reforms.
The legislation is said to include far-reaching proposals, including the abolition of direct presidential elections. If adopted, Zimbabwe’s long-standing “one-man, one-vote” system could be replaced by a parliamentary vote to elect the president.
Public consultations on the amendments were reportedly marked by chaos last week, with allegations of intimidation and disruptions at outreach meetings.
Party insiders say provincial chairpersons have approached Zanu-PF benefactor Kudakwashe Tagwirei to intervene and persuade Mnangagwa to suspend an upcoming restructuring exercise within the party.
The chairpersons argue that any extension granted to the executive and legislature should also apply to party leadership structures.
“We have already approached Tagwirei requesting that he pleads with President Mnangagwa to suspend the restructuring exercise and also allow us to run up to 2030,” one provincial chairperson said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Zanu-PF spokesperson Farai Marapira said he was not aware of the reported request.
“I have not heard anything to this effect. I will research and advise,” he said.
The party is currently operating under structures largely established in 2022, many of which trace back to the 2014 congress under the late former president Robert Mugabe.
Since Mnangagwa came to power following the 2017 military-assisted transition, Zanu-PF has faced internal tensions, including factional disputes linked to succession battles involving Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.
Reports suggest that some factions are positioning themselves around different possible successors, with businessman Tagwirei increasingly mentioned in internal party discussions.
If the restructuring exercise is suspended, current provincial executives could remain in office until 2032 and play a key role in determining future leadership succession.
The proposed constitutional and party-level changes have sparked debate within political circles, with critics warning they could significantly reshape Zimbabwe’s electoral system and governance framework.
U.S. estimates losses at $251.7 million within 48 hours to save 2 pilots
The United States has reportedly sustained significant losses during a high-risk combat search and rescue (CSAR) operation, in order to recover two crew members from a downed F-15E Strike Eagle.
Both the pilot and weapons systems officer (WSO) were successfully rescued alive, with no reported fatalities among rescue personnel.
According to U.S. assessments, total losses reached approximately $251.7 million within less than 48 hours, reflecting the scale and urgency of the operation.
At least two MC-130J Commando II aircraft were intentionally destroyed to prevent sensitive technology from falling into enemy hands. Meanwhile, multiple HH-60 Pave Hawk and HC-130J Combat King II sustained heavy damage but were able to return to base.
The operation underscores the long-standing U.S. military principle of “leave no man behind,” demonstrating a willingness to accept substantial material losses in exchange for the recovery of personnel.
The United Arab Emirates has insisted that any agreement to resolve tensions between the United States and Iran must guarantee free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that the vital waterway cannot be used as leverage in geopolitical disputes.
A senior UAE official, Anwar Gargash, said the security of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes, must be treated as a global economic priority, not a regional bargaining tool. He emphasized that uninterrupted navigation through the channel must be a core part of any settlement.
According to Gargash, while the UAE supports an end to the conflict, it does not want a ceasefire that ignores deeper issues. He warned that failing to address Iran’s nuclear ambitions, as well as its missile and drone capabilities, could create a more dangerous and unstable Middle East.
He also noted that the UAE is prepared to support international efforts, particularly those led by the United States, to secure shipping routes in the Strait if necessary.
The waterway handles roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments daily. However, recent hostilities have disrupted traffic, contributing to rising global energy concerns.
The conflict began after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran following a breakdown in nuclear negotiations. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel, U.S. bases, and critical infrastructure across the Gulf region, including ports and energy facilities.
Gargash revealed that the UAE has faced some of the heaviest attacks among Gulf nations but said the country has shown resilience despite the pressure. He added that while the UAE’s economy remains fundamentally strong, recovery from the ongoing crisis will require significant effort.
He warned that Iran’s actions could deepen security ties between Gulf states and Washington, further strengthening U.S. military presence in the region and increasing Israel’s influence.
Iran’s strategy, according to regional perspectives, appears aimed at raising the cost of the conflict for U.S. allies in the Gulf by targeting energy infrastructure and shipping lanes. This could pressure those countries to push for an end to military actions.
Despite previous diplomatic efforts by Gulf nations to maintain balance and avoid confrontation with Iran, the situation has escalated significantly. Gargash noted that while the UAE does not seek hostility, trust remains difficult under the current Iranian leadership.
He concluded that the crisis highlights the need for long-term stability measures, warning that unresolved tensions could further destabilize the region and impact global energy security.
Iran Rejects Reopening Strait of Hormuz for Temporary Ceasefire
Iran has officially rejected proposals to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for a temporary ceasefire, signaling a hardline stance amid rapidly escalating tensions.
A senior Iranian official stated that Tehran does not view Washington as genuinely prepared for a permanent ceasefire, reinforcing its decision to keep the vital shipping route closed.
The situation continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with developments unfolding minute by minute and hour by hour.
If no breakthrough is achieved, the conflict risks escalating into the most intense phase since the war began now entering its fifth week of sustained fighting.
IRAN’S EYES HAVE BEEN BLINDED — THE MAN WHO KNEW ALL OF IRAN’S SECRETS IS DEAD
While the world watches the Middle East burn, Israel and America just struck at the very brain of Iran’s military intelligence and nothing will be the same again.
Major General Majid Khademi Head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Intelligence Organisation was killed at dawn on April 6th 2026 in a joint US-Israeli airstrike deep inside Tehran, Iran’s capital.
This was no ordinary strike. Khademi was one of the top three most senior figures in the entire IRGC. He was the man responsible for Iran’s secrets, Iran’s surveillance, Iran’s covert operations across the globe. He is gone.
The IRGC confirmed his death on Telegram describing it as a criminal terrorist attack by the American-Zionist enemy.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed Israel carried out the strike and issued a chilling warning to Tehran’s remaining leadership: “We will continue to hunt them one by one.”
This is the second IRGC intelligence chief killed in less than a year. His predecessor General Mohammad Kazemi was also eliminated in Israeli strikes in June 2025.
Iran cannot keep replacing the men at the top if those men keep dying. Also killed in the same overnight strikes was Yazdan Mir, known as Sardar Bagheri, commander of the IRGC’s elite clandestine Unit 840 the unit linked to assassinations and kidnappings of targets outside Iran’s borders.
Russia Urges Talks, Slams “Ultimatums” as Trump Ramps Up Pressure on Iran
Moscow has called on Washington to abandon what it describes as “ultimatum-style rhetoric” and return to diplomacy, as tensions surrounding Iran continue to escalate.
On April 5 (local time), Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov urged the United States to shift toward negotiations during a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. According to Russia’s Foreign Ministry, Lavrov expressed hope that ongoing international efforts to de-escalate the situation around Iran would succeed—but stressed this would only be possible if Washington “abandons ultimatums” and restores dialogue.
The remarks come amid heightened rhetoric from U.S. President Donald Trump, who a day earlier publicly pressured Iran via social media, demanding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz while issuing sharply worded warnings.
Russian sources also stated that both Lavrov and Araghchi called for an immediate halt to strikes on Iranian civilian infrastructure, including the Bushehr nuclear power plant. Reports indicate the site has been targeted multiple times since the conflict escalated earlier this year, raising concerns over nuclear safety and regional stability.
Meanwhile, Russia’s state nuclear agency Rosatom is reportedly withdrawing its personnel from the facility, signaling growing risks on the ground.
The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic channels under strain and military tensions still unresolved.
*The Unifying Force: Can Harry Kalaba Fill the Opposition’s Leadership Vacuum?*
By Peter Sitolo (Political Analyst)
ZAMBIA’S opposition is adrift, fragmented by ambition and crippled by internal squabbles. The landscape is marked by parties trapped in cycles of disputes, legal uncertainty, and competing claims to legitimacy.
For instance, the Patriotic Front’s crisis, with Miles Sampa’s claim to the presidency, exemplifies this chaos – a condition of parallel power where multiple factions assert authority.
In this fractured environment, Harry Kalaba is emerging as a beacon of hope. Not only because he is a charismatic leader, but also because the opposition’s failure to unite has created a vacuum he is poised to fill.
Kalaba’s Citizens First party shows relative structural stability, and he is got experience, no major legal hurdles, and a willingness to engage in coalition politics, which is a necessity in a fragmented landscape.
Zambia’s history is clear: power shifts through convergence, not fragmentation. When Kenneth Kaunda’s UNIP was defeated in 1991, it was because opposition united under Frederick Chiluba’s MMD. Michael Sata’s 2011 victory followed years of consolidating support, and Hakainde Hichilema’s 2021 win was due to a clear alternative.
The pattern is consistent. Zambians elect organized alternatives, not scattered possibilities.
Thus, Kalaba’s position is strategic. He is not entangled in any factional conflicts, and his experience in government gives him credibility. He is also open to coalition politics, making him an attractive option for factions seeking unity.
As the election approaches, the opposition faces a stark choice: unite or fail. Kalaba is quietly occupying the space. He is available, not confrontational, and willing to converge with others.
The opposition’s challenge is not a lack of talent; it is a surplus of ambition without coordination. Leaders like Brian Mundubile face legal challenges, while Fred M’membe’s Socialist Party struggles to expand nationally. Makebi Zulu and John Sangwa bring credibility, but building nationwide machinery takes time.
Kalaba’s advantage lies in his ability to bring people together.
Zambia’s opposition is approaching a moment of truth. Unity is no longer a preference; it is a necessity. Fragmentation has its limits, and once those limits are reached, compromise becomes unavoidable.
Of course, Kalaba may not be the first choice of every faction, but he is increasingly looking like the one most factions can live with. And in politics, that is often enough to become the center of gravity.
As the political landscape continues to shift, Kalaba’s strategy seems to be clear: remain accessible, build alliances, and wait for the opposition to realize that unity is the only path to power. His experience as a former Minister of Foreign Affairs has given him a network of contacts and a reputation for diplomacy. He is using this to his advantage, engaging with regional leaders and Western diplomats to build international credibility.
Domestically, Kalaba’s focus is on building a coalition that can challenge the ruling UPND. He is engaging with other opposition leaders, trying to build a united front that can take on the government. It is a tough task, but he’s optimistic.
“We need to put aside our differences and work towards a common goal,” Kalaba said in a recent interview.
“Zambia needs a change, and we can provide it if we work together.”
Kalaba’s message resonates with many Zambians who are tired of the current state of politics. His commitment to inclusive governance, economic development, and social justice aligns with the aspirations of many citizens.
Additionally, his ability to connect with grassroots supporters and mobilize resources gives him an edge over other opposition leaders.
Whether Kalaba can bring the opposition together remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: he is the one to watch in Zambia’s unfolding political landscape.
UPND REJECTS SOCIAL MEDIA CLAIMS OF LEADERSHIP TAKEOVER
The United Party for National Development (UPND) has dismissed as false and misleading reports circulating on social media suggesting that the party has been taken over by certain individuals.
In a statement, Deputy Secretary General Gertrude Imenda said the party is concerned about the claims, particularly those linked to Patrick Tembo Banda, describing them as baseless and untrue.
She emphasized that the party remains stable and continues to operate under its constitutionally elected leadership.
According to the statement, Hakainde Hichilema remains party President, with Mutale Nalumango serving as Vice President. The Secretary General is Batuke Imenda, deputized by Gertrude Imenda, while Collins Maoma continues as National Chairperson.
The party further stated that all structures, from the secretariat to grassroots level, are fully functional and aligned with the party constitution, with no leadership vacancies. Preparations for the upcoming General Assembly are also progressing as planned.
Members and the public have been urged to remain calm and ignore misinformation, as the party says it remains united and stable.
…President Hichilema and the National Management Committee’s mandate expired after five years on 5th February 2026…
UPND Member, Charles Longwe has mocked the appointment of Likando Mufalali as new Chairperson of Elections saying the appointment has no legal mandate and could not be deemed to be valid.
Speaking to Costa Mwansa on COSTA on Diamond TV, Longwe said President Hakainde Hichilema’s appointment was illegal as he had no such mandate or authority to do so.
In March 2026, President Hakainde Hichilema appointed former Senanga MP, Likando Mufalali as the new Chairperson for Elections and Campaigns for the United Party for National Development (UPND) to replace Mazabuka MP, Gary Nkombo.
Longwe insisted that the Hichilema-led National Management Committee mandate expired on February 14th 2026 and therefore he had no mandate to make such an appointment.
Longwe also stated that the upcoming General Congress called for the 15th of April was illegal as it did not meet any of the provisions of the party constitution and has been called by individuals without such authority.
Longwe also demonstrated that he was a member of the UPND by showing records of gold membership signed by President Hakainde Hichilema.
He said the senior officials he has sued have been evading service to frustrate the court process.
The continued delay in the burial of former President Edgar Lungu has intensified pressure on President Hakainde Hichilema, with opposition leaders calling for the family to be allowed to proceed according to their wishes as the standoff stretches close to 10 months.
Lungu’s remains have remained in a mortuary in South Africa since his death in June last year, a situation that has unsettled both political actors and sections of the public, and raised questions about how the country is handling the passing of a former head of State.
Socialist Party leader Dr Fred M’membe said the prolonged delay reflects a failure to address the matter with compassion and clarity, stating that it is difficult to reconcile the situation with the country’s stated values. He questioned how Zambia could claim to uphold its principles when such a matter remains unresolved for this length of time.
M’membe said the responsibility to determine burial arrangements should rest with the family, urging President Hichilema to allow the process to proceed in line with Lungu’s wishes. He described the continued impasse as unnecessary, adding that it has prolonged uncertainty and emotional strain.
Former Patriotic Front deputy secretary general Mumbi Phiri echoed those concerns, stating that the matter should not have reached this stage. She said the delay has been painful for the family and difficult for many Zambians to understand, given the time that has already passed.
Phiri pointed to Zimbabwe’s handling of the burial of former President Robert Mugabe, where the government respected the decisions of the family even when they differed from State expectations. She said that example demonstrates that it is possible to separate State interests from family wishes without diminishing the authority of the presidency.
She questioned why a similar approach had not been adopted in Zambia, adding that the continued insistence on controlling the process has kept the matter unresolved. Phiri said the situation has created discomfort among citizens who expect closure and dignity in the handling of such a moment.
The dispute has been compounded by legal proceedings, with the Attorney General having initiated court action that has effectively kept the matter in dispute. Phiri said withdrawal of the case would allow the family to proceed without further delay, bringing an end to the uncertainty surrounding the burial.
The issue has gradually shifted from a private family matter into a national concern, with its prolonged nature drawing attention to how authority is exercised in sensitive situations. The absence of a clear timeline or resolution has allowed the matter to remain active in public discussion.
At the centre of the standoff is a question that has not been clearly answered: who ultimately determines how a former president is buried — the State or the family?
Traditionally, the State has played a role in the burial of former heads of State, particularly where national honours are involved. But the current situation has exposed tension between that role and the expectations of the family, with neither side appearing to have reached a workable position.
The continued delay has also meant that the issue remains tied to political discourse, with statements from various actors shaping public perception. Each passing month without resolution adds to the sense of incompleteness surrounding the matter.
For the family, the delay has meant an extended period without closure. For the country, it has meant a lingering issue that refuses to settle.
There has been no detailed update from authorities outlining how the matter will be resolved or when the burial will take place. That silence has kept the situation open, with calls for clarity continuing from different quarters.
The longer the matter remains unresolved, the more it draws attention to the processes behind it.
What began as a moment of national mourning has turned into an ongoing standoff, one that now sits at the intersection of law, politics, and personal loss.
RESIGNATIONS ROCK SOCIALIST PARTY AS SENIOR YOUTH LEADERS STEP DOWN
Lusaka, April 6, 2026
The Socialist Party (SP) has been rocked by the abrupt resignation of several senior youth officials, including newly appointed National Youth Secretary Richard Bravo Mulenga, who stepped down less than 24 hours after his appointment.
Mr. Mulenga, who previously served as National Youth Deputy Secretary for two years, resigned from both his position and his membership in the party.
Also resigning is Francis Shula, the National Youth Vice Chairperson for Politics and a member of the Central Committee, who has stepped down with immediate effect and relinquished his party membership.
Others who have resigned include National Youth Treasurer Ngambo Queen Machayi and National Youth Vice Mobilisation Coordinator Martha Shula. Both officials have vacated their positions and withdrawn their membership from the Socialist Party.
The officials expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve at the national level and conveyed their best wishes to the party in its future endeavours.
LT. GEN. SOLOCHI’S CONDUCT IS UNDERMINING THE MILITARY – M’MEMBE
It is imperative that the military maintains a discreet profile, prioritizes its mission, and eschews any semblance of corruption or favouritism, thereby upholding the trust and integrity that is paramount, particularly in Zambia where transparency is of utmost importance.
By adopting a humble demeanour, soldiers and service personnel can remain focused on their duties, unencumbered by distractions, and reinforce the notion that their role is to serve the nation, not to accumulate personal wealth.
Emphasizing political neutrality is crucial, as it ensures the military remains a stable institution. The practice of using money inducements to garner popularity by Zambia National Service Commandant Lieutenant General Maliti Solochi is detrimental, as it erodes the authority of Zambia National Service and fosters distrust
Rather, respect should be earned through commendable actions, not purchased. When soldiers and service personnel prioritize service and integrity, they cultivate genuine relationships with the community.
Conversely, using financial means to influence others can lead to perceptions of corruption or favouritism, thereby tarnishing the reputation of the military or the service and straining relationships. It is essential to preserve that trust and respect.
We would like to naturally advise Lieutenant General Solochi to desist from the practice of distributing money and instead focus on fostering genuine connections with the community. This can be achieved by engaging with the populace, listening to their concerns, and demonstrating empathy. It is advisable to volunteer time and skills rather than offering money handouts, as true respect is earned, not bought. Acknowledging past actions, offering apologies where necessary, and working towards rebuilding trust is the appropriate course of action.
As Commandant, it is recommended that Lt Gen Solochi cease the flow of money and instead invest time in community engagement, understand the needs of the community, and demonstrate genuine care. Leadership by example, demonstrating integrity, and prioritizing the welfare of troops, service personnel, and the community will yield positive outcomes.
Influence should stem from actions, not handouts, and trust should be rebuilt through transparency and service. In Zambia, the Zambia Defence Force Act, Chapter 106, outlines the expected conduct and discipline of military personnel, with Section 61 (1) highlighting the importance of maintaining order and discipline.
The Public Service Regulations are also pertinent in this context. As Commandant of the Zambia National Service, Lieutenant General Solochi should be cognisant of his position in society and refrain from actions that may compromise the integrity of the uniform and the office he represents. The uniform and office of Commandant should be regarded as symbols of duty, discipline, and sacrifice, rather than mere attire or a position of power, as this can lead to public confusion, erosion of trust, and potential criminal activity.
The Public Service Regulations in Zambia stress the importance of maintaining integrity, impartiality, and professionalism, prohibiting the use of official positions for personal gain or to influence others through gifts or favours. Regulation 45 (1) (b) and (c) specifically address conduct that upholds public trust.
The regulations emphasize that public officers, including soldiers, should uphold high standards of integrity and avoid actions that may compromise their position or the public’s trust. Distributing money for popularity may be viewed as a breach of these regulations, potentially leading to disciplinary action. As Commandant, Lt Gen Solochi should be aware of these regulations and their implications. Happy Easter to you all.
Fred M’membe People’s Pact 2026 Presidential Candidate and President of Socialist Party
There is a dangerous and intellectually dishonest narrative emerging in the wake of the funeral arrangements for Edgar Chagwa Lungu. It is a narrative carefully crafted to shift blame onto Hakainde Hichilema while disguising what are clearly political calculations masquerading as “family wishes.”
Let us be clear from the outset. This is not about dignity. This is not about grief. And it is certainly not about protocol. This is about control, optics, and an attempt to weaponise a national moment for narrow political ends.
The argument being advanced, that the Lungu family has not rejected a state funeral but merely the presence of President Hichilema, is not only flawed. It is fundamentally contradictory. A state funeral is not a private ceremony. It is a sovereign act of the Republic.
You cannot claim the full honours, the military precision, the national resources, and the symbolic weight of a state funeral while simultaneously attempting to exclude the embodiment of that very State. That is not how governance works. That is not how protocol functions. That is not how nations conduct themselves.
A state funeral without the sitting Head of State is not a state funeral in its full constitutional and symbolic sense. It becomes a compromised ceremony, diluted by political bargaining and stripped of its national character. Those pushing this narrative must answer a simple question. What exactly is being protected by excluding the sitting President?
If the answer is “the wishes of the deceased,” then we must also ask whether those alleged wishes are being selectively interpreted and politically deployed. Because in any functioning democracy, the death of a former Head of State transcends personal preferences. It becomes a matter of national importance governed by law, tradition, and institutional respect.
There is no credible precedent where a former President is accorded full state honours while the sitting President is deliberately barred. Such a position is not only irregular. It is confrontational. What we are witnessing is an attempt to separate governance from politics only when it is convenient. That is intellectual dishonesty of the highest order.
Governance does not operate in fragments. The office of the President is not a ceremonial inconvenience that can be switched on and off depending on personal comfort. Whether one likes it or not, President Hakainde Hichilema is the duly elected Head of State of Zambia. His presence at a state funeral is not about personality. It is about the continuity of the Republic.
To suggest that he should be excluded while the State still carries the burden of honouring his predecessor is to demand benefits without accepting institutional reality.That is not compromise. That is entitlement.
It is also important to expose the underlying motive behind this posture. By creating a public standoff over the President’s presence, certain actors are deliberately manufacturing a narrative of insensitivity and conflict. It is a political trap designed to portray the government as uncompromising, regardless of the concessions already on the table.
This is not new in Zambian politics. Moments of national mourning have often been exploited for political mileage. What is new, however, is the extent to which institutional norms are being challenged in the process. Let us separate emotion from principle.
Respecting the dead is important. But so is respecting the State.The two are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they must coexist. President Hichilema’s offer of a state funeral is not an act of political opportunism. It is a constitutional duty and a gesture of national unity. It acknowledges that regardless of political differences, Edgar Chagwa Lungu once held the highest office in the land and deserves to be honoured accordingly. But honour cannot be conditional on the exclusion of the very office that confers it.This is where the current argument collapses under its own weight.
Those blaming President Hichilema for delays or tension must confront an uncomfortable truth. The impasse is not being driven by the State’s refusal to honour the former President. It is being driven by an insistence to redefine what a state funeral should look like, in a way that undermines established governance norms. That is the real issue.
Zambia must be careful not to set a precedent where national ceremonies are dictated by political preferences rather than institutional frameworks. Today it may be about one President. Tomorrow it may be about the erosion of the State itself. Leadership, at its core, is about rising above personal and political differences in moments that demand national unity. This is one such moment.
The path forward is not to dilute the State. It is to respect it fully.If we are to honour the legacy of Edgar Chagwa Lungu, then we must do so in a manner that reflects the dignity of the office he once held. And that dignity is inseparable from the presence of the current custodian of that office. Anything less is not respect. It is revisionism disguised as compassion.
The Politics of Death Must Not Override the Authority of the State.
WHAT WILL PRESIDENT HAKAINDE HICHILEMA SAY ON THE FIRST MEMORIAL DAY OF EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU?- Thandiwe Ketiš Ngoma
By Thandiwe Ketiš Ngoma
As the first memorial day of Zambia’s 6th Republican President, Edgar Chagwa Lungu, approaches, a painful and troubling question confronts the conscience of the nation. President Lungu passed away on 5th June, 2025 in South Africa, a moment that plunged many Zambians into grief and reflection over the life of a man who once carried the highest office in the land.
Yet as this solemn anniversary draws near, another troubling reality remains. What will President Hakainde Hichilema say on that day if the body of the former Head of State is still lying in a mortuary in South Africa?
What explanation will be given to the people of Zambia if a man who once led this nation cannot even be laid to rest in dignity because of a dispute over who must preside over his funeral?
Mr. President, the nation is watching. And the nation is asking.
Why must the body of Edgar Chagwa Lungu remain in a mortuary while his widow, Madam Esther Lungu, and his family continue to grieve without closure?
Why is it so important for you to preside over his funeral when the family says the deceased himself made it clear that this should not happen?
Why has a grieving family been dragged to court simply for trying to respect the final wishes of their husband, father, and loved one?
What kind of leadership takes a widow to court while her husband’s body still lies in a mortuary?
These are not small questions. These are questions that go to the very heart of our humanity as a nation.
In African culture, death is sacred. The final wishes of the deceased are treated with the deepest respect. The burial of the dead is not a political event. It is a sacred moment of dignity, closure, and peace for the family and for the nation.
Yet today Zambia faces an unimaginable reality: a former President who died on 5th June, 2025, far from home in South Africa, remains unburied while power struggles overshadow the sacred duty of laying the dead to rest.
Mr. President, what will you say when the first memorial day comes?
Will you stand before the nation and speak about unity while the body of Edgar Chagwa Lungu still lies in a foreign mortuary?
Will you speak about reconciliation while the family continues to fight legal battles simply to honor the wishes of their loved one?
Will you ask the nation to remember the former President with dignity while his own final wishes remain contested?
Or will you finally answer the question that so many Zambians are asking in frustration and disbelief:
Why is it so difficult to simply allow a family to bury their loved one according to his wishes?
Edgar Chagwa Lungu was not just a politician. He was a husband, a father, and a citizen of Zambia. He was a man who once carried the responsibilities of the highest office in the land.
Regardless of political differences, the dignity of death must never be turned into a battlefield for power.
Mr. President, this moment calls not for authority, but for compassion. Not for control, but for humility. Not for legal battles, but for humanity.
The people of Zambia will remember what happens here.
They will remember whether the nation allowed its former leader to rest in peace—or whether power stood in the way of dignity.
And as that first memorial day approaches, one question will continue to echo across the nation:
Mr. President, what will you say about Edgar Chagwa Lungu if his body is still lying in a mortuary?
MULAZA KAIRA DONATES PAVERS TO NCHANGA CATHOLIC PARISH, EMPHASIZES COMMUNITY SERVICE
Aspiring Member of Parliament for Nchanga Constituency, Mulaza Kaira, says leadership is about laying strong foundations for communities, just as Jesus Christ did through His sacrifice.
Mr. Kaira, popularly known as Macky 2, said this when he joined congregants at Nchanga 12 Apostles Catholic Parish, where he donated pavers aimed at improving the church grounds.
He stated that a safe and dignified place of worship was important, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children, noting that the donation was a modest contribution towards enhancing the church environment.
Mr. Kaira explained that the gesture was meant to support the church’s continued efforts to maintain a welcoming space for worshippers, adding that faith institutions play a critical role in strengthening communities.
He further stressed that his vision for Nchanga was anchored on service, humility, unity and love, values he believed were essential in fostering development.
Mr. Kaira reaffirmed his commitment to working with the people of Nchanga to build a stronger and more united community, expressing confidence that collective effort would drive progress in the constituency.
DEFECTIONS TO UPND SIGNAL GROWING CONFIDENCE IN GOVT AGENDA – VICE PRESIDENT
Vice President W.K. Mutale-Nalumango has disclosed that a growing number of individuals, including councilors and Council Chairpersons from opposition ranks, are defecting to the UPND, citing increased confidence in the government’s development agenda.
Speaking following her engagements across districts in Luapula Province, Dr. Mutale-Nalumango said she had consistently received groups of people opting to join the ruling party, many of whom previously served under the former governing party.
She explained that the decision by these individuals to align themselves with the UPND was a clear indication of their recognition of the developmental policies being implemented under President Hakainde Hichilema.
The Vice President further noted that citizens from various backgrounds were increasingly appreciating and understanding the government’s vision, which is anchored on national progress and unity.
Dr. Mutale-Nalumango emphasized that the continued influx of new members into the party reflects a broader national consensus in support of the country’s development trajectory.
🇿🇲 BRIEFING | M’membe Calls for Closure in Lungu Burial Dispute
Socialist Party leader Fred M’membe has renewed pressure on government to resolve the prolonged impasse surrounding the burial of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, describing the situation as a moral and national failure.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Easter Sunday, Dr M’membe expressed concern that nearly ten months after his death, the former Head of State remains in the mortuary, questioning both the country’s values and leadership response. He framed the issue not just as political, but as deeply human and cultural, calling for compassion and dignity in handling the matter.
“What kind of a country have we become?” he asked, adding that Zambia’s identity as a Christian nation is being tested by its inability to resolve the burial in a “compassionate and reasonable way.”
Dr M’membe urged President Hakainde Hichilema and his administration to allow the family to proceed with burial arrangements in line with the late president’s wishes. He emphasized that the appeal is grounded in “love for this country, humanity and the Lungu family,” rather than political contestation.
The remarks come amid continued silence or unresolved positions from key stakeholders, with the burial of the former president increasingly becoming a sensitive national issue that intersects law, tradition, family wishes and state protocol.
Dr M’membe concluded with a direct appeal for closure, stating that the nation must allow the former president’s “spirit to rest in peace,” signalling growing public and political pressure for resolution.
Lieutenant General Maliti Solochi is facing mounting calls for investigation after he was seen distributing cash to students at the University of Zambia during a period of unrest linked to sanitation failures and the death of a student.
The incident, which occurred during an official visit to the campus, has drawn criticism from political figures and raised questions about the conduct of security institutions in civilian spaces. Former Home Affairs Minister Katele Kalumba said the actions were unacceptable for a senior officer and warned that they undermine the integrity expected of a defence wing leader.
Kalumba said the conduct required immediate scrutiny, questioning the origin of the money and whether proper procedures were followed. He argued that a military commander engaging in such public displays risks blurring institutional boundaries, particularly in a politically sensitive environment where students had already mobilised over poor living conditions.
Leadership Movement president Richard Silumbe added that the Anti-Corruption Commission should open investigations into possible abuse of office and corruption-related offences. He said the act of distributing money in public, especially in a context linked to student unrest, raised concerns about intent and accountability.
The controversy unfolded against the backdrop of tensions at the University of Zambia, where students had protested over persistent sanitation challenges, erratic water supply, and a fatal incident involving a fellow student who died in a trench filled with sewer waste. The conditions had triggered anger among students, with demonstrations spilling onto the Great East Road.
At the time of Solochi’s visit, students were regrouping and planning further protests. The distribution of cash occurred within that context, with critics suggesting the action may have influenced the momentum of demonstrations.
Kalumba said security institutions are expected to operate within strict professional limits and avoid actions that may be interpreted as political or coercive. He stated that the Zambia National Service, like other defence structures, is not mandated to engage in political activity or influence civilian processes.
Silumbe said the matter reflects broader concerns about governance and institutional independence, arguing that oversight bodies must act decisively when questions arise involving public officials. He said failure to investigate would weaken public confidence in accountability systems.
Former Defence Minister Richwell Siamunene also criticised the conduct, describing it as inappropriate and inconsistent with the expected discipline of security leadership. He said even where assistance is intended, the manner and setting of delivery must align with institutional standards.
Government officials have defended the incident, suggesting the distribution of money may have been an act of compassion in response to student needs. However, the explanation has not eased concerns among critics who argue that such actions must be transparent and procedurally sound.
The situation has widened into a broader discussion about the role of state actors in managing public unrest, particularly in environments such as universities where grievances often reflect deeper systemic issues. At UNZA, sanitation and infrastructure problems have persisted over time, with repeated complaints from students about living conditions.
Health authorities have also confirmed ongoing public health concerns, with cholera cases continuing to be recorded in Lusaka, including areas connected to student populations. The overlap between sanitation challenges and health risks has intensified scrutiny on institutional responses.
Parallel to the Solochi controversy, legal concerns have also emerged around policing practices, following criticism from lawyer Milner Katolo regarding the handling of businessman Valden Findlay. Katolo described the arrest process as irregular and said authorities should adhere strictly to due process.
The convergence of these issues campus conditions, policing standards, and conduct of security officials has placed governance systems under close public observation. Questions are now being raised about consistency, accountability, and the limits of authority across institutions.
The Anti-Corruption Commission has not issued a formal statement on the Solochi matter, leaving uncertainty over whether an investigation will be initiated. The absence of immediate clarification has sustained public attention on the issue.
Zelensky Visits Syria, Pushes Ukrainian Drone Tech Amid Iran War
Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Damascus and held talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa as part of his ongoing Middle East tour.
The meeting, which took place on April 5 local time, is part of Kyiv’s broader effort to expand security cooperation in the region amid escalating conflict involving Iran.
Zelenskyy is reportedly seeking agreements focused on military collaboration, particularly promoting Ukraine’s battlefield-tested drone technology in exchange for cooperation related to air defense systems.
The visit underscores Ukraine’s attempt to position itself as a key security partner beyond Europe, leveraging its wartime experience to build strategic ties in the Middle East.
Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claim responsibility for the killing of Majid Khademi.
The IDF has written on Telegram that his killing is “another severe blow” to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
When it comes to Iran acknowledging the deaths of its senior commanders in the recent war, most examples involve Iran confirming their deaths only after Israel or the US has claimed responsibility. However, this time Iran announced it earlier.
Khademi was appointed as the commander of the IRGC intelligence organisation four days after his predecessor, Mohammad Kazemi, was killed in an Israeli attack on 15 June 2025.
Back in August last year, Khademi urged parliament to prioritise the completion of a domestic intranet, saying it was needed to “safeguard the sovereignty” of Iran’s cyberspace.
Iran is currently still under an internet blackout since the war began on 28 February, although some domestic websites and apps remain accessible within the country.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced in a statement published by Iranian news outlets that their intelligence chief, Majid Khademi, has been killed.
The statement says he was killed this morning and has accused Israel and the US of targeting him.
I’ve reached out to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and they say they’ll “look into” the report.
Khademi had replaced Mohammad Kazemi, who was also killed in an Israeli attack on 15 June 2025 during the 12-day Iran-Israel war.
Back in February, following deadly anti-government protests in January, Khademi had accused US President Donald Trump of fuelling what Iranian officials have described as a “staged murder” strategy, aimed at increasing casualties to justify foreign military intervention.
Khademi had claimed during that time that more than 10 foreign intelligence services, including Israel’s cyber warfare and intelligence unit 8200, played a role in the protests that swept across Iran. According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 7,000 people were killed in the January crackdown.
Iran Releases Images of Mojtaba Khamenei Inside War Room, Displaying Israeli Nuclear Site
Iranian state media has released images showing Mojtaba Khamenei during his first visit to a military command center (war room).
Inside the facility, a large display prominently featured the Negev Nuclear Research Center, also widely known as the Dimona Nuclear Reactor, located in the Negev desert, Israel.
The screen clearly displayed the label “DIMONA NUCLEAR REACTOR” along with geographic coordinates 31.0013°N 35.1445°E, matching the actual location of the site.
The presence of such imagery inside a military command environment is likely to intensify concerns over escalating tensions and the potential targeting of strategic nuclear infrastructure.
Images of Mojtaba Khamenei Inside War Room, Displaying Israeli Nuclear Site
Iranian state media has released images showing Mojtaba Khamenei during his first visit to a military command center (war room).
Inside the facility, a large display prominently featured the Negev Nuclear Research Center, also widely known as the Dimona Nuclear Reactor, located in the Negev desert, Israel.
The screen clearly displayed the label “DIMONA NUCLEAR REACTOR” along with geographic coordinates 31.0013°N 35.1445°E, matching the actual location of the site.
The presence of such imagery inside a military command environment is likely to intensify concerns over escalating tensions and the potential targeting of strategic nuclear infrastructure.
US and Israel Seal Ironclad Strike Plan to Hammer Iran
The United States and Israel have finalized a detailed coordinated strike framework targeting Iran, complete with a joint target list and clear division of roles between American forces and the IDF.
The agreement was locked in after high-level talks between IDF Chief Eyal Zamir and CENTCOM leadership, positioning the allies for decisive action if Tehran rejects America’s ultimatum.
Israeli planners are driving hard to prioritize hits on energy infrastructure and key national assets, delivering maximum economic pain to the mullahs in Tehran and choking their terror-sponsoring regime.
White House approval remains the final step, but preparations are complete. The message is clear: America and Israel stand ready to protect their interests and crush Iran’s threats.
IRAN’S LAST CHANCE: REZA PAHLAVI TELLS IRGC TO SURRENDER OR BURN THE NATION
Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi delivered a blunt warning to the commanders of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps: the mullahs’ theocratic nightmare is finished, and it’s time to abandon ship before they leave behind nothing but ruins.
In a direct open letter posted on April 5, 2026, Pahlavi laid out the hard truth as U.S. and Israeli forces dominate Iranian skies amid the escalating 2026 conflict.
“Today, few doubt that little remains of the Velayat-e Faqih dictatorship but a half-dead body,” he wrote. “As a result of five decades of warmongering and crimes, you are the real decision-makers of this collapsing system.”
Pahlavi slammed the IRGC’s disastrous policies for turning Iran into a battlefield. “Your misguided regional policies and apocalyptic madness have brought the theater of war to Iran,” he stated. “Because you used it not for our people but instead militarized it, our country’s economic infrastructure is now in the crosshairs of two powers that have been roaming Iran’s skies for weeks.”
He stressed that these assets belong to the Iranian people, not the regime’s thugs. “This infrastructure was built with the national wealth of Iran and is vital for the country’s reconstruction.”
The prince made clear the regime’s days are numbered, and the only question left is how ugly the end will be. “The corrupt regime of the Islamic Republic is on its way out. Your choice is not between survival and collapse; it is about how you collapse. The end of the current path is the delivery of a scorched earth to the Iranian nation following your inevitable downfall.”
Pahlavi’s message was a patriotic call to reason, urging the IRGC leaders to put Iran first for once. “For the sake of Iran, for yourselves, and for your children, abandon this adventurism and warmongering. Do not leave Iran more bloodstained and wounded than it already is. Allow the country’s infrastructure to be preserved for the Iranian nation. Stop your crimes. Step down from power.”
This is no time for half-measures. The IRGC has spent decades enriching itself, spreading terror, and dragging Iran into endless conflicts while ordinary Iranians suffer. Pahlavi’s appeal cuts through the regime’s lies and offers a clear path: defect, stand down, and let a free Iran rebuild without the stain of more pointless destruction.
The clock is ticking. Iran’s future hangs on whether these commanders finally choose the nation over a dying dictatorship.
Iran Slams Door on Peace: Rejects US Offer to Reopen Vital Oil Chokepoint
Iran has thumbed its nose at a straightforward American proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for a temporary ceasefire, according to reports.
Mediation attempts by Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan collapsed as Tehran branded US demands “unacceptable” and refused to show up for talks in Islamabad. The regime is digging in, prioritizing control over the critical waterway—which carries one-fifth of the world’s oil—over any de-escalation.
This stubborn defiance comes amid broader tensions, with Iran countering by demanding war reparations and formal recognition of its dominance in the Strait. While the US has pushed for guarantees of safe passage and an end to proxy mischief, the mullahs are playing hardball, stalling diplomacy and raising the risk of wider conflict that could spike energy prices and threaten global stability.
America’s patience has limits. Weakness invites aggression—Tehran’s rejection only underscores why strength and clear red lines are the only language these regimes understand.
Sources: Wall Street Journal Seeking Alpha Ynet News Reuters reports via multiple outlets
IAEA Chief Sounds Alarm: Iran Has Enough Near-Weapons-Grade Uranium for Multiple Nuclear Warheads
International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi delivered a sobering warning about Iran’s massive stockpile of 60 percent enriched uranium, material that sits just steps from weapons-grade and is hidden largely underground.
“Part of this material is a lot, so even if you move part of it, you could still have amounts that would be enough to manufacture a few warheads,” Grossi said in the interview.
The bulk of the dangerous inventory remains at Isfahan, with the rest at Natanz. Grossi confirmed the vast majority is stored in fortified Isfahan facilities. “The vast majority is in Isfahan and there is some somewhere else,” he stated, adding it accounts for more than 70 percent, or perhaps a little less.
He pointed to the troubling reality of accumulation without any credible civilian purpose. “The accumulation of a very big stockpile of highly enriched uranium, very close to military-grade, without any justifiable reason,” Grossi noted.
This comes even after U.S.-Israeli strikes last year damaged enrichment sites but left the bulk of the stockpile intact and beyond full IAEA oversight. The warning underscores Iran’s ongoing march toward nuclear breakout capability.
TRUMP’S TWEETS TRIGGER MASS PARANOIA IN TEHRAN AS IRGC CRACKS DOWN HARD
President Donald Trump’s relentless social media pressure and claims of direct talks with Iranian commanders have unleashed total chaos inside Tehran, exposing the regime’s deep fractures and forcing hardliners to clamp down on suspected traitors.
Israeli Channel 14 analyst Dror Balazada put it plainly: “Trump’s psychological war and his tweets on social media have a great impact on Iran.”
The Revolutionary Guards are in full panic mode. IRGC chief Ahmad Vahidi issued ironclad orders restricting all messaging: “Only you can transmit our messages through Pakistan to Americans.” That was the only instruction handed down.
Now the regime is eating itself alive over leaks. Balazada explained the fear gripping the top brass: “If Trump is talking, who can deny my instruction that only Ghalibaf can talk to Pakistanis to transmit our messages to the Americans?”
Suspicion has zeroed in on reformist Javad Zarif. The former foreign minister has been quietly pushing a sweeping surrender deal with the United States: restrictions on the nuclear program, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, lifting all sanctions, guarantees of no more attacks on Iran, and even full diplomatic relations.
Hardliners in the IRGC are furious and want blood. They are already moving to expose Zarif, smear the reformist camp, and throw him in prison.
Trump is dismantling the regime from within without firing a single shot, turning Iran’s own leaders against each other as maximum pressure delivers results.
🚨365 AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS HAVE BEEN WOUNDED. 13 KILLED-A total of 365 American service members have been injured as part of U.S. operations against Iran, according to newly released Pentagon figures.
Iran War, Day 37. Here are the 10 latest updates you should probably know…
1. PRESIDENT TRUMP JUST SET A DEADLINE. TUESDAY 8PM. “EVERY POWER PLANT IN IRAN GOES DARK.”
Trump told the Wall Street Journal the U.S. will destroy “every power plant” in Iran if the country doesn’t reopen the Strait of Hormuz by Tuesday.
“If they don’t do something by Tuesday evening, they won’t have any power plants and they won’t have any bridges standing.”
He then posted on Truth Social:
“Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one. Open the F***in’ Strait, you crazy bastards, or you’ll be living in Hell — JUST WATCH!”
.
Iran’s response: The strait won’t reopen until Iran is “fully compensated” for war damages.
2. DELTA FORCE AND SEAL TEAM SIX WERE INSIDE IRAN. BOTH.
The elite Army Delta Force and Navy SEAL Team Six were among the hundreds of special operations troops involved in the rescue of the U.S. Air Force colonel stranded inside Iran.
The injured officer was ultimately rescued following two days of risky operations after his F-15E was shot down during a night mission in southwestern Iran.
3. IRAN CLAIMS IT DESTROYED TWO C-130s AND TWO BLACK HAWKS DURING THE RESCUE.
The IRGC claimed on Sunday that Iranian forces destroyed two C-130 aircraft and two Black Hawk helicopters during the rescue operation for the U.S. pilot in southern Isfahan.
It also claimed to have destroyed an MQ-9 Reaper drone during the operation.
4. IRAN STRUCK ORACLE’S OFFICE BUILDING IN DUBAI.
Iran targeted Oracle’s multistory office building in Dubai overnight.
Authorities said debris fell on the facade of the building.
The apparent drone attack occurred when offices would normally be empty and no injuries were reported.
Iran said the attack was in response to the attempted assassination of former Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharazi — who was severely wounded while his wife was killed.
5. THE FEDERAL RESERVE IS NOW ALARMED. INTEREST RATE CUTS FOR 2026 ARE IN JEOPARDY.
Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago President Austan Goolsbee said the Iran war risks fueling inflation, making it harder for the Fed to ease interest rates in 2026.
Before the conflict, he was confident the Fed could cut its benchmark rate this year.
That optimism has waned as the war drives up oil and fuel prices.
6. 365 AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS HAVE BEEN WOUNDED. 13 KILLED.
A total of 365 American service members have been injured as part of U.S. operations against Iran, according to newly released Pentagon figures.
247 are Army, 63 Navy, 19 Marines, and 36 Air Force.
7. IRAN HIT KUWAIT AGAIN. POWER PLANTS AND DESALINATION FACILITIES.
Two Kuwaiti power and water desalination plants were damaged by Iranian drone attacks on Sunday, causing the shutdown of two electricity generating units.
Kuwait has now had its oil refinery, power plants, and water supply all targeted.
8. IRAN FIRED ON U.S. BASES IN JORDAN OVERNIGHT.
The Iranian military announced it attacked U.S. bases in Jordan overnight.
Saudi Arabia also reported the interception and destruction of an Iranian cruise missile.
9. PAKISTAN AND EGYPT ARE NOW THE SECRET BACK CHANNEL BETWEEN WASHINGTON AND TEHRAN ACCORDING TO PAKISTAN
Pakistan and Egypt are among the countries channeling communications between U.S. and Iranian officials, a Pakistani official source confirmed to CNN on Sunday.
Iran has rejected these claims multiple times.
10. THE HUMAN TOLL. 6,833 CASUALTIES EVACUATED TO HOSPITALS IN ISRAEL ALONE.
As of Sunday April 5, 6,833 casualties had been evacuated to hospitals in Israel since the war began.
In Lebanon, more than 1,400 people have been killed. Iran reports over 2,076 dead and 26,500 wounded. . . . This is Day 37.
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In a deeply disturbing case that has shocked the local community, police in Mwanza have arrested a 36-year-old man for allegedly defiling and impregnating his 15-year-old daughter. The suspect reportedly committed the act under the belief that it would bring him supernatural wealth.
The suspect, identified as Rafiki Robert, is alleged to have repeatedly abused his daughter after being advised by a traditional healer (sing’anga) that incestuous acts with his own offspring were a prerequisite for becoming rich.
According to Mwanza Police spokesperson Hope Kasakula, Robert did not rely solely on force but used small sums of money to silence the minor.
On the first occasion, he reportedly gave the girl K2,000. During a subsequent encounter, he gave her K1,000.
The horrific abuse came to light after the 15-year-old girl fell pregnant. Upon discovering the pregnancy, Robert reportedly pressured his wife to find a way to terminate it. His sudden and desperate insistence on an abortion raised red flags for the mother.
Suspicious of the situation, the mother questioned her daughter, who eventually confessed that her own father was responsible for the pregnancy. “The suspect claims he was following instructions from a traditional healer to perform these acts in exchange for wealth,” said Kasakula. “He is currently in custody and will face charges of defilement.”
Rafiki Robert hails from Chilala Village, under Senior Chief Kanduku in Mwanza District. He is expected to appear in court once preliminary investigations are finalized.
Police have condemned the act, describing it as a gross violation of child rights and a heartbreaking example of how harmful superstitions can tear families apart
Attack on Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Plant Could Trigger Regional Catastrophe Across the Gulf
An attack on Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant would not only impact Iran but could trigger a large-scale humanitarian, environmental, and economic disaster across the entire Gulf region, according to analysis reported by Al Jazeera.
The Bushehr facility, Iran’s only operational nuclear power plant, is located along the Persian Gulf coastline, placing it dangerously close to major population centers and critical regional infrastructure. Experts warn that any direct strike on the reactor or its cooling systems could lead to a nuclear accident similar to past global disasters, with radioactive material potentially spreading across multiple countries.
One of the most critical risks lies in the plant’s reliance on seawater cooling. If damaged, the reactor could overheat, potentially causing core meltdown scenarios and hydrogen explosions. Such an event would release radioactive isotopes into the air and sea, contaminating marine ecosystems and coastlines across the Gulf.
The consequences would extend far beyond Iran. Gulf nations rely heavily on desalination plants for drinking water, many of which draw directly from Gulf waters. Radioactive contamination could disrupt freshwater supplies for millions of people in countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
Additionally, prevailing winds and shared marine currents mean radiation would not remain localized. Experts warn that contamination could spread rapidly across borders, affecting fisheries, agriculture, and public health throughout the region for decades.
The plant also stores significant quantities of nuclear fuel and radioactive waste. Any breach could release long-lasting radiation, amplifying the scale of the disaster and making large areas uninhabitable.
Recent incidents have heightened these concerns. Projectiles have already struck near the Bushehr facility during ongoing hostilities, prompting warnings from international bodies that attacks on nuclear infrastructure must be avoided under all circumstances due to the extreme risks involved.
Global health authorities and nuclear watchdogs have stressed that even a limited strike could have irreversible consequences, potentially affecting generations through increased cancer risks, environmental degradation, and long-term displacement.
As tensions continue to escalate, the situation underscores the severe dangers of military operations near nuclear facilities, where even a single miscalculation could trigger a disaster impacting the entire Gulf region and beyond.
U.S. Justifies Destruction of MC-130J in Iran Over Sensitive Technology Risks
Amid conflicting reports over the fate of U.S. aircraft in Iran, American sources and security analysts have emphasized the critical importance of the destroyed MC-130J , stating that its onboard systems represent highly sensitive military technology.
According to these assessments, the primary reason for the alleged self-destruction of the aircraft was to prevent advanced systems from falling into Iranian hands. These include the AN/APQ-187 Silent Knight radar, designed for low-altitude terrain-following operations in complex environments, as well as encrypted satellite communication systems used in global special operations missions.
In addition, the aircraft is equipped with sophisticated electronic warfare suites capable of countering incoming missile threats—technology considered highly classified and strategically valuable.
Beyond its technological assets, the MC-130J also functions as a mobile command platform for personnel recovery missions, including the deployment of elite Pararescue (PJ) teams, onboard medical support, and aerial refueling systems for helicopters operating in hostile territory.
Reports further suggest the aircraft may carry auxiliary systems such as drones or light rotary assets, along with onboard defensive weaponry used to provide suppression fire during high-risk extraction operations.
If confirmed, the loss or destruction of such an aircraft underscores the extreme sensitivity of U.S. special operations capabilities and highlights why denial of technology capture remains a top operational priority.
WOW: Even MTG Turns on Trump After He Skips Easter Service to Threaten Iran
Marjorie Taylor Greene spent years as one of Donald Trump’s most reliable defenders in Congress. On Easter Sunday, she became one of his harshest critics.
After Trump opened the holiest day on the Christian calendar with a profanity-laced social media post threatening to bomb Iranian power plants and bridges, Greene had seen enough. She took to X and declared flatly that the president is not a Christian, calling on everyone in his administration who claims to be a believer to stop worshipping the man and start confronting his behavior.
“Everyone in his administration that claims to be a Christian needs to fall on their knees and beg forgiveness from God and stop worshipping the President and intervene in Trump’s madness,” she wrote.
Greene, who has branded herself a Christian Nationalist, pointed out the glaring contradiction at the heart of Trump’s Easter message. He had claimed to be liberating the Iranian people while simultaneously threatening to destroy the civilian infrastructure those same people depend on to survive. She reminded her followers that Jesus commanded his followers to love and forgive, even their enemies, and that Easter of all days should call Christians toward peace, not escalation.
She also called out the broken promise at the center of Trump’s 2024 campaign, the pledge to end foreign wars, saying that what is happening now is not what voters were told to expect and calling it outright evil.
Trump, meanwhile, skipped Easter church services entirely and spent the day on a motorcade tour of Washington, including a stop near the site where he hopes to construct a monument to himself, before heading to his golf club.
Greene resigned from Congress earlier this year as her relationship with Trump deteriorated. On Sunday, she made clear just how far that split has gone.
