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12 Arrested for Attempting to Desecrate Prophetess Alice Lenshina’s Grave

12 Arrested for Attempting to Desecrate Prophetess Alice Lenshina’s Grave


A Tanzanian witch finder identified only as Nkungulupe is on the run after police in Chinsali busted a witchcraft mission targeting the grave of the late Alice Mulenga Lubusha Lenshina, the founder of the Lumpa Church.



Police say on Tuesday, August 19, around 11:00 hours, Nkungulupe and a village committee in Kabungo, Chief Nkula’s area, were preparing to “remove charms” from Lenshina’s grave – a move completely against the norms of the Jerusalem Church.



Acting swiftly, officers pounced and arrested Joseph Lameck, 28, from Tanzania, believed to be Nkungulupe’s disciple, and Mutale Shadrick, 23, of Kasama’s Tazara Compound, said to be the interpreter. Both were locked up for professing knowledge of witchcraft.



Also nabbed was Headman Laston Katongo, 47, who faces charges of encouraging witchcraft. But the witch finder himself – the man causing all the drama – escaped with some of his men and remains on the run.



Hours later, drama shifted to Chinsali Police Station when villagers from Kabungo stormed the offices, chanting, insulting and demanding the release of the suspects. The situation quickly turned sour, and police arrested nine villagers for disorderly conduct.



Those arrested include Wile Mathews (22), Chimfwembe Nevers (17), Chimfwembe Willis (71), Manna Damasha (29), Katongo John (32), Mumbake Alice (32), Katongo Prisca and two juveniles.



All 12 suspects are now in custody and will appear in court soon. Meanwhile, police have launched a manhunt for Nkungulupe, the Tanzanian witch finder who has sparked fear and confusion across Kabungo and surrounding areas.



Muchinga Police Commissioner Denis Moola has since issued a stern warning:

“Whosoever will be found wanting will not be spared but face the law. These acts of witch-finding and branding others as witches have brought nothing but confusion and loss of lives in our province and the country at large,” he said.



Police are urging the public to assist with information that could lead to Nkungulupe’s arrest and are warning would-be witch finders to stop before the law catches up with them.

EFF STATEMENT ON THE UNITED STATES’ INTERFERENCE IN SOUTH AFRICA’S RELATIONS WITH IRAN AND RAMAPHOSA’S INTERFERENCE WITH THE MILITARY

EFF STATEMENT ON THE UNITED STATES’ INTERFERENCE IN SOUTH AFRICA’S RELATIONS WITH IRAN AND RAMAPHOSA’S INTERFERENCE WITH THE MILITARY



Thursday, 21 August 2025.

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes the recent reports that the United States government has expressed “great concern” and is demanding clarity from South Africa regarding the visit by the Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) General Rudzani Maphwanya to the Islamic Republic of Iran. We reject, with contempt, this arrogant posture by the United States, which presumes that South Africa owes it explanations for its sovereign diplomatic and military engagements. Equally we are appalled by our government’s interference with the work of the Military – this is a conduct unbecoming of a constitutional state.



South Africa is an independent nation and we reserve the right to pursue trade, economic, diplomatic, and military relations with whomever we deem fit, including Iran. South Africa with Iran belongs to the grouping of the BRICS countries that collaborate on social political and military matters. The enemies of the United States do not automatically constitute themselves as the enemies of South Africa, nor will our engagements be dictated by their shifting hostilities. This particular engagement with Iran was planned well before current tensions, dating back to 2024, and cannot be dismissed on the basis of temporary geopolitical disputes between the United States and Iran.



The hypocrisy of the United States is laid bare in its audacity to question South Africa’s sovereign choices. The same United States openly provides billions of dollars in military aid to Israel, a settler-colonial regime engaged in genocide against the people of Palestine, and to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, a nation with which South Africa maintains friendly relations. At no point has South Africa demanded an explanation or threatened its relations with the United States for arming those who kill and oppress our allies. Yet they presume that they can police our engagements with Iran, a sovereign state which has consistently stood on the side of Palestine and the oppressed.


It is now clear why President Cyril Ramaphosa distanced himself from this visit, presenting it as if the Chief of the SANDF had gone rogue. In reality, he sought to downplay the engagement, anticipating America’s displeasure and bending once more to the need to appease Donald Trump. This cowardly behaviour is consistent with the behaviour he displayed when he was in the Oval Office, unable to assert South Africa’s independence in the face of imperial arrogance. Ramaphosa’s actions expose a leadership that is timid and incapable of defending the dignity of our nation.



The most concerning issue in this regard is the apparent political interference with the military by the President and his executive. We support the independence of the military whose activities cannot be dictated to by politicians including their commander in chief. We reject calls for the Military to enter the diplomatic realm by of meting out any apology as part of aiding a spineless approach that Ramaphosa has demonstrated so far in his dealings with the United States.



The EFF reaffirms its support for Iran’s right to self-defence against imperialist aggression and for its role as an ally of Palestine in the struggle against Israeli genocide. South Africa must not succumb to bullying and intimidation from the United States. We must continue to engage freely with Iran and all other nations we choose to, without reducing our foreign policy to the emotions of Donald Trump or any other American president.



General Rudzani Maphwanya, the Chief of SANDF, must firmly reject any attempts by politicians to control our Army. His primary constitutional responsibility is to safeguard the people of South Africa, not to appease political agendas. Now is the critical moment for the SANDF forces to assert their presence, particularly as South Africa grapples with a leadership crisis contributing to soaring levels of poverty, rampant corruption, alarming unemployment rates, and a rising cost of living.



The United States must face the reality that the era of unilateral global dominance is over. The world is shifting towards a multipolar order, where nations engage with each other as equals, not as subordinates of Washington. The EFF, therefore, calls on the South African government to remain firm and principled, and to assert our right to determine our diplomatic, economic, and military relations.



ISSUED BY THE ECONOMIC FREEDOM FIGHTERS
Sinawo Thambo (National Spokesperson) 072 629 7422
Thembi Msane (National Spokesperson) 061 467 8169
Andiswa Madikazi (Parliament Media Liaison) 069 516 4924
Thato Lebyane (Media Intern) 078 563 1581

communications@effonline.org
http://www.effonline.org
@EFFSouthAfrica
Economic Freedom Fighters
@EFFSouthAfrica

Former ANC Youth League leader sentenced to 20 years for corruption

Former ANC Youth League leader sentenced to 20 years for corruption



Rubben Mohlaloga, former Deputy President of the ANC Youth League, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after losing his final appeal at the Supreme Court of Appeal.



Mohlaloga was convicted of fraud and money laundering for his role in diverting R6 million in Agri-BEE funds from the Land Bank. The funds, intended to support emerging farmers, were instead used to finance luxury purchases.



The court ruled that the sentence was not “shockingly inappropriate,” highlighting the gravity of the crime and the breach of public trust.



Once seen as a rising star from youth leadership to Parliament and later the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA). Mohlaloga’s career now ends in disgrace behind bars.

Supreme Court orders Nestlé Zambia to pay over K13 million in taxes

NESTLÉ ZAMBIA ORDERED TO PAY OVER K13 MILLION IN TAXES


Nestlé Zambia has been ordered to pay K13.8 million to the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) following a ruling by the Supreme Court of Zambia on 20th August, 2025.



The ruling in favour of ZRA follows a transfer pricing audit conducted by the Authority with respect to Nestlé Zambia Trading Limited’s (Nestlé Zambia) operations on the basis that Nestlé had consistently reported losses for a period of five years, between 2010 and 2014.


The Zambia Revenue Authority issued an assessment adjusting Nestlé Zambia’s profit to K56,579,048 and levied a gross tax of K13,860,103. Nestlé Zambia lodged an appeal with the Tax Appeals Tribunal in Lusaka.



The Six grounds of appeal included allegations of wrongful assessment by the Zambia Revenue Authority and the allegation that ZRA issued its assessment on the basis that Nestlé Zambia could not run at a loss since incorporation, but disregarded Nestlé Zambia’s reasons for the losses and allegations that the Authority failed to objectively test the related party transactions, but rather relied on (unreasonable) assumptions and estimates.



Nestle Zambia also alleged that ZRA characterized the company as a limited risk distributor, when Nestlé Zambia performs functions, builds customer relationships and assumes risks akin to a fully-fledged distributor.



Another allegation was that ZRA’s benchmarking study was neither comparable to the nature of its business nor the economic conditions in Zambia because the Authority used comparables from the Western world.



The company also alleged that the Zambia Revenue Authority added back unrealized foreign exchange losses due to financial assistance, that were not included as part of expenses in the financial statements.



Nestle Zambia succeeded on five out of the six grounds of appeal submitted.

Dissatisfied with the judgement of the Tribunal, ZRA appealed to the Supreme Court, contending that the Appeals Tribunal erred when it improperly shifted the burden of proof to the ZRA.



ZRA further argued that the Tax Appeals Tribunal erred in law when it held that the transactions between the Respondent and its related parties could not be aggregated but should have been tested individually contrary to globally established guidelines on Transfer Pricing for developing countries and the evidence tendered at trial. 



In delivering the ruling, Judge of the Supreme Court, Kajimanga Kabuka Chisanga agreed with ZRA’s arguments as it was supported by evidence and facts at trial.



Nestle will now have to pay its tax liability of K13,860,103.



Issued by:
Oliver Nzala
ZRA Corporate Communications Manager

Ramaphosa faces court battle over magistrates’ 34% salary hike demand

Ramaphosa faces court battle over magistrates’ 34% salary hike demand

President Cyril Ramaphosa faces a looming court battle with the Association of Regional Magistrates of Southern Africa (Armsa), which is demanding the implementation of a recommended 34% salary increase for magistrates.



The Gauteng High Court recently struck Armsa’s urgent application off the roll after the Presidency filed last-minute papers, intensifying the standoff.


Armsa president Ian Cox insists the hike, recommended by the Independent Remuneration Commission (IRC), is needed to correct more than a decade of below-inflation adjustments.


Magistrates currently earn between R45,000 and R55,000 a month, far less than MPs, mayors and traditional leaders.



The dispute highlights a clash between judicial independence and government’s efforts to contain its R740 billion wage bill. Armsa also criticised Ramaphosa for failing to fill IRC vacancies until after court papers were filed, with the court ordering wasted costs against him.



While the Presidency has said it will respond in court, Armsa has vowed to pursue further legal action if implementation is delayed.


The row has sparked debate over whether underpaying magistrates threatens the rule of law, or whether a 34% increase is untenable in South Africa’s strained economy.

Journalist questions claims of deterioration in Lungu’s remains, urges urgent inspection

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Journalist questions claims of deterioration in Lungu’s remains, urges urgent inspection

JOURNALIST Mabvuto Phiri has questioned reports suggesting that the remains of late former president Edgar Lungu, currently held in a South African mortuary, may be deteriorating due to delays caused by ongoing court battles.

Phiri was reacting to reports that Two Mountain Funeral Company, currently holding the former president’s remains in South Africa, warned that the condition of Lungu’s body could be compromised if burial arrangements continue to stall.

Lungu died on June 5, 2025 in South Africa and is yet to be buried following legal proceedings birthed from the former first family’s insistence to bury him in that country while the Zambian Government wants to give him a State Funeral in Zambia.

Phiri argued that the claims by Two Mountains were highly questionable pointing out that the body has been in custody for less than two months.

Phiri further cautioned that the delays could psychologically prepare the public for a funeral without the traditional body viewing.

“At the rate we are moving, it is likely that we will hear the remains have been damaged to unrecognisable levels, which may further confuse the already divided opinion,” Phiri observed.

The journalist also raised concerns that undertakers might use the situation to justify unauthorised actions, such as recommending cremation before the legal case is resolved.

To avoid such complications, he called on government and the Lungu family to expedite the inspection of the body, agree on associated costs, and proceed with DNA analysis where necessary.

By Sharon Zulu

Kalemba August 21, 2024

UPND SG STOPS MEMBERS FROM COMMENTING ON LUNGU BURIAL

UPND DIRECTS MEMBERS TO SUSPEND STATEMENTS ON BURIAL OF SIXTH PRESIDENT DR. EDGAR C. LUNGU



The United Party for National Development (UPND) has directed all its officials and members to refrain from issuing any public statements concerning the burial arrangements of the late Sixth President, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu.



In a statement issued by UPND Secretary General Mr. Batuke Imenda, the party emphasized that all communication regarding the burial will be handled strictly through official Government channels.


“Due to recent developments concerning the burial of the Sixth President, Dr. Edgar C. Lungu, all UPND officials and members are directed to avoid making any public statements on this issue,” Mr. Imenda stated.



He further urged members to exercise patience and await formal updates, while encouraging them to keep the former First Family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time of mourning.

© UPND Media Team

SUSPENSION OF STATEMENTS REGARDING THE BURIAL OF SIXTH PRESIDENT DR. EDGAR C. LUNGU


PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release 
20 August 2025



Due to recent developments concerning the burial of the Sixth President, Dr. Edgar C. Lungu, all UPND officials and members are directed to abstain from making any public statements on this issue.



Members and officials are requested to await official updates and instructions issued through Government channels.



We appreciate your cooperation and understanding in adhering to this directive.


Let us continue to keep the former First Family in our prayers during this difficult time of mourning.



Signed,

Mr. Batuke Imenda 
UPND Secretary General

HONOURABLE KAFWAYA SAYS ZAMBIA’S ECONOMY IS “COLLAPSED” AS POLITICAL CONTROVERSIES MOUNT

HONOURABLE KAFWAYA SAYS ZAMBIA’S ECONOMY IS “COLLAPSED” AS POLITICAL CONTROVERSIES MOUNT



By Brian Matambo – Sandton, South African

DEATH AT A PROMINENT FARM
On Emmanuel Mwamba Verified (EMV), Lunte Member of Parliament and former Minister of Transport and Communications, Honourable Mutotwe Kafwaya, delivered a blistering critique of the United Party for National Development (UPND) government, tying together three crises that have unsettled Zambia in recent weeks.



He first addressed the brutal killing of 22-year-old Enock Simfukwe, who died after being beaten and tortured at a farm linked to Maria Zaloumis, popularly known as “Zed Farmer,” the daughter of Electoral Commission of Zambia Chairperson, Mwangala Zaloumis. Despite a leaked video showing her present at the scene, police quickly ruled her out as a suspect, sparking widespread outrage. “If a death occurs at your farm, and you are present and fail to stop it, you are a co-conspirator,” Ambassador Mwamba said, echoing public sentiment that the police may be shielding the powerful.



Honourable Kafwaya called the case a reflection of deeper systemic rot. “Justice which is not balanced, justice which is not taking everybody to account, is shameful for government. Zambia needs to return to a system that offers fairness and support to its people,” he said.


HICHILEMA’S SON AND THE ARMY CONTROVERSY
The broadcast also revisited the controversy surrounding President Hakainde Hichilema’s son, Lieutenant Habwela Hichilema, who was quietly recruited and commissioned as an officer in the Zambia National Service under a concealed name. The government initially claimed he was part of a voluntary training scheme, only later admitting he was a regular officer.



“The problem is not the young man’s choice of career,” Honourable Kafwaya argued, “but the duplicity of the father.” He noted the president had publicly promised none of his children would serve in the public sector, only for evidence to show otherwise. “Most of his pronouncements never come true. He promised cheap fuel, he promised unity, but none of those promises have become a reality,” Kafwaya said, warning that such contradictions erode public trust.



A COLLAPSED ECONOMY
On the economy, Honourable Kafwaya dismissed government claims of stability and growth, calling Zambia’s situation “terrible” and “collapsed.” He highlighted company closures, job losses, and the crippling impact of up to 19 hours of daily load-shedding. “There is literally no business in our country. Our economy has collapsed,” he said, pointing to the closure of manufacturing firms and the export of copper concentrates as policies that destroy local jobs and revenue.



He accused UPND of reckless spending, noting that in four years it had spent 872 billion kwacha, more than double the 443 billion kwacha spent by the Patriotic Front in a similar period, yet delivered “no tangible development.” He criticized the absence of published audits at the Ministry of Health and ZAMMSA, alleging massive corruption and financial leaks. “At the same time UPND has allowed billions of dollars to fly out of the country through illicit financial flows. Until accountability is restored, Zambia will not develop,” he warned.



CALL FOR OPPOSITION UNITY
Honourable Kafwaya closed with a call for opposition parties to unite under a single front. “There is no question about that. We must demonstrate unity in the PF and invite other parties to join forces so that we can remove UPND, which has doubled spending and done nothing,” he said, confirming that he remains in the race for Patriotic Front presidency ahead of the party’s convention.



Callers from Zambia, the UK, and Botswana echoed his concerns, pressing for opposition coordination, accountability in Parliament, and reforms to reduce presidential powers. Ambassador Mwamba concluded the broadcast by framing the 2026 elections as “Independence 2.0,” urging Zambians to rescue the nation from economic collapse and political duplicity.

In Defense of Principle: This Is About Integrity, Not Lt. Habwela- Ephraim Shakafuswa

In Defense of Principle: This Is About Integrity, Not Lt. Habwela



By Ephraim Shakafuswa

I have seen your comments and as a listening leader lol! here is the clarity! Let’s get one thing straight from the beginning: this is not about Lt. Habwela Hichilema. He is a citizen with the right to choose his path, serve his country, and build a life of his own. What this is about — is leadership, integrity, and the dangerous precedent of political privilege.


Zambians Were Promised a Different Kind of Leadership. President Hakainde Hichilema didn’t just win an election — he won trust. He set himself apart from the politics of nepotism, favoritism, and dynasty. He looked Zambians in the eye and said: “My children will not work in government.” “They will not do business with government.” “We are not like those who used public office to benefit family.” That was not a whisper. It was a loud, repeated declaration — and it’s a big part of why many people gave him their vote.
Now, we see his son, Lt. Habwela, in a ZNS uniform, saluted on national television, turned into a political symbol of “discipline” and “humility.” Whether or not he earned his place on merit is not the point. The issue is: why the double standard? Why the selective outrage?



Africa Has Seen This Before — And It Starts Small. We must not ignore the regional warning signs. This is how dynastic politics begins — not with big declarations, but with quiet exceptions, PR stunts, and rationalizations. In Uganda, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba — President Museveni’s son — now openly positions himself as successor.


In Zimbabwe, the Mnangagwa children and in-laws are entangled in state tenders, influence peddling, and public controversy.


In Rwanda, the Kagame family enjoys near untouchable status, with tight control over political and economic power.
In Equatorial Guinea, Teodorin Obiang is now Vice President, following in his father’s long dictatorial footsteps.
It always starts small — and then it becomes normalized. Before long, power is inherited, not earned. And when citizens raise concerns, they are told they are “bitter,” “petty,” or “unpatriotic.” We must not allow that in Zambia.



No One Is Attacking the Son — We’re Holding the Father Accountable. Let’s stop pretending this is about blocking a young man’s dreams. That’s not only misleading — it’s dismissive. This is about a President who made a public commitment to Zambians — and is now asking us to forget it. Yes, Lt. Habwela may have joined ZNS on his own volition. But would any ordinary Zambian youth have quietly passed through training, only to be revealed post-graduation, with a camera-ready script and national rollout? If it was truly about humility and discipline, why the photo ops? Why the state-driven narrative? This was not a private moment. It was a crafted message — and that’s where integrity comes in.



This Is Not About the Law — It’s About Trust. No one said it’s illegal for the President’s child to serve. That’s not the point. The point is that leadership is built on trust, not just legality. And trust comes from consistency — from saying what you mean, and standing by it even when it’s inconvenient. You cannot build a brand on morality and merit — and then ask to be judged by convenience and exception.
We Must Say No to Privileged Access Disguised as Patriotism.

Zambians are not foolish. They know the difference between equal opportunity and strategic positioning. They remember how past leaders were criticized for letting their children benefit from state resources. The same must apply today — or else we admit that we were only angry then because the beneficiaries weren’t “ours.” We must say no to the sanitization of privilege. We must say no to grooming political heirs under the cover of public service. And we must say no to breaking promises under the pretext of family freedom.



In Closing: Zambia Must Not Set the Wrong Precedent. If we normalize this, we open the door for more — quietly, gradually, and then irreversibly. We do not want to wake up one day to find ourselves explaining why a President’s child is Defence Minister, or heading parastatals, or being positioned as a successor. That’s not democracy. That’s dynasty. And Zambia must reject it at the root — before it becomes a tree too big to cut down.


So no, this is not about bitterness. It is not about the young man. It is about protecting the soul of our democracy — and demanding that our leaders respect the promises they made in the light, not just the ones they whisper when it’s politically convenient. We will keep remembering. We will keep asking. Because this country belongs to all of us — not just the privileged few.



A Citizen Who Remembers — and Will Not Be Gaslit Into Silence

BALLY FIXING IT DELIVERING ON HIS CAMPAIGN PROMISES:
KWENYU AFTER KWENYU AFTER KWENYU

20/8/25

BALLY FIXING IT DELIVERING ON HIS CAMPAIGN PROMISES:
KWENYU AFTER KWENYU AFTER KWENYU


————————————————

A good road network is vital in the transportation of people, goods and services.

Since ascending to the highest office in the land in 2021, President Hakainde Hichilema has made good on his campaign promises especially on a good road network in the country.


More so, the singing of the contract for the long awaited Katunda- Lukulu- Watopa- Mumbezhi road is indeed a milestone as this is a road that has been used as a political dangling carrot by previous administrations during election campaigns to get votes, but unfortunately never attended to.



However, President Hichilema’s campaign promise to upgrade the said Katunda- Lukulu- Watopa- Mumbezhi road has come to pass and has been fulfilled with the signing of the contract for the road.



This has also exposed and shamed his critics whose only political song day in and day out is to mislead the nation that President Hichilema doesn’t fulfil his campaign promises, when in fact he fulfils his campaign promises.


Western Province which was for a long time neglected as it is a far flung rural province and not along the line of rail, is now getting a fair share of the national cake in terms of getting the roads worked on, particularly the Mongu – Lusaka road which was in deplorable state for many years yet this is an important economic road, but unfortunately never attended to by previous administrations, again it’s another campaign promise fulfilled by President Hichilema as the road is currently under construction from Tateyoyo to Katunda turn off.



Further, another major road earmarked for construction to commence in due course is the Kalabo – Sikongo – Angola road from Tapo to the Angolan border, which will also be an important economic road for both Zambia and Angola once constructed.



The people of Western Province are indeed solidly behind the leadership of President Hichilema as he has demonstrated political will to walk his talk by fulfilling his campaign promises to the people of Western Province.



It’s for these reasons among many others including free education, increased CDF and infrastructure development that the people of Western Province say ” Hakainde Hichilema Habulezi Hapumi ” meaning when Hakainde Hichilema Promises He Delivers.

Spuki Mulemwa
Western Province UPND Media Team.

Stop Peddling Lies Kasebamashila Kaseba , HH Is Building Zambia

Stop Peddling Lies Kasebamashila Kaseba , HH Is Building Zambia

Tobbius Chilembo Hamunkoyo-LLB

Kasebamashila, take your propaganda , madness and bitterness far from President Hakainde Hichilema.



Your desperate attempt to brand him as his own enemy is empty noise. The majority who voted for Hakainde Hichilema, know very well that he is a focused, intelligent, and disciplined leader whose success in business, politics, and governance is traceable and undeniable. Unlike your bitter ranting, he remains unmoved, committed to delivering results that Zambians can see.


Even your own followers dismiss your claims because they see the truth — your bitterness holds no weight against HH’s progress.



The Constitution itself defeats your accusations. Article 11 of our constitution guarantees rights and freedoms, which HH has expanded through reforms such as repealing the death penalty in 2022 in line with Zambia’s international human rights obligations.



Further, Article 18 guarantees equality before the law, and it is under HH that long-standing impunity is being dismantled. That is not dictatorship; that is justice and democracy working as they should.


Your attempt to twist the mining narrative also fails. HH’s commissioning of the $1.25 billion North-Western Province Kansanshi mine expansion is fully lawful and transformative, creating thousands of jobs and growing national revenue under the Mines and Minerals Development Act.


Compare that to the chaos of the illegal Mufumbwe gold rush that claimed lives. HH is not his own enemy , he is the enemy of corruption, illegality, and poverty. Zambia has moved on, and your bitterness has been brushed aside.

NOTHING WRONG WITH HABWELA BEING CONSCRIPTED INTO ZNS – KAMPYONGO

NOTHING WRONG WITH HABWELA BEING CONSCRIPTED INTO ZNS – KAMPYONGO



STEPHEN Kampyongo has questioned the morality of President Hakainde Hichilema’s declaration than none of his children was going to seek a government job when he allowed his son, Habwela to be enlisted into the Zambia National Service (ZNS)


Mr Kampyongo, the Patriotic Front (PF) Shiwang’andu Member of Parliament has however defended Habwela for having chosen to join the ZNS, stating that President Hichilema’s son was a Zambian and a citizen with the full rights to seek employment in government.


Mr Kampyongo, a former Minister of Home Affairs under the Ptriotic Front said it was perfectly normal for Habwela to join the ZNS but raised moral issues over the matter as the head of State was on record that he would never allow his children to be employed by government.


Mr Kampyongo, who has frequently been vocal about the current government’s policies, said in an interview yesterday that the decision to enlist the President’s son was not an issue, emphasising that Second Lieutenant Habwela Hichilema, like any Zambian citizen, was entitled to serve his country.


“There is nothing wrong with the recruitment of the President’s son. He is a citizen, just like any other Zambian. There is no need to politicise this,” Mr Kampyongo said during a live interview.
He said that the real issue lay in addressing the “moral question” regarding the recruitment and the transparency around the process.


“The real issue here is the moral question,” Mr Kampyongo said. “What is crucial now is to ensure that we do not allow political rhetoric to cloud the professionalism of our security services. People should focus on the process, not just the individual involved.”


Mr Kampyongo also raised concerns about the broader state of the Zambia Defence Forces, questioning the government’s allocation of resources to the armed forces in light of the increasing number of recruits.


He stated that while the numbers of soldiers are rising, there were significant deficiencies in the equipment, accommodation, and overall welfare of the men and women in uniform.


“How are we equipping our defence forces? How are we ensuring they have proper accommodation and adequate rations?” Mr Kampyongo said, referencing a recent parliamentary report that highlighted a series of deficiencies within the country’s defence system.


“Reports from Parliament show that the status of our defence forces is not in good shape. Their accommodation, containment, and even basic provisions like troop carriers and rations are severely lacking,” Mr Kampyongo said.


He said the increase in the number of defence personnel should correspond with proper resource allocation.
“You can increase the numbers, but if you do not properly equip the forces and ensure their well-being, it becomes meaningless,” he said, During the PF tenure, we were working towards expanding housing units for the defence forces, but now, under this administration, these projects have stalled. The government must ensure that both the numbers and the resources align,” Mr Kampyongo said.


He also raised concerns about the morale and welfare of the forces, specifically mentioning the lack of proper allowances, settlement packages, and insufficient resources for the growing ranks of soldiers.
“The most critical issue is the resources we are allocating to the defence forces. Are we ensuring their morale is high and they are properly compensated? How are their basic needs being met?” Mr Kampyongo questioned.


His statements come amid increasing scrutiny of the government’s handling of national defense, with critics calling for better management and funding of the armed forces.

Haabazoka  overrrating HH’s performance – Economic Association of Zambia (EAZ)

By Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba

It’s good that Economic Association of Zambia (EAZ) has called bluff, my dear brother, Dr. Lubinda Haabazoka’s statemnt and rating of President Hakainde Hichilema’s so-called fiscal discipline of 9/10.



This is because;

1. After debt restructure, Zambia is paying more money in debt service, of about $1billion each year for the next few years. Is this prudent?



2. The corruption, the wastage, the theft and literally plunder of national resources as shown by the Auditor General’s Report.



3.FINANCE and National Planning Minister Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane presented a supplementary budget of K33.6 billion ($1.5billion) to the National Assembly. Why supplementary budget?



Dr Musokotwane said out of the recommended K33.6 billion, K11.0 billion had been allocated to Loans and Investments for dismantling outstanding fuel arrears. This is after Dr. Musokotwane presented a K217 billion ($9.4billion) 2025 national budget that was designed to cater for all matters including the main items that re-appeared in the supplementary budget.



4. The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) detected $3.5 billion in suspected illicit financial flows during 2024 and a higher number in 2025.



5.Parliament opens on Friday 12th September 2025 to Friday, 15th May, 2026. Musokotwane is expected to present another National Budget,the 2026 Budget. This is a 245 day or eight month window before Parliament is dissooved and we go to general elections.


I see panic and public resources will be directed to popular things that can make the governmentfavourable in the upcoming elections and fiscal indiscipline will be at its worst.

So where is the fiscal discipline?

“State Witness Admits: ‘I Don’t Know What Sean Tembo Did’”

“State Witness Admits: ‘I Don’t Know What Tembo Did’”

In a courtroom moment that could rival a comedy skit, the State’s first witness in the case against Patriots for Economic Progress (PeP) president Sean Tembo admitted she had absolutely no idea what crime he was supposed to have committed.



Testifying before Chief Resident Magistrate Davies Chibwili, State witness Margaret Chienda, a registration officer at the Register of Societies, was asked by Defense Counsel Leon Lemba if she knew the offense Tembo had committed. Her answer was a flat, unshaken, “No.”



At that point, one could almost hear courtroom benches creak from suppressed laughter.

Tembo is charged with using insulting language against President Hakainde Hichilema a case that, judging from the witness stand, seems to have been built on the scaffolding of thin air.



With no other witnesses in sight, the case stumbled and adjourned until today, leaving the courtroom with more questions than answers.


Magistrate Chibwili, clearly unimpressed, warned the State against wasting the court’s time. “Next time, come prepared,” he cautioned, in what could easily pass as a polite way of saying, “Don’t waste my coffee break.”



For now, the trial continues or rather limps along with the State still expected to produce witnesses who, unlike Chienda, might actually know why they’re in court.

©️ KUMWESU | August 20, 2025

AIPAC COMMENDS POLICE OVER SWIFT ACTION IN SIMFUKWE MURDER CASE

AIPAC COMMENDS POLICE OVER SWIFT ACTION IN SIMFUKWE MURDER CASE

The Action Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) has praised the Zambia Police Service for what it describes as a prompt and effective response in the ongoing investigation into the murder of 22-year-old Enock Simfukwe.



In a statement issued on Wednesday, AIPAC Executive Director Solomon Ngoma commended the police for swiftly moving in on suspects linked to the case, saying the action demonstrates the service’s commitment to upholding law and order.



“We commend the Zambia Police for their prompt and effective response in arresting suspects connected to the Enoch Simfukwe murder case. This swift action demonstrates the police force’s commitment to maintaining law and order, and ensuring justice is served,” Ngoma said.



He noted that the diligence and professionalism displayed by the officers sends a strong message that crime will not be tolerated in society.

Ngoma further urged the police to continue with a comprehensive and impartial investigation to ensure that justice is fully achieved.



“It is essential that all necessary steps are taken to bring the perpetrators to justice and provide closure to the family and loved ones of the deceased,” he said.



AIPAC reiterated its commitment to promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability, emphasizing that the rule of law is a cornerstone of Zambia’s development and stability.



“We call on all parties to allow the police to do their job diligently and investigate smoothly, without interference or undue influence. We are confident that the police will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, and that justice will be served,” Ngoma stated.



The think tank has since pledged to follow the case closely until its conclusion, expressing confidence that justice will prevail.

MWEETWA SLAMS LATE ASPIRANTS EYEING RULING PARTY ADOPTION 

MWEETWA SLAMS LATE ASPIRANTS EYEING RULING PARTY ADOPTION 



Choma Central Member of Parliament, Cornelius Mweetwa, has criticised individuals now seeking parliamentary adoption under the ruling party, simply because circumstances appear favourable. 


He made the remarks on Tuesday evening during the handover of a health post in Munzuma, after receiving praise from a local headman who urged him to continue as MP beyond 2026. 


Mweetwa noted that some of those now seeking adoption were nowhere to be seen when the United Party for National Development (UPND) faced hardship in opposition. 



He stated that politics is not about handing out meat to people, but about delivering meaningful development, as is currently being seen under the UPND administration. 



Earlier, Headman Chipepa of Cooma chiefdom observed that even without campaigning, Mweetwa remains the people’s choice due to his dedication to development. 


He added that government efforts are now visible in rural areas through the construction of health posts and classroom blocks, bringing essential services closer to the people.

Byta FM

KANCHIBIYA COUNCIL CHAIR PRAISES PRESIDENT HH’S AGRICULTURE POLICY

KANCHIBIYA COUNCIL CHAIR PRAISES PRESIDENT HH’S AGRICULTURE POLICY


What citizens see from their Leaders, they follow, president HH will turn all of us into Farmers – Chota



This powerful image of Kanchibiya Council Chairperson Kanungwe Chota Kanyanyamina, standing proudly before a bounty of maize, is a testament to the strength and vision of female leadership. Her actions serve as a beacon, reminding us all that when women are empowered, they not only lead but also cultivate prosperity and progress for their entire community.



Her leadership and the remarkable harvest in Kanchibiya are tangible proof that the face of agriculture is changing. It’s time to recognize the immense potential of Zambia’s northern regions.

We are seeing a historic shift where the maize belt is no longer solely defined by Southern Province. Instead, it is rapidly expanding and taking root in Muchinga, Luapula, and Northern provinces.



Chairperson Kanyanyamina’s bold invitation to acquire farmland is not just an opportunity for individuals; it’s a strategic call to action that will redefine Zambia’s agricultural future.

This is a moment to learn from her example and invest in the rich, arable lands that promise to feed our nation for generations to come.

MASS VOTER REGISTRATION WILL BE INCLUSIVE – ECZ CHAIRPERSON

MASS VOTER REGISTRATION WILL BE INCLUSIVE – ECZ CHAIRPERSON

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis has assured Zambians that the Mass Voter Registration scheduled to start on 13th October this year will be very inclusive.



Ms. Zaloumis said this when she officially opened the Provincial Meeting in the 2025 Mass Voter Registration Exercise at Liseli Lodge in Mongu.



The ECZ Chairperson stressed that the forthcoming Mass Registration of Voters will ensure that no eligible citizen is left out.



She disclosed that the Commission will have a new register of voters by April, 2026.

Ms. Zaloumis implored participants to ensure that they deliver a credible voter exercise, adding that it is very important to have accountability in the electoral process.



The purpose of this meeting is;
✅To orient officers on their roles in the 2025 Mass Voter Registration exercise.

✅To update officers on the revised timelines in the 2026 General Election Roadmap relating to voter registration; and



✅To guide the development of accurate and inclusive deployment plans that will ensure coverage of all registration centres across the 116 districts.



The provincial meeting has brought together Principal officers who are District Electoral Officers,  Finance officers, DVEC coordinators, Human Resource coordinators, and procurement officers from all the 16 districts.



Other officers attending the meeting include Auditors, cashiers, and District Voter Education Officers.
The meeting is expected to close on Friday.

 Public Relations Unit
MMC

TANZANIAN NATIONAL ON THE RUN FOR GRAVE RITUALS IN CHINSALI

TANZANIAN NATIONAL ON THE RUN FOR GRAVE RITUALS IN CHINSALI



Police in Chinsali District are looking for a Tanzanian national accused of leading villagers in rituals at the grave of Alice Lenshina, the founder of the Lumpa Church.



The man, known as a Nkungulupe, is said to have encouraged followers to remove charms from Lenshina’s burial site in Kabungo village, Chief Nkula’s area, on 19 August.



Muchinga Police Commissioner, Dennis Moola has said two of his alleged associates were arrested.


Mr. Moola has idenfied the arrested duo as 28-year-old Joseph Lameck, a Tanzanian described as one of Nkungulupe’s disciples, and 23-year-old Shadrick Mutale from Kasama, who acted as an interpreter.



He has further said the village headman, Laston Katongo, was also detained for reportedly supporting the activities.



The police chief has explained that members of the Jerusalem Church, a splinter group of the Lumpa Church strongly objected to the rituals, saying the move violated their beliefs.



Mr Moola added that the arrests resulted in protests from the Villagers who  marched to Chinsali police station demanding the release of those in custody, leading to the detention of nine more people for disorderly conduct.



He has since appealed to the public for information that could help apprehend Nkungulupe, who remains at large.

Nakonde FM

LIVINGSTONE COUNCILLORS REJECT K2 MILLION WASTE TRUCK OVER PRICE ROW

LIVINGSTONE COUNCILLORS REJECT K2 MILLION WASTE TRUCK OVER PRICE ROW



COUNCILLORS at the Livingstone City Council, Southern Zambia have rejected the handover of a newly procured skip-bin truck, citing questionable pricing.



The truck, which was expected to help address mounting waste challenges in public places, has become the subject of controversy after it was pegged at K2 million Constituency Development Fund CDF.



Concerns have emerged both within the council and the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Committee, with members questioning how the vehicle could cost such an amount. Some allege the truck may not even be brand new to justify the figure.



In protest, several councilors have boycotted today’s scheduled CDF handover ceremony, where the truck was meant to be officially presented to the community. Some CDF Committee members have also expressed interest in the matter, demanding clarity.


Meanwhile, the Livingstone City Council’s Public Relations Unit is yet to comment as public debate over procurement process grows.

Diamond TV

Zambia Capital Markets Conference and Awards 2025 Unveiled

Zambia Capital Markets Conference and Awards 2025 Unveiled

The Lusaka Securities Exchange Plc (LuSE) has officially launched preparations for the Zambia Capital Markets Conference and Awards (ZCMCA) 2025, with a strong call to leverage capital markets for inclusive economic growth.


Speaking at the press briefing, Ms. Lina Lungu, Head of Business Development at LuSE, underscored the importance of the upcoming event, noting that the capital markets remain a critical engine for channeling investments into Zambia’s economy.



The media briefing, held in Lusaka, brought together key stakeholders including the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, the Bank of Zambia, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Capital Markets Association of Zambia (CMAZ), and various corporate sponsors.



This year’s conference, set for 2nd–3rd October 2025 in Livingstone, will run under the theme “Unlocking Capital Markets for Inclusive Economic Growth.” Organizers say the gathering will provide a platform to engage policymakers, regulators, institutional investors, and issuers on reforms and innovations needed to deepen the local capital market.



“The ringing of the LuSE bell today is symbolic. It signals that Zambia’s capital markets are preparing for greater participation, innovation, and recognition of outstanding players in the sector,” Ms. Lungu said.


The Zambia Capital Markets Conference and Awards, first introduced to strengthen dialogue and recognize excellence in the industry, will feature panel discussions, keynote presentations, and an awards gala to celebrate institutions and individuals driving market growth.



With Zambia seeking to expand investment flows and attract both local and international capital, the 2025 edition is expected to spotlight financing opportunities in infrastructure, green finance, and SMEs.


Stakeholders have emphasized the need for increased awareness, stronger investor protection, and the development of new products to boost liquidity and broaden market access.

©️ KUMWESU | August 2025

Kariba Dam to be tested for leaks

Kariba Dam to be tested for leaks

PUBLIC NOTICE: Leakage Test on Sluice 6 – Kariba Dam



As part of the Kariba Dam Rehabilitation Project (KDRP), the FINAL controlled leakage test will be conducted on Thursday, 21st August 2025 at 17:00hrs, following the successful completion of refurbishment works on Sluice 6. Similar tests have already been safely carried out on Sluices 1 to 5.



💧 During the test, about 1,500 cubic metres of water will be released. To give context, this is only enough to generate electricity for roughly 3 seconds – a small, carefully managed release.


This test is a standard engineering procedure to confirm that the newly refurbished gate is operating exactly as intended.


✅ Please note:
a. This is a planned and controlled activity.
b. No cause for alarm – the test will be closely monitored by experts.
c. The gate will be shut immediately after the test once all checks are confirmed.



🎥 Want to learn more about the Kariba Dam Rehabilitation Project (KDRP)?
Watch this short video 👉 https://youtu.be/Fs-RJ3K7xvU

📺 Previous leakage test videos are available here 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@zambeziriverauthority798

#KaribaDam #ZambeziRiverAuthority #KDRP #SafetyFirst #EngineeringWorks #PublicNotice #InfrastructureUpdate

HON. HAIMBE MULAMBO HAILS REOPENING OF ISRAELI EMBASSY IN ZAMBIA

HON. HAIMBE MULAMBO HAILS REOPENING OF ISRAELI EMBASSY IN ZAMBIA



By Dennis Sikazwe Jr

Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Haimbe Mulambo has described the reopening of the Israeli Embassy in Zambia as a historic milestone that will strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.


The embassy, which had been closed for more than five decades, has now been officially reopened, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in key areas such as trade, agriculture, science and technology, health, climate change, and cultural exchange.


Hon. Haimbe noted that the move consolidates the General Framework Agreement of Cooperation signed in 2023, which is designed to boost economic and social partnerships between Zambia and Israel.


Speaking at the event, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said the embassy’s return to Lusaka represents the beginning of a new chapter in relations between the two countries.



Meanwhile, Israeli Ambassador to Zambia, Ofra Farhi, expressed delight at the development, emphasizing her personal efforts and dedication that contributed to making the reopening possible.

\#Israel
(File Photo)

IBA SUSPENDS SEVEN (7) BROADCASTING LICENCES FOR NON-PAYMENT OF 2025 ANNUAL OPERATING FEES

IBA SUSPENDS SEVEN (7) BROADCASTING LICENCES FOR NON-PAYMENT OF 2025 ANNUAL OPERATING FEES



The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Board has with immediate effect suspended broadcasting licences for five (5) radio stations and two (2) television stations for failure to pay the 2025 Annual Operating Fees.


This is in accordance with Section 22 (4) and (5)(c) of the IBA (Amendment) Act No. 26 of 2010, which states that a broadcasting licensee shall pay such annual fee for the broadcasting licence as may be determined by the Board.



Annual Operating Fees are due on 1st January each year.

The stations have been suspended after the Authority exhausted all laid down procedures as outlined in the Guidelines for Enforcement and Handling of Compliance Breaches. The suspended stations are from: Copperbelt (2), Central (1), Southern (1), Lusaka (2), and Eastern (2) Provinces.



The affected stations are required to settle all outstanding fees within thirty (30) days, and the Authority can lift the suspension immediately a station makes full payment.  Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of their licences.



The IBA remains committed to ensuring compliance with the law and promoting a professional broadcasting industry that upholds accountability and sustainability.

Susen Ndumingu (Mrs.)
ACTING DIRECTOR GENERAL

Father threatens to ‘sacrifice’ daughter if ex wife doesn’t pay K6000 debt

Father threatens to ‘sacrifice’ daughter if ex wife doesn’t pay K6000 debt

Richard Sakala, 39, from George compound, appeared before the Matero Local Court where his ex-wife, Fridah Ngulube, 34, laid bare a bitter tug-of-war over money from a plot meant for their children.

The drama began when Sakala gave Ngulube K12,000 after their 2022 divorce to buy a plot for their three children.

Ngulube paid K10,000 for land worth K19,000, but the balance became a thorn to complete so the seller later offered to sell the plot to another and refund them their down payment.

“The owner suggested selling the plot to refund us, and I conveyed this to Sakala. Sakala then proposed that we sell the plot and purchase a new one later, asking me to find a buyer. Given our children’s best interests, I decided to purchase the plot myself, but Sakala quoted K35,000. After some negotiation, he agreed to sell it to me at K30,000” she recounted.

“We agreed that from the K30,000, I will give him a K10,000 while using the other K10,000 for the upkeep of our children since Sakala stopped providing support after our divorce and use the remaining amount to clear the balance for the plot”

Ngulube paid K4,000 and promised to settle the K6,000 balance to Sakala.

She pleaded with her ex husband for more time to settle the K6,000 balance, as she needed to prioritise her children’s school fees over repaying Sakala, particularly given that he had stopped providing financial support after their divorce.

But instead of waiting, Sakala turned up the pressure.

“He says he is willing to sacrifice one of our daughters,” a terrified Ngulube told the court, adding that her ex-husband had stopped supporting the children.

Sakala defended his threats, saying he urgently needed the money.

Senior magistrate Lewis Mumba was unimpressed, telling Sakala to show compassion.

“Your ex-wife is struggling to provide for your children. Why not have pity on her?” he asked.

Magistrate Mumba then gave Ngulube six months to repay the K6,000..

“I will give you six months to repay the K6,000 from today. It’s important that you settle this matter for the sake of maintaining peace between you.”

“I urge you to continue supporting your children as you have been doing, but avoid any further interaction with Sakala. This will help keep the situation peaceful and prevent future misunderstandings,” magistrate Mumba advised Ngulube.

By Sharon Zulu

Kalemba August 21, 2025

NALUMANGO MEETS JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER ISHIBA

NALUMANGO MEETS JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER ISHIBA

Vice President Mutale Nalumango has reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Japan as the two countries celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations.



Speaking during a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru in Yokohama on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, Mrs. Nalumango highlighted Zambia’s reputation as one of Africa’s most peaceful and stable nations. She assured Japanese investors of a secure and predictable environment for investment.



The Vice President also thanked the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for its continued support, which she said has advanced Zambia’s health, agriculture, and infrastructure sectors.


Prime Minister Ishiba, in response, commended Mrs. Nalumango for her advocacy on women’s issues and described Zambia as a strategic partner for Japan in Africa.



He revealed Japan’s intention to expand cooperation in mineral exploration through the private sector and expressed optimism that a Political Dialogue Agreement between the two countries could be signed before the end of the year.



Earlier, Mrs. Nalumango attended the opening of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), which convened African Heads of State, government leaders, and international partners in Yokohama to strengthen Africa-Japan cooperation.

Shoprite to exit Malawi after 25 years

Shoprite to exit Malawi after 25 years

Africa’s largest food retailer, Shoprite, has announced its withdrawal from Malawi after 25 years of operation, as it continues to scale back its footprint in non-core African markets.



The South African retail giant says it is looking for local buyers to take over its Malawian business. This move comes amid operational challenges in the country, including the recent closure of key outlets in Blantyre and Lilongwe by the Malawi Bureau of Standards due to hygiene violations and expired goods on sale.



Shoprite’s exit is part of a broader strategic shift that has seen it pull out of Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Madagascar, and the DRC in recent years, in a bid to focus on profitability and streamline operations.



Economic constraints, particularly Malawi’s ongoing foreign currency shortages, have added to the strain.



Shoprite has not yet provided a timeline for the divestment or named prospective buyers. However, its departure presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Malawian entrepreneurs to fill the retail vacuum and drive local economic growth.

Disturbing new crime scene details emerge as police still on hunt for man suspected of killing his three daughters

olice have released further details about the case of Travis Decker, the man accused of killing his three daughters.

On 2 June, the bodies of sisters Paityn, 9, Evelyn, 8, and Olivia, 5, were found at a campground in the US state of Washington. The sisters were previously reported missing by their mother after a planned custody visit with Decker on 30 May.

Decker remains missing, with authorities still unable to locate the 33-year-old despite a three-month manhunt.

In a new update on the case, authorities have released further details about the three girls’ killings, including how they were killed and DNA evidence recovered from the scene.

It had previously been revealed that the sisters were each found with a plastic bag over their head and their hands zip-tied together, with a press release on Monday revealing further details.

“Two of the victims each had two separate bags over their heads, and the third victim had three separate bags over their head,” the update read.

An autopsy performed on the girls had confirmed they had all died from suffocation.

Authorities also confirmed that several cable ties were recovered close to the bodies.

The update revealed the only DNA sample taken from the crime scene matched Decker, meaning there are no further suspects in the case.

“The completion of this DNA analysis provides additional evidence that indicates Travis Decker is the only suspect involved in committing these homicides,” the update added.

Authorities are still unsure on the location of Decker – who CNN states is an army veteran with wilderness survival skills – despite local, state and federal offices coming the area for him.

His truck was discovered close to the murder scene, suggesting that he’d fled on foot.

According to Monday’s update, authorities are unsure if Decker is still alive, adding: “At this time, we do not have any evidence to suggest Travis Decker is either alive or deceased.”

The latest update mirrors similar press releases shared about the case, with authorities previously saying there was ‘no certain evidence’ he was still alive.

“At this time, there is no certain evidence that Decker remains alive or in this area. Seemingly strong early leads gave way to less convincing proofs over the last two weeks of searching,” an update released back in late June read (via UNILAD).

Some search resources are being redirected to find and recover Decker if he died in the rugged wilderness during this intense search—a possibility that increases every day. Visible extra patrols continue in the area. The US Marshals service has turned their fugitive-finding resources to the task of finding Decker if he’s left our area.

The statement went on to add that officers will continue the search despite concerns that Decker may be deceased, adding: “Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia Decker deserve justice. And Decker remains a danger to the public as long as he’s at large. We are still asking for and will continue to investigate leads and tips from the public.”

Meanwhile, friends of the girls’ mother, Whitney Decker, have set up a GoFundMe to support any legal costs and expenses.

Blind woman of over 10 years can now see through her tooth following rare surgery

A woman from Canada who has been blind for over 10 years has regained the ability to see, all thanks to her tooth.

Gail Lane, from Victoria in British Columbia, lost her sight over a decade ago, but she has now been given a new lease of life after becoming just one of three people to undergo a rare surgery which aimed to restore her sight.

The 75-year-old initially lost her sight when an autoimmune disorder scarred her corneas, but a two-part operation has now allowed her to see again after a prosthetic cornea was attached to a peg made from her tooth and implanted in her eye.

Gail underwent the osteo-odonto keratoprosthesis (OOKP) surgery, performed by Dr Greg Moloney from Vancouver’s Mount Saint Joseph Hospital, back in February of this year.

After just two weeks, she gradually began to discern colours and make out shapes, which included being able to see her adorable service dog Piper for the first time.

The NHS are far more qualified than I am to explain OOKP, and they describe it as ‘a technique used to replace damaged cornea in blind patients for whom cadaveric corneal transplantation [a cornea from a dead organ donor] is not an option’.

‘It was developed some 40 years ago in Italy and uses the patient’s own tooth root and alveolar [jaw] bone to support an optical cylinder. OOKP surgery is only considered in end stage corneal disease when there is no other available treatment to restore sight.’

For those of you who are still confused about what part her tooth plays in all this, it is removed from the mouth and sliced and drilled into, to create an opening for the cornea to be inserted.

After three months living inside the patient’s cheek, which is done to ensure that the body doesn’t reject it, it is then placed into the eye socket.

Fortunately, it appears to have been a huge success for Gail, who is now able to pick out her outfits and hopes to soon be able to manage solo trips and walks, after the procedure was completed for the first time ever in Canada.

She said, as per CBC: “I can see lots of colour and I can see outside now. The trees and the grass and flowers, it’s a wonderful feeling to be able to see some of those things again.”

The life-changing surgery also allowed Gail to see her partner for the very first time, having met six months after she lost her sight. Let’s hope she wasn’t disappointed.

Gail added: “It’s been a long wait, but well, well worth it. I’m starting to see facial features on other people as well, which is also pretty exciting.

“I’m hoping to have more mobility and independence in terms of short trips and walks here and there where I don’t always have to have someone’s arms for me to grab onto.

“I’m just looking forward, really, to seeing what I can do or do again—and trying to just be patient and let my brain adjust a bit because that’s another big part of this.”

Meanwhile, during an interview with LADbible, a blind man has explained what he can see while dreaming and thinking in his head.

Missing woman from US discovered alive thousands of miles away after joining tribe in Scottish woodland

A woman who was reported missing by her family in Texas has now been found in the Scottish woodlands as part of a tribe.

The Kingdom of Kubala claim to be a lost ‘African’ tribe, who live in a forest in the town of Jedburgh.

They say that they intend to reclaim land which was stolen from ancestors in the Scottish Highlands around 400 years ago.

Three people make the tribe up, starting with group leader King Atehene, 36, his wife, Queen Nandi, 43, and their handmaiden Asnat.

Atehene was once an opera singer named Kofi Offeh, but seems to have left his musical career behind him.

Now, it has been found that Asnat, Lady Safi, is actually Kaura Taylor, whose family reported her as missing from Texas, USA.

Despite being discovered though, the tribe member has sent a scathing message to British authorities.

“To the UK authorities, obviously I am not missing. Leave me alone. I’m an adult, not a helpless child,” she said in a video message.

Speaking yesterday (20 August), the tribe claimed that they ‘don’t recognise local laws’ and have even been persecuted by locals.

The Kingdom of Kubala have been given eviction notices and even had their tents set on fire in an attack.

Despite this, the community continue to defy local laws and claim that they only follow the laws set by their God, Yahowah, while King Atehene has claimed to be a descendant of the Messiah.

Locals have been left confused by the tribe, who bathe in a nearby stream and live in tents.

“We live a very simple life of returning to innocence,” the King said, adding that they ‘connect to nature’ and even rely ‘on the creator for food, shelter and clothing’.

He claimed they are not scared and they will not be destroyed as they have the protection of Yahowah.

The King even added that people ‘judge without understanding’, including the British government, who he says are not accepting their culture despite claiming ‘that culture and religion is tolerant in Great Britain’.

“The Kingdom of Kubala has suffered trials and tribulations at the hands of authorities, who do not understand or tolerate,” he claimed.

The tribe claims they are a lost tribe of Hebrews, with their King a descendant of David the Messiah, while their ancestors were cast out when Queen Elizabeth I deported native black Jacobites.

The King claimed they ‘do not believe that any authority owns the land’ as the Earth belongs to the father, adding they they ‘do not know about any eviction’, aiming to establish their authority like their ancestors.

He explained: “The prophecy said, after 400 years, when my ancestors are destroyed from the land of Scotland, from the land of Great Britain, they will go into captivity and lose their identity.

“But after 400 years, I will come and bring them back to the land of promise. I am following the ancestral call and the call of the gods,” he said, describing it as a ‘pilgrimage’.

His wife, Queen Nandi, said in a social media statement that they ‘have returned to claim Scotland as our homeland’, which was stolen when the Queen 400 years ago ‘deported all black people from Scotland and England, who were not Africans but natives of the land’.

The mother-of-seven added: “Jacobites were black, from their ancestor Jacob, Yacobho, a black man.

“According to our Prophet Atehene, Jerusalem is in Scotland, and that he is the seed and offspring of David, the Messiah.”

She claimed that the ‘Second Exodus has begun’, and that they will ‘enter the Millennium Kingdom of Kubala, and the world is left behind.’

Scottish Borders Council said it was working with Police Scotland to deal with the situation, as a spokesperson stated: “This has included the provision of advice and information about housing options and other support services.”

Drake and Adin Ross to cover funeral costs after streamer dies on live stream following ‘ten days and nights of torture’

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Drake and Adin Ross are reportedly set to cover the funeral costs of deceased streamer Raphaël Graven following his shocking death.

Earlier this week, it was revealed that Graven had been found dead at a home near the French city of Nice on 18 August.

The 46-year-old – known online by the moniker Jean Pormanove – had built up a large following on streaming sites such as Kick, Twitch and TikTok and was said to have been in the middle of a 10-day marathon stream when he passed away.

It’s understood that he’d died in his sleep while being recorded.

French authorities have since confirmed there will be further investigation into Graven’s death, following claims the streamer had faced ‘humiliation’ and ‘mistreatment’ during live broadcasts.

According to reports in French media, he’d been subjected to violence, sleep deprivation and the ‘ingestion of toxic products’ during the 10-day stream.

Tributes have since flooded in across the internet following the news of Graven’s passing, with popular streamer Adin Ross claiming that he and Drake have agreed to pay for his funeral.

“This is horrible and disgusting. Whoever was apart of this deserves to face severe consequences,” Ross wrote on his alternate X account, making references to the allegations of violence towards Graven before his demise.

“I just spoke with Drake. Drake and I will be covering the funeral costs, this won’t bring his life back, it’s the least we can do. Prayers go out to Jean’s family.”

The ‘Hotline Bling’ hitmaker, who is an ambassador for Kick, is yet to speak out publicly about Graven’s death.

The announcement was well-received amongst the streaming community, with several users praising Ross for his kind gesture. “I respect that you replied same time other creators would’ve taken a day or two and get their pr team to reply,” wrote on person.

“W Adin W Drake, may Jean rest in peace,” added a second user.

The news of Graven’s death was confirmed on Instagram by fellow streamer ‘Naruto’, who asked people not to reshare any clips, which showed Graven dead or unconscious online.

Graven had frequently worked with ‘Naruto’ – real name Owen Cenazandotti – and ‘Safine’ – real name Safine Hamadi – who also shared a tribute on social media.

“We’ve laughed together for six years, we’ve given each other blow after blow… Six years of memories,” he wrote, adding: “I’ll miss you. I love you. Rest in peace, my brother.”

Graven had allegedly been the butt of the jokes during streams involving the three of them.

Naruto’s lawyer Yassin Sadouni has since spoken out about Graven’s death, telling Le Monde: “We are awaiting the results of the investigation aimed at determining all the conditions of ‘JP’s’ death and identifying the responsibilities of each person.”

Meanwhile, a Kick spokesperson told LADbible: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Jean Pormanove and extend our condolences to his family, friends and community.”

Why cult leader’s face turned blue before she was found mummified in jaw dropping documentary

Documentaries can often leave us shocked and full of questions, but the recent coverage of cult leader Amy Carlson is likely one of the craziest things you might ever see.

The Kansas-born mum-of-three quit her job at McDonald’s and left her third husband after a man called Amerith WhiteEagle convinced her she was ‘ethereal’, and in 2007, they moved to Colorado to become Mother and Father God for the cult that would come to be known as Love Has Won.

Her controversial journey was covered in the 2023 HBO documentary Love Has Won: The Cult of Mother God, which showed how the cult convinced its followers that they were led by ‘Galactics’, which mostly included deceased celebrities such as Carrie Fisher, Robin Williams and the very-much-not-dead Donald Trump.

While viewers were no doubt left confused by the cult’s beliefs, which included a wide range of conspiracy theories – one of which suggested that Carlson was a reincarnation of Jesus Christ, or Joan of Arc – it was the 45-year-old’s extraordinary death which posed the most questions.

Carlson was found mummified in a sleeping bag two weeks after her death in 2021, with her body completely blue, which you might only associate with someone being frozen.

But there was a far more scientific explanation for her strange appearance.

Carlson had claimed that alcohol and drugs were her medicine, and by the end of her life, she was almost exclusively drinking alcohol and a controversial supplement known as colloidal silver.

What is colloidal silver?
Colloidal silver consists of tiny silver particles in a liquid, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health says. It has been promoted online as a dietary supplement; however, evidence supporting health-related claims is lacking.

While some manufacturers of the supplement claim it can help protect the body’s immune system and also treat serious illnesses such as cancer, HIV and pandemic, there is very little evidence to back this up.

So much so, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has even imposed sanctions on some manufacturers for making unproven health claims.

The impact colloidal silver had on Amy Carlson’s body
Unsurprisingly, this diet did not have a good impact on her body, and an autopsy later revealed the cause of death was organ failure as a result of alcohol abuse, anorexia and colloidal silver dosing.

She had lost over 50 pounds before her passing, and the blue hue of her skin was seemingly caused by the overdose of colloidal silver, with Mayo Clinic explaining that it can build up in your body’ tissues over months or years, leading to a blue-grey tint on your skin known as argyria.

In rare cases, too much of the silver can lead to severe health issues such as seizures and kidney damage, while any skin issues are seemingly irreversible, even if you stop taking the supplement.

Members of the Love Has Won cult faced charges of abuse of Carlson’s corpse, as some followers claimed that she would ascend to heaven or be taken away by UFO, but these charges were later dropped.

Following Carlson’s death, some prominent members of the group went on to set up their own groups, including Joy Rains and 5D Full Disclosure.

Where seven cult members who were arrested after ‘Mother of God’ was found mummified are now

Following the popularity of the jaw-dropping documentary focusing on the new-age religion Love Has Won, plenty of people have been left asking the same question. Where are the members now?

Cult members who manage to escape often come forward with allegations or renounce their old ways, but things are very different in the case of the Love Has Won new-age religion.

In 2021, Amy Carlson, who was regarded as the ‘Mother God’ of the controversial US cult, was found dead in a sleeping bag which had been covered with fairy lights and glitter, while she appeared completely mummified and blue.

While members believed that she has taken on all the negative energy in the world as a final sacrifice before she ascended to heaven, the reality was far worse.

Upon the discovery of Amy’s remains, seven of the suspected members of the cult were arrested at the house and charged with abusing a corpse, the BBC reports.

It won’t come as a shock to hear that the group held a number of strange beliefs, including that Amy was a divine being who had spoken with the spirits of fallen angels including Whitney Houston and Robin Williams, who were referred to as ‘Galactics’.

And it seems as if these former members haven’t abandoned those conspiracy theories and ethereal thoughts, with two successor groups also set up following Amy’s death.

Lauryn Suarez and Ashley Peluso, who both featured heavily in HBO’s 2023 documentary Love Has Won: The Cult of Mother God, have started their own group called 5D Full Disclosure which shares many similarities with Love Has Won.

The pair live together in Florida (surprise surprise) and host a spirituality web series, alongside online healing sessions. Their website describes the group as a ‘guiding resource, delving into the evolution of Earth towards a higher-dimensional existence’.

They even have a section dedicated to Amy, which shares her story and how she ‘accomplished her mission by achieving physical ascension’ when she died.

Suarez and Peluso aren’t the only duo to set up a successor to Love Has Won however, as Amy’s former lover and the final ‘Father God’, Jason Castillo, moved to Wisconsin alongside ‘Father Multiverse’ John Robertson, where they teamed up to form Joy Rains.

They boast over 700 followers on their dedicated Facebook page which posts daily, sharing regular photos and memories of Amy as well as advertisements for Christic Awakening sessions.

Meanwhile, Avigail ‘Archeia Faith’ Lowes works as a healer in Colorado, and Ryan ​’El Moyra’ Kramer has continued to spread the word via his 40,000 followers on Telegram, which he describes as the ‘great awakening’.

Gabriel ​’Commander Buddha’ Gomez and ​’Mother Mary’ Mary Lowers reportedly live a quiet life together as roommates in Colorado, while Erin is living in the same state with her three children.

Former Father God Miguel Lamboy declined to take part in the docuseries, despite being the one to report Amy’s dead body to police and his whereabouts are unknown.

Woman with cancer who split with husband and sl3pt with 200 men left heartwarming message after death

A woman who split with her husband and went on a 200 men sexcapade after being diagnosed with incurable cancer left a poignant final message to be shared after her death.

In 2005, US woman Molly Kochan visited a gynaecologist to raise concerns about a lump in her breast – only to be told that she was too young to have cancer.

Molly would later raise the concerns again with her doctor in 2011 after noticing the lump had grown. She was diagnosed with breast cancer, which had spread to her lymph nodes, and underwent a mastectomy and chemotherapy.

Unfortunately, Molly’s cancer story wouldn’t end there as she later discovered the disease had spread to her bones, brain and liver in 2015 – meaning it was now incurable.

Faced with her own mortality at the age of 42, Molly decided to spend the last few years of her life chasing pleasure.

She made the bold decision to separate from her husband, whom she had been going through couples therapy with, and went on a mission of ‘seeking joy’.

Which in Molly’s world, meant having sexual experiences with as many men as possible.

By the time Molly passed away in 8 March, 2019, she had engaged in sexual activity with 188 men. Her final moments were immortalised on social media and in her six-part podcast Dying For Sex, co-hosted with close friend Nikki Boyer, was later adapted into a series of the same name starring Michelle Williams as Kochan and Jenny Slate as Boyer.

She would also write a memoir titled Screw Cancer: Becoming Whole which was published posthumously.

This book and podcast weren’t the only messages which Molly would leave her followers, with the 45-year-old also leaving a final blog post to be shared after her death.

What was Molly Kochan’s final message?
Titled: ‘I have died’, the post referenced how most people’s bucket lists will include things like quitting their job and travelling to exotic locations – things which Molly did not do with her final few years on Earth.

“I don’t have those kinds of life lessons to share,” she wrote.

“I know what I did at the end of my life. I know what brought me joy. But my list would surely not affect you.”

She went on to talk about friends who reached out after she announced her cancer diagnosis but was never able to meet up with, acknowledging that cancer was a disease not everyone wanted to be around.

“Through the drop ins and outs, I realised that people are going to do whatever they’re going to do regardless of what they want to want. Even me,” she continued.

“Wasn’t that freeing? I didn’t have to buy tickets to Bora Bora, I could spend days in bed, even though I wanted to want to be productive.”

She also spoke about her frustrations at not being able to complete projects as she grew weaker in the final months and accepted that some friends would be upset at her choice to surround herself with a ‘small circle’ in her final moments.

“But if you need to get pissed at me, go for it. I think I might if I read this note from a good friend who was suddenly not there,” Molly concluded.

If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact Macmillan’s Cancer Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, 8am–8pm seven days a week.

Official cause of death of cult leader who turned blue was eventually found mummified

An autopsy revealed the real reason behind the death of a cult leader known as ‘Mother God’ who was found mummified.

Amy Carlson’s severely decomposed corpse was found wrapped in a sleeping bag that was adorned with Christmas lights on an enshrined queen-sized bed in 2021.

Officials were forced to rely on dental records to confirm her identity because her body had deteriorated so much – but despite her state of decay, her loyal followers barely batted an eyelid.

“I’ve never seen a group of people be so nonchalant about a dead person,” Corporal Steven Hansen said of the ‘Love Has Won’ cult members who were crowded around Carlson’s dead body.

They believed that she had ‘ascended’ to a fifth dimension rather than died, while they blamed her ill health prior to her passing on her supposedly taking on all the pain of mankind and the world’s negative energy.

However, it later emerged that many self-inflicted factors played a part in Carlson’s death, rather than her meeting her demise after generously adopting the globe’s problems as her own.

Amy Carlson became the leader of the Love Has Won cult after leaving her husband, deserting her children and quitting her job at McDonald’s in 2007.

A man named Amerith WhiteEagle convinced her she was ‘ethereal’ and she ended up moving to Colorado with him to head up the religious movement.

She claimed that she was the 534th incarnation of a deity known as ‘Mother God’, who would lead her followers from the ‘3D world’ and into a ‘fifth dimensional plane of higher existence’.

In her past lives, Carlson alleged that she had been Cleopatra, Jesus Christ, Joan of Arc, Harriet Tubman, Helena Blavatsky, and Marilyn Monroe – while claiming she could remember every detail of each one.

The cult leader claimed that she was God, was capable of performing miracles and could even heal people with cancer – simply by using ‘the power of love’.

Carlson essentially mashed a bunch of conspiracy theories together and claimed that the cult was guided by beings known as ‘Galactics’ – most of whom were deceased celebrities.

The likes of Carrie Fisher and Robin Williams were supposedly guiding Carlson, as well as the very-much-not-dead Donald Trump.

Carlson touted herself as a ‘spiritual surgeon’ who was capable of working ‘multidimensionally’, ridiculously claiming she could heal terminally ill people, cure addiction and free people of mental health issues.

She shared her message via online manifestos and live-streaming sessions where she discussed the Love Has Won group, which was described as a mix of ‘New Age spirituality, conspiracy theories, and mainstream religions’.

The leader also claimed that alcohol and marijuana were ‘medicine’, while she flogged merch, supplements and products such as colloidal silver as an alternative health remedy.

Despite science suggesting otherwise, the cult leader believed that consuming colloidal silver – tiny bits of silver floating in liquid – could cure pretty much anything.

It has been promoted online as a dietary supplement; however, there is little evidence to support these claims.

Regardless, Carlson believed she was benefiting from the alleged healing properties it offers and she ended up orally ingesting silver and alcohol almost exclusively in the lead up to her death.

As a result, she lost more than 50lbs in weight and her skin had begun to turn blue.

This is a result of the colloidal silver building up in her body’s tissues over the years, Mayo Clinic explains, as a blue-grey tint often appears on a person’s skin, eyes, organs, nails and gums.

“This condition is called argyria,” it continues. “Argyria does not typically cause a major health problem. But it can be a cosmetic concern because it does not go away when you stop taking silver products.”

Mayo Clinic also warns that ‘too many doses of colloidal silver can cause long-lasting severe health problems’, such as kidney damage and seizures.

The dramatic change in Carlson’s appearance was documented in Hannah Olson’s three-part HBO documentary series, Love Has Won: The Cult of Mother God.

Carlson was last seen alive in April 2021, but was said to have been in extremely poor health and was reportedly paralysed from the waist down.

She died a short time later, however, her mummified body wasn’t discovered by authorities until a couple of months later after somebody reported the death to police.

A number of officers including Corporal Steven Hansen were left stunned when they burst into a pad used as Love Has One’s mission home to find her surrounded by a shrine, while wrapped in a sleeping bag decorated with lights.

Garish glittery makeup was plastered around Carlson’s eye sockets, while she also had blue skin, missing eyes and her teeth were exposed through the lips, the BBC reported.

An autopsy report later ruled that the cult leader had passed away at the age of 45 due to a combination of alcohol abuse, anorexia and chronic ingestion of colloidal silver, which led to organ failure.

A number of members of the Love Has Won cult were arrested and faced charges of abuse of Carlson’s corpse, but these charges were later dropped.

‘Mother God’s’ younger sister, Chelsea Renniger, told the BBC in wake of her death: “We know she’s not completely innocent in this whole situation, because she chose to join this cult.

“But at the same time, she doesn’t deserve what happened to her in the end. No human being deserves that.”

Putin gifts random Alaskan man a $22,000 motorcycle and he has no idea why

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Vladimir Putin seems to have gifted a random Alaskan man a motorcycle.

Yep, Mark Warren is now the proud owner of a Ural Gear Up motorcycle with a sidecar, valued at $22,000 (£16,300).

The retired fire inspector unknowingly became a viral sensation in Russia after being spotted by a Russian television crew.

The man in the Municipality of Anchorage, Alaska, was out running errands on the Ural motorcycle he already owned a week before Putin’s visit when Russian reporters stopped him and asked for an interview.

Founded in 1941, Ural Motorcycles are named after the Ural Mountains in Russia and since 2022, the bikes have been assembled in Petropavlovsk, Kazakhstan.

Warren had been filmed by the Russian media team talking about his difficulty obtaining parts for his bike because of supply-and-demand problems.

“It went viral, it went crazy, and I have no idea why, because I’m really just a super-duper normal guy,” Warren said to the Associated Press.

“They just interviewed some old guy on a Ural, and for some reason they think it’s cool.”

With his interaction taking place ahead of Putin and Donald Trump’s meeting, a reporter asked the Alaskan: “So for you, if they resolve this conflict here in Alaska, I mean Putin and Trump, it will be good?”

Warren responded: “Yes, it will be good.”

And then two days before the Trump-Putin summit, he got a call from the Russian reporter who told him: “They’ve decided to give you a bike.”

Warren soon received a document indicating the gift of the Ural bike was arranged through the Russian Embassy in the US and he initially thought the whole thing was a bit of a scam.

Without saying why he was getting it, a document said: “The Embassy of the Russian Federation in the United States of America on behalf of the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir V. Putin, transfers as an act of giving the following property: Motorcycle ‘Gear-Up,’….”

Following the summit, the man got another call informing him the bike was at the base and had instructions to go to a hotel the next day for the handoff.

When Warren arrived with his wife, six men he assumed were Russian were stood with the olive-green Ulan motorcycle.

“I dropped my jaw,” he said. “I went, ’You’ve got to be joking me.’”

He was back to being a star for a moment too, as all they asked for in return was to take a photo and do an interview. Said to have been two reporters and someone from the consulate, they got on the bike with him as he drove around the parking lot for a cameraman.

Warren’s only hesitation about taking the odd gift is that it might somehow link him with some kind of nefarious Russian scheme.

He added that he doesn’t want a ‘bunch of haters coming after me that I got a Russian motorcycle. … I don’t want this for my family’.

Having told KTUU he found the whole thing rather ‘random’ and ‘so strange’, Warren noted that the bike was described in the paperwork as only having been manufactured on 12 August, making ‘Putin’s gift’ very fresh indeed.

Ominous ‘black moon’ sparks fears as rare phenomenon linked to apocalyptic prophecy set to appear this week

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A ‘black moon’ is set to be visible in our skies come Friday 22 August, though many have been spooked by the prophecy behind it.

The rare astronomical event only comes around every few years, but despite this occurrence, people have started to speculate about what this may mean for humanity.

While it isn’t an asteroid, which was thought to be hurtling towards Earth, it looks like it’s another space-related worry for us on the ground.

While it isn’t like a full moon, a ‘black moon’ is when a new moon passes between the Earth and the sun, with the side facing us staying in shadow.

Our moon remains dark as it happens on the rare occasion where there’s a new moon for the second time in a single month.

Despite the cool phenomenon for the science world, some have taken to social media to share their concerns with the event.

Those aware of the biblical prophecy regarding a dark moon have cited Mark 13:24, which reads: “The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light.”

It eludes to a number of passages which state that the End Of Time occurs during a dark moon.

One said on X that we should ‘perhaps prepare just in case’, while another said ‘those who know the biblical meaning behind this’ might be a bit worried.

However, astronomers have commented on the ‘black moon’ and how it might not be much to worry about.

Speaking to MailOnline, associate teaching professor of physics at Syracuse University, Walter Freeman explained: “A black moon is just a second new moon that happens in one calendar month,

“If a new moon occurs near the beginning of the month, the next one can happen before it’s over. From a scientific perspective, this is no different than any other new moon.”

It should also be noted that ‘black moon’ isn’t an official scientific term, but a nickname for this rare occurrence. In 2016, National Geographic’s Michael Greshko described it as ‘the evil twin of a blue moon’.

The black moon is expected to peak this Friday 22 August at 12am ET (5am BST) in the Western Hemisphere, while others in the world will see the event on Saturday.

Black moons usually occur every 33 months, with the next expected on 20 August 2028.

A moon progresses from new moon to full moon and back again in the space of 29.5 days, meaning there’s a slight chance that a second new moon could appear in that time before the next calendar month.

Scientists have explained that a ‘black moon’ does not signal the end of times, and that we should instead take advantage of the darker night sky.

It means that planets such as Venus and Mars will be far more luminous, while constellations including Orion, Taurus and Leo will stand out more than usual.

Anele Mda appeals court ruling on defamatory posts against Mbalula

Anele Mda appeals court ruling on defamatory posts against Mbalula


Social commentator Anele Mda plans to appeal a Gauteng High Court ruling that found her social media claims linking ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula to the 2015 murder of businessman Wandile Bozwana were “false and defamatory.”



The court ordered Mda to delete the posts, apologize publicly, and pay punitive legal costs.



The court dismissed her defense, noting the convicted killers were already sentenced in 2024 and branding her remarks a “malicious assault” on Mbalula’s reputation.



Through her lawyers, Mda argued her comments were rooted in public discourse and accused Mbalula of attempting to silence her. The appeal process is underway, with a hearing date yet to be confirmed.

ATM slams Public Protector over delays in Senzo Mchunu misconduct probe

ATM slams Public Protector over delays in Senzo Mchunu misconduct probe

The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has raised urgent concerns over the Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka’s slow response to serious allegations against suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, warning that continued delays threaten both public trust and national security.



The alarm follows explosive claims by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Mchunu of political interference, corruption, and links to criminal networks.



In July, ATM leader Vuyo Zungula lodged a formal complaint, alleging Mchunu dismantled the Political Killings Task Team and blocked 121 politically sensitive case dockets.


According to Mkhwanazi, Mchunu acted to shield controversial businessmen Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and Brown Mogotsi, with evidence said to include WhatsApp messages and financial records.


The Public Protector confirmed on 10 July that a probe was under way, but the ATM now says the lack of progress undermines accountability.



“The Public Protector must act swiftly. This is a matter of national security, and delays only embolden those undermining justice,” said ATM.



The allegations have triggered outrage across the political spectrum. The EFF and DA have echoed calls for urgent action, while President Cyril Ramaphosa suspended Mchunu on 13 July, appointed Firoz Cachalia as interim minister, and established a judicial commission of inquiry.



As investigations stall, the ATM insists accountability must not be delayed, warning that the case could prove pivotal in shaping public confidence in South Africa’s justice system.

Gigaba alleges vote-buying in ANC, faces disciplinary action

Gigaba alleges vote-buying in ANC, faces disciplinary action

Former minister and ANC MP Malusi Gigaba has accused the African National Congress of widespread vote-buying since 2017, particularly in internal party elections.


Speaking to the Sunday Times, Gigaba warned that financial influence has replaced ideology and merit as the main driver of leadership contests within the party.



He described the practice as a threat to the ANC’s renewal efforts, arguing that transactional relationships allow wealthy members to rise to positions of power regardless of qualifications.


Gigaba called on the ANC Youth League to tackle the issue to preserve the party’s revolutionary principles.


The ANC responded sharply, condemning Gigaba’s comments as a breach of party communication rules.



The organization accused him and fellow MP Senzo Mchunu of undermining unity and credibility, announcing disciplinary action against both. The party labelled their public criticisms an “opportunistic assault” on its image.