UPND HAILS MFUWE BY-ELECTION WIN, CREDITS DEVELOPMENT AGENDA AND CALLS FOR UNITY
LUSAKA – The ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) has described its latest parliamentary by-election victory in Mfuwe as “a win for the whole country,” attributing the result to the government’s record in delivering free education, youth skills training, and expanded social support programs.
Speaking at a press briefing at Anderson Kambela Mazoka House in Lusaka, UPND spokesperson Mr. Simuuwe said the win was the seventh parliamentary seat the party has taken in eight contests since forming government in 2021, alongside multiple ward victories nationwide.
Mr. Simuuwe recounted that since 2021, UPND has strengthened its parliamentary presence by winning key constituencies, including Kabwata, Kabushi, Kwacha, Kawambwa Central, Pambashe, Lumezi, and now Mfuwe.
In ward by-elections, victories include Allen Chikonde in Shabo Ward, Nchelenge District, and Abob Mumba in Kashiba Ward, Mpongwe District.
“These results show the confidence Zambians have in our leadership, vision, and commitment to peace, unity, and inclusive development,” Mr. Simuuwe said, praising the Electoral Commission of Zambia and security agencies for conducting peaceful and credible polls.
“The people have shown appreciation for free education, increased CDF, recruitment of teachers and health workers, youth empowerment programs, and many other tangible results,” Mr. Simuuwe said.
Mr. Simuuwe outlined several milestones under President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership which includes; recruitment of thousands of teachers, clinicians, midwives, and other professionals, ending the previous employment freeze; expansion of the Constituency Development Fund beyond earlier promises; prompt payment to farmers, a departure from long delays in the past.
Other achievements are; revival of the Flying Doctor Service to deliver health care to remote areas and graduation of more than 53,000 young people from free vocational training in carpentry, welding, aquaculture, and other trades
Addressing environmental issues in mining areas, Mr. Simuuwe said government agencies had acted through water testing and supply suspensions to safeguard public health.
Mr. Simuuwe criticised recent remarks by the U.S. Ambassador advising residents to relocate from affected areas, calling them “undiplomatic” and an infringement on Zambia’s sovereignty.
He also charged that the opposition has failed to present a clear alternative vision, despite repeatedly claiming they would unseat the UPND in 2026. “They have no roadmap for what they would do for the people once in office,” he said.
Commenting on the recent South African court ruling that the remains of sixth Republican President Edgar Chagwa Lungu be repatriated for a dignified send-off, Mr. Simuuwe said the matter was not about winners or losers but about justice and national unity.
He commended President Hichilema’s leadership during the process, saying it prioritised Zambia’s dignity and sovereignty over political convenience.
“This peaceful and dignified repatriation is a victory for Zambia and a landmark for the SADC region,” he said, adding that it had united citizens across political divides.
Mr. Simuuwe urged party members and supporters to remain motivated and united.
“These victories are not just political gains, they are a reaffirmation of our commitment to deliver development, uphold democracy, and improve the quality of life for all Zambians,” he said.
Democratic Union president Ackim Antony Njobvu writes..
Many of us have watched events unfold in South Africa regarding a high-profile court case. Let it be said clearly: there is no winner or loser in the face of justice rather only lessons.
Lessons in accountability, lessons in humility, and lessons for all current and future leaders
My appeal is to all citizens and parties to the impasse that led to the court case to respect the Judgement to be delivered today.
We need to give our former President a dignified send off for the contribution he made to the country.
Zambia at 91% Debt-to-GDP—But 100% in Shame and Suffering
By Dr Mwelwa
So they want us to celebrate. They want us to dance because our debt-to-GDP ratio has finally dipped below 100%, now standing at 91.1%. But what does that really mean to the average Zambian mother waking up to an empty cupboard? What does that mean to a young miner buried alive in an unregulated pit in Chingola, Mumbwa, or Mufumbwe? What does it mean to the civil servant who can’t take home even half his salary because deductions eat everything before payday?
Let’s not be fooled by suits and speeches. Debt-to-GDP ratios are just economic grammar meant to impress international financiers—not the hungry stomach of a child in Kanyama. If we are now supposedly more “creditworthy,” then why is the United States demanding a $15,000 bond for Zambians who want a visa? That is not the reward of a stable economy. That is the treatment given to a pariah state.
And yes, according to Emmanuel Mwamba we have become a pariah in SADC. While other countries are attracting investors with strong institutions and local empowerment, Zambia is making headlines for witchcraft, freemasonry, runaway inflation, corruption, and toxic political divisions. When the World Bank ranks us as the 6th poorest country in the world, and the only response our leaders can give is “debt-to-GDP is going down”—then we are truly lost.
Even in death, we cannot respect our own. A former Head of State lies unburied because of political wrangling and bureaucratic pride. What kind of nation cannot even bury its own past president with dignity? We are collapsing from within, and yet we are told to be proud because the IMF said we are doing well.
Let us tell the truth: Zambia is now a country where progress is announced, but not seen. The government claims they are creating fiscal space, but the only space we see is the widening gap between the rich and the poor. They say investors are coming, but local contractors are collapsing. They say the economy is growing—but it is growing for who? For those in Cabinet? For those flying business class to Washington? Because on the ground, nothing is growing. Not jobs. Not wages. Not food on the table.
And if this is what success looks like, then we must redefine failure.
The truth is, this government has governed by graphs, not by grace. They manage Zambia like a case study for foreign consultants—not a nation of 20 million living souls. They parade macroeconomic terms like trophies, while our youth are dying in mine pits and our women sell tomatoes in the dark because of load shedding.
We have a government that listens more to lenders than to citizens. A government that fears losing donor confidence more than public trust. A government that protects numbers more than people.
But let this sink in: you cannot build a country on data alone. You build it on dignity. On justice. On truth. On a leadership that feels the people’s pain—not one obsessed with praise from abroad.
We are not asking for luxury. We are asking for honesty. We are not begging for miracles. We are demanding accountability. And we are not impressed by 91% when we are ranked the 6th poorest country in the world.
Because that 91% may comfort the IMF, but it means nothing to a nation that cannot even afford to bury its own former President with honour.
It is time for our leaders to stop speaking to Washington and start listening to Chibolya, to Kaoma, to Isoka, to every corner of this nation that has not tasted “development” in decades.
Zambia does not need another press statement.
Zambia needs a resurrection.
From the dust. From the hunger. From the shame. From the betrayal.
Lavushimanda… Friday August 8, 2025 – Cadres from the ruling UPND on Thursday allegedly attacked a Socialist Party (SP) camp in Mfuwe, shortly after the constituency by-election in Lavushimanda District, Muchinga Province.
Witnesses reported that the attackers vandalised property and destroyed goods at the site, leaving a trail of damage.
The incident comes in the wake of a tense by-election, heightening concerns about political violence and growing intolerance during Zambia’s electoral processes.
The Zambia Police Service has not yet issued an official statement on the matter.
LAMBA LIMA ROYAL COUNCIL OF ZAMBIA DEFENDS SENIOR CHIEF NDUBENI
The Lamba Lima Royal Council of Zambia has strongly denied allegations that Senior Chief Ndubeni issued a statement accusing the UPND government of election rigging.
Vice Chairperson Musa Kafimbwa clarified that the chief never made such comments and demanded that the newspaper retract the statement or face legal consequences.
Mr. Kafimbwa expressed disappointment with the media outlet, stating that some individuals are exploiting it to tarnish the image of traditional leaders in Ndubeni’s chiefdom.
He emphasized the need to keep chiefs, who are loyal to the government, out of politics.
“Senior Chief Ndubeni is recognized as a prominent traditional leader among the Lima people in Mpongwe District. Our Job is to defend our royal highness You fight one you fight us all”, he said.
ZAMBIA SUSPENDS CUSTOMS & EXCISE ON COPPER CONCENTRATES.
The Zambian government has announced a three-month suspension of customs and excise duties on copper concentrates under Statutory Instrument No. 47 of 2025, in a move aimed at stimulating mining sector operations and boosting export revenues.
The measure, which took effect this month, will run until 1 October 2025, after which normal tax regimes will resume. Under the directive, all exported copper concentrates during the suspension period will be routed through Industrial Resources Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).
Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, MP, said the temporary tax relief forms part of the government’s strategy to enhance competitiveness and address liquidity pressures in the mining industry.
“The suspension is designed to ease operational costs for producers, sustain production, and ensure Zambia continues to meet its export commitments,” Dr. Musokotwane stated. “This is a short-term intervention to stabilize the sector while we work on long-term fiscal and production reforms.”
Export Volumes by Participating Companies According to data provided by ministry of finance and national planning, the following mining companies are expected to participate during the suspension period, with indicative export quantities:
In today’s South African judicial Court ruling in the matter the Republic of Zambia and the estate of Zambia’s 6th Republican President, there are no winners or losers.
Today’s ruling is a reflection of how the interpretation of the law is, that is not based on solely emotional appeal and or sensationalism driven by political national and societal polarization.
Today when I listened to the lamentations of mama Bertha Lungu in Chitete village of Chongwe, I actually became highly emotional I felt her pain, based on the the dynamics of my own personal life losers and betrayal.
However in the spirit of national building and family emotional healing, I believe the best is to allow ECL go to earth without any further political scheming on both sides of the political divide.
Mama Bertha, Mama Ester Lungu is hurting Lungu was hurting, and so is the rest of ECL’s family. Zambia is equally hurting, Zambia lost a great humble leader.
Can politicians allow ECL to rest in the manner he allowed the free, peaceful transfer of power in 2021 when he had the instruments and reasons to do otherwise.
Let Zambia and families heal in the loss of our former President Edgar chagwa Lungu.
Electoral Commission of Zambia –ECZ- Vice Chairperson ALI SIMWINGA has concluded his tenure after successfully completing a seven-year term with the Commission.
According to the Commission, Mr. SIMWINGA was appointed as a Commissioner in 2018 and has served diligently in accordance with the laws of Zambia.
The Commission has further acknowledged Mr. SIMWINGA’s significant contribution to strengthening Zambia’s electoral processes during his time in office.
This is according to a statement issued by ECZ Chief Electoral Officer BROWN KASARO.
The Anti-Corruption Commission in Kasama has arrested and charged Mike Musukwa a Marketing Assistant at Food Reserve Agency Kasama Office on two counts of uttering a false document and one count of obtaining pecuniary advantage.
Mike Musukwa, 34, of Newtown in Kasama has been charged with two counts of uttering false documents contrary to section 352 and 347 of the penal code act Cap 87 of the laws of Zambia.
He has also been charged with one count of obtaining pecuniary advantage by false pretences contrary to section 309a (1) (2) (c) of the penal code act Cap 87 of the laws of Zambia
Details are that Musukwa was initially employed as a Data Entry Clerk by the Food Reserve Agency in Mungwi District.
However, investigations have established that between 1st January 2014 and 31st December 2014 Musukwa uttered a false grade 12 School Certificate and a false Bachelor’s Degree Certificate in Computer Science from Cavendish University to his employers.
He was subsequently elevated to the position of Marketing Assistant by his employer and earned a total of K545,338.78 in Salary and Allowances between January 2014 and December 2023.
Musukwa has since been released on bond and has entered a plea of not guilty in Court.
He is also scheduled to appear on 3rd September, 2025 for the commencement of trial.
FQM’S KANSANSHI MINE AND STAKEHOLDERS COLLABORATE TO DEVELOP NEW GRIEVANCE MANAGEMENT PROCEDURE
Solwezi, Zambia
In a significant step towards enhancing transparency and community engagement, First Quantum Minerals’ Kansanshi Mining PLC has held a public consultative workshop to develop a new Grievance Management Procedure.
The initiative aims to create a robust and inclusive framework for addressing concerns from both internal and external stakeholders.
FQM believes that in addition to ongoing, proactive dialogue with the local communities, all of its operations and projects should be supported by fully functional grievance mechanisms, and that these mechanisms are designed to receive, assess, and effectively resolve concerns or complaints related to its activities in a transparent, fair, and timely manner with input from stakeholders.
Speaking at the event, North-Western Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Luckson Mulumbi, commended the mining firm for proactively creating a transparent mechanism to resolve issues amicably.
“Given the many issues raised by communities in Solwezi and specifically those surrounding the mine operation, I believe the development of the Grievance Management Procedure has come at the right time,” said Mr Mulumbi.
He added, “Once finalised and implemented, the procedure will give an opportunity to different stakeholders to engage Kansanshi Mining PLC on matters that affect them and are related to the operation of the mine.”
The government, through ZCCM-IH, holds a 20 percent interest in Kansanshi Mining PLC.
Mr Mulumbi noted that the initiative is a demonstration of good practice towards building a transparent mechanism through which complaints both real and assumed can be resolved amicably, and that the process should not just be about compliance, but a mechanism that fosters trust building and improving how the mining firm engages with stakeholders.
“As stakeholders who have been invited to participate in this workshop, your insight and experiences are critical in shaping a grievance mechanism that is practical, fair, and responsive to concerns that stakeholders might have about Kansanshi Mining PLC Operations.
I have noted that the selection of stakeholders was done carefully to ensure that the submissions from the workshop represents a comprehensive complexion of the mine impacted communities and other stakeholders with interest in the mine operations. Therefore, your feedback today will play a direct role in shaping the final Grievance Management Procedure that is inclusive,” he continued.
He further urged all participants starting from government, private sector, traditional leaders, mine unions, churches, NGO’s to mention but a few to contribute diligently to the review of the draft procedure, emphasising that their insights are critical in shaping a mechanism that is practical, fair, and responsive to the community’s needs.
FQM Country Manager, Dr Godwin Beene, reiterated the company’s commitment to open dialogue and stakeholder engagement.
“At First Quantum Minerals, we believe that strong relationships with our stakeholders are essential for sustainable progress of the business because we believe that what is good for the community is also good for business,” said Dr Beene.
He explained that the new procedure aims to provide a structured framework to strengthen how the company receives, addresses, and responds to stakeholder concerns, and that it aligns with a core principle of the company’s Corporate Social Policy.
“We commit to listening and communicating with stakeholders’ local communities directly about events, issues and ideas. We seek to consult and resolve grievances in a timely and interactive and culturally appropriate manner,” he added.
Dr Beene further assured the attendees that their input is invaluable for creating a robust and inclusive procedure.
“The procedure will contribute to ensuring transparency, and build a mechanism that works for everyone, fairly, effectively and respectfully. Be assured that First Quantum as a Group and Kansanshi Mining PLC is particularly committed to strengthening our partnerships through open dialogue and inclusive decision-making,” he said.
The workshop is a key part of the development process, ensuring that the final Grievance Management Procedure reflects the comprehensive views of the mine’s impacted communities and other interested stakeholders.
First Quantum’s grievance mechanisms are designed to be culturally appropriate, free of charge and in a user-friendly format which is easily accessible to all community members, ensuring that no barriers prevent stakeholders from raising their concerns. The company is actively working towards co-designing future engagement mechanisms in collaboration with traditional leaders and other key stakeholders.
Surgeons at Ndola Teaching Hospital remove shocking metal objects from patient’s stomach!
In a rare and extraordinary surgical procedure, a team of surgeons at Ndola Teaching Hospital has successfully removed an astonishing assortment of metallic foreign objects from the stomach of a 30-year-old male patient, in a case that has stunned even the most experienced medical professionals.
The patient, a resident of Ndola’s , was rushed to NTH after suffering severe abdominal pain and being unable to pass stool for an entire week. Following a medical assessment, the doctors ordered abdominal and chest X-rays and what they found was nothing short of shocking.
The scans revealed that the patient’s stomach and intestines were packed with numerous metallic objects, causing a dangerous obstruction and placing his life in immediate danger.
He was rushed to theatre, where the surgical team worked for more than three hours in a high-stakes operation to remove the items.
When the procedure was completed, the surgical table told the full story: among the extracted objects were 2 car spark plugs, 17 sharp wire pieces, one car key and two padlock keys, s 4 one-kwacha coins (including one lodged in the large intestine), 4 bolts, 1 female bra wire stabilizer, and a ring wire. The shocking collection was carefully laid out on a surgical cloth for documentation.
Some of the items had caused perforations in the stomach wall, with prolonged retention causing chronic gastric outlet obstruction
Many objects were also observed to be heavily corroded, suggesting they had been ingested over a long period of time. “It’s not unusual to find foreign objects in a patient’s stomach, but this quantity and variety is something we hardly ever see this appears to have been a gradual ingestion over time.”Dr. Mushikita Songwe, one of the surgeons narrated.
Thanks to the quick thinking of the medical team and the skill of the surgeons, the patient survived. He is now in stable condition and undergoing further assessments
The skilled surgical and theatre team included: Surgeons: Dr. Ngoma Royd, Dr. Mushikita Songwe, and Dr. Muswala Dominic Anaesthetist: Dr. Kabamba Scrub Nurse: RN Kennedy Bijou, Runner: RN Beatrice Mulenga, Recovery Theatre Operating Nurse (RTON): Paul Kampinda
-Ndola Teaching Hospital Public Relations Department
After Zambia’s flat 2-0 loss to DR Congo in the CHAN 2024 opener at Nyayo Stadium, head coach Avram Grant stepped up to the mic not with solutions, but with a suitcase full of excuses.
“We didn’t play well. We didn’t play like we wanted to play,” he confessed. Fair enough. But then came the plot twist: “It’s the first time this group is playing together. We didn’t have friendly games. We couldn’t even play among ourselves because of problems with the flights.”
Ah yes the real opponent wasn’t DR Congo… it was air travel.
Grant blamed disrupted preparations: delayed flights, missed sessions, zero friendlies. At this rate, maybe we should’ve just faced off against Ethiopian Airlines. The idea that a national team arrived at a major tournament without a single preparatory match is not just shocking it’s practically comedic.
And this was the first time the players had played together? In a tournament that relies on local talent? That’s like opening a restaurant and realizing on launch day that no one knows how to cook.
Zambian fans, rightfully unimpressed, took to social media demanding answers. No Plan B? No contingency? Not even a warm-up at the team hotel with cones and borrowed bibs?
Critics argue this is becoming a pattern under Grant. Since taking over, Zambia’s playing identity has been… well, let’s just say it’s still in transit possibly stuck at the same airport as the team’s game plan.
The road ahead in CHAN 2024 is now steep. Zambia needs a performance reboot and fast. As for Grant, the time for travel tales and training woes is over.
Because if the next match doesn’t show progress, his only tactical decision might be choosing between departure gates.
Namibia and Zambia to allow citizens to travel using ID cards only
By: Kaya 959
In a landmark move to enhance regional integration, Namibia and Zambia have agreed to allow their citizens to travel between the two countries using only national identity cards, eliminating the need for passports.
The announcement was made by Namibia’s Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security, Dr Albert Kawana, during Zambia’s 60th Independence Day celebrations held in Windhoek.
Dr Kawana confirmed that both governments are in the final stages of preparing to implement the new travel arrangement.
Zambia’s High Commissioner to Namibia, Stephen Katuka, welcomed the decision, highlighting the strong historical and political ties between the two nations. He noted that the initiative will strengthen bilateral relations, facilitate trade and tourism, and promote the free movement of people.
This development follows a similar agreement between Namibia and Botswana, which already allows for cross-border travel using ID cards alone. Social media users have hailed the move as a major step toward easier and more seamless travel across Southern Africa.
The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has again spoken about the vision he had pertaining his d3ath.
According to Adeboye, when the time comes, he will pass on peacefully, on a Sunday, after attending church service and enjoying his favorite meal, pounded yam.
While speaking on the fourth day of the church’s ongoing International Convention themed “The Overcomers,” the respected clergyman reiterated that death does not always come through prolonged illness. He had previously shared this same vision two years ago.
“I will die on a Sunday after attending service, eat my beloved pounded yam, and then pass on without any sickness,” Pastor Adeboye declared, affirming that his departure would be sudden and painless
The cleric noted that he first shared this vision two years ago and was repeating it to reassure believers that death can be peaceful for those “in Christ.”
BILL GATES TO GIVE AFRICAN WOMEN CONTRACEPTIVE STHAT PREVENTS PREGNANCY FOR 8 YEAR
The Gates Foundation is rolling out a new contraceptive in several African countries that will prevent pregnancy for 8 years, making it the first contraceptive in the entire world to do so.
According to Anita Zaidi, President of the Gates Foundation’s Gender Equality Division, the foundation is rolling out the new hormonal IUD contraceptive in Kenya, Nigeria, and India.
A hormonal IUD is a long-acting, reversible contraceptive device that is inserted into the uterus and releases progestin, a synthetic hormone. The hormone thickens cervical mucus, preventing sperm from reaching and potentially fertilizing an egg, and can also prevent ovulation.
“A new hormonal IUD designed for affordability and a user-centered experience is being launched in Kenya, Nigeria, and possibly India,” Zaidi said.
Furthermore, the foundation is expected to roll out DMPA-SC, which is a self-injectable contraceptive, to more than 35 countries globally, including 8 in Africa, such as the Republic of the Congo, Madagascar, Malawi, Nigeria, Senegal, Uganda, and Zambia.
anadian teen sensation Victoria Mboko defeated Naomi Osaka at the National Bank Open final in Montreal to grab her first career WTA title on Thursday night.
With an ailing wrist, the 18-year-old overcame a slow start to beat four-time Grand Slam winner Osaka 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 in the National Bank Open final.
Mboko is now the third Canadian to capture the title at the hometown tournament in the Open Era, after Bianca Andreescu (2019) and Faye Urban (1969). She is also the first to do so in Montreal.
The teen will now climb to 25th in the women’s singles world rankings, an amazing feat after she started the year outside the top 300.
The Congolese-Canadian rising star shocked the world when she defeated three Major champions—Sofia Kenin, Coco Gauff, and Elena Rybakina—on her way to the final.
Mboko was born to Congolese parents in Charlotte, North Carolina, and raised in Toronto. The youngest of four siblings, Mboko started playing tennis at the age of 3 after being inspired by her three siblings who also play tennis, according to the WTA. She had potential as a junior. She successfully defended her maiden professional singles title in 2023 after winning it at the ITF W25 tournament in Saskatoon in 2022.
She won five titles on the lower-tier ITF Tour and began the season with a 22-match winning run. Mboko advanced to the French Open’s third round, her maiden Grand Slam main draw, before defeating 25th-seeded Magdalena Frech in Wimbledon’s opening round.
Authorities in Florida said a 22-year-old man, who was arrested and charged in connection with the shooting deaths of his grandparents, told a deputy that “God told him” to send the deceased victims to him.
Besides allegedly shooting and killing his grandparents, identified as the Rev. George White, 83, and Mary White, 81, authorities also claim that the suspect, Jeremyah Campbell, also shot and injured a neighbor, WESH 2 reported.
The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office in a statement said the July 24 shootings occurred on Washington Street in West Melbourne, adding that Campbell is from Texas.
An arrest affidavit stated that in the aftermath of the shootings, Campbell was “sobbing uncontrollably and shouting a stream of incoherent words” when he was located by deputies. The affidavit also stated that he later spoke with a deputy and said “God told him to send his grandparents to him.”
Deputies noticed Campbell “to be sweating, to have dilated pupils and [to be] making incoherent statements such as claiming to see cyclops and claiming Satan was in his head,” per a search warrant obtained by WESH 2.
Prior to the fatal incident, a family member informed investigators that the suspect and his grandparents had gotten into an argument, the report stated. The relative said the argument was based on a suspicion regarding Campbell taking an unknown drug that had negatively impacted him.
Campbell has since been charged with the murder of his grandparents, and he is being held without bail.
On their podcast, Fat Joe and Jadakiss debated will.i.am’s spicy take that Black Thought is “a trillion times better” than Jay-Z. Fat Joe and Jadakiss debate a lot of hip-hop topics on their Joe & Jada podcast, and fortunately for the discourse, will.i.am recently gave the culture a hot take about Jay-Z and Black Thought. The rapper, singer, and tech developer said that The Roots’ frontman is “a trillion times better” than Hov, and it seems like Joey Crack and The LOX’s lyrical assassin disagree.
Jada dismissed will.i.am’s Black Thought and Jay-Z take as “just how he feels,” although he went into further detail later on. As for the Terror Squad MC, he spoke to the pivotal cultural history, success, and acclaim of The Roots. However, he seemed to suggest that Jay holds a more “objective” historical place of being the biggest in the game.
“You’re never going to hear a rapper say fing Coldplay is a million times better than the Black Eyed Peas. They put that out there, and that’s the reason that hip-hop is hanging on a string,” Jadakiss remarked concerning Jay-Z, as caught by The Art Of Dialogue on Twitter. “They’re fing making everybody go against each other for no reason. Just for small talk and clicks and to get the most traffic to your thing. If that’s how he feels, fk it. That’s how he feels. You can Google, ChatGPT, whatever the fk you want. You’re not going to find Hov or Black Thought nowhere saying, ‘The Backstreet Boys are a trillion times better than *NSYNC.
Jadakiss responds to https://t.co/vSa99KARxp saying Black Thought is a trillion times better than Jay-Z:
“Leave our culture alone… The type of music you do ain’t even our type of music, to just go up there and put two people against each other…”
“Leave our f*ing culture alone!” he continued concerning will.i.am. “That’s my opinion. You’re starting off some st, and then he’s going to go be somewhere making cars.” This refers to the Black Eyed Peas members’ tech endeavors, although many on social media argued he’s still a part of hip-hop culture.
Also, Fat Joe and Jadakiss’ discussion brought up the difference between saying you’re better than everyone else and saying that another artist in your field is better than another. “The type of music you do ain’t even our type of music,” Jada opined.
All in all, if you think Black Thought is better than Jay-Z, that’s a valid take. And so is the inverse, which is what these two peers seemed to be getting at.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a phone call today with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to discuss pathways to peace amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. The leaders focused on achieving a ceasefire as a critical first step toward ending the conflict.
Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s clear stance: “The path to peace must begin with a ceasefire. We are ready for this, as well as for meetings at the highest level in various formats. From the first seconds of the war, we want to end it, because Ukraine did not start this war. Russia is the only reason for the delay and the lack of peace.”
Ramaphosa shared insights from his recent discussions with Russian counterparts, providing Zelenskyy with details of those talks. Zelenskyy also briefed Ramaphosa on his recent engagements with U.S. President Donald Trump and European leaders, highlighting efforts to coordinate a unified position.
“A lot has already been done,” Zelenskyy said. “We are coordinating our common position with all partners, and this position must be strong. This is about the future security architecture not only of Ukraine, but also of Europe and the whole world.”
The conversation underscores ongoing international efforts to address the conflict and build a framework for lasting peace.
Seven Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations have endorsed a plan to transform the North-South Corridor (NSC) into a smart economic corridor, aiming to drive industrialisation, job creation, and sustainable growth. The decision was made at a high-level workshop in Johannesburg, South Africa, from 24 to 25 July 2025, involving Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, alongside international and SADC partners.
The NSC, a critical trade route handling over 60% of SADC’s trade, stretches from Durban, South Africa, to Kolwezi, DRC, intersecting major Trans-African Highways and key mineral, agricultural, and river basin zones. Supported by the Southern African Power Pool grid and ICT infrastructure, the corridor is poised to enhance energy and digital services, fostering modern agricultural practices and industrial growth.
The smart economic corridor concept focuses on concentrating economic activities within the corridor’s radius to leverage infrastructure access. Estimates suggest the initiative could unlock $16.1 billion in GDP and create 1.6 million jobs, particularly for youth, women, and small enterprises, through local manufacturing and value chains.
The pilot programme is set to begin in 2026, pending approval by the SADC Council of Ministers and Heads of State Summit in August 2025.
The MK Party has expelled its former Secretary General, Floyd Shivambu, following his public criticism of the party and its leader, Jacob Zuma. The decision was announced at a media briefing by the party’s national chairperson, Nathi Nhleko, on Friday.
Shivambu, who was demoted from his role as Secretary General in June, recently launched his own organization, the Mayibuye Consultation Process, stating he no longer viewed the MK Party as a viable vehicle for black people’s liberation. He also described the MK Party as a “family affair” and accused Zuma of being senile.
Nhleko stated that Shivambu’s remarks demonstrated a misalignment with the party’s principles and a serious breach of trust. “A decision has been taken to summarily terminate the membership of the former SG, and a formal letter of expulsion was transmitted to him on 15 July 2025,” Nhleko said, adding that the party would not engage further on the matter.
African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has vowed that the party will not abandon its transformative policies, including Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) and the Expropriation Act, even if its leaders face sanctions from the United States. This defiance comes as the US imposes a 30% tariff on all South African goods exported to the country, effective from 7 August 2025.
The tariffs, applied to multiple nations, are seen by the ANC as a targeted response to South Africa’s legislation. Speaking at a media briefing on Wednesday, Mbalula accused the US of attempting to “coerce” South Africa into abandoning policies aimed at redressing historical inequalities.
Earlier this year, US President Donald Trump falsely claimed the Expropriation Act was being used to seize land from white farmers. In April, Republican politician Ronny Jackson introduced a bill to Congress proposing a review of US-South Africa relations and sanctions on “corrupt” ANC officials.
Mbalula criticized the Trump administration’s approach, stating, “If it means we are going to suffer through sanctions, as leaders of the ANC, let it be. We will never back imperialists. We will never forsake our country for which we fought for its liberation.”
While acknowledging the severe economic impact of the tariffs, Mbalula reiterated the ANC’s unwavering commitment to its BEE policies, emphasizing that national interests would not be compromised by external pressures.
Zimbabwe and the UK are rekindling diplomatic ties after almost three decades of tension, driven by a global surge in demand for critical minerals that’s led the former colonial power to pursue $1 billion in deals with the resource-rich nation.
In June, the UK dispatched Minister for Africa Lord Ray Collins of Highbury to meet Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and other senior leaders. The trip marked a rare encounter between the two nations’ officials after years of deteriorating relations, especially under former President Robert Mugabe – a vocal critic of Britain’s 90-year colonial rule of the southern African nation.
Collins described his visit as a “mission for economic growth” that would lead to “a win-win situation” for both countries. The British Embassy in Harare echoed that sentiment in the past week, citing a $1 billion pipeline of prospective deals across key sectors such as agriculture, finance, telecommunications, renewable energy and critical minerals that it wants to close.
It identified the 30-megawatt Vungu solar energy investment as a “beacon project” and said others will follow soon.
“The UK is working hard to increase trade and investment for mutual benefit,” a spokesperson said in an emailed response to questions.
Zimbabwe’s foreign affairs spokesperson didn’t respond to a request for comment.
Relations between Zimbabwe and Western powers, including the UK, were largely cordial after independence in 1980, with Britain serving as the country’s biggest trading partner and a key source of aid supporting land reform and economic development. In 1997, the ties deteriorated after Britain refused to fund the land reform program. In a letter that November, the UK government said it had no colonial obligation to finance the program. That sparked tensions between the two countries and fueled debate over land redistribution in Zimbabwe.
Two years later, Zimbabwe defaulted on loan repayments, and in 2000, it began state-sanctioned farm seizures that displaced 4,500 White farmers and caused agricultural output to plunge. In response, the UK and other Western nations imposed sanctions, citing violations of property rights.
By 2024, the UK ranked as Zimbabwe’s 14th-largest trading partner, with total trade valued at $155 million — significantly overshadowed by China’s $3.9 billion and the United Arab Emirates’s $2.9 billion.
The UK’s renewed engagement with Zimbabwe reflects more than a diplomatic thaw and signals a strategic interest in critical minerals, particularly lithium, said Zaynab Hoosen, senior Africa analyst at Pangea-Risk, a specialist intelligence advisory firm. “Zimbabwe’s substantial lithium reserves offer a timely opportunity to diversify supply chains and reduce reliance on dominant producers.”
Western nations from the US to the UK are scouring the globe for greater access to critical minerals needed for clean energy, military infrastructure, advanced defense systems, semiconductors and electric-vehicle batteries.
The UK said in a policy paper last month that an upcoming critical minerals strategy will highlight the importance of forming targeted growth partnerships.
Its strategy in Africa is undergoing an overhaul from traditional aid toward commercially focused, mutually beneficial ties under its new “Approach to Africa,” unveiled in June, Hoosen said. “Recent moves include an infrastructure partnership with South Africa, which builds on existing cooperation in platinum group metals and the UK’s first trade and investment mission to Angola, where UK-based firm Pensana Plc is advancing the Longonjo Rare Earth Project.”
For Zimbabwe, the benefits go beyond minerals diplomacy, as the stronger ties with the UK “offer access to diversified investment, expanded trade and renewed international legitimacy,” Hoosen added.
The improved relations also coincide with Zimbabwe’s “economic diplomacy” strategy adopted by its cabinet last month that prioritizes key sectors including mining, manufacturing and agriculture in foreign relations.
“Zimbabwe is what it is because of the economic endowments that it has,” Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Amon Murwira told a post-cabinet briefing on July 29 as he unveiled the new policy. The southern African nation won’t hesitate to “leverage” on its natural resources to further its national interests, he said.
Tom Aspinall and Dricus du Plessis have taken the MMA world by storm. Tom’s rise in the heavyweight division has been explosive and impressive. His speed and power make him a true contender.
Meanwhile, Dricus has dominated the middleweight ranks with fearless aggression and skill. He’s now the reigning UFC middleweight champion, making South Africa proud. Both fighters have earned respect through relentless hard work and thrilling performances.
Though they compete in different weight classes, fans love their intensity. A recent encounter between these stars sparked excitement and revealed much about their true fighting spirits.
Tom Aspinall fails to intimidate Dricus du Plessis
During a tense moment, Tom Aspinall tried pushing Dricus around. But the heavyweight star couldn’t believe Dricus’ strength. Despite being a middleweight, Dricus stood his ground with confidence and power. His recent fights showed why he’s the world champion. Against Sean Strickland, Dricus displayed ferocity and unbreakable will.
He’s been training non-stop, sharpening his striking and wrestling. His upcoming fight with Khamzat Chimaev adds pressure, yet he looks unfazed. Dricus’ intense conditioning is paying off. His workouts include brutal sparring and heavy grappling. Trainers say his strength has reached new heights.
Even heavyweights like Tom now know Dricus can’t be pushed around. Fans loved seeing Dricus’ fearless attitude. He reminded everyone why he’s the best middleweight today. Aspinall’s surprise reaction went viral, proving Dricus is tougher than he looks.
DNA Study Exposes Zimbabwe’s Paternity Secrets – 1 in 3 Mothers Named Wrong Father A groundbreaking scientific study spanning a decade has unveiled a family secret shaking Zimbabwe: when subjected to DNA verification, an astonishing 33% of mothers incorrectly identified their child’s biological father. This peer-reviewed research, published in 2024 in the National Library of Medicine via PubMed Central, analysed 1,303 real-world parentage cases processed in Zimbabwe between 2013 and 2023 by the African Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology (AiBST).
Shocking Numbers From A Decade of DNA Testing The study found a staggering 32.33% paternity exclusion rate from 1,135 paternity tests. In other words:
“We observed 367 paternity exclusions from 1,135 cases, giving an overall paternity exclusion rate of 32.33%.”
Put simply, when 100 men tested as alleged fathers, about 33 were proven not to be the biological fathers.
Court-ordered cases showed an even higher rate of deception, with a 44% exclusion rate, while private “peace of mind” tests had a 31% rate. The highest exclusion rate was seen in criminal paternity cases, reaching 61.11%, underscoring how legal disputes often reveal deeper family complexities.
Paternity: Other Tests Reveal Family Complexities Though paternity tests made up the majority (87.37%) of cases, the study also examined other family relationships:
Maternity tests showed an 8.33% exclusion rate, indicating even some mothers were unaware of their biological connections. Sibling tests—commonly used to resolve inheritance disputes—revealed a startling 44.90% exclusion rate. The researchers noted: “Most of these cases involved children introduced after the death of one or both parents, suggesting possible inheritance fraud or parenthood uncertainties.”
Grandparentage and avuncular (aunt/uncle) tests were also included but showed lower exclusion rates. How DNA Testing Uncovered the Truth Using Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis, the gold standard in genetic testing, scientists compared 16-21 specific genetic markers inherited from parents. When too many markers fail to match, paternity is excluded.
Lead researcher Dr Roslyn Thelingwani explained:
“Markers like FGA and D2S1338 were particularly effective, identifying mismatches in 62.91% and 67.03% of false paternity cases respectively.”
This technique offers a genetic fingerprint that provides near-certain biological relatedness verification.
Why So Many Misidentified Fathers? The Underlying Factors The study did not focus on motives, but experts offer insights into the complex reasons behind these high exclusion rates:
Pressure to name a father figure despite uncertainty
Stigma attached to single motherhood and childbearing outside wedlock
Cultural traditions that assign fatherhood without scientific verification
Legal and Financial Motives:
Inheritance claims often arise after parents’ deaths, leading to disputes
Child support and custody battles
Immigration and citizenship cases requiring proof of biological ties
Personal Circumstances:
Multiple sexual partners during conception periods
Secret relationships or affairs
Sexual assault cases where biological father identity was unknown
Impact on Zimbabwean Society: Truth Over Tradition
This study highlights a seismic shift in family and legal dynamics driven by DNA science:
Biological facts increasingly override traditional assumptions about parentage.
Courts demand DNA evidence more often, transforming family law.
Cultural notions of fatherhood face scrutiny, challenging long-held beliefs.
Demand for private DNA tests has surged over 300% since 2015, reflecting growing public interest.
Clinical psychologist Dr Tinashe Mupedziswa notes:
“These findings don’t just reveal biological truths — they dismantle carefully constructed family narratives. While the emotional fallout can be devastating, for many it also brings clarity and closure.”
The study authors emphasise that the research is not about blame but about:
“Documenting the growing role of genetic science in establishing biological truth in our society.”
The Bigger Picture: Zimbabwe’s Patrilineal Culture and Testing Bias Researchers observed that male children were more frequently tested (59.75%) than females (40.25%), reflecting Zimbabwe’s patrilineal cultural preference for confirming paternity of male heirs. This highlights how DNA testing is not just a scientific process but deeply entwined with social and cultural contexts.
Read the Full Study For those interested, the full peer-reviewed research, Analysis of Data and Common Mutations Encountered During Routine Parentage Testing in Zimbabwe, is freely available here.
Mutare Man Dies Trying To Save Duck From Fishpond A tragic incident unfolded near Mutare Teacher’s College on 4 August 2025 when Simbarashe Mlambo, aged 22, drowned while attempting to rescue a duck that had fallen into a fishpond. The young man was carrying out a routine task with a companion when the unfortunate event occurred.
The Rescue Attempt That Ended In Tragedy According to Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, Acting Manicaland Police Spokesperson, Simbarashe was with Yolanda Hove gathering ducks near the college’s fishpond. Inspector Chinyoka explained:
“While they were driving the ducks towards the forum, one of the ducks fell into the fishpond. Mlambo immediately jumped in to save the duck but sadly, he could not swim and drowned.”
The incident was quickly reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Sakubva, who promptly attended the scene.
Police Retrieve Body From Pond Inspector Chinyoka confirmed the body was retrieved from the pond and taken to Victoria Chitepo Hospital for a post-mortem examination. He added:
“The matter was reported to ZRP Sakubva, who attended the scene and retrieved the body. It was taken to Victoria Chitepo Hospital for a post-mortem,”
hAuthorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the drowning.
Community in Shock Over Tragic Loss Local residents expressed their grief over Mlambo’s sudden death. Diamond FM Zim reported the incident on Facebook on 6 August 2025, sparking an outpouring of condolences.
“It’s heartbreaking. He was just trying to save a duck. No one expected this,” a neighbour said.
Authorities Urge Caution Near Water Police have reminded the public to exercise extreme caution near rivers, ponds, and dams. Inspector Chinyoka emphasised the dangers of entering deep water without proper swimming skills.
“We urge people to avoid risking their lives in such situations. Call for professional help instead,” he advised.
The funeral arrangements for Simbarashe Mlambo are yet to be announced.
The public has been urged to be on high alert following a surge in fake social media accounts impersonating businessman Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei.
In a statement issued by Sakunda’s Public Relations Department on his behalf, Dr Tagwirei made it clear that he currently does not have any presence on any social media platform, including X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or others.
The statement warns that these fake accounts are being used to spread false information and, in some cases, scam unsuspecting people out of money. Members of the public have been strongly advised not to engage with or trust any pages claiming to represent him.
Dr Tagwirei is in the process of setting up official social media accounts, which will soon be launched on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. An official announcement will be made once the verified accounts are live.
Until then, the public is encouraged to report any suspected fake pages to the respective platforms for impersonation and fraud.
Read the statement below:
“Fake Social Media Accounts Alert: Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei
We wish to alert the public that Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei is not on any social media platforms at this time. He does not own, operate or control any accounts on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or any other platform.
Any accounts or pages claiming to be him, or claiming to speak on his behalf, are entirely fake. These pages are being used to spread false information and, in some cases, scam people out of their money. We strongly warn the public not to engage with or trust any of these accounts.
Dr Tagwirei is currently in the process of setting up his official social media accounts, which will soon be launched on X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Once they are ready, we will make an official announcement through trusted channels.
Zimbabwean authorities are raising awareness on faulty Lithium batteries that are causing deadly house fires around Bulawayo.
What was meant to be a solution for power outages has become a deadly hazard. Improperly installed lithium batteries in solar systems are igniting terrifying house fires across Bulawayo, with devastating consequences for families and property.
Shocking Statistics of Faulty Lithium Batteries Causing Deadly House Fires Bulawayo’s Fire Brigade reports an alarming trend- 42 residential fires linked to lithium batteries since last year. This includes 10 incidents in 2025 alone, with one fatality already recorded. The most recent fire erupted in Cowdray Park on August 4, completely destroying a bedroom before firefighters could contain the blaze.
“The explosion originated from a poorly installed gel battery with exposed wiring,” explained Chief Fire Officer Mhlangano Moyo. “These aren’t accidents – they’re the result of dangerous shortcuts.”
Recent Incidents Highlight Growing Danger Pumula Incident (May 24): A domestic worker suffered severe burns when batteries exploded in her room Burnside Disaster: A Greek investor lost his $350,000 property to a lithium battery fire Cowdray Park Fire: Family returned from school to find neighbours battling flames Why These Batteries Become Firebombs Fire officials identify three primary causes: Unqualified installers using substandard materials, overcharging due to improper monitoring systems and a lack of safety mechanisms in cheap battery units.
Protecting Your Home: Critical Safety Measures Chief Moyo urges residents to:
Only purchase batteries from certified manufacturers Hire licensed electricians for all installations Install battery monitoring systems and temperature alarms Conduct monthly inspections of all solar components Avoid overcharging by following manufacturer guidelines
“These tragedies are completely preventable,” Moyo emphasized. “Investing in proper installation today can save your family’s life tomorrow.”
As solar power adoption grows across Zimbabwe, authorities warn that safety standards must keep pace. The Bulawayo City Council is considering new regulations for solar installations following these disturbing incidents.
Kuda Tagwirei Finally Co-Opted into ZANU PF Central Committee
ZANU PF has added some new faces to its Central Committee, aiming to boost the party’s leadership ahead of future challenges. Among those co-opted are Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development Polite Kambamura, well-known businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, and three others: Christine Gwati, Joseph Serima, and Collen Ndebele.
Chinamasa Confirms Tagirwei and 4 Others Co-Opted into Zanu PF Central Committee The party’s Secretary for Legal Affairs, Patrick Chinamasa, confirmed the move, explaining that the Politburo gave the green light during its 30 July 2025 meeting. These new members still need to be formally approved by the Central Committee at their next gathering.
Different provinces played a role in recommending the new leaders. Mashonaland West put forward Kambamura, Matabeleland North chose Gwati, Serima, and Ndebele, while Harare province backed Tagwirei. The process followed party rules closely. Harare’s Provincial Coordinating Committee made their recommendation back in March, and the nomination passed through key party meetings without any objections.
“There was no objection in the Politburo meeting to the recommendation by the Harare Provincial Coordinating Committee,” said Chinamasa. “When the 385th Ordinary Session of the Politburo sat on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, the co-option by Harare province was confirmed.”
Central Committee Set to Officially Adopt New Members Chinamasa highlighted that the Politburo was unanimous in confirming all these co-options, setting the stage for their official adoption. The Central Committee, which is ZANU PF’s top decision-making body outside of its Congress, now welcomes these fresh additions.
This reshuffle signals a tightening of the party’s leadership ranks as ZANU PF prepares for upcoming political battles and administrative duties. The inclusion of these figures, especially a high-profile businessman like Tagwirei, points to a strategic move to strengthen influence and control in key sectors.
Brooke Hogan is continuing to voice skepticism over the circumstances of her father Hulk Hogan’s death, saying she is willing to personally pay for an autopsy to “protect his dignity and legacy.”
Just two days after publicly calling the wrestling icon’s chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) diagnosis “weird,” the 37-year-old took to Instagram to explain why the news had left her “shocked.”
“I don’t think anyone thinks there’s foul play suspected,” Brooke wrote in an Instagram Story, “but the man had a very complicated medical history.” She claimed she had seen “MULTIPLE near-perfect blood panels” from her father in recent months before “all of a sudden everything was different.”
Brooke’s latest comments come after she initially “freaked out” upon hearing that Hulk had allegedly been cremated without an autopsy following his July 24 death at age 71. She later clarified, “He has not been cremated, and [his wife, Sky Daily] is doing the research.”
The reality TV alum also said she was puzzled by the leukemia diagnosis because her father had “no family history” of cancer, was “going to an anti-aging specialist,” and “took the most care of his body.”
“Being through all the surgeries, you have to do a blood panel before any major surgery,” Brooke told the Bubba the Love Sponge radio show earlier this week. “How did nobody catch a high white blood count? That’s what bothers me the most.”
Brooke added that one doctor once told her, “His blood is like a 25-year-old’s.”
Despite her doubts, an official report from the Pinellas County Forensic Science Center last week stated Hulk’s cause of death as acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) amid a battle with leukemia.
Hulk Hogan born Terry Bollea was a wrestling superstar of the 1980s and ’90s, later becoming a pop culture figure through reality TV and endorsements. He is survived by his wife, Sky Daily (married in 2023), Brooke, and his 35-year-old son, Nick Hogan, from his marriage to Linda Hogan.
Brooke, who says she asked to be removed from her father’s will and did not attend his funeral, insisted: “My dad’s dignity and legacy deserves it.”
WWE legend John Cena has opened up about how fans played a major role in his decision to get a hair transplant.
The 17-time world champion, currently on his retirement tour, shared that it was fans who first made him aware of his thinning hair, often holding up signs pointing it out during events.
Speaking to People Magazine, Cena said: ‘When I’m trying to hide my hair loss the audience is just bringing it to light, like ‘you’re going bald’. I used it as a thing of the point of the story we were in just because I also want the audience to know I see your signs, the one that says ‘Bald John Cena’, I get it but I also know it’s something I’m going through.
‘I want to be genuine with that audience letting me know, either do some work or shave your head. They pushed me into going to see what my options were. I ended up getting a transplant last November and the crazy thing I came back I came back for the retirement tour starting in January.
‘So I’m like alright successful surgery but I’ve got to get out there and go. It was not easy.’
The Trump administration is now offering a $50 million reward to anyone who can provide information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
The announcement came directly from Attorney General Pam Bondi, who accused Maduro of conspiring with multiple gangs to bring guns and illegal drugs into the United States.
‘Maduro uses foreign terrorist organizations like [Tren de Aragua], Sinaloa, and Cartel of the Suns to bring deadly drugs and violence into our country,’ she said.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has so far seized 30 tons of cocaine that were subsequently linked to Maduro and his associates, Bondi said.
Nearly seven tons of that total was linked to Maduro himself, she added, explaining that this represents a primary source of income for gangs operating in Venezuela and Mexico.
‘Cocaine is often laced with fentanyl, resulting in the loss and destruction of countless American lives,’ Bondi said.
Maduro, 62, has been in the crosshairs of the American justice system since March 2020, when he was indicted in the Southern District of New York on a litany of charges related to drug trafficking.
They included narco-terrorism, conspiracy to import cocaine, possession of machine guns and destructive devices, and conspiracy to possess machine guns and destructive devices.
Immediately after the indictment, the first Trump administration offered a $15 million reward for Maduro’s capture.
President Joe Biden’s State Department increased that to $25 million and with Bondi’s announcement on Thursday, the federal government has doubled that.
‘The DOJ has seized over $700 million of Maduro-linked assets, including two private jets, nine vehicles, and more. Yet Maduro’s reign of terror continues,’ Bondi said.
‘He is one of the largest narco-traffickers in the world, and a threat to our national security,’ she added.
She vowed that Maduro won’t escape justice under watch and that he ‘will be held accountable for his despicable crimes’.
Maduro has been the president of Venezuela since April 2013, and in that time, he has been accused of consolidating power in executive agencies while simultaneously wresting it away from the elected National Assembly.
In 2024, Maduro ran for a third term as president. He was declared the winner in July by the Maduro-aligned election authority, which did not release the voting tallies from each of the 30,000 polling booths in the nation.
The opposition party, who ran Edmundo González as their candidate, also claimed victory.
Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said the margin of González’s win was ‘overwhelming’ based on tallies received from 80 percent of ballot boxes nationwide.
Machado claimed González, a former diplomat, won with twice as many votes.
In November 2024, former Secretary of State Antony Blinken officially recognized González as the president-elect of Venezuela.
The Trump administration has held the same position, with current Secretary of State Marco Rubio accusing Maduro of election tampering last month.
‘One year since dictator Nicolás Maduro defied the will of the Venezuelan people by baselessly declaring himself the winner, the United States remains firm in its unwavering support to Venezuela’s restoration of democratic order and justice,’ he said.
‘Maduro is not the President of Venezuela and his regime is not the legitimate government.’
Guaidó and González fled the country after both men had arrest warrants issued for them by Maduro’s government.
Sean “Diddy” Combs will beg to avoid prison and instead serve whatever sentence he gets at the lavish $48.5 million private-island mansion where he had many of his infamous “freak-offs.”
The disgraced rap mogul’s lawyers hinted the move was on the table as they brace for him to be sentenced in October to confinement for 1 to 3 years for his prostitution conviction, TMZ reported.
Combs’ lead lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, claimed the Bad Boy Records founder wants therapy for anger and substance abuse issues, but bemoaned he can’t get the help he needs in the prison system.
He said it’s a “possibility” they’ll try and push the judge to let him serve out his sentence in the comforts of his plush home.
It comes just days after a judge ruled the rapper, who has been in a federal lockup since his arrest last September, couldn’t be released on a $50 million bail ahead of his sentencing.
Combs had been pushing to return to the swanky $48.5 million mansion in Miami where prosecutors said he’d have his infamous “freak-offs” — the grueling, drug-fueled romps in which he watched his girlfriend have s£x with male escorts.
Combs was acquitted last month on racketeering and s£x trafficking charges following his high-profile trial in Manhattan federal court.
The rapper was found guilty of lesser pr0stitution charges.
Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet says he has formally nominated former U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, praising his “extraordinary statesmanship” in ending a recent border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand.
In a Facebook post on Thursday night, August 7, Hun Manet shared a letter sent to the Norwegian Nobel Committee, crediting Trump with playing a decisive role in de-escalating one of the region’s most dangerous flare-ups in years.
“This timely intervention, which averted a potentially devastating conflict, was vital in preventing great loss of life and paved the way for the restoration of peace,” the letter read.
According to Reuters, Trump made a July 26 phone call to the leaders of both Cambodia and Thailand, breaking a stalemate in peace efforts. Two days later, negotiations in Malaysia produced a ceasefire agreement. On Thursday, both nations pledged to avoid renewed hostilities and allow Southeast Asian observers.
The five-day conflict, which began with small arms fire, escalated into heavy artillery, rocket exchanges, and an F-16 airstrike by Thailand. It left 43 people dead and displaced more than 300,000 residents.
The move to nominate Trump had been hinted at last week by Cambodia’s deputy prime minister, who also thanked Trump for sharply reducing a threatened U.S. tariff on Cambodian garment exports from 49% to 19% — a change he said saved a vital sector of the nation’s economy.
Other countries have also credited Trump for conflict mediation. Pakistan announced in June that it would recommend him for the award for his role in easing tensions with India, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed last month that he had also submitted Trump’s name.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has responded to a viral video showing a female soldier dancing while undressing in her official uniform, issuing a firm warning to all military personnel about maintaining discipline and professionalism.
The footage, which has circulated widely on social media, shows the soldier removing her uniform while dancing, first revealing her bra and later pulling down her trousers to expose her underwear. She appeared to begin lowering her underwear as well before the video abruptly ended.
In a statement released following the video’s spread, the SANDF condemned the behaviour and reminded service members of the standards expected while in uniform.
“The SANDF views this conduct as inappropriate and unbecoming of a member of the military,” the statement said. “Members are reminded to conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the integrity and dignity of the uniform at all times. Filming and sharing such content on social media while in uniform is unacceptable.”
The Defence Force stressed that uniforms are symbols of national service and must be treated with respect, adding that disciplinary measures may be taken against members who violate regulations concerning conduct and public image.
The incident has sparked debate online about personal freedom, military discipline, and the use of social media by service members. While some defended the soldier’s actions as a form of expression, others echoed the SANDF’s stance on the importance of preserving the honour of the armed forces.
The SANDF has not confirmed whether the soldier in question has been identified or what disciplinary action may follow.
Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has accused The New York Times of defaming Israel in its coverage of hunger in Gaza and is considering a lawsuit against the paper.
“The New York Times should be sued,” Netanyahu told Fox News on Thursday. “I am actually looking into whether a country can sue the New York Times … I think it’s such clear defamation.”
His comments target a July 24 Times story on Gaza’s food crisis that featured a prominent front-page photo of 18-month-old Mohammed Zakaria al-Mutawaq, described as emaciated and malnourished. The article quoted the boy’s mother saying he had been “born healthy.”
Subsequent reporting revealed the child also had cerebral palsy and complications from a genetic disorder — details not included in the original story or caption. Critics accused the paper of misleading readers into believing his condition was caused solely by Israeli policy.
Netanyahu threatens to sue New York Times over Gaza coverage exposing hunger and malnutrition in besieged enclave
On July 30, the Times appended an editor’s note clarifying his medical history and removing the mother’s statement. Netanyahu blasted the correction as “the size of a postage stamp” and said it failed to repair the damage.
“Israel is presented as though we are applying a campaign of starvation in Gaza. What a boldfaced lie,” Netanyahu said. “There is no policy of starvation in Gaza, and there is no starvation in Gaza.”
He claimed Israel has allowed humanitarian aid throughout the war, alleging shortages are caused by Hamas diverting supplies.
The Times defended its work, saying the update reflected new facts learned after publication and that its core reporting on Gaza’s humanitarian crisis remains accurate.
“Children in Gaza are malnourished and starving, as New York Times reporters and others have documented,” a spokesperson said, adding that Netanyahu’s criticism was part of “an increasingly common playbook” to pressure independent media.
The dispute comes amid ongoing reports from the UN and relief agencies warning of worsening hunger, shortages of clean water, and medicine in Gaza. Israel blames Hamas, while critics cite Israeli restrictions and military operations.
Pro-Israel groups and some U.S. lawmakers have sided with Netanyahu, accusing the Times of bias. Supporters of the paper argue that such attacks are meant to intimidate journalists and discourage critical coverage.
If Netanyahu pursues legal action, it would echo Ariel Sharon’s 1983 libel suit against Time magazine over its reporting on the 1982 Sabra and Shatila massacre. That case ended without damages after a jury found the statement false but not made with “actual malice.”
ECL Body Cannot be Accessed or Moved Following Succesful Filing of Appeal
The South African jurisprudence, a Notice of Appeal filed successfully operates as a Stay, stays the Judgement and Orders of Court
Section 18 of the Superior Courts Act provides that an application for leave to appeal or the appeal itself suspends the operation and execution of a decision unless the court orders otherwise
South African courts operate within a hybrid legal system based on the English common law, Roman-Dutch and customary laws.
In South Africa, filing an appeal, operates as a suspension (stay) of the execution of a court order or judgment, but not always automatically.
The specific rules depend on the type of order and the court involved.
Automatic Stay (General Rule):
The common law principle in South Africa is that the execution of a judgment or order is automatically suspended upon the noting of an appeal. This means the winning party generally cannot enforce the order until the appeal is decided.
Exceptions to Automatic Stay:
There are exceptions. For example, in some instances, the court that made the original order can order that the execution of the order continue despite the appeal.
Section 18 of the Superior Courts Act:
This Act provides that an application for leave to appeal or the appeal itself suspends the operation and execution of a decision unless the court orders otherwise.
Irreparable Harm Test:
If the winning party seeks to enforce the order despite the appeal, they need to prove that they will suffer irreparable harm if the order isn’t enforced, and that the losing party won’t suffer irreparable harm if it is,
.Electronic Communications and Transactions Act
Questions; Few Facts ● South African Court allows filing both physical and electron filing using the platform Court Online which allows e-filing. (Electronic Communications and Transactions Act (ECTA) of 2002. Remember the Attorney-General of the Republic of Zambia filed his court process on the night before burial?
● Is a Notice of Appeal a Stay- Unlike in Zambia, in South Africa, a mere Notice of Appeal, filed and noted, operates as a stay against Judgment and Orders of Court. This is based on Section 18 of the Superior Court Act of 2013 which deals with the suspension of judgments and orders pending an appeal.
Section 18(1) provides that “unless the court under exceptional circumstances orders otherwise, the operation and execution of a decision which is the subject of an application for leave to appeal or of an appeal, is suspended pending the decision of the application or appeal.” South Africa’s jurisprudence,unlike Zambia operates on a Roman-Dutch, English Common Law and Customary laws.
● Will the Zambian Government Move the Body? Unlikely unless they wish to break the law in South Africa. The Sherif of Court would not sign enforcing orders after learning of appeal.
● Does the lawyers for the Applicants or Respondents need to physically serve the douments…not necessarily, e-copies suffice..in this case parties have been doing so already.
LUNGU FAMILY APPEALS PRETORIA COURT RULING, CITING IGNORED BURIAL WISHES AND HARM TO DIGNITY
By Brian Matambo – Sandton, South Africa
The family of former Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has launched a formal appeal against a Pretoria High Court ruling that ordered his remains to be released to the Zambian government for repatriation and a state funeral in Lusaka. The move deepens a high-profile legal and political dispute that has gripped Zambia and drawn regional attention.
In court papers filed through Mashele Attorneys, the widow, Esther Lungu, and six other family members argue that the Full Court “erred” in granting relief that disregarded the late president’s express wishes. They say Lungu had made clear that those who had shown no concern for his welfare in life should not preside over his funeral or burial in death, a pointed reference to current President Hakainde Hichilema.
The appeal states that the court wrongly treated a tentative funeral programme, marked as “FAA7” in the record, as a final binding agreement. The family contends that this document expressly required further consultation on who would speak at events and under what conditions, and that no such final agreement was reached.
“The guarantees given by the Government of the Republic of Zambia were clear,” the filing says, “that they would not deviate from undertakings or betray the trust of the family and the wishes of the late President Lungu.” The appellants maintain that the state’s actions have already broken that trust.
Beyond the legal arguments, the family frames the dispute as one of dignity, cultural autonomy, and political neutrality in the burial of a former head of state. They warn that allowing the current government to control the funeral would cause “undue harm” to them and violate principles under both South African family law and Zambian customs.
While the appeal does not detail new evidence, allies of the family have called for the leaked audio allegedly featuring Robert Chabinga discussing judicial influence to be admitted into the record, arguing that it casts doubt on the fairness of the original judgment.
The case, now heading for review, is being closely watched in Lusaka, Pretoria, and among regional bodies. If the appeal succeeds, it could block the repatriation order and give the family greater authority over the late president’s final rites. If it fails, the Pretoria judgment stands, clearing the way for a state-managed burial at Embassy Park, Zambia’s official presidential cemetery.
The Lungu family has applied for leave to appeal the High Court decision that ordered former Zambian president Edgar Lungu to be buried in Zambia rather than South Africa.
IN THE HIGH COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA
(GAUTENG DIVISION, PRETORIA)
Case Number: 096565/2025
In the matter between
ESTHER LUNGU – First Applicant BERTHA LUNGU – Second Applicant TASILA LUNGU – Third Applicant DALIESO LUNGU – Fourth Applicant CHIYESO LUNGU – Fifth Applicant CHARLES PHIRI – Sixth Applicant MAKEBI ZULU – Seventh Applicant TWO MOUNTAINS – Eighth Applicant
And
GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF ZAMBIA – Respondent
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In re
GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF ZAMBIA – Applicant
And
ESTHER LUNGU – First Respondent BERTHA LUNGU – Second Respondent TASILA LUNGU – Third Respondent DALIESO LUNGU – Fourth Respondent CHIYESO LUNGU – Fifth Respondent CHARLES PHIRI – Sixth Respondent MAKEBI ZULU – Seventh Respondent TWO MOUNTAINS – Eighth Respondent
⸻
APPLICATION FOR LEAVE TO APPEAL
BE PLEASED TO TAKE NOTICE THAT the First to Seventh Applicants (“the Applicants”) intend to apply for leave to appeal against the whole judgment and order made by his Lordship Mr Justice Ledwaba AJP, his Lordship Modau ADJP and her Ladyship Potterill J (the “Full Court”), delivered on the 8th day of August 2025.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE FURTHER that the Applicants apply for leave to appeal in terms of Section 17(1)(a)(i) and/or Section 17(1)(a)(ii) of the Superior Courts Act, 10 of 2013.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE FURTHER that the Applicants apply for leave to appeal to the Supreme Court of Appeal in terms of Section 16(1)(a)(ii) of the Superior Courts Act, 10 of 2013.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE FURTHER that the legal and/or factual grounds upon which the Applicants rely for the application for leave to appeal against the full judgment and order of the Full Court are the following:
1. The Full Court erred in granting prayers 1 to 7 of the order. 2. The Full Court erred in granting prayer 4 of the order, which prayer does not align with the purported agreement as set out in Annexure “FAA7”:
2.1 In that it does not make provision for the family to repatriate the remains of the Late President Lungu; 2.2 Annexure “FAA7” did not set out any involvement of the Current President in the funeral and burial of the Late President Lungu, yet the order implies his involvement.
3. The Full Court erred in granting prayer 4 of the order, relying on an alleged agreement, when the relief sought was never framed as specific performance. The relief sought was for a declarator of rights. 4. The Full Court erred in finding that the Respondent could seek to enforce Annexure “FAA7” as a purported agreement, when the Respondent on the same day handed a handwritten program, Annexure “EL16”, to the family that directly contradicts the content of Annexure “FAA7”.
5. The objective evidence shows that the Respondent sought to enforce Annexure “EL16” and never Annexure “FAA7”. 6. Further, Annexure “FAA7” does not, on the reading thereof, purport to be the final agreement between the parties as it specifically states that the parties will still need to consult and agree who speaks at all events.
7. The Court erred in finding that Mr Zulu confirmed the agreement for the Applicant in relation to Annexure “AA7” on a televised briefing. Annexure “FAA10” is a transcript of this press briefing given by the Seventh Applicant and correctly outlined the correct factual position at that stage, namely that:
7.1 At no time did the administration take any interest in the late President Lungu’s well-being after his removal from office. President Lungu said his wishes were that in the event of his death, those who never showed any interest in his welfare while he was alive should not be allowed to pretend to be interested in his welfare at death. It is important to emphasise that the family is proceeding based on the guarantees given by the Government of the Republic of Zambia that they will not deviate from the undertakings or betray the trust of the family and the wishes of the late President Lungu.
8. The Full Court correctly found that the submission and case of the Respondent was that a tentative program was drawn up by the family, Annexure “FAA7”. Despite this common cause fact the Full Court proceeded to make a different factual finding, contrary to the common cause facts that Annexure “FAA7” marked a tentative proposal that the Respondent never accepted.
9. The Full Court erred in failing to consider the full set of events between the parties for the dates of 10 June 2025 to 18 June 2025, specifically, the further draft programs sent from the Respondent to the Applicants, which facts objectively show that as at 10 June 2025, there was no consensus reached on any agreement.
10. The Full Court failed to correctly apply the test as set out in Plascon-Evans on the facts of the matter. The Full Court ought to have found that it cannot make a final finding on whether an agreement was reached or not, based on the very limited facts as set out in the Founding Affidavit. 11. The Full Court erred in finding that Zambian Law applies in that:
11.1 The Society of Lloyd’s case, on which the Full Court relied, was decided on the fact that the parties agreed to the foreign jurisdiction being applied. In this case the parties never agreed to apply the law of Zambia; 11.2 Further, the closest and most real connecting factor in this instance is the Late President Lungu’s death in South Africa;
11.3 Further, the Respondent wishes to rely on a purported agreement that was concluded in South Africa, meaning the South African law would apply, in terms of the principle of lex contractus; 11.4 In addition, the mere domicile or nationality cannot be afforded more weight than the principles of lex loci delicti commissi, which is a binding private international law and must be applied by the Honourable Court.
12. The Full Court erred in finding that Zambian law dictates that the Late President Lungu must be repatriated and buried in Zambia. No expert evidence was provided to substantiate this finding on Zambian law. The matter of Kaunda also does not begin to validate this proposition as it was a review and not ever decided on the merits.
13. The Court erred in finding that the details of the burial process of a loved one are trivial and matter little. Such a finding is in direct contravention of the Constitution of South Africa, specifically sections 10, 12, 15 and 30.
14. The Court erred in finding that the counter-application ought to be dismissed based on the purported trivial nature of the objections of the family.
15. The Full Court ought to have found that the Respondent acted, at all relevant times, in bad faith in misrepresenting to the family that the Current President will not take any part in the burial of the Late President Lungu, wherefore the purported agreement, if proven, falls to be declared void due to impossibility and/or ought not to be enforced as it would result in undue harm to the Applicants.
16. The Full Court erred in granting relief that effectively ignores the express wishes of the Late President Lungu, in allowing the current President to preside over his funeral and burial.
17. The Full Court erred in not dismissing the application with costs of two counsel.
DATED at Pretoria on this the 8th day of August 2025.
AND TO: VFV Attorneys – Attorneys for the Applicant Block A, Corporate Place, 39 Selati Street, Ashlea Gardens, Pretoria Tel: 012 460 8704 Email: hemisha@vfv.co.za
AND TO: Two Mountains Burial Services (Pty) Ltd – Eighth Respondent Email: LegalServices@twomountains.co.za / johan@concessus.co.za
Statement on the Conduct of Bertha Lungu Following Court Ruling on Repatriation of Former President Edgar Lungu’s Remains
The recent decision to repatriate the remains of former President Edgar Lungu to Zambia for a state funeral was a dignified and lawful resolution to a deeply sensitive matter. It affirmed the principle that national leaders, regardless of political differences, deserve to be laid to rest in the land they served.
However, the public outburst and insults hurled by Bertha Lungu—elder sister to the late president—towards Zambia’s Attorney General and President Hakainde Hichilema are not only disgraceful, but profoundly disappointing. Her behavior, captured on video, was emotionally charged but crossed the line into vulgarity and disrespect unbecoming of an elder and a public figure.
### Why This Matters – **Insults are not a substitute for grief**: While mourning is personal, it must not override public decorum or national unity. – **No one is above the law**: If the government fails to hold Bertha Lungu accountable for her verbal attacks, it risks setting a dangerous precedent—that emotional outbursts can override legal and ethical boundaries.
– **Leadership demands restraint**: The dignity of a former president’s legacy should not be tarnished by the reckless conduct of family members.
⚖️ A Call for Accountability Let the law take its course. After the burial, the government must demonstrate that Zambia is not a nation ruled by fear or favoritism. If we allow such behavior to go unchecked, we risk becoming a country where laws are selectively applied and elders model childishness instead of wisdom.
Bertha Lungu’s actions were not just a personal embarrassment—they were a national insult. Zambia deserves better. Our institutions must respond with firmness, not cowardice.
