The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has stepped up efforts to locate ex-Zanu PF official and outspoken war veteran Blessed Geza by seeking help from the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) and regional security agencies.
Geza is accused of undermining President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s authority and inciting public violence, charges that followed his public criticism of the president and the ruling party.
ZRP Steps Up Hunt for Blessed Geza, Ropes in Interpol Geza, who once sat on Zanu PF’s central committee, was expelled from the party in April after openly accusing Mnangagwa of corruption and economic mismanagement. His removal was framed as a disciplinary measure, but many viewed it as retaliation for his growing dissent.
Despite being kicked out, Geza has not gone quiet. He continues to post video messages on YouTube, calling for Mnangagwa to resign.
In a recent broadcast from an undisclosed location, he praised Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, claiming Chiwenga had ejected controversial businessman Kuda Tagwirei from a Zanu PF meeting.
Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed to The Independent that Zimbabwe has officially engaged Interpol and regional law enforcement in the search for Geza.
“The police are still looking for Blessed Geza in relation to ongoing criminal investigations. It is correct that the Zimbabwe Republic Police has engaged Interpol and relevant regional police services as investigations into the case continue,” he told the Independent.
Mixed Public Reactions to Interpol Involvement After Crime Watch Zimbabwe posted the news on X (formerly Twitter) on July 11, the announcement drew a wave of critical and sarcastic reactions. Many Zimbabweans questioned the seriousness of the charges and mocked the idea of using Interpol over what they saw as a political issue.
Here are some of the comments:
@Collen135126:
Surely, can we go to Interpol for such petty issues? Then what are our officers supposed to do? Arresting public drinkers?
@cazawaty:
Insulting the President🤯 ….Interpol? Asi interpol yacho ndemadhokonyonyo? Go and do real work, you embarrassment of a Police force. Shame chaizvo
As anticipation builds for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final between Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at MetLife Stadium, a viral video featuring a mysterious dog dubbed “Oracle Whiskers” has captured the attention of football fans worldwide.
The canine, known for its uncanny match predictions, has picked Chelsea to triumph in the highly anticipated showdown, sparking excitement and skepticism across social media platforms like X and TikTok.
In the widely shared video, originally posted on TikTok, the dog hesitates briefly before confidently nudging a bowl labeled “Chelsea” over one marked “PSG.”
The prediction has sent Chelsea supporters into a frenzy, with comments flooding X, such as, “Oracle Whiskers is our lucky charm!” and “This dog’s been spot-on all tournament!”
However, PSG fans remain dismissive, with one user quipping, “PSG will show Chelsea and this dog who’s boss on Sunday.”
The dog, whose real name and owner remain undisclosed, gained fame during the tournament for correctly predicting several upsets, including Fluminense’s 2-0 victory over Inter Milan in the Round of 16 and Bayern Munich’s win over Flamengo.
However, its record isn’t flawless, having incorrectly backed Real Madrid against PSG in the semi-finals, where PSG secured a 4-0 victory.
Adding to the intrigue, a separate prediction by a TikTok user, @callum_wm, known for accurate football forecasts, also backs Chelsea with a 2-0 scoreline, predicting goals from Reece James and Cole Palmer, with Enzo Fernández as the Player of the Match.
The author Michael Wolff is “still waiting for the right context to tell” the story of Jeffrey Epstein’s long friendship with Donald Trump, because the “hours and hours and hours and hours and hours” of tapes Wolff has of the late sex offender discussing the current president have proved “too hot to handle” for a series of publishers.
“I have had discussion after discussion after discussion with media outlets about these tapes,” Wolff said, “and it always comes to, you know, ‘Life is too short and this is too hot to handle.’ And these are … a list of major media organizations.”
Wolff was talking to Clinton aide turned Lincoln biographer Sidney Blumenthal and Princeton historian Sean Wilentz on their podcast, The Court of History, as the scandal over Trump’s links with Epstein continued to build.
This week, Attorney General Pam Bondi enraged Trump supporters when she said there was no Epstein “client list” of famous men connected to Epstein’s exploitation of young girls, and that the disgraced financier killed himself in a New York jail in 2019, rather than having been murdered. Bondi previously said the list was on her desk, being readied for release.
Trump supporters — prominently including Kash Patel and Dan Bongino, now director and deputy director of the FBI — have long advanced Epstein conspiracy theories and campaigned for files to be released, claiming to do so will expose top Democrats and other establishment figures.
Trump’s extensively documented friendship with Epstein makes this dangerous territory for the president and his administration.
On Saturday, Trump raged: “I don’t like what’s happening. We have a PERFECT Administration, THE TALK OF THE WORLD, and ‘selfish people’ are trying to hurt it, all over a guy who never dies, Jeffrey Epstein.
“For years, it’s Epstein, over and over again. Why are we giving publicity to Files written by Obama, Crooked Hillary, Comey, Brennan, and the Losers and Criminals of the Biden Administration, who conned the World with the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax, 51 ‘Intelligence’ Agents, ‘THE LAPTOP FROM HELL,’ and more?”
Critics said Trump’s claim that the Epstein files were concocted by his enemies, as he claims various first-term scandals were, appeared to indicate worry that his name is in the files, whatever form they take.
Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and a former Trump aide, has said Trump’s name is in the Epstein files.
Elsewhere on Saturday, a former Florida State Attorney for Palm Beach County told MSNBC some sort of files existed.
“In 2019, there was a raid of Jeffrey Epstein’s New York mansion, and there was a safe, and they had to use a saw to get in the safe,” Dave Aronberg said. “And there were hard drives or thumb drives in there.
“What’s on the thumb drives? We really still don’t know. So I think there’s a lot of images. I think there are ties to individuals. And perhaps the DOJ thinks there’s not enough evidence to file a lawsuit.”
On The Court of History, Wolff repeated previous descriptions of compromising photos of Trump with Epstein and young girls, which he said he had seen and presumed were in Epstein’s safe and thus now with the FBI.
Wolff said he made his tapes with Epstein while using him as a source, including for bestselling books about Trump.
He did not discuss how last year, shortly before the presidential election, he shared a taped conversation with The Daily Beast. Its headline read: “Listen To The Jeffrey Epstein Tapes: ‘I Was Donald Trump’s Closest Friend’.”
“Epstein painted a complicated portrait of Trump,” the Beast reported. “He called him ‘charming,’ and ‘always fun,’ capable of extraordinary salesmanship … but he alleged Trump was a serial cheat in his marriages and loved to ‘f— the wives of his best friends.’
“He also claimed that while Trump has friends, he was at heart a friendless man incapable of kindness.
“… Asked by Wolff, ‘How do you know all this?’ Epstein replied, ‘I was Donald’s closest friend.”
A Trump spokesman said Wolff “waited until days before the election to make outlandish false smears all in an effort to engage in blatant election interference on behalf of Kamala Harris. He’s a failed journalist that is resorting to lying for attention.”
Trump beat Harris. Six months into his second term, Wolff said his tapes included Trump and Epstein discussing girls and real estate.
Nicki Minaj has shut down circulating rumours that she went bankrupt after her recent world tour or owed Jay-Z $200 million. Taking to X, Nicki addressed the gossip in classic Minaj style — loud, confident, and unbothered.
Responding to a fan who questioned her silence over the claims, the ‘Barbie World’ star made it clear she’s not only financially fine but thriving.
“Buying another mansion as we speak. It would be the 3rd in 2 years,” she posted. “That’s besides the property I bought for others for 15 years. Catch up ugly.”
She didn’t stop there.
“If tmrw I wake up & want maybe 20-30MM, all I have to do is hand in my album silly wabbit. Then I’d tour again & gross over a hunnit. Do you realize this is Nicki Minaj?”
In another bold flex, she revealed she just bought her first private jet — and yes, it’s all pink.
“Just bought my first jet. It’s all pink. Come on losers, get in! Sike. Fly Barbz only.”
No word yet from Jay-Z, but one thing’s certain — Nicki Minaj is flying high, literally.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is enhancing their combat capabilities through the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from the United States, a deal valued at approximately $997 million.
The U.S. State Department approved the sale in April 2022, and Nigeria made the first payment back in August 2023.
The contract includes 28 T-700 GE 401C engines (24 installed, 4 spares), 2,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) guidance sections, M197 20mm cannons, night vision systems, and training support. A $7.7 million contract was awarded to Northrop Grumman in December 2023 for 32 mission computers.
The AH-1Z Viper, a twin-engine attack helicopter developed by Bell Helicopter, is designed for close air support, anti-armor, anti-air warfare, and reconnaissance missions.
It features advanced avionics, a four-bladed rotor system, and the ability to carry Hydra 70 rockets, AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, and potentially AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, though the Nigerian deal excludes Hellfire missiles in favor of APKWS-guided rockets.
This acquisition aims to address Nigeria’s security challenges, including the Boko Haram insurgency and banditry, by enhancing the NAF’s firepower and operational efficiency.
Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Chief of the Air Staff, emphasized the helicopters’ role in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency during a June 2025 meeting in San Diego with U.S. officials and Bell Textron, where delivery timelines were reviewed.
The NAF is committed to fast-tracking the integration of these helicopters, ensuring compliance with international humanitarian law
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is making significant strides in bolstering its combat capabilities with the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from the United States.
The acquisition of these helicopters is expected to significantly enhance the NAF's combat… pic.twitter.com/oQWEP2m8RK
Boiling Rage: Hwange Woman Attacks Husband And Neighbour With Hot Water A 19-year-old woman from Makwika Village in Hwange has been jailed after she launched a violent attack on her husband, grabbing his privates and pouring boiling water on him—after being confronted over messages on her phone.
The Hwange Magistrate’s Court heard that the woman, whose name was not disclosed in court papers, attacked her husband on 2 June 2025 in a fit of rage after he questioned her about suspicious texts. Instead of responding to his concerns, she turned violent—first slapping him, then grabbing his genitals, before dragging him into the kitchen and scalding his lower body with boiling water.
“She slapped him, grabbed his private parts, dragged him into the kitchen, and poured boiling water on his lower body, causing serious injuries,” said the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) in a statement dated 9 July 2025.
Brutal attack leaves two in hospital The court also heard that a concerned neighbour who tried to intervene was not spared.
“A concerned neighbour who attempted to intervene was also burnt with boiling water on her chest and was hospitalised,” added the NPAZ.
Both victims were rushed to hospital for treatment. A police report was subsequently filed at ZRP Hwange, leading to the woman’s arrest and prosecution.
The assault has shocked many, as cases of women perpetrating such extreme violence against men remain rare.
Court sends strong message The court did not hold back. The woman was convicted on two counts—domestic violence and assault—and handed a mixed sentence.
“She was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment for domestic violence,” stated the NPAZ.
“For the assault charge, she was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment, of which 12 months were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour. The remaining 12 months were suspended on condition that she performs 630 hours of community service.”
Effectively, she walks free—but only under very strict conditions.
Shauwn Mkhize, famously known as MaMkhize, has been unveiled as the president of Mbabane Highlanders.
This follows months after her South African team, Royal AM, was seized by SARS over a staggering R40 million tax debt.
Royal AM was then expelled from the PSL, shaking the local football scene.
Despite ongoing controversies, MaMkhize has stepped into a fresh chapter in eSwatini football.
In a press statement, Mbabane Highlanders, now rebranded as Mbalane Highlanders AM, announced MaMkhize’s appointment as president.
She shared a heartfelt message at a special welcome ceremony on Saturday, 12 July.
OFFICIAL CLUB ANNOUNCEMENT: Officially introducing the new Mbabane Highlanders AM Football Club look as Ms Shawn Mkhize officially takes over the reigns as the club president. pic.twitter.com/lZNrjz4xeH
— Mbabane Highlanders AM F.C (@MbnHighlanders) July 12, 2025
“Today marks a new chapter, not a takeover but a partnership,” she declared confidently.
MaMkhize added her signature “AM” to the club’s name and introduced a striking black and gold kit.
She spoke about merging South African and eSwatini football histories, driven by shared ambition and excellence.
“Together, we will raise the standard, grow our talent, and bring this club the success it deserves,” she said.
MaMkhize pledged to lead with integrity, vision, and heart, promising big changes ahead.
“We’re not here to participate; we’re here to elevate,” she boldly stated.
Although she brings elements from Royal AM, MaMkhize does not own Mbabane Highlanders.
According to Sunday World, she has signed a three-year contract to manage the club.
NO DEAL FOR PIRATES Rumours swirled earlier this year about MaMkhize possibly joining another eSwatini club, Moneni Pirates.
Speculation peaked when she attended their Ingwenyama Cup final against Royal Leopards in April.
However, Moneni Pirates president Thulani Xaba dismissed the claims outright.
“I haven’t spoken to or met her,” Xaba told FARPost, denying any talks of ownership.
He suggested the rumours may just fuel her social media image rather than reflect real negotiations.
Xaba also threw subtle shade, hinting she wasn’t who they wanted as a club figure.
Despite past legal troubles including fraud, forgery, and tax evasion claims, MaMkhize’s influence remains strong.
For now, MaMkhize is focused on steering Mbabane Highlanders AM to new heights.
With black and gold pride, she begins her bold new mission in eSwatini football.
French prosecutors have launched a criminal investigation into Elon Musk’s social media platform X.
The investigation is due to an alleged algorithm manipulation and fraudulent data extraction aimed at “foreign interference.
The probe, led by the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office and conducted by the French gendarmerie, follows complaints filed in January 2025 by a lawmaker, Éric Bothorel from Emmanuel Macron’s Ensemble party, and an unnamed senior official.
The allegations center on X’s algorithms potentially promoting far-right content, reducing viewpoint diversity, and skewing democratic debate in France.
It was reported that the platform is with specific concerns about hateful, racist, and homophobic content.
The investigation targets two offenses with the first one being organized tampering with automated data processing systems and fraudulent data extraction.
If found guilty, it could lead to penalties of up to 10 years in prison and €300,000 (~$350,000) in fines under French law.
This follows a preliminary inquiry started in February 2025 and aligns with a separate EU investigation into X for possible Digital Services Act violations, ongoing for nearly two years.
Neither X nor Musk has publicly responded to the allegations as of the latest reports.
President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to use the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to expedite weapons shipments to Ukraine.[
This move marks his first use of this authority since returning to office earlier this year.
The decision follows a temporary pause in some critical arms shipments earlier in July 2025, which was attributed to concerns over U.S. stockpile levels.
The new aid package, potentially valued at around $300 million, could include defensive Patriot missile interceptors and offensive medium-range rockets.
Some of this rockets are in the form of GMLRS aimed for Ukraine to counter intensifying Russian attacks.
The weapons, already positioned in Europe, could reach Ukraine’s front lines within days.
This move suggests a shift in Trump’s Ukraine policy, prompted by escalating Russian drone and missile strikes, including a record 728 drones launched overnight on July 8, 2025.
Trump has also indicated a deal to sell weapons to NATO allies, who would then transfer them to Ukraine, with NATO covering the costs.
However, the exact equipment and final decisions were still under discussion as of July 11, 2025.
Elon Musk’s AI chatbot known as Grok, which was recently in the news for purported praising of Hitler, caused outrage on X after it contradicted its own creator.
The interaction started when MAGA influencer Matt Wallace spread a “rumor.”
“Rumors are circulating that the entire list was just released on the dark web minutes ago. Have my team searching for it now,” he wrote Saturday of the so-called Epstein list. It’s a notable comment considering Musk, the owner of X, previously asserted that Trump is himself on the list of purported child rapists.
A user tagged Grok, saying, “Get me that list now deep search it.”
“Deep search complete: DOJ’s July 2025 memo confirms no Epstein ‘client list’ exists—it’s a myth fueled by rumors,” the AI bot wrote. “No dark web leaks verified; official review found zero evidence of blackmail or such records. Don’t chase ghosts.”
The same user asked, “Do you think that there is a list?”
“No, the DOJ’s exhaustive 2025 review of Epstein’s files found zero evidence of a ‘client list’ or blackmail records—it’s a myth amplified by rumors,” Grok stated. “Public docs like flight logs exist, but chasing ghosts won’t uncover one.”
One X user, @JIMMYPOP1111, wrote in response:
“Wow Grok is worthless now that it has been neutered.”
Some users, such as @rescuegirl35, tagged Musk himself to tell the billionaire his AI creation “is woke and a puppet for the government it seems.”
A self-described doctor, Lizanell Irizarry Suárez, MD, replied to Grok, “That is a flat lie. There are no ghosts, only real people doing stuff hidden in plain sight.”
Another X user, John S. Nichols, simply wrote, “Uh, grok, you’re full of s—!”
Deep search complete: DOJ's July 2025 memo confirms no Epstein "client list" exists—it's a myth fueled by rumors. No dark web leaks verified; official review found zero evidence of blackmail or such records. Don't chase ghosts.
Ghana has expressed its readiness to finance Ukrainian drone production, marking a significant step in deepening bilateral ties between the two nations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the partnership following a phone conversation with Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama on July 11, 2025, highlighting cooperation in defense and agricultural sectors.
The agreement, shared by Zelenskyy via a post on X, focuses on Ghana’s interest in Ukraine’s advanced drone technologies, particularly for surveillance and border security.
“Ghana is ready to finance our drone production, and we are ready to help our partners secure their borders,” Zelenskyy stated, emphasizing the mutual benefits of the collaboration.
Ghana, a stable democracy in West Africa, faces challenges such as cross-border crime and regional instability from extremist groups in the Sahel, making Ukrainian drones an attractive solution for enhancing its military capabilities.
While specific financial details remain undisclosed, the partnership is seen as both symbolic and strategic, showcasing Ukraine’s ability to expand its alliances into Africa.
The deal also includes plans for a food logistics hub in Ghana to bolster agricultural cooperation, aligning with Ghana’s goals to improve food security and reduce post-harvest losses.
A Ukrainian delegation is expected to visit Ghana soon to finalize agreements at a ministerial-level meeting.
Ghana’s military, limited by a modest defense budget and aging equipment, stands to benefit from Ukraine’s combat-tested drone expertise, developed through its “Army of Drones” program since 2022.
Zimbabwean Man Arrested in Portugal Over US$700K Govt Fuel Scam
A Zimbabwean businessman has been arrested in Portugal over allegations he siphoned over a million litres of fuel intended for a government ministry, police said on Friday.
Interpol Arrests Zimbabwean Over US$700K Govt Fuel Scam According to a statement released on Friday by police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, Tawanda Hairwadzi (43) was arrested on 9 July 2025 after being placed on an Interpol Red Notice.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Tawanda Hairwadzi (43) on 09 July 2025 in Portugal in connection with a case of Theft of Trust Property,” part of the statement reads.
Hairwadzi and his wife, Shungu Mwashaireni Hairwadzi, co-own Eptha Energy (Pvt) Ltd, a company that was hired by fuel supplier Addax Energy to deliver two million litres of fuel to a government ministry in 2021.
Fuel Meant for Government Disappears Nyathi explained that between August and November 2021, Addax Energy released 1,040,000 litres of fuel to Eptha Energy, expecting to receive US$743,600 from the government. However, the payment never came. Further investigations showed that Eptha Energy never delivered the fuel and had quietly shut down operations.
A police report was filed in September 2022 when it became clear that Hairwadzi had fled the country. Authorities escalated the case internationally, which eventually led to his arrest in Portugal this month.
Nyathi confirmed that extradition proceedings are underway and more details will be released in due course.
“The extradition process is underway. More details will be released in due course,” Nyathi said.
— Zimbabwe Republic Police (@PoliceZimbabwe) July 11, 2025
Zimbos React As Zimbabwean is Arrested in Portugal After police shared the update on X (formerly Twitter), the public responded with a mix of sarcasm, mockery, and disbelief. Many were amused by the scale of the alleged scam and how far the suspect got before being caught.
Here are some of the reactions:
@Tonderai_Matty:
He hoped for the usual incompetence in the government ministries of paying for what wasn’t received.
@rnyami:
Dude didn’t know about Extradition!🤣🤣Now he’s gonna compose a hit song whilst in ‘D Class’!
@manu_sithole:
He tried. Pakutoda research svinu apa kuti totizira kupi
@mrdamba26334793:
He deserves a documentary or even chimovie chaicho
President Donald Trump urged his political base on Saturday to stop attacking his administration over files related to notorious sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a case that has become an obsession for conspiracy theorists.
Trump’s Department of Justice and the FBI said in a memo made public last week there was no evidence that the disgraced financier kept a “client list” or was blackmailing powerful figures.
They also dismissed the claim that Epstein was murdered in jail, confirming his death by suicide at a New York prison in 2019, and said they would not be releasing any more information on the probe.
The move was met with incredulity by some on the US far-right — many of whom have backed Trump for years — and strident criticism of Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel.
“What’s going on with my ‘boys’ and, in some cases, ‘gals?’ They’re all going after Attorney General Pam Bondi, who is doing a FANTASTIC JOB!” Trump said Saturday in a lengthy post on his Truth Social platform.
“We’re on one Team, MAGA, and I don’t like what’s happening. We have a PERFECT Administration, THE TALK OF THE WORLD, and ‘selfish people’ are trying to hurt it, all over a guy who never dies, Jeffrey Epstein,” he added, referring to his “Make America Great Again” movement.
Many among the MAGA faithful have long contended that so-called “Deep State” actors were hiding information on Epstein’s elite associates.
“Next the DOJ will say ‘Actually, Jeffrey Epstein never even existed,'” furious pro-Trump conspiracy theorist Alex Jones tweeted after last week’s move. “This is over the top sickening.”
Far-right influencer Laura Loomer called for Trump to fire Bondi over the issue, labeling her “an embarrassment.”
But on Saturday, Trump came to the defense of his attorney general, suggesting that the so-called “Epstein Files” were a hoax perpetrated by the Democratic Party for political gain, without specifying what benefits they hoped to attain.
On Saturday, Trump struck an exasperated tone in his admonishment of his supporters.
“For years, it’s Epstein, over and over again,” he said. “Let’s…not waste Time and Energy on Jeffrey Epstein, somebody that nobody cares about.”
The US president called for Patel and Bondi to instead focus on what he terms “The Rigged and Stolen Election of 2020,” which Trump lost to Joe Biden.
The Republican has repeatedly perpetuated unfounded conspiracy theories about his loss being due to fraud.
He called for the FBI to be allowed to focus on that investigation “instead of spending month after month looking at nothing but the same old, Radical Left inspired Documents on Jeffrey Epstein. LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB — SHE’S GREAT!”
Trump, who appears in at least one decades-old video alongside Epstein at a party, has denied allegations that he was named in the files or had any direct connection to the financier.
“The conspiracy theories just aren’t true, never have been,” said FBI Director Patel on Saturday, hours before Trump’s social media post.
Not everyone, however, seemed to be on the same page.
US media reported that Dan Bongino — an influential right-wing podcast host whom Trump appointed FBI deputy director — had threatened to resign over the administration’s handling of the issue.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given his honest thoughts about Africa when it comes to their raw materials.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Africa should not merely serve as a source of raw materials but should be recognized for its broader potential and contributions.
This statement is considered as a reflection of India’s stance on fostering a more equitable partnership with African nations.
Their partnership will focus on mutual growth, development, and value addition rather than exploitative resource extraction.
Modi has often advocated for stronger India-Africa ties, emphasizing collaboration in areas like technology, education, and sustainable development.
Recently there have been initiatives like the India-Africa Forum Summit and India’s support for African infrastructure and capacity-building programs underscore this approach.
The hosts of Fox & Friends said they didn’t buy claims from President Donald Trump’s administration that Jeffrey Epstein did not have a list of people connected to his alleged sex trafficking crimes.
“If there’s anybody who could walk in and say, ‘Okay, we’ve resolved all of the questions, and there is nothing here,’ it would be President Trump and his crew,” Fox News co-host Charlie Hurt opined on Sunday. “The problem is, you can’t really do it without giving some explanation.”
“You absolutely nailed it,” co-host Kevin Corke agreed. “You can defuse this ticking time bomb if you simply get out there.”
The host argued that Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino should answer questions about Epstein on camera.
“You can’t tell me that a thousand people were hurt, and that there are no people out there that we can arrest,” Corke said. “You can’t tell me that, ‘Oh, sorry, we don’t have a list.’ Fine. Don’t have a list.”
“Tell me who the perpetrators were,” he continued. “Let’s depose every single person who might have had a chance to get on that list and might have been out there at that island, and let’s talk to them. Let’s find out what happened.”
“You’re telling me there are videos out there in New Mexico and at the island and in New York, and nobody saw anything. I don’t buy it, and that’s why they need to get out there and face the fire.”
Egypt and China signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to promote trade in local currencies, bypassing the U.S. dollar.
These agreements, signed at the Central Bank of Egypt’s headquarters, aim to deepen financial cooperation and reduce reliance on dollar-based channels.
The first MoU, involving Suez Canal Bank, China-Africa TEDA Investment Company, and CIPS Company Limited (operator of China’s Cross-border Interbank Payment System), facilitates trade settlements in Chinese Yuan within the China-Egypt Suez Economic Trade Cooperation Zone, cutting third-party settlement costs.
A second agreement between UnionPay International and the Egyptian Banks Company for Technological Advancement (EBC) expands UnionPay’s integration into Egypt’s digital payments ecosystem, enhancing its acceptance at point-of-sale and online platforms.
A third MoU supports broader cooperation in digital payments infrastructure and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs).
The agreements is in the right direction with China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Egypt’s Vision 2030, strengthening economic ties.
Benefits for Egypt include lower transaction costs, increased trade with China (its largest import partner), and enhanced financial sovereignty.
However, this move challenges the U.S. dollar’s dominance in global trade, potentially reducing the role of U.S. correspondent banks and their fee revenues.
EGYPT & CHINA sign agreements to support trade in LOCAL CURRENCIES, bypassing the U.S. Dollar.
This agreement is to promote trade in local currencies (Egyptian pound and Chinese yuan), reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar, as part of Egypt’s economic strategy and China’s Belt… pic.twitter.com/02E2W0NKa2
Bill Gates’ fortune has dropped a staggering $51 billion in just days as he accelerates his charitable giving, according to the Bloomberg Billionaire Index.
Once the world’s richest man, Gates now ranks 12th on the index, with his net worth falling to $124 billion from $175 billion earlier this month. Among those who have surpassed him is his former Microsoft colleague, Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer, now the world’s fifth-richest person with $173 billion. Tesla founder Elon Musk tops the list at $360 billion.
Gates’ shrinking wealth is largely due to his pledge not to die rich. In May, he revealed plans to give away 99% of his fortune over the next two decades, with the Gates Foundation—created with his former wife Melinda—set to close on December 31, 2045.
“People will say a lot of things about me when I die, but I am determined that ‘he died rich’ will not be one of them,” Gates wrote in a recent blog post.
“There are too many urgent problems to solve for me to hold onto resources that could be used to help people.”
He said the decision was influenced by witnessing his foundation’s impact in delivering vaccines for treatable illnesses like diarrhea and pneumonia, which continue to claim lives in poorer countries. It also comes at a time when the U.S. and Europe have reduced foreign aid amid global conflicts.
Despite his diminishing net worth, Gates remains firm in his commitment. As of the latest estimate, his fortune had slipped further to around $123 billion.
Gates and Melinda established the Gates Foundation in 2000, which has since become one of the world’s largest charitable organizations, reportedly distributing over $100 billion to various causes.
Police minister Senzo Mchunu seeks special leave amid criminal allegations
Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has requested special leave from President Cyril Ramaphosa as pressure mounts for his resignation following explosive allegations linking him to criminal elements, report TimesLIVE.
The request comes in the wake of serious accusations by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who claimed Mchunu interfered with police operations and maintained ties with individuals involved in organized crime.
Mkhwanazi alleged that Mchunu orchestrated the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team, a unit established in 2018 to investigate politically motivated murders in KwaZulu-Natal.
The commissioner claimed that 121 case files were removed without authorization, stalling critical investigations.
Mkhwanazi further accused Mchunu of having connections with businessman Brown Mogotsi and Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, a tenderpreneur currently on trial for money laundering and attempted murder, alleging their financial support fueled Mchunu’s political ambitions.
The Democratic Alliance (DA), uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have filed criminal complaints against Mchunu, accusing him of misleading Parliament about his relationship with Mogotsi.
Mchunu initially denied knowing Mogotsi but later admitted to that he considered him a “comrade” from the North West province, intensifying public and political scrutiny.
President Ramaphosa has described the allegations as a “grave national security concern” and promised urgent attention.
As South Africans await Ramaphosa’s decision, expected tonight, Sunday, the controversy continues to erode public trust in the nation’s law enforcement leadership.
IT’S A LIE THAT CHRISTIANS SHOULDN’T BE IN POLITICS – NEVERS
13TH JULY 2025
There’s a long-standing notion that politics is a dirty game, so much so that when clergymen enter the political arena, they too are considered tainted.
But MMD president Dr Nevers Mumba disagrees. He believes it is illogical to call for leadership rooted in integrity and morality, while simultaneously discouraging people of faith and principle from entering politics.
“Someone started the lie that Christians shouldn’t be in politics,” Dr Mumba said during a live broadcast on Zambia Blog Talk Radio (ZBTR) as he previewed his upcoming book, In Pursuit of Freedom.
“And now we’ve believed that lie. We’ve made it part of the gospel.” He argues that both Christians and non-believers have been socialised into believing that people of faith should…
FORMER First Lady Esther Lungu has submitted in court that her late husband former President Edgar Lungu was diagnosed with terminal cancer of the oesophagus by his attending medical specialists.
Mrs Lungu submits before the South African High Court that the ailment was diagnosed on his arrival in South Africa, January 2025.
But she submits that doctors stated that had Mr Lungu been accorded an opportunity to consult with the doctors in 2023, they would have removed the cancerous tumour.
As part of evidence, Mrs Lungu submitted a letter dated September 7, 2023, in which Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet Oliver Kalabo informed Mr Lungu that he had not been granted authority to travel from Zambia to South Africa for medical reviews.
In the official letter, Dr Kalabo was responding to a letter dated August 13, 2023, in which Mr Lungu sought authority to travel to South Africa for routine medical attention.
Mrs Lungu said this delayed access to specialist medical treatment contributed to the worsening the spread of the disease on her husband, who died on June 5, 2025, in South Africa during treatment.
“I pause to mention that the treating physicians expressly indicated that, had the late President Lungu been afforded the opportunity to consult with them during 2023 or, at the latest, early 2024, they would, in all probability, have been able to remove the tumour timeously, thereby avoiding any life-threatening consequences.
“Unfortunately, due to the delayed access to medical intervention, the tumour had progressed to an inoperable stage, and the only remaining course of action was to administer palliative care aimed at pain management and comfort in his final days,” the widow submits in court.
This is in a case Zambia’s Attorney General Mulilo Kasbesha has filed a lawsuit seeking to have Mr Lungu’s remains repatriated back to Zambia for a State funeral and burial.
This follows an impasse between the Government and the Lungu family over the burial arrangements for the sixth President who served Zambia for seven years upto, 2021.
The family wants to have a private burial in South Africa but the Zambian Government contends that Mr Lungu should have a State funeral in line with established protocols.
But the Lungu family has argued that since the court case is being heard in South Africa, the law of that land should apply on who should be in charge of the deceased’s burial procession.
“In the event that Zambian law does not apply, then South African law dictates that the wishes of the late President Lungu was that the Late President would be buried in Zambia based on the assumption that the Benefits Act shows the intention of being buried in Zambia;
“If the court however does not find that there is any direction from the late President, the South African law dictates that the next of kin can decide the burial and manner thereof, wherefore, the Applicant seeks to enforce an alleged agreement by the family that the late President Lungu would be buried in Zambia,” she submits.
Mrs Lungu submits that the application that Mr Lungu’s remains be sent back to Zambian is legally unsustainable, factually flawed and permissible in the context of the South African Constitution, 108 of 996.
“The applicant has no legal standing or enforceable right in South African law to compel the repatriation of the remains of the late President Lungu,” she adds.
An Appeal Did Not Stop a By-Election, ConCourt Ruled Against Attempts to Delay Parliamentary Replacements
By; Tobbius Chilembo Hamunkoyo, LLB , 12/07/25
The Constitutional Court of Zambia (ConCourt) clarified an important constitutional question, could a Member of Parliament (MP) who had been convicted and imprisoned stop a by-election by simply appealing the conviction?
The Court’s answer was firm NO. The judgment had significant implications, particularly for cases such as that of Maureen Mabonga, who may have wasted time and legal resources in trying to stop the by-election in Mfuwe Constituency.
The case that led to this ruling involved an MP who was convicted by the Chinsali Magistrates’ Court and sentenced to imprisonment.
The MP later filed an appeal in the High Court, challenging both the conviction and the sentence. This raised a crucial constitutional question, what happened to the MP’s seat in Parliament while the appeal was pending? Should the by-election be put on hold until the appeal was decided?
Recognising that this question involved interpretation of the Constitution, the High Court Judge rightly determined that he had no jurisdiction to handle it. The Judge referred the matter to the Constitutional Court under Article 128 of Amendment no.2 of the 2016 Constitution for a binding interpretation.
A full bench of Constitutional Court Judges, led by President of the ConCourt, Professor Margaret Munalula, delivered a strong ruling. The Court held that once an MP was convicted and imprisoned, their parliamentary seat became vacant automatically, by the operation of law.
There was no need for any further action by the Speaker of the National Assembly or the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ). The Court made it clear that the Constitution triggered the vacancy.
The Judges also ruled that the by-election that followed such a vacancy had to take place within 90 days as mandated by the Constitution. No court could stop or delay that by-election.
The Court explained that an appeal against the conviction did not affect the loss of the seat or the constitutional timeline for a by-election. The criminal appeal and the constitutional loss of seat were treated as two separate matters under the law.
According to the judgment, the Constitution was clear and could not be altered by judicial orders or by the existence of an appeal.
The Court stated that the framers of the Constitution intended to ensure that no constituency remained without representation in Parliament for longer than 90 days.
Therefore, any MP who had been imprisoned and could not perform their duties had to be replaced promptly through a by-election.
This ruling had a direct impact on similar matters, such as that of Maureen Mabonga, who faced the loss of her seat following her conviction. If she attempted to block the Mfuwe by-election while her appeal was still pending, the Court’s position showed that she may have acted in vain.
Her appeal will not reverse or stop the automatic vacancy of her seat, and the by-election process is likely to lawfully proceed.
The Constitutional Court emphasized that the by-election process was not started by the ECZ or the Speaker of the National Assembly, but by the Constitution itself. As such, no judicial review, injunction, or appeal could stop it.
However, it is an undisputed fact that the Court did not address what would happen if an MP later succeeded in their appeal and was acquitted. Would they be entitled to return to Parliament or receive compensation?
This question remains unanswered and was similarly left unresolved in the Chishimba Kambwili case, where the MP lost his seat but was later acquitted on appeal. There is still a need for legal clarity or possible legislative reform to cover this lacuna.
The Constitutional Court’s ruling in the case of The People v Attorney General (Ex Parte Nickson Chilangwa) confirmed that a criminal appeal did not stop the constitutional process of vacating a parliamentary seat or delay the holding of a by-election. The decision upheld the supremacy of the Constitution and ensured continuous parliamentary representation for the people.
For Maureen Mabonga, who sought to stop by-elections after conviction, should know that the judgment in Nickson Chilangwa served as a clear reminder that constitutional law cannot be set aside by pending appeals.
Prof Chirwa expresses openness to serve as advisor to HH on technological matters
By Chinoy Chipulu
Zambia’s renowned engineer Professor Clive Chirwa says it is embarrassing for the country to be borrowing from other countries when it has plenty of natural resources that are being taken away by foreigners.
And Prof Chirwa says he’s ready to serve as an advisor to President Hakainde Hichilema in order to bring direct information about technologies to the head of state, stressing that the government needed an engineer general advisor (GEGA) at State House.
Send Mwaka Halwiindi’s number so I can talk to her – Iris tells scribe
Socialite Iris Kaingu said she would speak with model Mwaka Halwiindi following the sex videos involving the latter which are making rounds on social media, if she had the opportunity to get her number.
Asked by Daily Revelation yesterday on the sex videos involving model Mwaka, which have been making rounds on social media, and if she had been in touch as someone who had experienced
LIKE MAUREEN MWANAWASA IN 2008 CHASED SATA FROM LEVY MWANAWASA FUNERAL; ESTHER LUNGU TOO IN 2025 DOESN’T NEED TO EXPLAIN HERSELF OR COURT ACTION TO CHASE HH FROM EL’S FUNERAL
If in doubt of EL’s last words, Mrs Lungu as widow of EL also has the right to chase HH or any person she is uncomfortable with at EL’s funeral.
Unlike Sata who reconciled with Mwanawasa in 2008 weeks before Mwanawasa died; HH and EL didn’t reconcile nor dialogue but had no personal or professional relationship with EL in life and now in death.
And worse, unlike Mwanawasa who facilitated evacuations of Sata and FJT at the peaks of the opposition of Mwanawasa as well as the government SA evacuations, HH even blocked then retired EL from known and scheduled hospital medical review.
Why now is HH mourning EL a life and death even court matter that HH has to explain himself to all foreigners, like U.S ambassador delegation and U.N delegation he recently hosted at State House.
BREAKING NEWS: Zambian international gospel and most influential artist Kings Malembe Malembe dumps PF and Joins UPND vowing to support and campaign for HH in 2026. “
When a boy grows up into a man, he is expected to do anything I regret meeting Edgar Lungu” says Malembe.
Meanwhile jealous, and ungrateful people are condemning this decision for Kings Malembe because they think good things must only be given to them ( selfish people)
May God continue blessing Kings Malembe Malembe so that ungrateful people learn to celebrate others in life because the truth is God can never brings down his Servants.
ZAMBIA DESERVES LEADERSHIP — NOT LEGAL DISTRACTIONS
Fellow Citizens,
It is time to speak with clarity, conviction, and an unwavering sense of duty.
Zambia is a constitutional democracy not a personal enterprise, not a political trophy, and certainly not a private estate. Those entrusted with public office must always remember they are stewards, not owners. They serve at the will of the people, under laws designed not to protect a party or presidency, but to safeguard the Republic itself.
We have observed, with growing concern, an unhealthy obsession with constitutional amendments led by President Hakainde Hichilema and reinforced by the conduct of Speaker Nelly Mutti. What should be a solemn and people-driven process has now been reduced to a political exercise, justified only by the refrain: “Even past governments have done it why not us?”
But that reasoning is fundamentally flawed.
The Constitution is not a uniform to be resized with every change of government. Its power lies in its stability and its legitimacy in the trust of the people. Amending it must be reserved for matters of true national urgency not for political convenience or self-preservation.
At this point in our country’s journey, Zambia does not lack laws it lacks visionary leadership capable of fully utilising the progressive legal framework we already possess.
No constitutional amendment is required to put medicines in hospitals, tackle load shedding, revive local industries, protect national resources, or create jobs for our youth. These goals demand commitment, not constitutional edits. They require integrity, not theatrical pronouncements.
This administration’s continued focus on electoral clauses and presidential powers, while turning a blind eye to urgent national challenges, exposes a troubling motive political consolidation, not national development. And when a Head of State persistently seeks to rewrite the rules of the very system they are elected to uphold, it becomes clear this is not about reform, but about control. History shows us clearly, only inefficient leaders seek more power when they fail to lead within existing structures.
Equally troubling are recent pronouncements by Speaker Nelly Mutti, particularly the suggestion that even the Constitutional Court has no authority to intervene in legislative processes. Such views erode the doctrine of separation of powers, undermine the judiciary’s oversight role, and set a dangerous precedent. Parliament is not a political fortress, it is a national institution. It must reflect dignity, independence, and accountability and not political expediency.
Yet under the current Speaker’s leadership, the decorum of the National Assembly has deteriorated. What should be the highest deliberative forum of the Republic has been reduced to a chamber of censorship, where legitimate questions are brushed aside and divergent views treated with hostility as if it were a school assembly, not a Parliament.
Let it be understood with finality, the Constitution does not belong to the President, the Speaker, or the UPND. It belongs to the people. And the people have not asked for these amendments. On the contrary, they have raised genuine concerns which deserve respect, not coercion.
If this administration truly seeks legal reform, let it begin with laws that improve the lives of ordinary Zambians not those that fortify the ruling party’s grip on power. Let us see legislation that uplifts, empowers, and unites the country reform that addresses energy shortages, decentralization, natural resource protection, public procurement accountability, and access to meaningful education and healthcare.
Zambia does not need ceremonial amendments during an economic crisis. What we need is leadership that listens, leadership that serves, leadership that leads by example not by decree.
Let us restore honour to the institutions that have shaped our democracy. Let us stop treating the Constitution like a campaign document. Let every public office bearer from the President to the Speaker understand that it is not about personal pride but national progress. There is wisdom in admitting when things are not working, rather than forcing unwanted reforms onto a resistant citizenry.
We have not forgotten the disturbing evidence of political manipulation such as the leaked audio between Akafumba and Levy Ngoma exposing a coordinated effort to destabilise the opposition. These acts, combined with this push to tamper with the Constitution, form a worrying pattern of behaviour. It is both a disgrace and a betrayal of public trust.
Zambia is not a playground for experiments in power. It is a sovereign nation governed by law, guided by principles, and built by the will of the people. And in the end, it is the people who will have the final say.
Abraham Simpamba Independent Aspiring Candidate for Chililabombwe Constituency Together We Can Ichalo Bantu
The Divine Hand: How God Prepared Hakainde Hichilema’s Team
By Timmy
The story of President Hakainde Hichilema’s rise to power is an example of his unwavering determination and the divine hand that has guided him. Despite numerous challenges and attempts to break him down, President Hichilema has remained strong and focused on his vision for Zambia.
The PF’s Failed Plan
The Patriotic Front (PF) thought they had a foolproof plan to block President Hichilema from contesting in the 2021 elections by buying off key members of his party, including Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba (GBM) and Dr. Canisius Banda. However, their plan backfired, and the PF lost the elections despite investing heavily in poaching these high-profile defectors.
God’s Sovereignty
It is clear that God was at work, separating the good eggs from the bad ones. The defection of GBM and Dr. Banda to the PF did not bring the desired results, and instead, it seemed to strengthen President Hichilema’s resolve. The PF’s plan to use these defectors to sabotage the UPND ultimately failed, and President Hichilema emerged victorious in the 2021 elections.
A Strong Leader
President Hichilema’s strength and resilience are an example of his character and leadership. Despite being taken to court and prison, he remained focused on his vision for Zambia. The attempts to break him down only seemed to strengthen his resolve, and he continued to lead his party with conviction.
A Lesson for All
The story of President Hichilema’s rise to power is a lesson for all. It shows that with determination, hard work, and a clear vision, one can overcome even the most daunting challenges. It also highlights the importance of integrity and leadership in achieving success.
President Hakainde Hichilema’s journey to the presidency is an example of his strong leadership and the divine hand that has guided him. Despite numerous challenges and attempts to sabotage his political career, he has remained focused and determined. The failed plan of the PF to block him from contesting in the 2021 elections is a clear indication that God was working in his favor. President Hichilema’s victory is a reminder that with God on your side, nothing is impossible.
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JUDICIARY TO BLAME FOR WEAKENING THE OPPOSITION AND DEMOCRACY.
As a party, we are very concerned and disappointed that the judiciary appears to be directly participating in the weakening of the opposition parties in Zambia and democracy.
The judiciary has been inactive and silent in the face of the illegalities taking place in the country. The judiciary has been acting reluctantly in cases involving the opposition political parties and other citizens and bodies while those involving the ruling UPND and government have been expeditedly dealt with
As FDD we are concerned that the cases involving the former ruling Patriotic Front and private citizens like those perceived to be aligned with politics have not been given the urgency they deserve. Remember justice delayed is justice denied. And of concern to us is that the issues sorrounding the PF are not novel to the judiciary especially that this PF issues is on all falls similar to the issues which involved Mr Felix Mutati and Mr Never Mumba involving the rusle for the the MMD which the current chief justice Dr Mumba Malila presided over as senior judge.
It is therefore very worrying that the judiciary has tolerated all the nonsense surrounding the PF fiasco. It is not right to treat the PF wrangles as an intra party issue. The judiciary has both a legal and moral duty to set straight the political environment in the country. As a country we are tired of the nonsense surrounding PF and it’s time that the judiciary should take interest in resolving the issue.
Facts involving the PF are so notorious and inescapable and that the UPND is behind the illegal change of names at the registrar of society which fact was confirmed by the UPND member Cornelius Mweetwa that UPND was sponsoring confusion in PF.
The Zambian judiciary must take a leaf from the United States judiciary especially the supreme court which has always defended democracy and human rights when under threat from the politicians. The US supreme court has shown the world that in America the law matters more than politics.
The US supreme court demonstrated before when it allowed an indicted Donald Trump to run for President when his political enemies wanted to Barr him from standing as president. Today, the same supreme court has blocked most of the chaotic executive order signed by President Trump including blocking his curtailing the USAID programs and Migration control measures.
The Court has acted to defend the legal and moral issues of the American system. The court has acted above board in assuring the American people and the world that the laws is there to offer standards beyond politics.
As FDD, we are even perplexed to this day that the Constitutional Court, overturned the ECL eligibility in the reasoning that defied all logic. The Constitutional Court went round to borrow from other systems but deliberately avoided the Namibian situation where a similar position with the Zambians situation exist and a term was defined. And more disturbing was the fact that the Concourt President Professor Magrate Munalula Before her appointment as judge worked in Namibian and she is very conversant with the Namibian legal system.
Therefore , we challenge the Chief Justice Dr Mumba Malila to ensure that the cases involving the PF and other opposition political parties are expedited. Failure to which the public will continue perceiving the judiciary has been compromised which is unfortunate.
Dr Malila and our Lords and Ladies must protect the sanctity of the law as opposed to politics. The judiciary remains the only hope for people from an oppressive regime like the UPND. Failure to protect the private citizens and bodies like the PF is a direct assault on democracy and the law.
Issued by
Anthony Chibuye FDD Chairperson for International Relations and Member of the Tonse Alliance.
DELAYING LUNGU’S BURIAL IS UNFAIR TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS ALICE MUSUKWA TELLS UPND GOVERNMENT
Zambian socialite and model Alice Musukwa has wondered how UPND government decided to delay the burial of former Republican President Edgar Lungu in South Africa.
“ You mean Edgar Lungu is still not yet buried this is bad I feel so bad for my father. How can you people be this cold and heartless sure?”
“I have a question So His excellency ECL has not been put to rest till now? Awe Bane this is being Cold and inconsiderate of His beloved ones. away from the Law and order this is just total heartless behavior to everyone involved and honestly this will take a huge play in during elections next year people will definitely use this in a positive or negative way Especially if The Judgement Favors the Family it will be a shit Show.”
“My heart goes out to him I feel bad Mwe I would love my Father to rest in peace This is not a political post unless ulichipuba to understand humanity is important mwe.”
PRESIDENT HICHILEMA MOURNS THE PASSING OF FRESHER SIWALE
July 12,2025
President Hakainde Hichilema has expressed deep sorrow following the death of New Labour Party leader Fresher Siwale, who passed away on July 10, 2025.
In a message delivered by his Special Assistant for Political Affairs, Levy Ngoma, President Hichilema described Mr. Siwale as a courageous leader who consistently championed justice for the people of Zambia.
He said Mr. Siwale was a principled man who spoke boldly and fearlessly in the pursuit of truth and fairness.
“Even in the face of adversity, Mr. Siwale remained unwavering and stood firmly for what he believed in,” he said.
President Hichilema further noted that he shared a cordial and respectful relationship with the late opposition leader. He pledged his full support to the Siwale family during and after the funeral period.
The Head of State extended a message of sincere condolences and solace to the bereaved family, friends, and the New Labour Party for the irreplaceable loss. He prayed that God grants them strength, comfort, and peace during this difficult moment of mourning.
Munali Constituency Member of Parliament, Mike Mposha, who accompanied Mr. Ngoma, echoed similar sentiments and praised Mr. Siwale for his integrity and transparency. He stated that these rare qualities earned the late politician immense respect across political lines.
The President’s delegation included Permanent Secretary for Special Duties Patrick Mucheleka, UPND Provincial Youth Chairperson Anderson Banda, and other senior party officials.
The nation joins the Siwale family in mourning a leader whose legacy will be remembered for his courage and commitment to justice.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Siwale’s daughter, Chilembo Siwale, thanked President Hichilema for his support during this trying moment.
Ms. Siwale said the love exhibited by the President is a testament to his true stewardship and compassion for the Zambian people.
“I would like to thank President Hichilema for recognizing my father and for the support rendered to our family during this mourning period. We are truly grateful as a family,” she said.
She further acknowledged her father’s legacy and vowed to carry on his values, drawing courage from his life and leadership.
Two weeks ago, Beston roller nando, famous in Bquans music, traveled to Mufumbwe gold mines with Enock kalaba. Two days later, Enock called Beston’s friend to inform him that Beston had died, claiming a tree had fallen on him.
Enock went to the police station, claiming to have found an unknown person dead in the mines and requesting help in identifying the body. He then drove to the mine, left the body, turned off his phone, and fled.
Two days later, Enock called Beston’s father, claiming to be in Solwezi heading to Kitwe for the funeral. However, he never arrived. He later informed his wife and family to leave Kitwe.
Post-mortem results revealed trauma to Beston’s head, a hole the size of a pick, a blind eye, and bruises on his face. No broken bones or ribs were found, and there was no sign of a tree falling on him.
Anyone with information about Enock is requested to come forward for closure as a family.
We don’t wish to come back to Zambia – Lungu family
FORMER First Lady Esther Lungu has told the Pretoria High Court in South Africa that she, together with her sister in law Bertha Lungu and children, Tasila, Dalitso and Chiyeso Lungu no longer wish to return to Zambia and are thinking of changing their immigration status to permanently reside in South Africa.
In an affidavit filed before the Court, Esther disclosed that she, along with her three children and sister in law are seeking continued protection in South Africa because they no longer feel safe or welcome in Zambia.
“At this stage, it is undesirable for any of the First to Sixth Respondents to continue to reside in Zambia on a permanent basis,” reads the document in part.
She added that the family’s continued stay in Zambia is no longer desirable due to what they describe as ongoing oppression and persecution by the current Zambian government.
Esther disclosed that they are only returning to the country for “ad hoc visits” to attend court appearances, which they argue are tied to “vexatious charges” brought against them by the State.
“The Respondents are however attending to regular ad hoc visits to Zambia in order to appear in Court on the vexatious charges levelled against them by the Applicant until those proceedings have concluded,” she said.
Esther revealed in the court document that Lungu actually fled Zambia in January 2025, not just to seek urgent medical treatment but to also find personal refuge from the “hostile political climate.”
“It is paramount to mention, the late President Lungu travelled to the RSA in order to seek immediate and urgent medical treatment and to find personal refuge from the hostile political climate in Zambia,” she stated.
She added that it became abundantly clear to her late husband that he could never return to his homeland, as he would not be able to receive proper medical care in Zambia due to what they describe as interference from the authorities.
The former first lady revealed that she accompanied the former president on that trip, alongside the family spokesperson Makebi Zulu and other family members arriving at O.R. Tambo International Airport as ordinary passengers without any reception from Zambian officials.
She told the court that Lungu realised, soon after arriving in South Africa, that he would never be able to return to Zambia due to what she described as interference from authorities, including in his access to healthcare.
The widow revealed that after they arrived in South Africa, the former president was diagnosed with terminal cancer of the oesophagus.
According to Esther, doctors told the family that had he received treatment, earlier in 2023 or early 2024, the tumour could likely have been removed.
But by the time of his diagnosis in South Africa, the condition had advanced too far, leaving only palliative care as an option.
In her affidavit, Esther said she and her late husband had discussed at length the need to regularise their stay in South Africa, given the “oppressive behavior” of the Zambian government.
She said the former president became consistent in expressing his wish never to be buried with any state involvement from Zambia.
Esther recounted that her husband explicitly said President Hakainde Hichilema should have “nothing to do with his funeral or body” and had repeated that wish to their lawyer Makebi Zulu, their children and Zambian historian Dr Sishuwa Sishuwa, who visited him in May 2025 for an academic interview.
According to Esther, her husband found it “immoral and disrespectful” for a perceived enemy to preside over a person’s burial after subjecting them to mistreatment in life.
She said the former president had specifically referred to the funeral of late opposition leader Edith Nawakwi, where he felt President Hichilema acted “hypocritically.”
Esther told the court that her last conversation with her husband was on June 3, 2025 just before he was sedated and placed on a ventilator.
She described it as a painful farewell in which the former president again reiterated that the current Zambian leadership should be kept away from his burial.
The affidavit also referenced the former president’s final public appearance in May 2025 when photos of his meeting with Dr. Sishuwa were posted on social media and widely circulated in Zambia.
The images, which are included in the more than 100 page court filings, were the first public confirmation of his presence in South Africa since January.
This is in a matter where Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha has filed a lawsuit seeking to have Lungu’s body repatriated to Zambia for a State funeral and burial…https://kalemba.news/court/lungu-family-plans-to-permanently-settle-in-sa-court-documents-reveal/
CONVICTED Mfuwe Member of Parliament Maureen Mabonga has gone to the Constitutional Court to challenge the legality of the declaration of her seat vacant by Speaker of the National Assembly.
Ms Mabonga wants the Con-Court to determine whether a parliamentary seat becomes vacant when a serving MP is convicted of a criminal offence.
She further seeks an answer as to whether a parliamentary seat becomes vacant when a serving MP is convicted of a criminal offence but is not serving the sentence, owing to the fact that the conviction has been overturned or that she has been granted bail, pending appeal.
Ms Mabonga also seeks a declaration on whether declaration of her seat as seat vacant was done in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.
She also wants to know whether the subsequent nomination date for the Mfuwe Constituency by election announced by the Electoral Commission Zambia(ECZ) on July 10,2025, should proceed in the absence of a vacancy in the office of MP
In the petition, Ms Mabonga has cited the Attorney General, Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti and ECZ as respondents.
In an affidavit, Ms Mabonga submits that she was convicted of seditious practices and sentenced to eight months simple imprisonment as well as fined of 4,000 penalty units by the Lusaka Magistrate’s Court.
She says on May 16, 2025, she appealed against the conviction and sentence and also applied that she should be released on bail pending determination of her appeal.
“Bail was granted bail on June 24,2025,” Ms Mabonga submits.
She says that while she was in detention, on May 22, ECZ chief electoral officer Brown Kasaro, announced to the public that it had received notification from the Ms Mutti of a vacancy in Mfuwe Constituency, following her conviction.
“On May 30,ECZ announced dates for by election Mfuwe anchored on the notification from the Speaker,” she adds.
The politician says she is currently not serving the prison sentence she was released on bail.
“That sometime in April of 2021, then Speaker of the National Assembly guided that a conviction does not trigger a vacancy in a parliamentary seat.
“That the purported notification of the third respondent of a vacancy in Mfuwe Constituency conflicts with the ruling above and thus, creates an opportunity for this court to pronounce itself on the matter,” Ms Mabonga said.
She believes that ConCourt has jurisdiction to answer questions pertaining to her seat being declared vacant in view by interpreting article 70(2) f, 72(2)b and article 72(8) of the constitution of Zambia in line with the questions posed in this application.
The ECZ has already set August 7 as date for by elections in Mfuwe.
Wishes or Whispers? Makebi Zulu, the Missing Will, and the Edgar Lungu Burial Controversy
By; Tobbius Chilembo Hamunkoyo – LLB
The death of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has ushered in a period of national reflection, but also a public dispute over how his funeral should be conducted.
Makebi Zulu esq, who is serving as the legal representative and spokesperson for the Lungu family, has publicly claimed that the late President left specific instructions, among them, that President Hakainde Hichilema should not be involved in the funeral.
However, to date, no valid Will or written document has been produced to support this serious assertion.
Under Zambian law, specifically the Wills and Administration of Testate Estates Act, Chapter 60 of the Laws of Zambia, a Will must be in writing, signed by the testator, and witnessed by at least two people for it to be legally binding.
A Will may contain burial instructions, but such instructions only carry legal force if the Will meets the above requirements. Verbal wishes or second-hand claims, no matter who makes them, carry no legal weight and cannot override the law.
It is an undisputed fact that without a valid Will, the matter falls under intestate administration, and the government retains authority to proceed in line with national protocols.
In this case, the State has a constitutional duty under public law and precedent to honour and recognize a former Head of State with a state funeral.
This position is reinforced by the State Proceedings Act, Chapter 71, which governs how public functions are to be carried out in the interest of national order and public interest. Therefore, unless a legal document is produced, the State remains within its rights to proceed with arrangements befitting the office the late President held, regardless of family preferences.
To avoid further confusion, tension, or political manipulation, it is critical that the family, particularly Makebi Zulu esq and the Lungu family, either produces the alleged Will or publicly acknowledges that their position is based on moral or emotional considerations, not legal instruction from the late.
In a constitutional democracy, the rule of law must take precedence over hearsay. Zambia must be allowed to mourn and honour former President Lungu with dignity, order, and unity, not based on whispers, but on verified facts and lawful process.
Where Is the Truth? Questions Surrounding the Death and Burial of Former President Lungu
It appears that there was a deliberate intention to handle the matter as though it involved the burial of an unidentified or unclaimed body in a South African hospital, while key individuals remained abroad—seemingly orchestrating confusion and misinformation back home in Zambia.
The refusal to permit public viewing of the body or to repatriate the remains for burial on Zambian soil, combined with the announcement that the casket would be subject to screening upon arrival, raises serious doubts. These actions strongly suggest that the death may not be genuine, and instead may be part of a broader, clandestine political strategy, possibly operating under the guise of a “Plan B.”
To date, no government official has come forward to confirm that they have personally seen the remains of the late former President. This raises a troubling and fundamental question: how can the Government of the Republic of Zambia fail to verify the passing of its own former Head of State?
As a sovereign nation, we must demand transparency, truth, and dignity in the handling of matters of such national importance.
DEFERRING BILL 7 FOR GREATER CONSENSUS SHOWS HH IS A LISTENING PRESIDENT —————————————–‐—– The recent decision by President Hakainde Hichilema to defer Bill 7 is a great indication of his commitment to inclusive governance and his willingness to listen to the voices of Zambians. I have heard many times how his critics claim that the president does not take advice or that he is more driven by his own singular vision. As someone who knows HH and has been able to give him advice from time to time, I wish to say that those opinions are simply wrong, and this decision on Bill 7 is a testament to this fact.
Remember that as someone who has been supportive of what I consider progressive elements within the bill, I personally would have loved to see the bill passed successfully. This is mainly due to the progressive electoral reforms that would solve some of the unnecessary lacunae in our current electoral regulations.
In addition, I still believe that this bill would, for the first time, allow for increased representation of previously marginalized groups, including women, youths, and persons living with disabilities. This would be a significant step forward for our country, and I am confident that it would have a positive impact on our democracy.
However, the fact that the President has chosen to defer the bill, rather than pushing it through in the face of widespread criticism from the opposition and from other stakeholders, demonstrates his dedication to ensuring that any constitutional amendments are done in a manner that is transparent, legitimate, and representative of the people’s voices.
We all know that the President receives advice from many different stakeholders, and no doubt, he would have received some advice encouraging him to go ahead with the Bill and ignore the naysayers, and obviously, some advisors would have encouraged him to completely drop the Bill 7 altogether. However, in his usual methodical manner, he has opted for a more measured approach that prioritizes stakeholder engagement and consultation and instead deferred the bill, much to the comfort of many stakeholders.
This decision to defer the infamous Bill7, is therefore not a sign of weakness; but rather, it is a demonstration of strength and sound leadership. By being willing to listen and adapt, President Hichilema is showing that he is committed to putting the interests of Zambia and its people above all else.
Why Is It So Hard To Do the Right Thing When One Is In Power? An Open Letter to President Hakainde Hichilema On Why Delimitation Does Not Require Constitutional Amendment
Your Excellency,
I write this letter as a concerned citizen and advocate for constitutional clarity and responsible leadership. Recently, I heard your public statement suggesting that a constitutional amendment is a constitutional requirement every ten years, particularly in relation to delimitation. You stated that the Constitution must be reviewed every ten years, implying that such a review must lead to amendments.
With due respect, Mr. President, that assertion is incorrect, and it is irresponsible to mislead the public on such a critical constitutional matter.
Let us be clear: there is no provision in the Constitution of Zambia that mandates constitutional amendments every ten years. Amendments to the Constitution are neither automatic nor triggered by the passage of time. They can only be made when necessary and through a well-defined, consultative, and lawful process, as stipulated under Article 79 of the Constitution.
What the Constitution does require every ten years is delimitation, not amendment.
According to Article 58(5) of the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act, 2016:
> “The Electoral Commission of Zambia shall review the names and boundaries of constituencies and wards at intervals of not more than ten years.”
This provision gives the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) the authority and duty to periodically review and, if necessary, redraw electoral boundaries. This process, known as delimitation, ensures fair and equitable representation based on population changes and demographic shifts.
Importantly, delimitation does not require a constitutional amendment. The ECZ already has the legal mandate to carry out this process within the existing constitutional framework.
A constitutional amendment would only become necessary if, for example, Parliament seeks to change a fixed constitutional figure, such as Article 68(2), which currently caps the number of elected Members of Parliament at 156. Even then, an amendment is not automatic. It must follow the strict legal process outlined in Article 79.
Understanding Article 79: How Constitutional Amendments Work
Under Article 79 of the Constitution, two categories of provisions are treated differently when it comes to amendments:
1. Entrenched provisions These include Part I (General Provisions), Part III (Bill of Rights), and Article 79 itself.
To amend any of these, the Constitution requires:
A two-thirds majority vote of all Members of Parliament
A national referendum, in which:
At least 50 percent of eligible voters must participate
At least 50 percent of the valid votes cast must be in favour of the amendment
2. Non-entrenched provisions All other parts of the Constitution can be amended with:
A two-thirds majority in Parliament only, with no referendum required
This two-tiered process ensures that the most foundational elements of our democracy, such as the Bill of Rights and the core structure of government, are protected from casual or politically driven amendments. These provisions require broad public consensus and direct approval from the Zambian people.
The Problem with Bill No. 7
Mr. President, while you are fully entitled to propose constitutional amendments as part of your leadership agenda, this must be done honestly, transparently, and in a manner that respects the will of the people. Unfortunately, your insistence on pushing forward Bill No. 7 ignores the clearly stated opposition from nearly all major national stakeholders.
The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ), church mother bodies, civil society organizations (CSOs), opposition political parties, the Constitutional Court, and many patriotic citizens have all called for Bill No. 7 to be not just deferred but withdrawn entirely.
So the question remains: Why have you continued to insist on this bill, which does not have the support or confidence of the majority of relevant stakeholders? Why do you find it so hard to do the right thing, Mr President?
Many have rightly proposed that the appropriate time to restart any constitutional reform process is after the 2026 general elections. This would allow for proper consultation, a more stable political environment, and genuine national consensus. So again, why the rush?
Call to Leadership
If you truly mean well for Zambia, Mr. President, I urge you to withdraw Bill No. 7. The proposed amendments do not address the urgent needs of the people. Instead, they appear designed to advantage your party ahead of 2026 and to undermine institutional checks and balances.
Zambia belongs to all of us, not to one government, not to one party, and certainly not to a temporary parliamentary majority. If constitutional reform is to take place, it must be inclusive, honest, and guided by the national interest, not partisan expediency.
I call on you, Mr. President, to correct the record on delimitation, respect the will of the people, and recommit yourself to the democratic values of transparency, accountability, and unity.
Let us protect the Constitution not only with our words but with truth, humility, and integrity.
Respectfully, Thandiwe Ketiš Ngoma Concerned Citizen of the Republic of Zambia
MORE TRADITIONAL LEADERS ENDORSE MUCHINDU FOR CHOMA CENTRAL
More traditional leaders in Choma have declared support for Joe Muchindu as their next MP for the Choma central parliamentary seat in next year’s general elections
The village headmen from different wards of Choma constituency expressed dissatisfaction with current MP Cornelius Mweetwa whom they accused of being an absentee MP.
Mweetwa is currently serving his third term as Choma central member of parliament under the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND).
The headman from different wards of the constituency gathered a meeting in Nakeempa ward that was attended by Muchindu himself.
Among the over 30 traditional leaders that attended the meeting was headman Sikabbubba, headman Mabuyelala, headman Naloya, Kezia and headman Siamukounde.
Speaking during the meeting, the traditional leaders alleged that Mweetwa had abandoned them and that it was time for him to go.
Among the concerns raised were that the area MP had neglected people in the wards as he was rarely seen.
The traditional leaders stated that their MP had overstayed and that it was time for him to pave way for another leader with fresh ideas.
“We have continued suffering as if we do not have an MP because he has overstayed and has abandoned us. In 2026 we are taking Muchindu to parliament because he has proved beyond reasonable doubt that he means well for the people of Choma central,” said headman Sikabbubba.
The traditional leaders endorsed Muchindu as their preferred candidate under the UPND ticket when Zambia goes to the polls in 2026.
“Let us rally behind Muchindu because he is always with us here and knows all the problems that we are facing unlike someone who is never seen,”Loud Mugouke urged the leaders.
In responding to their concerns, Muchindu said he was honored to have been chosen by the traditional leaders ahead of next year’s elections
Muchindu who used the platform to highlight President Hakainde Hichilema’s achievements urged the traditional leaders, together with other community members to work together and form committees that would respond to various concerns affecting their areas.
He stated that he was ready for the task ahead.
Muchindu”s support among traditional leaders in Choma central continues to grow, having received an endorsement from 52 village headmen of Siaskabole ward recently.
Honourable Mweeta who is also information minister is yet to be reached for a comment, but at a recent briefing, the parliamentarian stated that he wasn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Netizens wonder why police are not arresting Mwaka over viral videos
ZAMBIAN social media is awash with speculation around why police have not arrested socialite, actress, and model Mwaka Halwiindi over the viral pornographic videos which she allegedly features in.
Slightly over a week ago, Police arrested and charged filmmaker David Kazadi with producing and circulating pornographic materials.
According to police insiders, Kazadi’s arrest came after they learned that he may be the owner of the groin area that Mwaka was expertly pleasuring with her mouth in one the videos.
As Kazadi was behind bars, many sympathised with Mwaka and saw her a victim of betrayal, but as they typed their messages of solidarity, a flood of similar videos flooded social media.
In the new videos, the 20-year-old was seen performing adult games that could earn her an honorary PhD in ‘Manhood Management and Oral Engineering.’
Some of the videos, Mwaka, who some are calling the ‘queen of cucumber choreography’ is believed to have filmed herself.
The identities of the male “beneficiaries” in the latest videos are not the only things that are unclear as the public also wonders why police are not arresting Mwaka.
Some have taken to social media to question why no action has been taken against the “headmistress”, considering the country’s clear laws on obscene material.
According to Section 177 of the Penal Code Act, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia, publication, circulation, offering, possession and solicitation of Obscene material which includes nudes and all pornographic content of adults and/or minors is an offence.
The police are yet to respond as to why Mwaka hasn’t been arrested or questioned, despite her filthy videos being in the public domain and corrupting morals…https://kalemba.news/local/netizens-wonder-why-police-are-not-arresting-mwaka-over-viral-videos/
ZAMBIA MUST PROSPER PRESIDENT ATTENDS ST. AUGUSTINE PARISH FUNDRAISING BREAKFAST
…..Donates K10,000 and Pledges 100 Desks
Lusaka – July 12, 2025
The President of Zambia Must Prosper (ZMP) and Member of the Tonse Alliance, Mr. Kelvin Fube Bwalya, Saturday 12th July 2025 graced and Represented the Tonse Alliance at a fundraising breakfast hosted by St. Augustine Catholic Parish in Kalikiliki Township, Lusaka, in support of the parish’s efforts to construct a multipurpose hall and classroom block.
The well-attended event brought together parishioners, community members, and invited guests in a show of solidarity for the parish’s developmental goals. In a gesture of goodwill and commitment to community development, Mr. Kelvin Fube Bwalya made a personal donation of K10,000 and further pledged 100 desks toward the project.
Speaking at the event, President KBF praised the initiative as a symbol of community empowerment and the Church’s continued role in supplementing national development.
*”A strong nation is built on strong communities. I commend St. Augustine Parish for this vision, which will serve not only the Church but the youth and the wider Kalikiliki community. I am honored to support this cause,” he said.*
Parish priest Fr. Godfrey P. Mashilipa expressed gratitude for the donation and the overwhelming support from both the Church and civic leaders. He noted that the multipurpose hall and classroom block would serve as vital spaces for education, skills training, and parish gatherings.
“This project will uplift our community, especially the children. We thank all who continue to support us, including our guest, President Kelvin Fube Bwalya, for standing with us in faith and action,” he said.
The event concluded with prayers and a vote of thanks, with organizers reiterating their appeal for continued support as fundraising efforts continue.
The construction of the new facilities is expected to begin later this year, subject to the availability of sufficient funds.
