The key immediate positive economic measure that Mr Hakainde Hichilema and his UPND government should take to address our economic challenges is revising the generous mining tax waivers given to transnational corporations.
Those in power should keep in mind that right now, the country is engulfed in political upheaval and is tense politically. Economically, our country is on its knees.
Aside from debt, the economic landscape is in the negative with high cost of living, which has a potential for civil unrest.
Prolonged load shedding is negatively affecting business. The transport costs should go down to reflect minor reductions in the fuel prices.
New external borrowing is increasing our foreign debt exposure and increases the probability for future default. Revamping of mines and increased copper production is a medium-term initiative and will not have an immediate impact on our economic challenges.
Our advice on the immediate positive economic measure is revising the generous mining tax waivers. We ask those in power to move on this immediately. We also ask those in power to immediately stop exporting electricity and prioritize the Zambian people.
FAITH MUSONDA STORMED COMMUNITY HOUSE TO SEE FIRST LADY
Lusaka businesswoman Faith Musonda allegedly stormed Community House, the official residence of President Hakainde Hichilema on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, in an attempt to see First Lady Mutinta Hichilema.
Her lawyer, Charles Changano, confirmed the incident to Diamond News in an interview.
Mr. Changano also revealed that his client has since been charged with criminal trespass.
He further dismissed claims that Ms. Musonda stormed Community House at around 01:00 hours, clarifying that the incident occurred between 20:00 and 21:00 hours.
Ms. Musonda is yet to be granted bond as she awaits a court appearance.
The Battle Over Edgar Chagwa Lungu’s Burial: How the UPND’s Attempt to Control Farewell Rites Exposes Zambia’s Deep Political and Judicial Crisis
By Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma
It comes as no surprise that Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa announced that the Attorney General, through lawyers in South Africa, has written to the late President Edgar Lungu’s family seeking to settle the burial dispute outside of court. This move is deeply telling and exposes the troubling depths of political interference and judicial compromise that continue to plague Zambia.
Let us be clear. President Hakainde Hichilema’s decision to take the Lungu family to court in South Africa, where they had already decided to bury their loved one, was not an act of respect or goodwill. It was a calculated and desperate attempt to evade the reality that he intended to bulldoze his way through the funeral arrangements and preside over the proceedings, despite being explicitly told that the deceased’s final wish was for him to stay away.
President Hichilema seemingly believed that the South African judiciary would somehow bend to his demands and allow the remains of his predecessor to be repatriated on terms favorable to him. This was a serious miscalculation. Unlike the compromised judicial system in Zambia, which has repeatedly demonstrated susceptibility to executive manipulation, South Africa’s courts have a remarkable degree of independence and integrity and cannot bow to political pressure.
The contrast between the two judicial systems could not be clearer. In Zambia, the judiciary has often been a tool in the hands of the executive to enforce political agendas. Take, for example, the eligibility case in which President Hichilema ensured that his main rival, Edgar Chagwa Lungu, now deceased, was barred from participating in the 2026 elections. This blatant use of the courts to eliminate political competition is a stark indicator of how the rule of law is undermined.
Similarly, when Bill No. 7 faced an impending adverse ruling by the Constitutional Court, President Hichilema preemptively deferred it. According to insiders, he was informed that the court was poised to pass a judgment against the bill the very next day. In an effort to save face and avoid the embarrassment of a legal defeat, the president quickly claimed that he had advised the Justice Minister to seek broader consultation. But the timing was too conspicuous to ignore. It was yet another sign of executive interference cloaked in political convenience.
These examples underscore a disturbing reality. Zambia’s judiciary is not a neutral arbiter but often a servant of political expediency.
Faced with the reality that the South African judicial system operates independently, the Zambian government has now shifted tactics, seeking an amicable and expedited settlement with the Lungu family to avoid losing the court battle. This shift reveals an implicit acknowledgment that political influence has limits, especially beyond Zambia’s borders.
This leads to an unavoidable and urgent question: Can President Hichilema be trusted? Given the pattern of interference, manipulation, and disregard for the deceased’s final wishes, the answer must be a firm no.
What is at stake here goes beyond political rivalry or legal technicalities. It is a matter of dignity, respect, and basic human decency. The Lungu family deserves the peace to mourn their beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and brother without the intrusion of political machinations or public spectacle. The funeral should be a private, sacred moment, not a stage for political posturing or an arena for power struggles.
The only viable path forward is to allow the courts to adjudicate this matter transparently and fairly. We trust that the South African court, which already has a precedent affirming that the family has the final say regarding the remains of the deceased, will uphold the family’s rights and pronounce itself accordingly.
HOT FM ZAMBIA – OFFICIAL STATEMENT Leadership Update Following Arrest of David Kazadi
Hot FM Zambia confirms that Mr. David Kazadi has been relieved of his duties as Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect, following his recent arrest and the serious allegations currently under police investigation.
While we uphold the principles of due process and the presumption of innocence, the nature of the allegations stands in direct conflict with Hot FM Zambia’s values as a trusted media institution. In line with our internal code of conduct, we have taken this action to protect the integrity of our brand, our staff, and the public we serve.
Effective immediately, Mr. Kazadi no longer holds any role within Hot FM Zambia or its affiliated entities. Interim leadership has been appointed to ensure continuity of operations.
We are fully cooperating with the authorities and remain committed to supporting the legal process as it unfolds.
Hot FM Zambia continues to operate as normal. All programming, partnerships, and business activities remain unaffected.
We thank our listeners, partners, and clients for their continued support and reaffirm our commitment to ethical broadcasting, transparency, and public accountability.
FAITH Musonda spent the cold night police detention following her dramatic and unexpected storming of President Hakainde Hichilema’s residence in the early hours of yesterday.
Her lawyer, Charles Changano says the former ZNBC presenter only went to make an appointment with the first lady but ended up being arrested.
Yesterday, police announced that they had arrested Musonda after she stormed Community House and had an altercation with police around 01:00 hours.
But Changano revised the time Musonda arrived at Community House to 20:00 hours and not 01:00 hours as told by police.
Changano said contrary to the claims, Musonda did not storm the community house at 01:00 hours, but it was the police officers who delayed the process by keeping her outside the premises.
Changono told Kalemba in an interview that Musonda had no intentions to meet President Hakainde Hichilema but wanted to meet the first lady, Mutinta.
“Yes, I confirm that Faith Musonda was arrested today(yesterday) by Woodlands Police Station, the officers received Musonda at night from Community house and she was charged with conduct likely to cause breach of peace.”
“I went to Woodlands police and shortly officers from police headquarters arrived and requested to search her vehicle. It was searched, but the search yielded nothing at all,” Changano said.
Changano said Musonda was taken to Police Headquarters, and she was told there was no space for her interviews and later taken to Command Centre.
He said he followed to the command center, in company of about seven officers together with a lawyer from Makebi Zulu advocates.
“The officers interrogated her, but to our surprise, us, her lawyers were not allowed to enter in the interview room. This did not sit well with our client and us too, we tried to resist but there was tension, then we decide to create peace and stayed outside in the corridor,” he said.
Changano said after the interrogation, Musonda came out of the room crying.
“They interrogated her, asked her questions we didn’t know, when she came out she was crying, so we said our client was crying and we never knew what happened to her.”
“The same police officers took the lady to the police service headquarters were they recorded a warn and caution statement, it was done in our presence and she explained to them what transpired, she said she went to visit the community house at around 20:00 hours it was not 01:00,” he said.
Changano further said his client informed the officers to give her chance to make an appointment with the first lady but they made her wait for a longer period of time that she should be given feedback later.
“My client was surprised when at the end, the officers told her that she had no appointment, and there was no appointment she could make at that time. They threatened to take her to Woodlands police.”
“My client was taken to Woodlands police, and she never entered the premises of the community house, she packed outside near the road,” Changano said.
Changano said he was surprised when his client was charged with criminal trespass at the Service Headquarters when initially woodlands gave her conduct likely to cause breach of peace.
He said he was also shocked when the police officers refused to give his client police bond.
“I am surprised and shocked why the officers did not give Musonda bond because the offence charged is bondable. And the police officers at Woodlands saw that there was no offence nowonder they gave her conduct to breach peace but officers from Service Headquarters had to find something and charge her with criminal trespass,” he said.
She said police should give his client bond because the offence is bondable.
“My client is still in custody as we speak, they don’t want to give her bond,” he said…https://kalemba.news/local/faith-musonda-still-behind-bars/
Clearing the Confusion, Bill No. 7 vs. Bill No. 10—What You Need to Know
By ; Tobbius Chilembo Hamunkoyo
Amid public debate, some are wrongly comparing the new Bill No. 7 of 2025 to the infamous Bill No. 10 of 2019. But are they really the same? Not even close.
What Went Wrong with Bill 10? Bill No. 10 attempted to overhaul 79 constitutional provisions, many of which: – Boosted Executive authority – Reduced Parliamentary oversight – Introduced unclear rules for presidential removal – Reintroduced Deputy Ministers – Allowed presidential appointments without vetting
The result? Widespread rejection due to fears of weakening democracy and the balance of power.
Enter Bill No. 7: A Different Approach Bill No. 7 proposes changes to only 23 provisions—a far more measured effort. Unlike Bill 10, it doesn’t seek to expand executive control .
Why This Matters I urge Zambians to engage in truthful and informed debate, based on legal facts, not rumors.We must be a call to action: protect constitutional values like transparency, accountability, and democracy by understanding what’s really at stake.
Clear facts. Honest conversation. Stronger democracy. That’s the heart of the message.
The football world is reeling from the tragic death of Liverpool FC star Diogo Jota, aged 28, in a car accident in northwestern Spain.
The crash occurred near Palacios de Sanabria on the A-52 highway, when the Lamborghini Jota was driving veered off the road and ignited after a tire blowout during an overtaking maneuver.
His brother, Andre Silva, a 26-year-old professional footballer, also died in the accident. Emergency services confirmed both fatalities at the scene.
Jota, who married Rute Cardoso just last week, leaves behind three children.
Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Diogo’s nearly 50 international caps and his warmth off the pitch made him a cherished figure.”
Since joining Liverpool from Wolverhampton in 2020, Jota was instrumental in securing the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup titles.
His electrifying presence endeared him to fans globally. Liverpool FC has yet to comment officially, but tributes are flooding in for the beloved striker.
THREE MORE INDUSTRIAL YARDS TO BE CONSTRUCTED IN THE COUNTRY
MINISTRY of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Permanent Secretary, Subeta Mutelo says land for construction of the industrial yards in Southern, Muchinga and Central Provinces has been secured, adding that groundbreaking is scheduled to be done in January 2026.
Ms Mutelo says the construction of the industrial yards in the three provinces will be funded through partnership with the African Development Bank and the government.
Speaking in an interview with ZANIS, the Permanent Secretary noted that the other industrial yards in seven provinces have since been completed with Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) utilising them.
POLICE IN ISOKA WORRIED WITH HIGH CASES OF K500 COUNTERFEIT NOTES ……….Fake money, real problems.
Police in Isoka District have sounded the alarm over a surge in counterfeit K500 notes, warning residents to double-check their kwacha especially if it suddenly looks too fresh to be true.
Speaking on a live radio program on ISO FM, Isoka Police Officer-in-Charge Lackson Hanyama said the district is grappling with a wave of fake currency flooding local markets and shops. “Counterfeiters are targeting unsuspecting traders and members of the public,” he warned translation: if someone gives you change with too much confidence, look again.
Superintendent Hanyama revealed that most of these fake notes sneak into circulation during peak trading hours, when everyone’s busy selling tomatoes, airtime, and second-hand jeans. “By the time shop owners realize they’ve been duped, the customer is already halfway to the next district,” he joked.
One trader reportedly accepted a fake K500, only to realize at closing time that President Hakainde Hichilema’s face was oddly smiling with sunglasses and wearing a suit from 1995.
“This is not just a police issue,” Hanyama emphasized. “The community must be involved.” He urged people to report suspicious notes early preferably before using them to buy a plate of nshima and chicken.
The police are working on identifying the source of the counterfeits, but with some notes being so well-printed they nearly fooled a bank teller, it’s clear the culprits have upgraded from the usual “photocopy at the back of a bar” operation.
For now, locals are being encouraged to hold notes to the light, check for watermarks, and most importantly if the money smells like glue and regret, it’s probably fake.
Remember: if someone insists on paying you with a K500 and rushes off before you can even say “receipt,” congratulations you may have just joined Isoka’s growing counterfeit collectors club.
GOVT SLAPS HEAVY TAXES ON ALCOHOL, BETTING, AND INVESTMENTS IN SHOCK REVENUE RAID! ……….Hangovers, heartbreaks, and high-interest rates incoming
The Zambian government has rolled out a new set of taxes targeting alcohol, betting, cigarettes, sugary drinks, and investment income all in a bold (or brutal) attempt to raise K3.9 billion for its K33.6 billion supplementary budget. Because clearly, when you’re broke, the best place to start is by taxing people’s vices and their soda.
Finance Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane delivered the bombshell to Parliament with the calmness of a man who doesn’t bet, doesn’t drink, and definitely doesn’t sip sugary drinks. The tax changes are part of Supplementary Estimates No. 1 of 2025, designed to settle fuel arrears, pay off debts, and somehow still fix education all at the same time. Ambitious? Yes. Painful? Definitely.
Top of the hit list is your favorite bottle of whisky or wine. Excise duty is going from 60% to a jaw-clenching 80%. Meanwhile, clear alcohol, once enjoying a sweet tax holiday, is now being slapped with a 50% tax. That toast at your cousin’s kitchen party just got downgraded to Chibuku. And even that might not be safe next budget.
Cigarettes are getting smoked too, tax-wise shooting from K452 to K750 per 1,000 sticks. Tobacco companies are already warning about a boom in smuggling and knock-off brands. Don’t be surprised if your next pack reads “Malboto” instead of Marlboro.
Even soft drinks didn’t escape the axe. Excise duty on sugary and non-alcoholic beverages has doubled from K1 to K2 per litre. So now, sipping that Mosi or Fanta at your local bar might require a small loan—plus interest.
The betting industry, that sweet escape for many unemployed youths, is now facing a 10% excise duty on services. Experts predict that local bettors will simply shift to offshore websites and crypto gambling, where ZRA can’t follow not yet, anyway.
Meanwhile, the withholding tax on interest from government securities is being bumped from 15% to 20%. Translation: Government wants you to lend it money, but now it’ll thank you with a smaller cut. Investors are already considering other options like stuffing cash under mattresses or investing in goats.
Analysts are nervously clutching their spreadsheets, warning that these mid-year hikes may scare off both investors and common sense. Some fear the kwacha might catch a cold from all this fiscal drama, especially if bond auctions start flopping like expired chicken.
Business leaders, while trying not to scream into their balance sheets, are calling for more dialogue. Many feel these tax moves hit the productive sectors too hard while the black market continues to operate like it’s immune to laws or math.
Formal alcohol sellers are warning that the only thing these taxes will boost is the illegal liquor business, where alcohol is brewed in bathtubs and labeled “premium.” And while public health groups are applauding the move as a win against harmful consumption, even they admit that without enforcement, it’s like putting a plaster on a broken leg.
The government insists this is all necessary. Fuel arrears (K11 billion), debt repayments (K8.5 billion), and farming inputs (K6 billion) must be handled, or else the economy will spiral faster than a drunk uncle at a wedding.
As Parliament debates these proposals, business owners are pleading for logic, consistency, and perhaps a cup of untaxed coffee. One businessman was overheard saying, “If they tax the air we breathe next, I’m moving to Mars.”
Stay tuned. Or better yet, invest in a bicycle. It’s not taxed. Yet.
PRESIDENT Hichilema has every right to ensure that president Edgar Lungu is buried in Zambia.
Those insinuating and suggesting that the President should allow the former president to be buried in South as per family wishes are misdirected.
As the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr Hichilema has a sacred duty to safeguard the interests of the people of Zambia.
And the people of Zambia have sufficient interest and say in the burial of the man that once presided over the affairs of their country. Mr Lungu was more than just a family man and political party leader. He was the Sixth Republican president of Zambia.
President Hichilema’s insistence on repatriating the body of the late President Edgar Lungu from South Africa to Zambia is rooted in the public interest.
President Hichilema recognizes that the citizens of Zambia wish to pay their respects and participate in farewell ceremonies for President Lungu.
Bringing the body to Zambia and ensuring many Zambians express their grief will help bring closure to them.
And Mr Lungu was not an ordinary citizen. The office that he held as the sixth Republican President of Zambia, and his legacy is intertwined with the nation’s identity. Repatriating his body will allow citizens to unite in mourning.
And in respecting the high office that Lungu once held, it is only right that he is honoured by the Government.
Bringing Mr Lungu’s body back to Zambia is a fitting tribute to the office he once held and reflects the esteem with which we regard those who have served our country. Having served in the highest office of the land, Mr Lungu ceased to be an ordinary human being.
By allowing him to assume the highest office, the family agreed to share him with the rest of the Zambia citizenry.
While the family’s wishes are deeply respected, the President’s actions are guided by the nation’s collective need to honour its former leader which must take precedence in this moment of mourning.
And the law (Precedence) is clear, all former presidents must be buried at Embassy Park. The court already provided guidance on such matters – a former president’s final resting place is at Embassy Park.
We are happy with the new communications between the family of Mr Lungu and the government seeking to bring closure to this protracted stalemate. We are hopeful the two parties will chart a peaceful course out of this deadlock.
Issued By: SIKWINDI SITULA UPND Deputy Media Spokesperson
SMES REJECT GOVT’S PROPOSED BILL ON ENTREPRENEUR REGULATION
The Small and Medium Enterprise Association of Zambia has strongly opposed a proposal by the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises to introduce a bill aimed at regulating entrepreneurs.
During Tuesday’s edition of “Let the People Talk” program on Phoenix FM, Small and Medium Enterprises Minister Elias Mubanga disclosed plans to introduce a bill in Parliament aimed at regulating SMEs and entrepreneurs, with a focus on formalizing micro-businesses and addressing the challenges within the informal sector.
But in an interview with Phoenix News, Association Executive Director Ngobola Muyembe is urging government to reconsider its position and instead focus on strengthening the current initiatives.
Mr. Muyembe says government should work on the Business Regulatory Act No. 3 of 2014 aimed at improving the business licensing system in Zambia, the Patents and Companies Registration Agency -PACRA Act, and labour laws among others.
He argues that increased regulations without strengthening what is already there could stifle innovation and growth among small and medium-sized businesses who are crucial drivers of Zambia’s economic development.
CHILE ONE ANNOUNCES NEW ALBUM “EAGLE ONE” RELEASE THIS JULY
Popular Zambian singer Chile One Mr. Zambia has announced the release of his second studio album during a live social media address. The address was in a formal manner with characteristics of a presidential address.
During the live address the singer said, “Fellow countrymen and women, youths at large, marketeers, conductors, barbermen, and everybody in other sectors, I, Obed Bwalya Chileshe, also known as Chile One Mr. Zambia.”
He continued, “I hereby declare henceforth another title to my catalogue, Eagle One The Album, which drops on 12th July. Whether you are from the West, East, North, or South, I, as Eagle One, say One Zambia, One Nation.”
The album title “Eagle One” is a phrase used to refer to the holder of the highest office in the land “The President.”
This title and the presidential-like album announcement style suggest that the singer is claiming his position in the music industry as the top artist.
This will be Chile One Mr. Zambia’s second solo studio album after the successful release of his 22-track The Boy From Chililand album on 1st January 2024, which went on to amass millions of streams on digital streaming platforms.
His pre album announcement post raised concerns from his beloved followers and industry peers alike as he shared an alarming post stating that he had things to get out of his chest further requesting people not to reach out to him.
His fans are excited at the reception of this news as Chile One Mr. Zambia remains consistent, releasing two albums in a space of a little over 18 months.
To kick off the album promotion, Chile One released the album’s leading single “Eagle One” and wrote, “Eagle One is a powerful anthem about self-belief, confidence, and standing out from the crowd. It encourages listeners to embrace their uniqueness, rise above envy, and soar like an eagle—focused, fearless, and free.”
He added, “The song carries the core message of the entire project, which is why it stands as the title track of the album. Just like the eagle flies alone and never settles for less, Eagle One represents the journey of rising above limits, staying true to yourself, and leading with purpose.”
The album promises to address several issues affecting the communities looking at the content of the address. It also promises to be a great success.
Well, for his music’s lovers, they have up 12th July to prepare bundles to stream and enjoy this upcoming release.
FAITH MUSONDA CHARGED AFTER ‘SURPRISE VISIT’ TO COMMUNITY HOUSE …….Midnight drama, presidential gates, and one very determined woman
In a scene that felt more like an episode of Zambian Scandals Unscripted, controversial businesswoman Faith Musonda was nabbed by State security after allegedly storming Community House the official residence of President Hakainde Hichilema in a bold attempt to see First Lady Mutinta Hichilema.
According to her lawyer, Charles Changano, the incident occurred on the evening of Wednesday, July 2, between 20:00 and 21:00 hours not the midnight hour being whispered in WhatsApp groups. “She didn’t jump any fences or sneak in under the cover of darkness,” Changano clarified. “She showed up. Confidently. As if she had an appointment. She just wasn’t invited.”
Musonda, best known for past brushes with law enforcement, is now facing criminal trespass charges after what is being described as an “unannounced visit with presidential ambition.”
Sources close to the scene say the entire security detail was caught off guard. “We thought it was another State House protocol car. Then we saw someone get out in heels, sunglasses at night, and a handbag swinging like it had diplomatic immunity,” joked one security officer, under condition of anonymity.
The First Lady, who was reportedly inside at the time, did not engage with Musonda, nor has her office issued a statement.
Musonda was taken into custody without incident though not before allegedly insisting she had something “important to say to the First Lady… woman to woman.”
Late-night gossip aside, Changano insists there was no malicious intent. “My client wasn’t there to cause trouble. She wasn’t armed. Just determined and a little dramatic.”
As of this report, Musonda remains in police custody and has not yet been granted bond. Her court appearance is expected in the coming days.
For late readers who missed the drama as it unfolded: picture this Community House lights dimmed, Secret Service on edge, and one woman marching up to the gates like it was her mansion. Zambia, we are not bored.
ECONOMIST CAUTIONS CITIZENS AGAINST EXPECTING QUICK RELIEF FROM HIGH COST OF LIVING DESPITE ECONOMIC GROWTH
ECONOMIST Esther Banda says citizens should not anticipate immediate relief from the prevailing high cost of living despite Zambia’s significant economic growth over the past six months.
Ms. Banda tells Phoenix News that the benefits of the country’s economic expansion, including the Kwacha appreciation, increased agriculture production, and reduced petroleum prices, are unlikely to translate into a reduction in the cost of living in the short term.
She has explained that Zambians continue to grapple with escalating prices for essential goods and services, causing a disconnect between macroeconomic performance and household budgets.
Ms. Banda has urged citizens to be patient, stating that any significant easing of financial pressures on households is unlikely to materialize until next year.
She is hopeful that government will take advantage of the positive economic strides to cushion inflation in the coming months to ensure that the economic gains benefit households and alleviate the financial pressures they are facing.
Dismissed for owning a car? Viral post by a garage cashier ignites public backlash
Aseza Limelintaka, a 28-year-old cashier at a Shell petrol station in Maitland, has ignited a public uproar after alleging she was fired for purchasing a second-hand car.
The controversy deepened with a detailed Facebook post from Limelintaka, where she recounted her ordeal with station owner Patel.
In her post, Limelintaka explained that she had been saving diligently to buy a car and expand her business aspirations.
However, she claims Patel confronted her, questioning how she could afford the vehicle on her salary. “He said how did I manage to buy a car while I work there? Because no one ever bought a car there I told him that I’ve been saving since I worked there, not him asking for proof of my savings?” she wrote.
She described showing Patel her bank app and sharing a PDF of her bank statement, only for him to allegedly deem it insufficient and suggest she resign or work as a petrol attendant.
Limelintaka further alleged that Patel accused her of unexplained income, saying, “I’m buying a car, he’s not comfortable for me to be a cashier again.”
She expressed frustration, asking, “Why should I tell my personal life?… So by buying a second-hand car that I’ve been saving for it made me lose my job!!”
Her post, which has since gone viral, has drawn sympathy and outrage online, with some labeling Patel’s actions as overreach or racially motivated claims yet to be substantiated.
A 32-year-old unemployed married man, Sachin Rajput, has been arrested for strangling his girlfriend, Ritika Sen, 29, in Bhopal’s Gayatri Nagar after accusing her of having an affair with her boss.
The murder occurred on the night of June 27, 2025, after a heated argument between the couple, who had been in a live-in relationship for over three years.
Consumed by jealousy and rage, Sachin killed Ritika, then wrapped her body in a blanket and continued to sleep beside it for two nights while drinking heavily.
“In a drunken state, he told his friend what he had done. When the friend realised it wasn’t a joke, he informed the police,” said police station in-charge Shilpa Kaurav.
When police arrived at the scene, they found Ritika’s decomposing body on the bed, just as Sachin had described.
“The woman is identified as Ritika Sen. She was living with her boyfriend, Sachin Rajput, who is married and has two children,” Kaurav added.
Sachin has been taken into custody, a murder case has been registered, and the post-mortem report is awaited as investigations continue.
Ritika Sen's body found at Sachin Rajput’s house in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The two got into an argument. In a fit of rage, Sachin allegedly strangled her to death and wrapped her body in a sack. He later called his friend and confessed to the crime.pic.twitter.com/24wiJaJIBZ
KUNDANANJI, BELEMU REPRESENT ZAMBIA AT UNVEILING OF NEW WAFCON TROPHY Copper Queens forward Racheal Kundananji and defender Margaret Belemu were Zambia’s representatives at the official unveiling of the new TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) trophy held on Wednesday in Rabat, Morocco.
The duo joined players from each of the 12 participating nations, alongside African football legends and referees in a landmark event that signals a new chapter in the growth and recognition of women’s football on the continent.
Organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in partnership with long-standing sponsor TotalEnergies, the event showcased the redesigned WAFCON trophy as a powerful symbol of unity, ambition and the growing stature of the women’s game. Malawi women’s national team captain Tabitha Chawinga, Moroccan referee Bouchra Karboubi and Rwanda’s Salima Mukansanga, one of the world’s most respected referees, were also part of the distinguished guest list.
Crafted in a combination of brilliant silver and matte gold, the trophy features upward-spiralling petals representing the 12 participating nations. The petals form a blooming flower, symbolising the blossoming of African women’s football.
At the heart of the floral structure is a golden sphere designed to resemble a football, adorned with a map of Africa, a nod to the continent’s pride and global ambition in the women’s game.
The trophy sits atop a pristine white marble base with elegant gold stripes and is encircled by a gold ring engraved with the CAF logo. The base bears the name of the competition in refined matte gold lettering, anchoring its legacy in the rich heritage of African sport. Kundananji and Belemu are both part of Zambia’s final 24-member squad for the 2024 edition of WAFCON (to be played in 2025). The Copper Queens will open their Group A campaign against hosts Morocco on Saturday, 5 July at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat. They will then face Senegal on 9 July and wrap up the group phase against DR Congo on 12 July, with both matches set for El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia. FAZ
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s long-speculated 2030 presidential ambitions have hit a brick wall after the ZANU-PF Politburo rejected the co-option of his top ally, fuel tycoon Kudakwashe Tagwirei, into the Central Committee — and in a further embarrassment, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga blocked a controversial donation of brand-new vehicles from Tagwirei to Politburo members.
The dramatic sequence of events has left Mnangagwa politically exposed and internally isolated, with his own Presidium openly defying him, and the ruling party’s top executive arm — the Politburo — rejecting him in principle.
Sources inside the heated Politburo meeting confirmed that only two out of 49 members — Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Politburo stalwart Omega Hungwe — supported the move to parachute Tagwirei into the Central Committee. The rest, led by Vice President Chiwenga, Secretary for Administration Obert Mpofu, Christopher Mutsvangwa, and Patrick Chinamasa, voted the proposal down
The rejection is widely seen as a fatal blow to Mnangagwa’s efforts to entrench loyalists in key positions and engineer a path to a third term beyond 2028.
But the most telling sign of resistance came before the meeting, when Chiwenga reportedly intercepted and blocked a plan for Tagwirei to donate luxury vehicles to Politburo members — a gesture critics described as a blatant bribe intended to curry favour ahead of the vote.
“The vehicle scheme was a red line,” said a senior party figure. “Chiwenga was clear — party loyalty cannot be bought with cars, and Tagwirei cannot buy a seat at the table,” said one source speaking on condition of anonymity.
Even Munyaradzi Machacha, often seen as Tagwirei’s political handler, remained conspicuously silent throughout the session — signalling that even those previously aligned with the controversial businessman were unwilling to defend the move.
Insiders say Deputy Minister Tino Machakaire, along with other emerging power brokers, worked through the night lobbying Politburo members to reject the co-option. Meanwhile, Fidelity Printers chairman Godwills Masimirembwa — who initially backed the idea — is rumoured to have told confidantes he had been pressured into it by his “political godfather” Obert Mpofu.
The failed co-option is being widely interpreted as a referendum on Mnangagwa’s future, and analysts say the President’s authority within ZANU-PF is now severely compromised.
“This isn’t just a political loss — it’s a personal rejection,” one observer noted. “Mnangagwa’s blueprint for 2030 hinged on Tagwirei’s influence and resources. Now, both have been publicly rejected by the very structures that are supposed to protect him.”
With the Politburo and key members of the Presidium clearly breaking ranks, the path to a 2030 candidacy for Mnangagwa appears blocked — not by the opposition, but by his own party machinery.
The message from ZANU-PF is now unmistakably clear: the era of Mnangagwa may be coming to an end.
Outspoken war veteran and critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Blessed Geza, has assured Zimbabweans that the “people’s revolution” is still on course
In a strongly worded address on Tuesday, Geza reaffirmed his commitment to challenging the status quo, accusing senior government officials and elites of corruption, betrayal, and losing touch with the values of the liberation struggle.
“Good evening, Family of Zimbabwe,” Geza began. “I greet you with gladness. First, I want to inform you that we have submitted the requests you made. Perhaps you noticed that Vice President Chiwenga later issued a statement in Victoria Falls, saying the Zvigananda — the corrupt — their days are numbered. War veterans everywhere are pleased with Chiwenga’s stance.”
Geza emphasized that although the movement may appear dormant on the surface, internal work is ongoing.
“We are now parked — but that doesn’t mean the revolution has stopped. It is moving forward,” he said.
He criticized what he described as the unchecked arrogance of elites, singling out controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei. Geza condemned Tagwirei’s alleged corruption and his growing influence in both ZANU PF and government.
“We watched him travel around Zimbabwe, to places like Masvingo and Bulawayo — including ZCC gatherings — speaking arrogantly,” said Geza. “He called people who aren’t involved in tenders foolish. What kind of statement is that? We know those tenders are awarded through corruption, all from the Office of the President. The official process no longer exists.”
Geza questioned why ZANU PF members applaud what he sees as blatant corruption: “What’s special about Tagwirei? All the money he flaunts is from corruption. This man is a thief. He stole an entire church — SDA members are crying. He took over Kereke’s hospital. And now, out of nowhere, he’s in the Central Committee, positioned as a future president?”
Turning his attention to President Mnangagwa, Geza accused him of abandoning the liberation ideals and comrades who helped bring him to power.
“This country was won through bloodshed. Comrades like Chiwenga and Valerio Sibanda are still alive — and yet ED has chosen to align himself with the Zvigananda — the corrupt. Chiwenga is now discouraged from speaking out against corruption. What happened to comradeship?”
He recounted how Mnangagwa was once a political exile: “When ED was a refugee, it was comrades who called him back to lead. Mugabe told Chiwenga, ‘You don’t know this man, ED. I would rather leave the country in your hands.’ But Chiwenga said, ‘Let ED rule.’ And now, ED has betrayed the very people who put him in power.”
Geza also took aim at the handling of war veterans, saying their voices are no longer represented by ZANU PF.
“The war veterans, mujibas, and chimbwidos have grievances. They are independent. But now you’ve co-opted figures like Victor Matemadanda and Mahiya, who no longer speak for real war veterans. That’s why the so-called war veterans’ meetings are boycotted. The generals aren’t attending because they know those meetings are a farce,” he said.
Despite his criticism, Geza expressed hope that the tide is turning.
“What pleases me is that some war veterans who were lost are beginning to wake up. We can’t blame them — not everyone wakes up on the same day. But the awakening has begun.”
He cited Monica Mutsvangwa’s recent remarks in Manicaland as a sign that some within the system are starting to see the truth: “She acknowledged that the current financial mismanagement is hurting the country. That gave us hope.”
Geza ended his address by urging unity among those who believe in the ideals of the liberation struggle and called for continued vigilance as the political situation unfolds.- Zimeye
The late former President Robert Mugabe’s son is facing five assault charges after allegedly attacking security guards at a mine in Mazowe, accusing them of harbouring criminals.
The incident occurred on June 25 at Ultimate Mine.
Chatunga Mugabe and his bodyguards were reportedly pursuing a group of gold panners when they encountered the five complainants at Ultimate Mine and assaulted them.
He is jointly charged with his two bodyguards, Petee Fredson and Tinashe Mupawo.
The State alleges that some of his other bodyguards are still at large.
Chatunga and his co-accused appeared before a Concession magistrate and were granted bail of US$200 each.
The complainants — Ntandoyokuza Nyathi, Philip Chipara, Elvis Bvumbe, Collen Muchemwa, and Waddington Mutadza — are security officers stationed at Ultimate Mine in Mazowe.
According to court papers, on June 25 at around 1600 hours, one of the complainants was on duty at the mine, patrolling the boundary between Ultimate Mine and Iron Mask Farm with a security dog, when the accused persons approached him in pursuit of illegal miners who were allegedly fleeing Iron Mask security guards.
“One of the accused persons fired a shot from an unidentified pistol, prompting the illegal miners to flee,” the court heard. “The accused then charged towards the complainant, accusing him of harbouring the illegal miners.”
They allegedly assaulted him with open hands and fists until he fell to the ground.
“The accused then stomped on the complainant several times while he lay on the ground,” the papers read.
It is further alleged that they forced the complainant to carry a sack of gold ore to their premises, where they took turns assaulting him using wooden logs and an iron bar.
The complainant sustained multiple injuries and reported the matter to ZRP Mazowe. He was referred to hospital for medical examination and treatment.
In another count, the complainant is Philip Chipara, an internal security supervisor at Ultimate Mine.
He was also on duty when he heard a gunshot at the boundary and went to investigate.
Upon arrival, he saw his colleague Nyathi being assaulted with fists, booted feet, and a sjambok by the accused.
“When he asked why they were assaulting the security guard, the accused persons charged towards him and began to beat him as well,” the court heard.
It is alleged that the accused then handcuffed Chipara and another complainant, Elvis Bvumbe, before later releasing them.
Chatunga and his bodyguards also allegedly assaulted Collen Muchemwa and Waddington Mutadza, who were both on duty at the time.- ZimEye
An abroad-based man caused a scene at a restaurant after catching his girlfriend with another man, sparking outrage and chaos.
Furious over the betrayal, he allegedly vandalized the car he had gifted her, attracting a crowd of onlookers who tried to calm him down.
The man claimed he had been struggling overseas to support her education, regularly sending her money while she was unfaithful.
Visibly emotional, he shouted: “Una see why we no dey touch woman for this country. Me and this girl don dey over one year. I dey abroad dey suffer dey train this girl for school. I wan collect my car key, she’s cheating on me with another guy…”
The incident quickly drew attention on social media, with many expressing mixed reactions.
Local authorities were reportedly alerted, but no arrests had been made at the time of reporting.
The car, visibly damaged, remained parked outside the restaurant as the confrontation ended.
A Ugandan military helicopter with eight people on board has crashed at the main international airport in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, an aviation official has told the BBC.
The state-run news agency reported that a fire broke out after the helicopter crashed at the Aden Adde International Airport, but it had been quickly contained by the emergency services. Video footage showed plumes of smoke rising from the airport.
“We heard the blast and saw smoke and flames over a helicopter. The smoke entirely covered the helicopter,” Farah Abdulle, one of the airport staff, told Reuters news agency.
The cause of the crash and casualty figures are unclear.
The head of the Somali Civil Aviation Authority, Ahmed Maalim, told the BBC that the helicopter had come down in the airport’s military section after flying in from the Balidogle airbase in the Lower Shabelle region, about 90km (56 miles) north-west of Mogadishu.
He said that an investigation was under way to establish the cause of the crash.
Ugandan troops are part of an 11,000-strong African Union (AU) force helping the government fight the al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabab group, which has been waging a brutal insurgency in Somalia for more than two decades.
The crash delayed the departure of a Turkish Airlines passenger plane, but domestic flights continued to operate normally.
Global beverage giant Coca-Cola has announced a significant $93.8 million investment (approximately 60 billion West African Francs, CFA) in a state-of-the-art factory in Burkina Faso, marking a strategic expansion in the West African nation.
The new 6.7-hectare facility, currently under construction by local companies, has already seen an investment of 25 billion CFA.
Upon completion, it is expected to generate 500-600 direct jobs and up to 3,000 indirect jobs, according to CEO Caroline Estelle Ouedraogo.
The project comes on the heels of Coca-Cola’s decision in 2022 to withdraw bottling licenses from local brasseries, including Solibra in Burkina Faso, following their development of competing drink brands.
The factory, located in Gampela, is already employing 105 workers and is seen as a potential economic lifeline in a country grappling with a decade-long crisis of terrorist activity and youth radicalization.
Additionally, Coca-Cola has contributed 5.3 billion CFA to peace initiatives in 2023, signaling a commitment to social impact alongside its commercial goals.
However, the expansion has not been without criticism. Concerns have been raised about the factory’s water usage—estimated at nearly three liters per liter of Coca-Cola produced—potentially straining local resources in a region already facing water scarcity.
Deepening rifts within the uMkhonto weSizwe Party have surfaced through disputed letters allegedly from deputy president John Hlophe criticizing Jacob Zuma’s daughter and national spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela.
The letter controversy exposes mounting tensions in South Africa’s third-largest political party as leadership battles and disciplinary disputes threaten organizational unity.
The MK Party is rejecting the authenticity of a letter allegedly written by its deputy president John Hlophe to party leader Jacob Zuma, which describes Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla as “disruptive” and calls for disciplinary action. The June 26 letter also reportedly targets party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela for undermining newly appointed chief whip Colleen Makhubele.
According to sources within the party, two senior sources independently confirmed the authenticity of the letters, though Ndhlela maintains the documents are fake. He said when he confronted Hlophe about it “he said his signature has been abused”, raising questions about potential forgery.
The disputed correspondence details serious allegations against both Zuma-Sambudla and Ndhlela. Hlophe allegedly accused Ndhlela of consistently insulting Makhubele, “labelling her a ‘political novice and newcomer’ to the political landscape”. The letter claims Ndhlela refused to accept his removal from the parliamentary whippery team.
During a whippery meeting, Zuma-Sambudla allegedly “interrupted the sitting creating unnecessary chaos and disregarding repeated cautions to wait her turn”. The letter describes how she continued disrupting proceedings despite Hlophe’s intervention.
The controversy unfolds against a backdrop of continuous leadership upheaval within the party. On Tuesday, 27 May, the party removed Mzwanele Manyi as its chief whip, nine months after he took up the position. Makhubele, who replaced Manyi, now faces her own challenges.
In a letter addressed to party president Jacob Zuma, dissenting MPs argue that her leadership threatens party unity and describe her as a “political novice and newcomer”. MPs have accused Makhubele of making unilateral decisions and betraying party ideology, particularly regarding her stance on Israel.
The letter saga represents just one episode in the MK Party’s turbulent internal politics. Since its formation in December 2023, the party has experienced what critics call “musical chairs” in key positions. The MK Party has had six secretary generals, with Floyd Shivambu currently holding the position after previous tensions with Zuma-Sambudla.
These internal conflicts gained public attention earlier this year when Zuma-Sambudla issued a public apology on Tuesday after using social media platform X late on Monday night to hurl insults at party secretary general Floyd Shivambu. She had called him “the worst thing that happened to MK” before being ordered by her father to apologize or face expulsion.
The disputed letter’s timing coincides with another high-profile controversy. Former MK Mpumalanga convenor Mary Phadi says she is prepared to go to court to challenge Hlophe, who has denied the allegations of sexual harassment she raised against him in January.
Hlophe, the former Western Cape judge president who was impeached by Parliament in 2023, became the party’s deputy president and parliamentary leader after the May 2024 elections. His role in party discipline matters has become increasingly controversial as factional battles intensify.
The authenticity dispute highlights broader organizational challenges facing the MK Party. Plagued by a revolving door of leaders, scandals and financial mysteries, the MK party continues to struggle with internal governance despite becoming South Africa’s official opposition after securing 58 parliamentary seats.
Party insiders suggest the letter controversy reflects deeper divisions between different factions, including tensions between original members and recent defectors from other parties like the Economic Freedom Fighters. The rapid turnover in leadership positions has created instability that threatens the party’s effectiveness in Parliament.
The MK Party’s response to the letter allegations remains defensive, with spokesperson Ndhlela insisting the documents are fabricated. However, the circulation of multiple letters and the confirmation by unnamed senior sources suggests ongoing communication breakdowns within party structures.
As these internal battles play out publicly, questions arise about the party’s ability to function as an effective opposition. The continuous leadership changes and disciplinary disputes distract from policy development and parliamentary duties.
The disputed letters, whether authentic or forged, expose the fragile nature of unity within Jacob Zuma’s political project. With municipal elections approaching in 2026, the party faces pressure to resolve its internal conflicts and present a coherent alternative to voters.
ZAMBIA TO HOST INAUGURAL BORROWERS’ FORUM TO EMPOWER DEVELOPING NATIONS ON DEBT MANAGEMENT
Seville, Spain, 03.07.2025
The Government of the Republic of Zambia has offered to host the inaugural Borrowers’ Forum, a commitment agreed in the outcome document of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) and endorsed by the United Nations Secretary-General’s Expert Group on Debt and the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). The forum is designed to empower developing countries to foster effective debt management.
The UNCTAD Forum officially launched a proposed roadmap for the Forum as part of the Seville Platform for Action on the margins of the FFD4 in Seville, Spain. The initiative marks a significant outcome of the Seville Commitment, the conference’s final outcome document, which Zambia co-facilitated alongside Mexico, Nepal, and Norway.
Speaking during the launch, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, SC, MP, expressed Zambia’s strong support for the establishment of the Borrowers’ Forum and confirmed the country’s willingness to host its inaugural session.
The Minister emphasised that the Forum has garnered broad support from both the Global North and the Global South due to its potential to enhance the voice and representation of borrower countries in the global debt architecture
Hon. Haimbe noted that the Forum will foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including international organisations, development partners, and creditor nations, working together toward a more resilient global debt system.
Speaking at the same event, UN Trade and Development Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan welcomed the launch of the Forum, noting that it aims to address the power imbalances that often characterise debt negotiations, where debtor countries are frequently isolated and lack a unified voice.
The Spanish Minister of Economy Mr. Carlos Cuerpo stated that the Forum provides a platform for developing countries to shape their futures and deepen cooperation with creditors, thereby fulfilling a shared responsibility to ensure debt sustainability.
UN Special Envoy on Financing the 2030 Agenda who is also the Chair of the Expert Group, Mahmoud Mohieldin, praised Zambia’s leadership throughout the FFD4 process and congratulated Zambia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, H.E. Dr. Chola Milambo, for his role in shaping the Seville outcome document. He announced that Zambia, Spain, and Egypt will support the UN Secretary-General in consultations with Member States and stakeholders to operationalise the Forum.
The Borrowers’ Forum complements ongoing initiatives aimed at addressing debt vulnerabilities, including the G20 Common Framework and the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable. The goal is to build a debt framework that not only addresses current challenges but also strategically prevents future crises, fostering long-lasting partnerships between borrowers and creditors.
Backed by a dedicated UN Secretariat, the Borrowers’ Forum will promote knowledge-sharing and amplify the voice and representation of borrowing countries in relation to reforms of the global financial architecture. This aligns with the 11 proposals of the UN Secretary-General’s Expert Group on Debt, launched by the Secretary-General in New York on 27 June 2025.
The forum has been launched nearly 70 years after the creation of the Paris Club of Creditors and symbolises a shift in global debt governance, giving debtor countries a collective voice.
Issued by: Naomi Mweemba First Secretary, Press Embassy of the Republic of Zambia, Paris
Afrikaner delegation visits US to strengthen ties, not complain, says FF Plus leader
Dr Corné Mulder, leader of Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus), has defended his delegation’s recent visit to the United States, emphasizing it was aimed at fostering stronger bilateral ties, not airing grievances about South Africa.
The delegation, which included Dr Theo de Jager of the Southern African Agri Initiative (SAAI) and Gerhard Papenfus of the National Employers’ Association of South Africa (NEASA), met with White House officials, the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of African Affairs, and staff from Vice President J.D. Vance’s office.
Mulder clarified that the visit focused on resetting US-South Africa relations to promote mutual prosperity. Key issues raised included farm attacks, land expropriation policies, and Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) requirements, which the delegation argued deter foreign investment.
They reportedly presented four conditions set by the Trump administration for normalized ties, prioritizing farm attack investigations, condemning the “Kill the Boer” chant, ensuring fair compensation for land expropriation, and exempting US entities from BEE rules.
The delegation also discussed a controversial US executive order from February 2025 granting refugee status to white Afrikaners, citing alleged targeted injustices a claim South Africa’s government has dismissed as misinformation.
The South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) distanced itself from the delegation, stating it acted independently.
Critics in South Africa accused the group of undermining national sovereignty.
Mulder, however, insisted the trip was constructive, aimed at building a prosperous South Africa through dialogue. “We’re not here to complain but to find solutions,” he said, underscoring the delegation’s commitment to the nation’s success.
Australia cancels Kanye West’s visa over Nazi-glorifying song
Australia has revoked US rapper Kanye West’s tourist visa due to his controversial song “Heil Hitler,” which glorifies Nazi leader Adolf Hitler, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced Wednesday.
The track, part of West’s May 2025 album WW3, sparked global outrage and was banned from major streaming platforms for violating hate speech policies.
Burke cited West’s history of antisemitic remarks and the song’s content as reasons for the cancellation, stating, “Australia will not tolerate imported bigotry.”
South Africa spends R11 million daily on foreign prisoners, says minister
Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald has sparked debate with a proposal to deport foreign criminals to their countries of origin to serve their prison sentences.
The announcement, aimed at alleviating the country’s chronic prison overcrowding and reducing financial burdens, was made during a recent briefing on correctional services reforms.
Groenewald highlighted that South Africa currently houses approximately 24,000 foreign inmates, costing taxpayers an estimated R11 million daily. “It’s only logical that foreign nationals convicted of crimes serve their sentences in their home countries,” Groenewald stated, emphasizing the strain on South African facilities.
He proposed pursuing bilateral agreements, notably with Zimbabwe, to facilitate the transfer of prisoners.
The minister’s comments, come as South Africa grapples with a prison population exceeding capacity by nearly 40%.
While some support the move as a pragmatic solution, critics warn it could violate international human rights laws or complicate diplomatic relations.
The Department of Correctional Services has not yet outlined a timeline or legal framework for implementing the policy.
Groenewald indicated ongoing discussions with the Department of Home Affairs to explore deportation mechanisms, particularly for parole-eligible inmates.
As the proposal unfolds, it is likely to ignite further discussion on balancing fiscal responsibility, prison reform, and international obligations.
The brother of Nigerian music icon 2Baba, Charles Idibia, better known online as Charlybrave, has posted an open letter addressed to the singer.Nigerian food recipes
Charles addressed the situation of his brother’s personal life in a long Instagram post, sharing his heart.
In the post, Charles praised 2Baba, describing him as a peaceful, kind-hearted man who avoids conflict and often sacrifices his own comfort to keep others happy. He compared him to a modern-day Jesus, saying 2Baba silently endures being painted as the villain just to protect those causing him pain.
But the post quickly turned into a detailed accusation against a woman alleged to be 2Baba’s current partner.
Charles claimed this woman once broke into the singer’s phone to announce a divorce on his behalf, posted a picture of herself on his social media, and begged Nigerians to ask 2Baba to marry her — all while he was asleep.
He also accused her of cloning the singer’s WhatsApp, deleting and replying to messages, impersonating him, controlling his email and accounts, and allegedly isolating him from his management team.
“She convinced you to abandon your management and businesses in Lagos and move to Abuja,” he wrote, adding that she reportedly dragged 2Baba across Benin and other places the “real him” wouldn’t go.
Wildlife safaris in Nigeria
He also accused the unnamed woman of sabotaging business trips, spreading lies, creating chaos, and “adopting” the singer’s surname while telling strangers she was his wife — despite him still being legally married.
In a follow-up, Charles added that 2Baba is no longer acting like himself and is being emotionally destroyed under the guise of love.
“A girlfriend who makes you eat your words from a podcast just because you didn’t mention her name… is not a girlfriend but a psychotic fan… a cancerous leech… You are in one of the episodes of those Crime and Investigation shows you love to watch.”
He concluded the post with a heartfelt plea:
“Take a couple of months off ALONE. Get completely off social media. Let the music and businesses wait. Give yourself time to heal… in the name of your seven lovely kids. This isn’t you.”
Former Barcelona and AC Milan striker, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, has labeled Inter Miami club a ‘circus’ full of ‘statues’ while taking a shot at Lionel Messi after their Club World Cup exit
Ibrahimovic, an ex-teammate of Messi at Barcelona, was reacting to Inter Miami’s embarrassing Club World Cup last-16 thrashing to PSG.
Inter Miami and Messi lost 4-0 to his former club Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday’s round of 16.
Ibrahimovic, who played with Messi at Barcelona was unimpressed by Miami, which conceded four first-half goals against the Champions League winners.
“This isn’t the Messi I know,” he said. “If you put him in a real team, he’d go all-out. There are no coaches, no stars, not even players who understand how to move without the ball. If he were on a real team, any great team, you’d see the real lion.
“Messi plays alone because he loves the game, because he can still do what 99% of players can’t. But this isn’t the Messi I know,” he said.
‘But he’s surrounded by those who run as if they were carrying bags of cement! There are no coaches, no stars, not even players who understand how to move without the ball!’
The Inter Miami side has some of the former best players in European football including Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets , and Jordi Alba.
According to Ibrahimovic, Messi has become a ‘big ghost who plays in a circus’ during his time at the Herons, unable to produce his maximum level of performance in a squad that fails to match the eight-time Ballon d’Or winners’ world class credentials.
Singer, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, who accused Sean “Diddy” Combs of years of abuse in a separate civil case that was settled out of court, expressed relief through her legal team after the music mogul was found guilty of two federal prostitution charges but let go of three other more serious charges.
“We’re pleased that he’s finally been held responsible for two federal crimes,” Cassie’s lawyer told reporters outside the New York City courthouse, adding that it marked “a step toward accountability.”
Earlier today, a jury acquitted Diddy on the more serious sex trafficking and racketeering charges that had rocked the entertainment world but found him guilty of procuring individuals for prostitution. Each count carries up to 10 years in prison, meaning Diddy could face a maximum of 20 years behind bars.
A courtroom sketch captured the tense moments as Diddy listened to his attorney, Marc Agnifilo, deliver closing arguments. Outside, crowds of both supporters and protesters gathered, highlighting the polarising nature of the case.
Cassie and Diddy’s tumultuous history has long been in the public eye. They famously attended the Met Gala together in 2015, years before Cassie came forward with explosive allegations that painted Diddy as controlling and abusive—a portrayal he has repeatedly denied.
While Diddy’s top charges did not lead to convictions, the guilty verdict on prostitution counts ensures the legal saga is far from over, with sentencing expected in the coming weeks.
The high-profile federal case against Sean “Diddy” Combs, which captivated the nation for weeks, has been labelled by legal experts as the “most expensive prostitution trial in American history.”
Defence attorney and former prosecutor Neama Rahmani offered the stark assessment even before the verdict was delivered, noting that if prosecutors failed to secure a racketeering conviction, it would represent a massive blow to the government — especially given the enormous resources poured into the case.
“This case was always going to hinge on racketeering,” Rahmani said as jurors deliberated. “If the government doesn’t get a RICO conviction, this will be a huge loss and the most expensive prostitution trial in American history.”
Ultimately, that prediction proved true. On the third day of deliberations, jurors acquitted the Bad Boy Records founder of two federal sex-trafficking charges and a racketeering charge, sparing him a mandatory minimum of 15 years and potential life behind bars. However, they found Diddy guilty on two counts of transporting individuals to engage in prostitution, charges that still carry up to 10 years each.
Throughout the trial, prosecutors laid out lurid details of Diddy’s alleged sexual escapades, describing so-called “freak-offs” — extravagant gatherings involving sex workers and marathon encounters that his accusers claimed were coerced. The defense countered with a trove of text messages suggesting many of the participants were willing and eager, making it harder to prove sex trafficking, since “consent is a defense,” Rahmani noted.
Shortly after the mixed verdict, Rahmani summed it up: “What a tremendous loss for the prosecution. And a huge win for the defense.”
The two-month trial exposed the darker side of one of hip-hop’s biggest moguls. Now, Combs faces up to 20 years in prison, with a judge set to decide his fate — and whether he remains free pending sentencing — in the coming days.
Celebrations erupted outside the New York courthouse after the P Diddy verdict was read inside the court.
Some fans went so far as pouring baby oil on each other’s bodies, with one supporter removing her bright blue wig as she danced around in her underwear covered in oil.
Sean “P. Diddy” Combs was acquitted on three of five charges today as the jury reached a verdict after three days of deliberation.
The former rap mogul was found not guilty of two charges of s£x trafficking and one charge of racketeering conspiracy, and guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in pr0stitution.
The baby oil is a reference to the drug-fueled sex parties, or “freak-offs,” that were a frequent topic of discussion during testimony. Thousands of bottles of baby oil were found during raids on Diddy’s Los Angeles and Miami homes in March 2024.
Hollywood star Brad Pitt has opened up about the only two women who have ever truly left him starstruck — and surprisingly, neither of them are his famous exes.
According to Daily Mail, while speaking on the New Heights podcast hosted by NFL stars Jason and Travis Kelce, the 61-year-old actor revealed that his former Thelma & Louise co-stars Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon were the only two women who genuinely took his breath away.
“When I first met Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon, I was. Yeah,” Pitt admitted. “I got over it quickly, though.”
Brad’s breakout role in Thelma & Louise (1991) saw him playing J.D., a flirty hitchhiker who charms Thelma (Davis), seduces her, then disappears with her money — a role that launched him into stardom.
Reflecting on that period in a 2023 interview with W Magazine, Pitt credited Geena Davis for making his first love scene easier:
“That love scene, I think, went on for two days of shooting. She took care of me,” he said, calling her “sweet and kind and delicate.”
Susan Sarandon also had high praise for Pitt in past interviews, once saying:
“I thought, ‘Ah, this guy’s interesting… he’s not just a really gorgeous face.’ He really impressed me with his sense of humor and his great body.”
Following a partial verdict in his high-profile case, Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal team is pushing hard for his release, arguing that the charges no longer justify his continued detention.
According to AllHipHop, after two days of deliberation, the jury cleared the music mogul of the most serious allegations — including racketeering, forced sex trafficking, and the trafficking of singer Cassie Ventura and another accuser referred to as “Jane.”
However, the jury did find him guilty on two counts of transporting both women across state lines for the purpose of prostitution.
Diddy’s attorney, Marc Agnifilo, made an urgent plea to the judge for the Bad Boy Records founder to be granted release on a $1 million bond.
“He is no longer charged with sex trafficking or racketeering. His plane has been chartered – it is in Maui. He does not have access to his plane. This is his first conviction, and it is a prostitution offense. He should be released,” Agnifilo argued in court.
The defense also noted that Diddy’s family was present and willing to co-sign the bond.
“He should be released today, to go back and live at Two Star Island,” the lawyer added.
However, federal prosecutors strongly opposed the motion, warning that the rap mogul remained a flight risk and a danger.
“The defendant faces a maximum sentence of twenty years. Even while faced with this case, he assaulted Jane… Here in NY, preparing to surrender, he had drugs in his hotel room, was ready to commit this same offense,” prosecutors stated.
Judge Subramanian acknowledged Diddy’s visible discomfort during proceedings, noting:
“Mr. Combs does not want to go back to the MDC, he is shaking his head.”
Following the news that American rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs had been exonerated of three of five charges in his sex trafficking trial, fellow rapper and ardent critic 50 Cent did not hesitate to respond.
Shortly after the verdict, 50 Cent posted a picture of himself on Instagram with the following caption:
“Diddy beat the Rio, that boy a bad man! He like the Gay John Gotti.”
The post quickly stirred reactions online as the G-Unit boss continued his ongoing commentary on Diddy’s legal woes. 50 Cent (real name Curtis Jackson) has been vocal throughout the case, previously weighing in on jury deliberations and even teasing an upcoming Netflix docuseries based on the allegations.
Diddy, who was facing life in prison if convicted on all counts, broke down in court after the partial acquittal. He was found not guilty of racketeering and two counts of sex trafficking but convicted on two charges related to transporting women for prostitution.
A dramatic scene unfolded during a deliverance session at a white garment church when a snake was allegedly vomited by a member of the congregation.
The incident was captured in a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) by user @ChuksEricE. The footage shows the snake struggling to move across the church floor, causing panic among worshippers.
According to the caption, the snake was expelled from a person’s body during the spiritual exercise. Chaos ensued as members screamed and scattered in fear.
The snake was later seen crawling toward someone seated on the floor before hiding behind their legs. The church has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) officially ceased operations on July 1, drawing both praise and alarm. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hailed the move, calling it the end of “government-sanctioned inefficiency.” “Under the Trump Administration, we will finally have a foreign funding mission in America that prioritizes our national interests,” Rubio wrote on Substack.
Foreign aid programs will now be managed by the State Department, but only those that “align with administration policies—and which advance American interests,” according to Rubio.
The abrupt dismantling of USAID was led by the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an initiative backed by Elon Musk.
Thousands of global aid programs have been eliminated, including those providing vaccines, maternal care, clean water, and food security. A new analysis published in The Lancet estimates that the cuts could lead to over 14 million preventable deaths by 2030.
Children under the age of five are projected to make up more than 4.5 million of those deaths. Critics warn the humanitarian consequences of this move could outweigh any perceived gains in government efficiency.
The Ministry of Health says it is actively engaging with other development partners to fill the gap left in the health sector following the official closure of the US Agency for International Development (USAID).
According to Ministry spokesperson Adrian Chikumbe, the government is not only seeking new partnerships but has also launched the National Health Financing Strategy, aimed at helping the country generate its own domestic resources to support healthcare services in the long term.
“We are in discussions with willing partners to address the shortfall and ensure continuity of essential health programs,” Chikumbe said.
This comes after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that, effective July 1, USAID would officially cease implementing foreign assistance programs, with future foreign aid to be administered directly by the US State Department.
“As of July 1st, USAID will officially cease to implement foreign assistance. Programs that align with administration policies and advance American interests will be administered by the State Department,” Rubio said.
His comments followed a new analysis warning that the USAID closure could contribute to over 14 million deaths globally within the next five years, mainly in low-income countries.
Health rights activist George Jobe, while acknowledging USAID’s decades of critical support in areas such as HIV/AIDS, immunization, and education programs, called on the Malawian government to intensify efforts in securing alternative funding
“The government needs to lobby for support from other funders and also incre
ase domestic budget allocations to sustain life-saving programs,” Jobe said.
USAID has been one of Malawi’s largest health sector donors for years, supporting key initiatives in HIV treatment, maternal and child health, malaria prevention, and immunization.
