Colombian presidential candidate Miguel Uribe is reportedly in “critical condition” after being “shot at an event” on Saturday.
HuffPost’s Yashar Ali posted the news on social media, and that post was shared by CNN’s Jake Tapper, as well.
“BREAKING Colombian presidential candidate Miguel Uribe has been shot at an event,” Ali wrote Saturday. “He is in critical condition. WARNING: This footage involves an attempted assassination. BLOOD is not visible in the footage.”
Now that billionaire Elon Musk has stepped away from his White House job as a “special government employee,” the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staffers he brought on board are exiting too — some not because they want to leave.
According to a report from the Washington Post’s Faiz Siddiqui, Hannah Natanson, Cat Zakrzewski, Alex Horton and Elizabeth Dwoskin, the influence of DOGE is waning and Cabinet heads are hiring back employees who were dismissed during the mass purge initiated under Donald Trump’s anti-government administration.
The Post is reporting, that Musk’s influence with Trump’s people has fallen apart since he and Trump have turned on each other with the billionaire going so far as to suggest there is information about the president in the Jeffrey Epstein files.
With that as a background, a notable number of prominent DOGE staffers appear to have been purged themselves.
Case in point: at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOGE staffers were “stripped of their credentials and user accounts inside the FAA’s internal computer systems” this past week.
According to the Post, “As of June 2, the staffers — Brady Glantz, Samuel Smeal, Tom Kiernan and Theodore Malaska, all of whom are employees of Musk’s SpaceX — no longer bear the title of ‘senior adviser to the administrator’ on their online profiles within the agency, per the records. In fact, their profiles no longer show any job title at all — nor an affiliated organization, manager, email or phone number, the records show.”
Insiders claim the “team owed its creation and power to an executive order, not an act of Congress,” and with Musk gone … so are they.
As one manager explained, “So they’re being pushed out.”
According to the Post, “…some federal employees took a few moments to celebrate the diminishment of DOGE, however brief. One Interior employee said he and colleagues worked extra-hard, reveling in their government jobs as DOGE seemed to be on the way out. Then he went home and ate some ice cream,” before adding, “At the FAA, a group of staffers went out for post-work drinks to toast the banishment of DOGE staff. Then they offered a more solemn toast to the more than two dozen colleagues they’d lost along the way.”
President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio both tripped on Sunday as they walked up the stairs to Air Force One.
The moment was notable because Trump often criticized then-President Joe Biden for videos of Biden tripping up those same stairs.
After Rubio and Trump each answered reporters’ questions, Trump walked up the stairs and then tripped and ultimately caught himself.
Rubio then walked up the stairs, where he similarly tripped and then caught himself.
Germany Crash Report Confirms Human Error in Tragedy That Killed Malawi’s Former Vice President
By: MBC Digital
The Executive Director of the Nyika Institute, Moses Mkandawire, has welcomed the final crash investigation report released by Germany’s Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation (BFU), saying it has conclusively addressed lingering questions surrounding the tragic plane crash that killed Malawi’s former Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima, and eight others.
Speaking to local media, Mkandawire—who is also an advocate for good governance emphasized that the report clearly identifies human error as the primary cause of the crash. He noted that this clarity is crucial for national healing and accountability.
“The most important thing was to understand what exactly caused the accident. The report explicitly states it was human error, and that settles much of the speculation,” he said.
Mkandawire further noted that the BFU’s findings align closely with those of Malawi’s own Commission of Inquiry, which was appointed by President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera.
He said this international confirmation vindicates the work of the local commission and its members.
He is now urging relevant government ministries and agencies to implement the recommendations contained in the German report to help prevent future tragedies.
The fatal crash, which occurred in 2024, claimed the life of Vice President Chilima—an influential political figure in Malawi—and has remained a subject of national mourning and concern.
Kenyan dies in custody after arrest for online post
By:BBC Africa
Kenya’s independent police oversight body has launched an investigation into the death of a man who had been detained “for false publication”, police have said.
Albert Ojwang was arrested for a post on X in the western town of Homa Bay and then driven 350km (220 miles) to the capital, Nairobi, his father Meshack Opiyo told journalists.
“While in custody, the suspect sustained head injuries after hitting his head against a cell wall,” a police statement said. He was rushed to hospital “where he was pronounced dead on arrival”.
The director of rights group Amnesty International’s Kenya branch told the BBC that the death of Mr Ojwang, described as a teacher and blogger, was “very suspicious”.
Zille for Joburg? DA veteran considers Mayoral bid
In a surprising turn of events, Helen Zille, the influential Chairperson of the Democratic Alliance (DA) Federal Council and former Western Cape Premier, has confirmed she is considering a bid to become the mayor of Johannesburg.
The announcement, reported by BusinessTechSA on Saturday, has ignited a flurry of reactions across social media, with opinions split on whether her leadership could revitalize the struggling metropolis.
Zille, a veteran politician known for her tenure as Cape Town mayor and Western Cape Premier from 2009 to 2019, has not yet finalized her decision.
The move would mark a significant shift from her current federal role to tackle Johannesburg’s pressing challenges head-on, including deteriorating infrastructure and a fractious coalition government led by the African National Congress (ANC).
A Canadian court has ruled for the deportation of a 29-year-old Nigerian man who married a 79-year-old Canadian woman, citing the marriage’s lack of authenticity and the man’s primary intent to secure legal residency.
The case came to light after the woman’s application for her husband’s permanent residency was rejected by the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD), a decision upheld by the court.
The legal case began in 2023 when Ms. Johnson applied to sponsor her Nigerian husband for permanent residency under Canada’s spousal sponsorship program. The couple had been married since January 2020, and the man arrived in Canada in February 2023.
Judges expressed concerns over the significant 50-year age gap and the man’s apparent lack of knowledge about his wife’s details.
According to the judge, the man couldn’t provide personal details about his wife during an interview including her health history, number of children, and grandchildren although they have been married for three years then.
These factors led the court to conclude that the marriage was likely a strategy for “poverty alleviation” rather than a genuine relationship.
Ms. Johnson appealed the decision to the Federal-Court in Ottawa, but Justice Mandy Aylen dismissed her request on April 14/ 2025.
Justice Aylen ruled that she agreed with the IAD, stating that even if a marriage later becomes genuine, it is still invalid for immigration purposes if it was initially based on gaining immigration status.
The President of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traore has joined others to performed the Tabaski prayer.
He joined in the celebration of Eid al-Adha alongside other soldiers as a sign of solidarity with all the fighting forces.
After the prayer, the Head of State reiterated that religion should serve to unite, to strengthen love for others and for the homeland.
In a statement, the president said “The Defense and Security Forces fighting on the ground draw their faith from religion. It is also there that they cultivate love for their neighbor and love for their homeland in order to fight until the supreme sacrifice.
According to the President of Burkina Faso, praying with the fighters sends a message to the entire nation that everyone should use religion to unite each other.
He stressed that there shouldn’t be any kind of violence or division in the country due to religious differences.
“Each of us should use religion to unite rather than divide us.” He added
Photos of the moment the Burkina Faso leader joined the soldiers and other Muslims for the prayer went viral on social media platforms.
Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has made a bold call for the complete abolition of visa requirements between African and Caribbean nations,
The announcement, delivered during a recent address, marks a significant push for regional integration and comes as the world watches theevolving dynamics between these two regions.
PM Mottley emphasized the deep connections forged through centuries of shared ancestry and struggles.
Motlly advocating for visa-free travel aims to unlock economic potential, drawing parallels with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), launched in 2018, which targets a $3.4 trillion market.
Currently, restrictive visa policies stifle Afro-Caribbean trade, and Mottley’s vision could pave the way for increased collaboration in trade, tourism, and innovation.
In today’s world, especially in Africa, some pastors or “Men of God” are seen to be be living the most luxurious lifestyle and owning the very best of life.
In a viral video circulating on social media, a Nigerian pastor, was seen wielding a gun against another civilian during a harmless confrontation.
Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Church, was allegedly filmed brandishing what appears to be a gun at a content creator in Lagos.
The incident reportedly occurred when the content creator, known for filming luxury cars, recorded Adefarasin’s exotic vehicle in public.
According to posts on TilTpl, the confrontation unfolded when the car spotter, identified only as “YL,” began filming Adefarasin’s Ramge Rover Sport.
In the video, the pastor is seen holding an object, which some claim is to be a gun, and engaging in a exchange with the individual.
The content creator can be heard apologizing, though the context of their prior interaction remains unclear.
South Korea’s newly elected President Lee Jae-myung has made a statement claiming that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky should be blamed for any move made by President Putin.
According to him, President Zelensky provoked Russia and “does not understand politics or diplomacy.
His statement highlights a controversial comment he made during the South Korea presidential campaign, where he suggested Zelensky’s push for NATO membership provoked Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Lee faced significant backlash for these remarks at the time, including online criticism and accusations of victim-blaming, leading him to apologize.
The issue Surrounding Ukraine and Russia has become a matter of concern not only to the two citizens but the rest of the world.
The two countries continues to battle it out for years now and came close to a ceasefire agreement just months ago.
That agreement however failed to materialize and Ukraine recently hit five Russia Airbases l, destroying many Russia warplanes.
European Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho stated that Elon Musk has subtly told Elon Musk to relocate from Americ to Europe.
The EU spokesperson said the Tesla CEO is very welcome in Europe, following his public fallout with US President Donald Trump.
He made this comment during a daily briefing when he was asked if Musk had expressed interest in relocating or expanding his businesses, such as Tesla or SpaceX, within the European Union.
Thomas Regnier, the European Commission’s tech spokesperson, reinforced this by highlighting the EU’s Choose Europe initiative.
Their resean for choosing Europe initiative is aimed to attract startups and business expansion, noting that “everyone is very welcome indeed to start and to scale in the EU.
The EU’s welcoming stance appears to be an opportunistic response to Musk’s rift with Trump.
Meanwhile Elon Musk has previously Criticize the European union’s digital laws and leaders which means it wouldn’t be a safe environment for him to operate like in the US.
US President Donald Trump ordered National Guard troops to Los Angeles, a rare deployment expected Sunday against the state governor’s wishes after sometimes-violent protests against immigration enforcement raids.
Trump took federal control of California’s state military to push soldiers into the country’s second-biggest city, a decision deemed “purposefully inflammatory” by California Governor Gavin Newsom and of a kind not seen for decades according to US media.
The development came after two days of confrontations during which federal agents fired flash-bang grenades and tear gas toward crowds angry at the arrests of dozens of migrants in a city with a large Latino population.
“It’s up to us to stand up for our people,” said a Los Angeles resident whose parents are immigrants, declining to give her name.
“Whether we get hurt, whether they gas us, whatever they’re throwing at us. They’re never going to stop us. All we have left is our voice,” she told AFP as emergency services lights flashed in the distance.
An AFP photographer saw fires and fireworks light up the streets during clashes, while a protester holding a Mexican flag stood in front of a burnt-out car that had been sprayed with a slogan against the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency.
“President Trump has signed a Presidential Memorandum deploying 2,000 National Guardsmen to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, blaming what she called California’s “feckless” Democratic leaders.
“The Trump Administration has a zero tolerance policy for criminal behavior and violence, especially when that violence is aimed at law enforcement officers trying to do their jobs.”
Trump congratulated the National Guard for “a job well done” shortly before midnight on Saturday in a post on Truth Social.
However, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said on social media platform X the troops had not yet been deployed, while AFP journalists have so far not seen them on the ground.
Trump took a swipe at Bass and Newsom, saying in his post they were “unable to handle the task,” drawing a comparison with deadly fires that hit the city in January.
California’s governor objected to the president’s decision, saying it was “purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions.”
Federal authorities “want a spectacle. Don’t give them one. Never use violence. Speak out peacefully,” Newsom said on X.
Trump’s Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth threatened to involve nearby regular military forces.
“If violence continues, active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized — they are on high alert,” he wrote on social media.
Law professor Jessica Levinson said Hegseth’s intervention appeared symbolic because of the general legal restriction on the use of the US military as a domestic policing force in the absence of an insurrection.
“The National Guard will be able to do (no) more than provide logistical (and) personnel support,” she said.
The Department for Homeland Security said ICE operations in Los Angeles this week had resulted in the arrest of “118 aliens, including five gang members.”
Saturday’s standoff took place in the suburb of Paramount, where demonstrators converged on a reported federal facility that the local mayor said was being used as a staging post by agents.
Masked and armed immigration agents carried out high-profile workplace raids in separate parts of Los Angeles on Friday, attracting angry crowds and setting off hours-long standoffs.
Fernando Delgado, a 24-year-old resident, said the raids were “injustices” and those detained were “human beings just like any.”
“We’re Spanish, we help the community, we help by doing the labor that people don’t want to do,” he told AFP.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt suggested that Elon Musk getting in a physical altercation with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was a “healthy disagreement.”
During a Sunday interview on Fox News, host Maria Bartiromo noted that MAGA influencer Steve Bannon had reported that Musk confronted Bessent in the White House.
“Elon Musk aggressively body-checked Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent,” she said. “Did he body-check the Treasury Secretary in the White House?”
“Well, look, when this story originally broke, I said from the podium that there have definitely been healthy disagreements amongst the cabinet and Elon Musk,” Leavitt replied. “There were times in which they got frustrated with one another, but I think that really speaks to the heart of this cabinet in the president’s team, that they can have these robust disagreements and then still come together to do what’s right for the people they are serving.”
“Now, we know that there was real disrespect in a lot of those X posts from Elon Musk, for sure,” Bartiromo pointed out. “But did he actually get physical? Was there a fist fight that he body-checked the Treasury Secretary?”
“I certainly wouldn’t describe it as a fist fight, Maria,” Leavitt insisted. “It was definitely a disagreement… But again, we’ve moved on from that. The president has moved on from it.”
Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) pleaded with National Guard troops not to use their weapons against protesters.
The California lawmaker showed up at an anti-ICE demonstration near Los Angeles on Sunday after President Donald Trump ordered the National Guard to be deployed.
“There’s no reason to shoot anybody!” Waters shouted to the service members. “Don’t allow them to make your service a service where you’re killing people.”
“Don’t do it. Defy them!” she added. “Don’t shoot those guns for anything!”
Former first lady Michelle Obama is unperturbed that her daughter Malia Obama decided to drop the family name as she ventures into the creative industry.
Appearing on the Sibling Revelry podcast hosted by Oliver and Kate Hudson, Mrs. Obama sounded indifferent about her 25-year-old dropping the surname for a middle name, which fits her career as a filmmaker.
Mrs Obama, contributing to the show, described the name change as one prompted by the desire for “autonomy” instead of “rebellion.”
Malia, now known in the business as Malia Ann, made headlines in early 2024 after her short, The Heart, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival.
“It is very important for my kids to feel like they’ve earned what they are getting in the world, and they don’t want people to assume that they don’t work hard. They’re very sensitive to that – they want to be their own people,” she stated.
The author and attorney highlighted the challenges faced by children of public figures, emphasizing that her daughters did not want to be “little princesses in the White House.”
She added that she and her husband, former President Barack Obama, were initially surprised by Malia’s name change but chose to respect the decision.
“We were like, they’re still going to know it’s you, Malia…We respected the fact that she’s trying to make her way.”
“…They want to be out in the world…And they needed more rope than I probably would’ve given them if I were my mom,” Mrs Obama added.
In April this year, the former First Lady discussed how her life has changed since she left the White House.
Asked how her social life had been since she stopped being First Lady, she noted: “It is whatever I want…It’s the first time in my life all of my choices are for me.”
She admitted to making excuses in the past due to her role as a public figure and as a mother, but that was not the case anymore.
Mrs Obama maintained that constant public scrutiny led to gossip and speculation about the state of her marriage. In February, rumors started spreading that Mr and Mrs Obama were getting ready for divorce.
Music maker and entrepreneur Jay-Z has reportedly placed a $1 million bet on a match in the NBA. The award-winning performer is backing the Oklahoma City Thunder (OKC) as they meet the Indiana Pacers in the 2025 championship.
Sources say Fanatics Sportsbook, the sports betting platform launched by the rapper and his associate in 2023, will pay out $3,300,000 if his prediction of OKC winning in 5 games comes true.
Drake placed the bet on June 6; however, the Thunder were defeated by one point on their home court. That notwithstanding, the businessman is keeping his fingers crossed in the rest of the games.
Early this month, Drake also placed a $750,000 bet on cricket, prompting mixed reactions from fans. The bet was on the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to beat the Punjab Kings in an upcoming cricket match.
He highlighted his special interest in cricket and how much of his money has gone into gambling.
The post generated mixed reactions among fans who marveled at how much he was spending on the game. “Oh so we betting on cricket now?” one person wrote.
Early this year, the rapper said he was planning a new chapter of his career, which he believed would make fans “uneasy.”
“U know I grew up non-confrontational and always treated this game as a sport where my pen won gold, but these days the podium has been hard for all of us to ignore,” he wrote on Instagram in March.
“I understand that this next chapter may leave you feeling uneasy, but I hope you see my honesty as clarity not charity that answers some questions, especially about the unanswered texts you’ve been sending me,” he added.
The post came nearly a month after Kendrick Lamar performed his Grammy-winning track Not Like Us at the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show.
President Donald Trump has opened up once again about the ongoing battle between Ukraine and Russia.
The United States president claim that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave Russian President Vladimir Putin to strike.
Trump’s comment came when he was questioned about Ukraine’s drone attacks on Russian military infrastructure, specifically targeting Russia’s nuclear bases.
These remarks followed a Ukrainian drone strike on Russian airbases, which according to reports destroyed significant military assets which Putin vow to retaliate.
Trump suggested that these actions by Ukraine provided Putin with a cover up for intensified Russian strikes on Ukrainian targets.
After the drone attack, Ukraine argued that their drone strikes, such as the operation targeting Russian airfields, were retaliatory.
President Zelensky insists Russia attacked them first and any other move made by Ukraine is purely retaliatory.
Zelensky has argued that Russia’s continued aggression and refusal to engage in meaningful peace talks brought the idea of such defensive actions.
Russia has initiated military training exercises in the Baltic Sea involving over 20 warships.
These military drills is conducted by the Russian Navy’s Baltic Fleet whi h includes approximately 3,000 personnel, 25 aircraft and helicopters.
Details revealed it also includes forces from the Northern Fleet, Aerospace Forces, and military units from the Moscow and Leningrad districts.
The exercises focus on anti-submarine warfare, defense against unmanned surface vessels, and live-fire drills targeting sea and air threats.
Their stated purpose according to sources close to us is to maintain a favorable operational regime.
They training will also focus on practicing what the described as defending naval bases across regions of the country.
Many believes these move could escalate tensions in the region, particularly after Finland’s NATO membership.
There are also major concerns over Russian shadow fleet operations in the Gulf of Finland.
The lady in the picture (Silvia Daka) will receive 2.5 Million Kwacha for planning and executing the process of arresting ‘Why Me’.
She falsely fell in love with him online and started sending him some nudess which she download online and faking to be hers. Due to sexuall appetite, Why Me insisted that he meet the lady in a Zambian lodge.
She informed police officers of the same arrangements and the lodge room she will be in with the PF Commander of Insults.
So one night last week, he was busy touching her after giving her K5,000, then police burst into the lodge room and apprehended the insulting officer.
They had to wait for him to dress up before whisking him away. The lady has since been kept in a secrete place after receiving K2,500 000 cash for helping police to arrest one of the most wanted criminals in Zambia. You can run but you cannot hide.
Why Me is now in police custody and it’s likely to be behind bars for not less than 10 years.
Even his sponsors will soon be arrested. When we tell you to respect the authority, we mean just that!!
PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE UPND DISMISSES NAKACHINDA’S CLAIMS ON LUNGU TRAVEL BAN AS MISLEADING AND PROVOCATIVE Lusaka, June 8, 2025 —
United Party for National Development (UPND) Media Director Mark Simuuwe has dismissed as misleading and false the claims made by Patriotic Front (PF) faction Secretary General Raphael Nakachinda that the government imposed a travel ban on former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu and only permitted him to travel for medical treatment in South Africa during the visit of the United Nations (UN) Rapporteur on Human Rights.
Mr. Simuuwe said that making irresponsible and malicious statements especially those known to be false amounts to serious provocation.
He emphasized that no circumstance, including a funeral, exempts anyone from accountability under the law, and warned that such falsehoods would be met with equal firmness by the UPND.
He further revealed that the government is aware of a letter being circulated by the PF, allegedly authored by Deputy to the Secret
PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UPND LUSAKA PROVINCE CHAIRPERSON MWALITETA CALLS FOR DIGNITY AND RESPECT IN MOURNING FORMER PRESIDENT LUNGU
Lusaka, June 8, 2025 — United Party for National Development (UPND) Lusaka Province Chairperson Obvious Mwaliteta has called on members of the Patriotic Front (PF) to mourn former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu with dignity and refrain from actions or statements that bring the government into disrepute.
Mr. Mwaliteta noted that instead of using this moment of national mourning to unite the country, some PF members are attempting to revive the same disorder and hooliganism that contributed to their electoral defeat.
He said the UPND is committed to mourning the late former Head of State peacefully and with the respect he deserves, alongside all Zambians.
Mr. Mwaliteta emphasized that the UPND would not condone provocation during this sensitive period and urged the Church and other moral voices in society to counsel the public on the importance of respecting those in positions of authority.
He warned that making irresponsible and malicious statements, especially those known to be false, amounts to serious provocation. He reminded the public that no situation including a funeral places anyone above the law. Any deliberate attempts to mislead or incite the public will be met with equal firmness by the UPND.
Mr. Mwaliteta also revealed that the government is aware of a letter being circulated by the PF, allegedly written by a Deputy to the Secretary to the Cabinet, which falsely suggests that the State had imposed a travel ban on the late former president. He stated that this document has been submitted to law enforcement agencies for investigation under applicable cybercrime laws.
Mr. Mwaliteta reaffirmed that former President Lungu should be accorded the dignity and respect befitting his status as a former Head of State and cautioned PF members against exploiting his passing for political gain.
Issued by:
United Party for National Development (UPND)
Lusaka Province Media Team
Lusaka, Zambia
(C) UPND Media Team
Lunte Member of Parliament writes:::
ECL – I AM SORRY FOR NOT BEING THERE. FAREWELL!
————————-
The president (His Excellency, Dr. Edgar Chagwa LUNGU) that president I sincerely loved.
Dinis and I send our sincere and heartfelt condolences to our mother – Madam Esther Lungu, the entire family and friends.
Our thoughts and our prayers are with you throughout this difficult period. May God make it easier through his wondrous ways.
The president is dead.
His death has embarrassed me. I am totally ashamed of myself.
I am ashamed because I never stood up for him as firmly as I thought I loved him.
Otherwise I could have made a much more meaningful contribution to his later life than I actually did.
See; he died in a foreign land.
When he died, he was alone.
He died in foreign hands.
Served by the benevolence of foreign well wishers. This is hurtful for me.
And I was not there.
None of us was there.
Not even a government agent was there – It s embarrassing to me.
Today, speaking hard, long and louder would be in vain. Given this great failure to show love and care when it was needed.
ECL won’t hear any of my words as things stand.
For everything he meant to me and those he caused me to serve, only a little was told to him. He will never appreciate how much I and them cared.
For his faith, his confidence, his training and mentorship – I certainly should have shown more appreciation to him – even if it just meant to be there when it was necessary.
That would have left me feeling a lot happier than I do now.
It is like I took his life and presence for granted, as though I controlled fate.
But ECL won’t hear me anymore regardless. It is finished. He’s translated. He’s put on a new body; one without weakness. He’s in perfect union with his maker. He is resting in glory.
It was as if I never perceived the injustices he suffered by those who needed to protect his human rights.
As if I never saw the humiliation and I never heard the abominable insults hauled at him for no cause – that indignity of a society shaped by toxic causes.
Yet I stood up not for him as I should. This hurts me to the core of my being. It’s excruciatingly hard for me.
It is a now I see him, and now I see him no more tale.
Translated across a permanent divide – where no sorrows remain.
That connection irreversibly broken by a much higher figure operating in a realm carnally unknown. Resting in the shadows of the wings of his vision giver.
There is no booing in glory.
There are no insults in glory.
There is no medical requirements in glory.
There is no travel authority requirements in glory.
There is no gate cutting in glory.
There are not DEC call outs in glory.
There is no political retribution in glory.
There is no hypocrisy in glory.
May it be well with your soul Mr. President. May you rest in eternal glory. May your glorified life be more fulfilling than what you ever aspired for here on earth.
I thank God for giving me an opportunity to share moments of kindness with him.
I wish I learned early enough what it means to appreciate a chief servant while it is called day. Only then would I have done more than I did in this life God gave; but gone too soon.
Rest In Eternal Peace – ECL
Restoring EVERYTHING PATRIOTIC.
MK08.06.2025
SOCIAL ANTHROPOLOGIST SAYS ECL’S DEATH COULD RESHAPE 2026 GENERAL ELECTIONS AND TIP POLITICAL SCALES
By Michael Kaluba
Social anthropologist Dr. James Musonda says the passing of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu is expected to shape the political atmosphere ahead of the 2026 general elections and could potentially lead to a sympathy vote.
Dr. Musonda notes that the opposition Patriotic Front-PF has already begun to publicly link the UPND to Mr. Lungu’s deteriorating health and eventual passing, a move that could galvanize sympathy and boost opposition momentum for the party that has been on the back foot since its loss in 2021.
He also believes that the coming days during the funeral, may see injunctions and counter-injunctions as both sides jostle for control of the narrative with the PF holding the funeral at the party’s secretariat in Lusaka while the state funeral is at Belvedere lodge also in Lusaka.
Dr. Musonda further says the UPND may find itself in a lose-lose situation arguing that their participation in the funeral could be seen as hypocrisy by PF supporters, while abstention could reinforce accusations of insensitivity and political vindictiveness.
The social anthropologist also contends that the UPND may consider measures to limit the funeral’s scale, especially if it takes on the character of a political rally, something the government has routinely denied the opposition in recent years and that while Mr. Lungu will ultimately be laid to rest, the process will leave a lasting influence on Zambia’s political discourse, possibly shaping the next election.
He has however called for compassion, love, forgiveness and empathy amidst the growing tension, saying Zambia’s strength lies in its unity, especially in times of loss while emphasizing that as arrangements unfold and legal arguments develop, Mr. Lungu’s death is a mirror reflecting Zambia’s fragile political landscape.
PHOENIX NEWS
Eastern Chiefs Mourn former President LUNGU
Traditional leaders in Eastern Province say Zambia’s sixth President, EDGAR LUNGU, will forever be remembered for his significant contributions during his time in office.
Provincial Chiefs Council Chairperson, Chief MNUKWA, says Mr. LUNGU served the country to the best of his ability and demonstrated a strong commitment to the welfare of traditional leaders, including facilitating transport for chiefs.
Speaking to ZNBC News in Chipata, Chief MNUKWA stated that traditional leaders in the region stand in solidarity with the Lungu family and the government as the nation mourns the former head of state.
Meanwhile, Chieftainess MKANDA of Chipangali District described the loss of former President LUNGU as deeply unfortunate, noting that Zambia has now lost all of its former presidents.
She praised Mr. LUNGU for his efforts in driving national development and emphasized that he deserves to be mourned with dignity and respect.
#EdgarLungu
Breaking News: Former Priest Attempts Suicide Over ECL’s Passing
By Barotseland Watchdog Reporter
In a heart-wrenching development, former Catholic Priest Charles Kakula has attempted to take his own life upon learning of the death of former President Edgar Changwa Lungu.
According to sources, Kakula is receiving treatment at Toronto Trust Hospital in Canada, where he is being stabilized.
Hospital sources reveal that Kakula’s desperate act was preceded by intense depression and uncontrollable crying, a testament to the profound impact President Lungu had on his life. Miraculously, Kakula was saved and is now under close care.
In a candid interview with CNBS, Kakula paid tribute to President Lungu, describing him as a champion of the poor and a dignified leader who left an indelible mark on Zambia. Kakula’s emotional words underscored the deep affection and respect many held for the late President.
As Kakula continues his road to recovery, his emotional response serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact President Lungu had on those who knew him and his legacy.
FORMER ENERGY PS PETER MUMBA ADMITS HE DID NOT PERFORM AT HIS BEST DURING HIS TENURE
By Chamuka Shalubala
Former Ministry of Energy permanent secretary Peter Mumba has admitted that he did not perform at his best during his tenure, given the numerous challenges facing the ministry.
On Friday last week, President Hakainde Hichilema terminated Mr. Mumba’s appointment as permanent secretary for the Ministry of Energy.
In an interview with Phoenix News, Mr. Mumba has acknowledged that while he did his best in his role, there was still room for improvement.
Mr. Mumba has however expressed optimism for the future of the energy sector, particularly with the open access initiative, which he hopes will bring significant progress to the petroleum industry.
He has since thanked President Hichilema for giving him the chance to serve in government, noting it was a privilege.
Mr. Mumba has disclosed that with his contract now terminated, his next move would be returning to farming, where he plans to focus his efforts moving forward.
PHOENIX NEWS
I AM LAMBA AND NOT TONGA BUT THEY TOLD ME TO USE TONGA TO DEMEAN LUNGU BECAUSE THEY DIDN’T WANT TO USE BEMBA SAYS ARRESTED BOY USED BY PF TO FURTHER GROW TRIBAL HATRED
The Boy that was Demeaning the late Edgar Chagwa Lungu has been Nabbed by the P0lice in Kapirimposhi
21 year old boy of Kapiri Rural near Kapisu Primary School, his name is Kevin Kalomba Mushinga a lamba by tribe and used Tonga to Demean ECL.
Yesterday CCPU Arr£sted the boy after his went viral through our shares.
Under the new cyber laws citizens are prohibited citizen from using social media to promote ha*te speech.
If Mushinga is convicted, he will serve 5 years in pris0n with hard labour.
He claims he was hired to do the video, you are on your own boy, future ruined.
PF NAKONDE DISTRICT PREPARES MOURNING SITE FOR LATE PRESIDENT LUNGU
The Patriotic Front (PF) in Nakonde has set up a mourning site at Mukoma, behind Eli’s School, where party members and the general public can pay their respects to the late former President Edgar Lungu.
According to PF Nakonde District Chairman Manfred Sinkala, the mourning house has been organized in line with directives from the party secretariat to have central places in districts where members can mourn.
A book of condolences also will be opened at the mourning house on Monday morning for the district.
Mr Sinkala reveals that during this period, clergy will offer words of encouragement to the mourners.
Tents have also been mounted for those who wish to sleep at the funeral house, and fire will be provided for those who will spend wish to spend nights.
Similar mourning houses have been set up in all districts across the country.
Insert… Manfred
CHETE FM
STOP THE ROT FORTHWITH!
By Chanoda Ngwira F
In Zambia, we still seem to be grappling with remnants of colonial rule and the authoritarian tendencies that followed in the post-independence era. This is evident in the way we treat state functions, particularly funerals for public figures.
There are clear guidelines that outline the protocol for state and official funerals, covering sitting and former Presidents, Vice Presidents, Ministers, Members of Parliament, Secretaries to the Cabinet, and other specified office bearers.
However, when announcements are made stating that “the President has accorded so-and-so a State Funeral,” it often comes across as though this is a matter of personal discretion or benevolence from the Head of State. This should not be the case.
These honors, such as state or official funerals, are not mere gestures of presidential favour; they are institutional privileges tied to the offices held and the service rendered to the nation. They are earned by virtue of public service, not bestowed as if they are optional gifts from the Executive.
To strengthen our democratic culture, it is important that we move away from this perception that everything hinges on presidential goodwill. Institutions must work based on clearly defined rules and consistent application of those rules. Respecting public office means respecting both the responsibilities and the privileges that come with it, even in death.
You have heard!
Lungu’s favorite song was “Niwe Lesa,” Kings Malembe shares
THE rich, melodic undertone of Zambian culture was never lost on the late President Edgar Lungu whose appreciation for gospel music went beyond mere entertainment, becoming a powerful vehicle for connection and understanding.
Lungu recognised the potent emotional power of music to unite, inspire and heal.
The timeless gospel song “Niwe Lesa,” done by renowned gospel artiste Kings Mumbi, whose fondly known as “Kings Malembe Malembe” resonated with President Lungu on a profound level, not just because it spoke to his personal devotion but also because he saw in its words the embodiment of God’s grace in action.
According to Kings Mumbi, the song summarised Lungu’s unwavering and deep-rooted belief in the power of compassion, justice and mercy.
Appearing on Diamond Tv yesterday, Kings delved deep into his memories that he shared with Lungu, painting a rich portrait of the man behind the presidency
He revealed that music was the lifeblood of Lungu’s soul because whether it was uplifting hymns or joyous tunes, Lungu could not help but be moved by its power.
“In fact, I knew him so well that if the music was absent, I knew he was off-balance. It was a part of him that went beyond the surface level – it was a reflection of his heart,” he said.
Kings shared that he had the distinct honour of providing musical comfort and support to Lungu.
He revealed that on occasions when he was not scheduled to perform, Lungu would specifically request his presence and singing hence, this privilege indicated the special bond that had developed between the two, with Lungu recognising Kings’ unique ability to calm his spirit through music.
The gospel artiste said Lungu embodied his Christian faith in everything he did, and that was especially evident in his passion for gospel music as he was more than just a patron of the industry but a genuine lover of music who will be missed by the community.
“He possessed a humanity that was truly rare and inspiring, it was impossible to be in his presence without feeling the warmth of his spirit. His kindness and genuine interest in the people around him made him a truly special human being,” Kings stated.
He expressed grief on the passing of Lungu, stating that his death has struck his heart in a way that words could hardly explain.
Kings further said Lungu was not just his friend, but also a role model and mentor who inspired him with his unwavering commitment to his faith and his service to his country.
Drawing inspiration from the legacy of the late former president, Kings vowed to honour Lungu’s memory by embodying the values that the late leader stood for.
“To honour the life and memory of President Lungu, I will commit myself to upholding the principles he valued most: humility, compassion, and a dedication to serving our country,” he affirmed.
“As the son of the soil, I will strive to emulate his example not only as a tribute to his life, but also as a reminder to myself and others of the power of living a life guided by these noble ideals.”
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba May 8, 2025
Yes, last year I said that President Edgar Chagwa Lungu will bounce back to power in 2026.
I didn’t really mean President Edgar Chagwa Lungu occupy State House again. I meant his spirit.
This means anyone the PF will choose as their presidential candidate will win and the spirit of Edgar Lungu will be ruling, that’s what I meant by Edgar Lungu bouncing back.
In short I meant spiritually and not physically, says Prophet Isaac Amata of Nigeria.
MAZABUKA UPND CALLS FOR UNITY AND PEACE AS NATION MOURNS ECL
The United Party for National Development (UPND) leadership in Mazabuka district has called for unity and respect as the nation mourns the passing of Zambia’s 6th Republican President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
UPND Mazabuka District Chairperson Wilfred Mulomba tells Byta FM News that the party in the district is saddened by the former President’s death.
He emphasizes the need for the country to be united in mourning the former President and give him a dignified sendoff.
Mulomba has since urged all political players to refrain from politicizing the funeral, stressing the importance of honoring President Lungu’s legacy with the respect it deserves.
AFTER receiving several ‘view once’ photos of a voluptuous woman he had met online, Francis Kapwepwe AKA ‘Why Me’ decided to stray out of his secret den of insults to go and meet her after she agreed to marry him – that is when authorities pounced and arrested the PF social media envoy!
Trump declares end of relationship with Elon Musk
The once-tight bond between U.S. President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk has shattered, with Trump declaring their relationship “over” following Musk’s scathing critique of the “Big Beautiful Bill.”
The tax and spending legislation, opposed by Musk for its alleged $3.8 trillion deficit impact, clashed with his role leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
After donating $250 million to Trump’s 2024 campaign, Musk’s recent Epstein files accusation, later deleted escalated tensions.
Trump now threatens to sever Musk’s lucrative federal contracts, including SpaceX’s $14 billion NASA deals, signaling a dramatic fallout with global economic stakes.
ECL’s FAMILY REJECTS FULL STATE CONTROL OF FUNERAL, DEMANDS RESPECT AND PARTNERSHIP FROM GOVERNMENT
By: Sun FM TV Reporter
Former President Edgar Lungu’s family has expressed desire to coordinate the funeral proceedings alongside government, rather than having the state take full control of the arrangements.
Family spokesperson Makebi Zulu explained that the former President personally financed his medical treatment.
Mr. Zulu asserted that the Lungu family and the PF will not accept government-imposed directives on how and where the funeral should take place.
Additionally, he criticized the treatment of the former President in his own country, arguing that restrictions preventing him from traveling abroad for medical care had adversely affected his health.
The Lungu family has therefore requested that the government consider their wishes and work in partnership with them to ensure the funeral proceedings align with their expectations.
GUEST ARTICLE: President Lungu Funeral
By Dickson Jere
The death of Zambia’s 6th President Edgar Chagwa Lungu presents two unique scenarios for the country, government and family. Unlike the three former Presidents who passed before him – Kenneth Kaunda (KK), Frederick Chiluba (FTJ) and Rupiah Banda (RB) – the death of President Lungu is different in two ways;
1. He is the first former President to die outside Zambia;
2. He is the first former President to die while his benefits had been withdrawn.
So, the country has never experienced this before. Therefore, the standoff between the family and the state is somehow understood given the circumstances. However, there is need for compromise.
The first former President to die was Chiluba. I was in government then and was deeply involved in that process. He died at home in Zambia. I remember I had to persuade President Banda to address the nation while we were in Chipata to announce the death at a makeshift studio at Mamarula Lodge. Everything went smooth because President Banda and Chiluba had reconciled and became close buddies. (Chiluba had locked up RB on treason charges).
The second former President to die was Kaunda. At that time, Edgar Lungu was President. Their relationship was superb and therefore easy to navigate between the government and the family. The only difference was the burial site, which was later resolved and KK was buried at Presidential Embassy Park.
The third former President to die was Banda. I was, once again, heavily involved in that process. President Banda was in good books with the newly elected President Hakainde Hichilema and so everything went smooth between government and the family. I may add, RB was so organized in his life that he even left “Pre-Burial Will” that stated some of the things to happen at his funeral. (I have since borrowed that ingenious idea).
Now, take note.
All these three former Presidents at their death had a running Office financed by the state with government staff. They coordinated all the activities. Simply, a former President’s whereabouts was always known by government through this office. When they traveled, Zambian Ambassadors received them at airport and coordinated movements. Dignity!
However, with President Lungu, this office was shut down on account of being active in politics, which is proscribed by the Benefits of Former Presidents Act. So, he literally did his things outside government involvement. That was unique situation. Hence the current quagmire.
I have always advocated that a former President should be treated as such whether he is in active politics or not. He accrued his benefits. USA does that. South Africa does that. They give state security and all benefits to former Presidents regardless of the status. In fact, the best example is how ECL and HH treated RB. They even allowed him to use the Presidential Plane for his movement. That was smart of ECL and HH!
What should we do?
One thing you cannot take away is that Lungu was President and Commander In-Chief of Armed Forces. He must be given his full military honours. We must allow our Defense Forces to send off their commander with full military honours. He must get his last Presidential gun-salute, fly-past and Guard of Honour. He accrued those rights! His casket must be placed on the gun carriage with his number plate GRZ P6 as was done to others! It is our pride and it is our responsibility to honour him!
So, while I sympathize with the position taken by family, I opt to take a different view. They must reluctantly let go on some of the military rituals to honour the man. He is state property. Allow his troops to take charge – a Commander is always a Commander! He actually proudly even wore their uniform! Choice of Preacher and all can easily be reconciled as was done with FTJ, KK and RB.
Remember that his colleagues – Presidents and former Presidents from different countries – may want to attend the funeral. It will require government involvement to handle such visitors.
Further, we do not even have a precedent on how to repatriate the remains of a former President. This is the first time. President Levy Mwanawasa and Michael Sata died in office and therefore it was easy to navigate the repatriation. They were sitting Presidents.
Lastly, it is high time we put in place a Statute that will govern the “Funeral and Memorial Services” of our former leaders. We cannot be having standoffs each time we have such a funeral or memorial. The law must define the role of the state in funeral arrangements, burial sites and rites for such ceremonies. For now, everything is guess work plus a mere policy and guidelines. We must learn. We have lost six Presidents thus far.
Kalemba June 8, 2025
PF Leaders Call for Unity as They Mourn Late President Edgar Chagwa Lungu
Lusaka, Zambia – June 8, 2025
YESTERDAY Members of Parliament gathered at the PF Party Secretariat in Lusaka to pay their respects to the late President Edgar Chagwa Lungu in an emotionally charged event marked by calls for unity, peace, and renewed commitment to party structures.
Leading the delegation of lawmakers, Hon. David Mabumba delivered a heartfelt tribute, urging party members and leadership alike to stay united during this difficult time.
“President Lungu touched our lives in one way or another,” Hon. Mabumba said, referencing the late leader’s enduring legacy.
“Many of you walked with him on campaign trails and on various political platforms. It is now our collective responsibility to ensure we give him a fitting farewell.”
Hon. Mabumba, who served alongside President Lungu during his time as Member of Parliament for Chawama and later as Deputy Minister in the Office of the Vice President, emphasized the importance of remembering the values the late President stood for.
“My humble appeal is that we mourn our departed leader with unity. Without unity, without love, we cannot give him the farewell he deserves,” he added.
“Let us remember Revelation 3:20 when God reigns, He provides, protects, and directs.”
Lusaka Provincial Chairman Hon. Christopher Shakafuswa and his team were commended for taking on the enormous responsibility of coordinating the funeral activities.
Hon. Mabumba encouraged them to continue demonstrating commitment and resolve as they host hundreds expected to mourn the former Head of State.
And MCC Kavumbu Hakachima, echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of nurturing party structures and encouraging PF Members of Parliament to continue working in unity.
“Your coming here is not just to mourn. This gesture means a lot to our structures,” MCC Hakachima told the MPs.
“In times like these, if not well handled, structures can be misplaced or lost. We must support and hold them together.”
She urged party members to draw inspiration from biblical unity, referencing, “when they were in one accord, they sealed the good spirit.” She called on the party to pray for the nation, for the family of the late President, and for each other during this time of loss.
“We hope to mourn our leader in harmony, because we all know that he was a peaceful leader,” she concluded.
The late President Lungu will be remembered not only for his leadership but for his deep commitment to the grassroots structures of the party and the unifying spirit he championed throughout his time in office.
As the nation continues to mourn, PF leadership has called on all members and factions to put aside their differences and honor the legacy of a man many say led with humility, dignity, and a deep love for his country.
Hon. Mabumba was accompanied by Hon. Stephen Kampyongo, Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya, Hon. Brian Mundubile, Hon. Micheal Katambo, Hon. Stephen Mushanga, Hon, Anthony Kasandwe, Hon. Kabaso Kampampi, Hon. Melesiana Phiri, and Hon. Francis Kapyanga.
By ZimEye
Emmanuel Mwamba confronted on camera over why he’s using Edgar Lungu’s funeral to subject Zimbabweans and Zambians to more human rights abuses. Transcript-
Emmanuel Mwamba: Just hold on. Just hold on. I want to put you online. Thank you. Please introduce yourself and give us your name and you make your contributions.
Simba Chikanza: Okay? Thank you very much. Yeah, yeah. I’m calling from Zimbabwe, Chikanza, so I just want to mourn our president, Edgar Lungu, and mourn with our people of Zambia. And thank you for the update, comrade Emmanuel Mwamba, but also to ask you, why are you of omitting the violence that President Lungu and also the disinformation campaign that he was running against Zimbabweans? We’ve got 16 million Zimbabweans, most of them are in the diaspora because of the collaboration that President Lungu was running with Emmerson Mnangagwa, which started with the deportation of Tendai Bitii? My name is Simba Chikanza. My name is Simba Chikanza, sir. And you know what? Comrade, honorable.
Emmanuel Mwamba: Simba
Simba Chikanza: Yes Sir.
Emmanuel Mwamba: just a minute let me guide. Let me guide.
Simba Chikanza: Thank you. Thank you, because you never mentioned these issues. And I I live in the diaspora. Honorable Mwamba right now. I live outside my own country, even Zambia. I cannot visit Zambia right now. I only briefly visited. I can’t even right now because of the chaos that President Lungu left your country in. So I’m asking, and you know what honorable Mwamba? Honorable Mwamba, Honorable Mwamba, Honorable Mwamba, honorable Mwamba, yes.
Emmanuel Mwamba: Who’s hosting the program. Who’s hosting the program?
Simba Chikanza: Yeah, sorry?
Emmanuel Mwamba: who’s hosting the program?
Simba Chikanza: Oh,
it is. It is yourself, sir. But you know what? I’m trying to let you know you mentioned that there was abuse against President Lungu. I myself right now. I’m still- my people. Over 10 million Zimbabweans are in the diaspora because of President Edgar Lungu and so why not mention, why not mention?
Emmanuel Mwamba: I am in the diaspora as well. I am in the diaspora as well.
Simba Chikanza: No, that’s not diaspora. That is abuse. That is human rights abuses. Why aren’t you telling the UN the UN repertoires, those UN officials also the violence that we are suffering right now. My people are suffering in the diaspora right now. And you know what honorable Mwamba I stayed in President Lungu’s home. Did you know that, physically, in September 2022 I stayed in a lodge called Cresta Lodge in Lusaka. And I thought this is privately owned. I only discovered after I left that my visit to Lusaka, it was actually to a property that President Lungu bought from suspicious proceeds. I had no idea, no clue. And I even visited President Lungu. The last phone call to President Lungu while he was in in office was by me on 13 August 2021 when he had switched off the internet from Zambians, our your people, my people as well. And you know what?
Emmanuel Mwamba: Hold hold hold. Can you listen to me first?
Simba Chikanza: Yes, it is.
Emmanuel Mwamba: Just hold on. Will you listen to me first?
Simba Chikanza: Thank you. I’m just saying, you know the only question to you, honorable Mwamba, why not let the UN officials also know that that that that President Lungu subjected 10 million Zimbabweans, 16 million Zimbabweans who are right now- Who are right now- refugees, refugees, honorable Mwamba?
Emmanuel Mwamba: I know him very well, He’s a member of the opposition.
Simba Chikanza: Produce the party card. Produce the evidence. Where is the evidence? You know that that is not true.
Emmanuel Mwamba: member of the opposition in Zimbabwe.
Simba Chikanza: Where is the party card Mr Mwamba?
Emmanuel Mwamba: I put you away because wanted you to come down and listen to me first; I recognize that you have grievances in Zimbabwe
Simba Chikanza: Where is the party card?
Emmanuel Mwamba: How members of the opposition are treated. This is a long standing issue from 2008; however, as you have seen, you will not use this platform to bring partisan issues affecting Zimbabwe.
Simba Chikanza: Aren’t you using the this platform President Lungu’s death to bring partisan issues, to divide Zambia, to divide Africa, to even divide Zimbabwe? That is the point. Is it fair for the for the for for President Lungu family, for you to use the funeral of President Lungu, to make me and my people, 10, 16 million Zimbabweans, destitute, destitute, out of their own country; Honorable Mwamba. Is that fair? Is that are you serving the truth?
Emmanuel Mwamba: that we should recognize the violence that has occurred in Zimbabwe. There are partisan issues in Zimbabwe.
Simba Chikanza: Aren’t you being partisan Right now, if you omit these issues? Look, sir, look, honorable Mwamba, there is money laundering. There’s money laundering. I told you here, there is money laundering.
Emmanuel Mwamba: I’m inviting I’m inviting!
Simba Chikanza: I told you here, there’s money laundering.
Emmanuel Mwamba: I’m inviting.
Simba Chikanza: You have just; you’re switching me off. Thank you very much.
Honorable Mwamba, there live on on video. I’ve just been speaking with you. My name is Simba Chikanza from the ZimEye news network, and also Al Jazeera Goldmafia documentary, founder, lead researcher, investigator, and just asking him about the truth, because he seems to be using the death of President Edgar Lungu, the funeral there, for partisan issues, and also to divide Zambians, to divide Zimbabweans, to divide Africa. And if he’s not, what is he doing? Why is he omitting these issues? Why is he not telling the United Nations these matters relating to to real human rights abuse, matters relating to money laundering, money is relating to disinformation as well? A man who switched off the internet and who swore, who swore while he was president that Zambia must get worse, that Hichilema must not make it. I mean, what is this? What is this? He, President Lungu, left Zambia in a state that even I myself cannot visit Zambia freely right now or easily:
When you call a journalist a member of the opposition when you know that there isn’t any such evidence what are you trying to hide? Are you not trying to hide money laundering; Ongoing money laundering?; Ongoing war crimes by Edgar Lungu who even made this announcement clear ?- ZimEye
TIME, THE GREAT REVEALER, HAS VINDICATED EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU
David T. Zyambo | 8 June 2025
As we come to terms with the untimely passing of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, many Zambians, myself included, find ourselves reflecting deeply on his time in office. His presidency faced sharp criticism and skepticism—however, as time progresses, we are beginning to see things from a different perspective. Four years after he honorably handed over power, the relentless hum of a well-oiled propaganda machine that painted him negatively has faded, allowing us to reevaluate the contributions of a man who genuinely sought to uplift his nation. Time, as it often does, reveals the truth, enabling us to see the reality of Lungu’s presidency with greater clarity.
When Edgar Lungu assumed office, he inherited a Zambia that felt stuck in time, where little had changed since 1964. Despite the efforts of successive governments, the infrastructure was severely lacking—road networks were limited and still in a “hell-run” state, rendering many parts of the country inaccessible and cut off from civilization. Bridges, intended to connect us to better opportunities, remained unfulfilled promises, stifling commerce and trade. Lusaka International Airport—once a welcoming venue for old time dignitaries like Emperor Haile Selassie and Queen Elizabeth II—had deteriorated into an outdated and dilapidated gateway to the world. The dream of a national airline carrying our colors seemed increasingly unrealistic, fading into a distant hope.
These infrastructural challenges extended into our healthcare system, which was overly reliant on a single major referral hospital, the University Teaching Hospital (UTH). Many rural areas struggled to access adequate healthcare, contributing to alarmingly high maternal and infant mortality rates. Education felt like a distant dream for countless children, who trekked long distances for the chance to learn. In three-quarters of Zambia, darkness prevailed, with electricity still out of reach, hindering the promise of modernity and progress.
Despite these formidable challenges, President Edgar Lungu harbored an audacious dream for modernization, building upon the foundations laid by his predecessor, Michael Chilufya Sata. While critics labeled him as “lacking vision,” President Lungu viewed continuity not as a flaw but as a strength—a pathway to progress through reform rather than revolution. He understood that real change required building on what had come before. His bold vision for a modern Zambia came with a hefty price tag, justified by the urgent needs of our time—to unlock the country’s economy by facilitating commerce and trade, reduce maternal and infant mortality rates in rural areas, and ensure educational access for all children.
The external debt incurred during President Lungu’s tenure was not merely a financial burden but a means to an end—a deliberate choice aimed at paving the way for progress. Today, as we navigate improved road networks across the country, utilize modern international airports in Lusaka, Ndola, and Livingstone, and celebrate the deployment of healthcare and education professionals to underserved regions, we can see the tangible results of those investments. These developments illustrate why the debt incurred under Lungu’s administration was necessary—they reflect a long-term vision to elevate Zambia’s economic and social horizons.
However, the narrative spun by detractors and their propaganda machine painted President Edgar Chagwa Lungu as a leader devoid of vision and integrity, overshadowing his efforts and blinding the majority of citizens. On August 12, 2021, many Zambians turned their backs on a leader who, despite his shortcomings, genuinely sought to uplift their nation. In hindsight, we must acknowledge our collective responsibility in this betrayal—we failed to recognize a good man—one who could have easily chosen the path of lies to cling to power but instead opted for honesty and integrity.
Now, as we reflect on Edgar Lungu’s presidency from a distance, it becomes increasingly clear that what we once deemed failures are now recognized as stepping stones toward progress. The challenges Zambia faces today are far more severe than those during his time in office—out-of-control inflation, high foreign exchange rates, a rising cost of living, widespread corruption within government institutions, tribal divisions undermining national unity, eroded democratic standards, and the erosion of fundamental freedoms, among others. We find ourselves in a worse position than before, demonstrating that time, the ultimate arbiter, is revealing truths we once overlooked.
It is through the lens of history that we can truly appreciate President Edgar Chagwa Lungu’s contributions and sacrifices. Among the seven Presidents Zambia has had since independence, only Kenneth Kaunda and Edgar Chagwa Lungu have left behind tangible legacies that Zambians can proudly point to (sonta epo wabomba). Lungu’s legacy transcends that of a mere president—he was a man who dared to dream of a modernized Zambia.
Once unjustly vilified by certain factions as the worst Zambian to have ever lived, President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has, even before his passing, been vindicated by the passage of time. For time is the mother of all truth, and in its course, all things are revealed. It is only time that can truly indict or vindicate. As time unfolds, it reveals not only the aspirations President Lungu held for his country but also his character as a leader—marked by humility, compassion, patriotism, respect for the constitution and democratic principles, and a commitment to serving others. In this moment of grief and remembrance, we honor a man who, despite facing immense criticism and mischaracterization, remained steadfast in his dedication to the causes of the Zambian people.
