Don’t drain the river—Chief Mabumba advises
…‘upgrade Musonda Power Plant instead’

HRH Chief Mabumba wrote:

Fellow Citizens.
Allow me to add my voice and the voice of our people in Mabumba regarding this important matter that has recently taken center stage in our country.

It is my firm belief and that of our people after consultation that draining water from Luapula River could have dire environmental consequences we could regret in future.
Based on the research report recommendations available to us, here are our thoughts:

(i)- Solving Zambia’s nationwide electricity shortage by transferring water from the Luapula River basin to Kafue River is not the most economical solution due to the high investment and operational cost.
The research report further recommends to secure the funds and accelerate the implementation of the short-term projects with good investment return, such as Mumbotuta CX hydropower station which has good financial viability and favorable investment return.

However, this action, if implemented will have far reaching ecological disaster for the Luapula Province and its people as listed below:

1. Biodiversity Loss- altering the flow of Luapula River could disrupt ecosystems both upstream and downstream. Species that rely on the natural flow and water levels of the river may be threatened.
2. Habitat Destruction- this could lead to habitat destruction, affecting flora and fauna in the region..

3. Environmental Impact- Zambia is a signatory to the UNESCO wetland treaty of February 1971 and the construction of the canal and associated infrastructure could lead to habitat destruction against the convention on wetlands.

4. Social and Cultural Impact- communities living along the Luapula River might face the displacement or loss of water resources they depend on for drinking, agriculture and fishing.

Furthermore, the recommendations on page 40 and beyond reject the project on account of cost. The lowest is over $6billion. It further suggests an engineering solution. The project aims at increasing water intake for agriculture and hydropower generation, but largely agriculture. Bad agricultural practices are to blame for water shortage in Kafue Lower Basin.

I propose that government upgrade the Musonda Power plant and expedite the implementation of both Mumbotuta CX hydropower and Luapula hydropower project.
I rest my case.

Chief Mabumba VIII

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT PUSH CRITICIZED AS MANIPULATIVE

…it would be absurd to suggest that just because delimitation must be carried out every ten years, the Constitution should also be amended every ten years says Dr M’membe

Lusaka… Wednesday March 26, 2025

In a sharp rebuke of President Hakainde Hichilema’s push for constitutional amendments, Socialist Party (SP) President Dr Fred M’membe has cited the head of state for dishonesty and manipulation.

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According to Dr M’membe, the justification provided for amending the Constitution — to increase the representation of women, youth, and people living with disabilities, as well as to effect the delimitation of constituencies — is misleading. 

Dr M’membe asserted that President Hichilema initially cited the need to address lacunae in the Constitution as the primary reason for the amendments.

However, he contended that the narrative has now shifted to focus on increasing the participation of marginalized groups and addressing the vast geographical size of some constituencies

“I hate liars and manipulators,” Dr M’membe stated, adding that manipulation is often opportunistic and lacks substance.

He expressed concern that such tactics, when employed by the head of state, could become dangerous.

“When manipulation becomes government policy, it is time for it to be resolutely put away,” he emphasized. 

Dr M’membe argued that the linkage between delimitation and constitutional amendments was baseless.

He pointed out that delimitation is a separate process governed by Articles 58 and 59 of the Constitution, while amendments fall under Article 79.

He explained that the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) is empowered to review and adjust constituency boundaries but cannot create new constituencies, as that authority is not provided for in the Constitution. 

“It would be absurd to suggest that just because delimitation must be carried out every ten years, the Constitution should also be amended every ten years,” he said.

He further noted that invoking international best practices to justify constituency increases was flawed, as international standards must first be domesticated into local law before they become binding. 

Addressing the representation of women, youth, and people living with disabilities, Dr M’membe highlighted that the current Constitution already mandates equal representation through Article 259.

He attributed the lack of progress to poor implementation rather than legal shortcomings. 

“We don’t need constitutional amendments to increase representation; what we need is respect for the current Constitution,” he insisted.

He urged political parties to enact subsidiary legislation under Article 60 to ensure gender equity in the National Assembly, as envisioned in the Constitution. 

Dr M’membe challenged the ruling UPND to commit to this approach, arguing that it would achieve greater diversity without partisan changes to the Constitution.

He expressed willingness to sign a formal accord and engage in discussions on implementing the proposal. 

“This would guarantee a significant increase in women and youth representation without the need for constitutional amendments,” he concluded.

GOVERNMENT REVISES CYBER SECURITY AND CYBER CRIMES BILLS AFTER STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS

The Government has finalized amendments to the Cyber Security Bill (N.A.B. No. 29 of 2024) and the Cyber Crimes Bill (N.A.B. No. 30 of 2024) following extensive consultations with civil society organizations, human rights defenders, and media stakeholders.

During a joint media briefing, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Technology and Science, Eng. Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, and his counterpart from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Mr. Dickson Matembo, outlined the collaborative efforts that led to the revised bills.

President Hakainde Hichilema had earlier deferred the two bills to allow for broader stakeholder consultation and engagement after concerns were raised regarding their potential impact on human rights, press freedom, and digital privacy. Civil society organizations initially criticized the proposed laws, arguing that certain provisions were vague and could infringe on constitutional rights.

Government and civil society reach consensus to address these concerns, the Government formed a Technical Committee comprising officials from key ministries and representatives from civil society. Three consultation meetings were held on February 26, March 10, and March 11, 2025, to deliberate on key issues raised by stakeholders.

Following these discussions, eight clauses in the bills were amended to streamline reporting timelines, refine oversight mechanisms for interception of devices and ensure penalties and procedures balance national security with individual freedoms.

As a result, 98% of concerns raised by stakeholders were resolved, leading to broad endorsement of the bills for resubmission to Parliament.

Next steps implementation and public education once enacted, the Ministry of Technology and Science and the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security will work closely with civil society groups to roll out public education initiatives. These will help ensure that Zambians understand both their rights and responsibilities under the revised laws.

Additionally, the Government has committed to ongoing consultations as technology evolves, ensuring that future legal reforms continue to uphold democratic values and human rights.

Dr. Habeenzu thanked all stakeholders for their dedication to shaping laws that protect national security while respecting civil liberties. He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to inclusiveness and transparency in legislative reforms, emphasizing that future statutory instruments to operationalize the laws will also undergo stakeholder consultations.

UPND HAVE TURNED STATE INSTITUTIONS INTO A CRIME SCENE – KAFWAYA
…………..condemns the bringing back of Cyber bills to parliament in the same format they were rejected.

Lusaka……….Tuesday, March 25, 2025 (Smart Eagles)

Lunte Member of Parliament Mutotwe Kafwaya has strongly condemned the UPND Government for allegedly turning Public institutions into crime scenes.

Hon Kafwaya made these remarks during an appearance on Hot FM’s HOT SEAT Radio Programme.

He has cited several examples to support his claims, including the disposal of assets at Mopani, which he believes was not subjected to constitutional requirements.

The Lunte lawmaker also pointed to the dual carriage way where he alleges that the giveaway was not in line with Article 210 of the constitution.

He says there is also a lot of suspicion in the way the whole process is being managed.

Hon Kafwaya said there is this creation of confusion deliberately because there is suspicion on what is happening,

“There is a company in between the contractor and the Zambian people funding that project through NAPSA. Right now if you pass through this dual carriage way toll gates, you find that even the names of the people who serve you, in some times their names are not there,” he said.

Hon Kafwaya has also pointed out Power Utility Company ZESCO, ZAMMSA, Parliament and several ministries as Crime scenes.

“Even ZESCO has become a crime scene, they are sending money abroad by mistake and nothing has happened.  Zesco is exporting power when the Zambian people have got no power and nobody seems to care. ZESCO can’t sale power to Mining companies in the North western unless they sale power to a middleman who in turn sales power to mining corporations in the north western province. ZESCO manufactures and transport the power, what type of a country are we. ZAMMSA is a crime scene, Ministry of Health is a crime scene, and cabinet office…….it is everywhere.
There are people who have been earning salaries for over two years now, more than 300 civil servants because they have been sent home by the UPND Government. They are waiting to be re deployed for two to three years now,” he said.

Meanwhile, Hon Kafwaya said it is irresponsible for the UPND to continue to politic in Governance.

He said the people are concerned about the country than they will be concerned about UPND.

Mr Kafwaya has also noted with sadness that the Cyber Bills which were withdrawn due to stakeholder concerns have come back on the order paper without any amendments.

“Today is a dark day for those who love Zambia. They have come back in the same form they were withdrawn because a UN Rapporteur was coming.  What Government has forgotten is that another rapporteur is coming. You just need to love your country to do the right thing. I am shocked, concerned and sad that the bills are back in parliament without any amendments,” Hon Kafwaya stated.

SPEAKER DIRECTS KABUSWE to deliver ministerial statement on MOPANI , KCM

SPEAKER of the National Assembly, Nellie Mutti, has directed the Minister of Mines, Paul Kabuswe, to issue a ministerial statement regarding the financial statuses of Mopani and Konkola Copper Mines (KCM).

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The two entities have been subjects of complaints from suppliers of goods and services for failing to pay them.

Last week, court bailiffs acted against KCM in Chingola after the company’s failure to make a partial payment of the $29.6 million debt owed to the Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) Plc.

KCM later obtained a stay of execution pending an ex parte hearing.

Rising on an urgent matter without notice, Kamfinsa Member of Parliament Christopher Kang’ombe sought clarity on the two mines and their failure to pay suppliers.

“Last year, there was huge excitement when an announcement was made that Mopani Copper Mines had been sold to a new equity partner called IRH [International Resources Holding].

“There was also high expectation, Madam Speaker, that with the return of Vedanta to KCM, suppliers and contractors would be paid on time and business opportunities would be given to Zambian businessmen and women contracted by the two mining companies,” he said.

“Unfortunately, Madam Speaker, what has transpired and what is official now, is that KCM, for instance, is actually in court because it’s unable to meet its obligations to different suppliers and contractors. People are now wondering: what was the spirit of inviting Vedanta back to operate a mine when they have no financial capacity?

“The Copperbelt Energy Corporation, for instance, Madam Speaker, has sued KCM in court for failure to meet its obligations and we are hearing about bailiffs going to a mining company which, ideally, Madam Speaker, is supposed to be providing services to our people…”

He wondered whether Kabuswe was in order not to provide details on the financial position of KCM and Mopani, “considering that these are two mines that we were told would be in a financial position to provide services to our people, to provide contracting jobs to our people?”

Mutti then guided that in view of what has been reported and the court action, Kabuswe should give a ministerial statement on Thursday or Friday.

Kalemba March 25, 2025

Frank Zimba’s Hypocrisy Exposed,  From “Fimba Upoke” to the Highest Bidder

By Magret Mwanza

Frank Zimba, the man who once championed “Fimba Upoke” in  loyal support to the UPND government, has now made a dramatic U-turn, revealing his true colors as just another mercenary for hire. His sudden outbursts against the very government he once praised are not driven by principle or patriotism, but by greed and self-interest. The bank statements circulating on social media don’t lie—Zimba has been bought, and he has been bought well.

It is no secret that in Zambian politics, there are those who stand on conviction, and then there are those who sell their voices to the highest bidder. Zimba belongs to the latter category. His shift from a staunch UPND supporter to a bitter critic conveniently coincides with the fact that he was denied unfettered access to state resources. He thought that his loyalty to the ruling party would grant him a free pass to amass wealth through dubious means, and when that failed, he ran straight into the arms of those desperate to regain power—the same corrupt forces that Zambians decisively rejected in 2021.

Zimba’s betrayal is not an isolated incident. It is part of a broader pattern where certain individuals masquerade as political activists, not because they believe in the ideologies they promote, but because they see politics as a business. For them, support is transactional, and when one side stops paying, they simply switch to the next. What is truly pathetic is how predictable this script has become. First, they sing praises and declare unwavering support. Then, when they realize that UPND is a government of laws, not handouts, they throw tantrums, claiming betrayal. Finally, they crawl into the pockets of political scavengers hoping to discredit the government for personal gain.

Zambians must wake up to these mercenaries and their deceitful tactics. Frank Zimba was never a true believer in the UPND cause—he was an opportunist who thought that his loyalty could be monetized. When the UPND refused to bow to his greed, he turned to the very people who plundered this country into economic turmoil. If Zimba had any real integrity, he would have raised genuine policy concerns or constructive criticism, but instead, his sudden bitterness is accompanied by a suspiciously fattened bank account. Coincidence? Hardly.

The UPND government does not need to bribe anyone to support them. Their works speak for themselves—economic stabilization, corruption crackdowns, job creation, and a commitment to good governance. These achievements stand in stark contrast to the desperation of those funding political hirelings like Zimba to manufacture dissent.

But here is the truth: Zambians are not blind. They remember where the country was in 2021, and they see where it is today. No amount of political mercenaries screaming from the rooftops will erase the progress that has been made. The same way the people rejected the looters in 2021, they will reject their puppets in 2026

Frank Zimba has made his choice. He has chosen to align himself with those who want to drag Zambia back into the dark days of theft, impunity, and economic decay. But let this serve as a warning—history is not kind to traitors, and the people of Zambia will not be fooled.

NGOCC Backs Proposed Constitutional Amendments to Boost Inclusivity in Politics

The Non-Governmental Gender Organizations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has expressed strong support for the proposed amendments to the Constitution, a move that they say will pave the way for increased participation of women, youths, and persons with disabilities in the political arena.

Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka today, NGOCC Board Chairperson Beauty Katebe emphasized that the amendments represent a significant step toward a more inclusive and equitable political landscape. “This process, if implemented correctly, will ensure that our political system truly reflects the diverse voices of our society,” she said.

Ms. Katebe noted that for many years, NGOCC has championed the need for a more representative composition of elected officials at both parliamentary and local government levels. “The current electoral system has not adequately leveled the political playing field, and we have seen too many instances where underrepresented groups remain marginalized,” she stated.

The Chairperson called on the government to ensure that the constitutional amendment process is conducted in a manner that is open, transparent, and guided by a clearly defined roadmap. “A broad-based stakeholder engagement is essential if we are to build consensus and secure legitimacy in the reform process,” Ms. Katebe stressed.

In addition to backing the constitutional amendments, NGOCC is also advocating for the enactment of a comprehensive political parties law. According to Ms. Katebe, such a law would require political parties to submit candidate lists that are inclusive, thereby enhancing free and fair representation in elections.

She added that this legal reform should be supported by amendments to the Electoral Commission Act, which would empower the Commission to reject nominations that fail to meet the criteria of inclusiveness.

As the debates on constitutional reform continue, the NGOCC’s stance underscores the urgent need for political structures that reflect the diversity of the nation. Stakeholders and citizens alike will be closely watching how the government responds to these calls for a more inclusive political system.

For now, NGOCC remains committed to its long-standing advocacy for gender equality and broader democratic participation, urging the government to align its constitutional reform process with the principles of openness, fairness, and accountability.

March 24, 2025
©️ KUMWESU

EDITOR’S CHOICE – The Dangers of the Commercialization of Politics – Part 2

By Dr Mwelwa

The cost of politics is not just a financial burden on candidates; it is a growing danger to democracy itself. The commercialization of politics has led to a system where only the wealthy or those backed by powerful financiers can afford to participate. This reality excludes many capable individuals—especially women and young people—who lack the resources to compete. As the African proverb says, _“A chicken will not vote for a hawk to lead them.”_ If politics is left to those who only seek to enrich themselves, the people will continue to suffer. 

*The Harsh Reality of High-Cost Politics*

Many aspiring leaders either have to be wealthy enough to finance their campaigns, take on massive personal debts, or rely on sponsors who expect repayment in the form of political favors. Those who fail to win election risk financial ruin, while those who succeed find themselves trapped in a system where repaying debts becomes a priority over serving the people. 

This dynamic creates a Parliament where MPs are more focused on securing their financial interests than addressing the real needs of their constituencies. When an MP is constantly thinking about how to recoup their campaign costs, their ability to hold the government accountable is weakened. Democracy suffers when politics becomes a marketplace where votes are auctioned to the highest bidder, and governance is reduced to a transactional exercise. 

Unfortunately, this system also breeds cynicism among voters. Poor citizens, seeing no real change, may begin to treat elections as an opportunity to secure short-term financial gain rather than choosing leaders who can bring meaningful development. As another African proverb warns, _“A child who does not know the village laws will sell his mother’s land for a bottle of beer.”_ If we do not change our approach, elections will continue to be won by those who can pay, not those who can serve. 

*The Burden on MPs: Repaying Supporters and Preparing for Re-election*

The financial pressure on MPs does not end with election day. Those who helped finance a campaign expect their investment to be returned—whether in the form of contracts, favorable legislation, or political protection. Local supporters who contributed in smaller ways also make ongoing demands, expecting rewards for their loyalty. 

Meanwhile, MPs must immediately begin preparing for their next campaign. The cycle of raising funds for re-election never stops, and with each term, the cost only increases. Some seek additional income through private business dealings, while others look for opportunities to join government in positions that offer access to state resources. The temptation to engage in corruption becomes overwhelming. 

As the saying goes, _“The rat does not watch over the granary without taking a share.”_ Without strong moral conviction, many MPs fall into the trap of using public resources for personal gain, justifying it as a necessary step to secure their future in politics. 

*Misuse of Public Funds and Political Manipulation*

One of the most damaging consequences of commercialization is the misuse of state resources. MPs in the ruling party often have an advantage, as they can leverage government funds and influence to maintain their grip on power. In some cases, opposition politicians face politically motivated investigations or financial hardships unless they submit to the ruling elite. 

In many African nations, we have seen governments use state institutions to intimidate businesses that support opposition candidates, forcing them to either align with those in power or face economic retaliation. This creates an uneven playing field where democracy is undermined by financial coercion. As our elders say, _“A cow that does not belong to you will not give you milk.”_ The state should serve all its people, not just those who can afford to buy influence. 

*Exclusion and the Need for Reform* 

The commercialization of politics has made it nearly impossible for an average citizen to enter Parliament. When the cost of participating is so high, it creates a Parliament made up of an elite class that is out of touch with the realities of ordinary people. This lack of representation weakens democracy and increases public frustration. 

Women, young people, and marginalized groups continue to be underrepresented because they cannot afford the high cost of political entry. This imbalance must be addressed if we want a government that truly reflects the diversity of the people it serves. A Parliament that does not represent its people is like _“a well without water—it may look useful, but it cannot quench anyone’s thirst.”_

*The Danger of Politics as an Investment* 

When politicians enter office with the mindset of recovering their financial investment, corruption becomes inevitable. MPs will seek higher salaries, hidden allowances, and opportunities to enrich themselves rather than focusing on policy and development. Those who remain loyal to party leaders are rewarded with government appointments, while those who stand for principles are often sidelined. 

This is a dangerous cycle. If the youth aspire to enter politics only because they have seen “the carrot over there,” then we are in trouble. Leadership should not be about personal gain, but about service to the people. The young generation must ask themselves: _Are we fighting to change the system, or are we simply trying to replace those in power so that we can eat too?_ 

As another proverb reminds us, _“A man who carries an elephant on his head should not be chasing crickets with his feet.”_ If we are serious about reforming politics, we must focus on changing the system, not just changing the faces of those in power. 

*A Call for Change*

If Zambia and Africa at large are to move forward, we must break this culture of transactional politics. Citizens must stop selling their votes for short-term benefits, and young people must enter politics with the mindset of service, not self-enrichment. Political parties must create fairer nomination processes, and public financing of campaigns should be considered to level the playing field. 

Unless there is a change in behavior—both from politicians and voters—money will continue to rule, and wisdom will remain unheard. If we want a better future, we must remember: _“The axe forgets, but the tree remembers.”_ The decisions we make today will shape the leadership of tomorrow. Let us ensure that we do not repeat the mistakes of the past.

“VITENDENI” CHABE – UPND WOMEN DEMAND JUSTICE FOR THE GIRL CHILD
…As defilers face the wrath of angry mothers

The women’s wing in the ruling UPND has had enough of these bedroom bandits terrorizing the girl child and is now demanding a drastic solution—castration! Yes, you heard right, vitendeni chabe!

Castration, or “Vitendene” in vernacular, is the process of making sure a man’s “tools of destruction” are permanently decommissioned, ensuring that the only thing he can plant in his life is maize and groundnuts.

The term was popularized years ago by child rights activist and musician Sister D, who sang her lungs out demanding justice for young girls. However, our leaders have been dancing to the song but never implementing the lyrics!

But now, ba mayo naisa na njuka! The UPND women say it’s time for MPs to push for a law that will not only lock up defilers but also send their reproductive organs into early retirement!

At a fiery media briefing on Monday morning, the women didn’t mince their words. They said they are living in fear because even fathers and uncles have joined this nonsense! “We can’t even leave our children alone with their own fathers!” one mother lamented. Another asked, “Are we not enough for our husbands kanshi? If you have too much energy, go to Kalingalinga where cheap sex workers are waiting for customers—not attacking babies!”

And if you think they are just talking, think again. The women are so fed up that they are ready to protest naked if the government does not take action. “Whether you are PF, Socialist, or Independent, if you are a woman, join us! These defilers are not checking political parties before attacking our children!” they declared.

The women’s wing was represented by Lusaka Province Chairlady Angela Muuka, Vice Chairlady for Administration Susan Buumba, Christine Bwalya (Lusaka District Vice Chairlady for Mobilization), and Dorice Bwalya (Matero Vice Chairlady). The youth wing was not left behind, with UPND National Youth Trustee Susan Tembo standing in solidarity.

Meanwhile, the police have been urged to stop “pampering” defilers with long investigations. “How can a rape case take two years kanshi? Is it a murder investigation? The evidence is right there arrest, prosecute, vitendeni, period!” the women fumed.

Furthermore, they have warned women who cover up for defilers in families those aunties and grandmothers who whisper, “Tizagwilizana ku bwalo”—to think twice. “If we catch you, we will throw you in the same cell as your foolish relative!”

Zambia has seen a disturbing rise in defilement cases, with fathers, pastors (yes, papas!), teachers, and even neighbors turning into certified criminals instead of protectors. But this time, the women have spoken: either the law gets tough, or we will take matters into our own hands—literally!

The message is loud and clear: Vitendeni chabe!

BEYOND FAME: CALLS FOR CREDIBLE LEADERSHIP IN ZAMBIA

Lusaka… Monday March 24, 2025

In recent weeks, concerns have been raised over the increasing number of celebrities, musicians, and artists expressing intentions to run for public office in Zambia.

Socialist Party (SP) member and activist, Thompson Luzendi, has questioned whether social media popularity should be considered a primary qualification for leadership.

He emphasized that while every citizen has the right to participate in governance, politics should not be reduced to a popularity contest based on fame or the number of followers on platforms such as Facebook and X.

He argued that leadership requires more than charisma or celebrity status, insisting that competence, integrity, and a proven track record of service are essential attributes for those aspiring to hold public office.

Citing past experiences, Luzendi noted that celebrity leaders who thrive on empty rhetoric and social media hype often fail to deliver meaningful change.

He referenced President Hakainde Hichilema as an example, suggesting that leadership demands more than catchy slogans or staged photo opportunities.

According to him, effective governance requires a deep understanding of economic policy, legislative processes, and public administration.

Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of a genuine commitment to community development, accountability, and transparency—qualities he claimed many of these aspiring celebrity politicians lack. 

Mr Luzendi also expressed concern over the emergence of older individuals presenting themselves as leaders of youth movements.

He questioned the sincerity of such efforts, arguing that it is dishonest for those who neither represent the youth nor understand their challenges to lead a movement purportedly for young people.

He described this trend as an insult to the intelligence of Zambia’s youth. 

As the country prepares for another election cycle, Luzendi urged Zambians to look beyond the hype.

He advised voters to prioritize policy clarity, integrity, and a history of community service over celebrity status.

He questioned whether these aspiring politicians had ever stood for justice or if they merely benefited from the previous regime’s corruption. 

In his final remarks, Luzendi warned that electing leaders based on fame rather than substance is a “recipe for disaster.”

He called on Zambians to choose leaders who are prepared, principled, and proven, rather than those who view politics as a platform for fame and entertainment. 

“The future of our nation is too important to be left in the hands of those who see politics as just another stage for fame,” he said.

“We need credibility, not celebrity wannabe politicians.”