WE REJECT THE PROPOSAL BY MR. GIVEN LUBINDA OF PF-FACTION/TONSE ALLIANCE TO CLOSE THE MINES

The New Dawn Administration rejects in the strongest terms, the proposal made by Mr Given Lubinda of Tonse Alliance that mines in Zambia should close “until a wiser generation is born in the country.” This is the same mindset that saw KCM and Mopani Copper Mines close operations under the watch of the PF government, with disastrous consequences on the livehoods of the people. The PF are now proposing that all mines should close until some wiser generation emerges. Clearly, the PF never felt the pain of the people on the Copperbelt when KCM and Mopani closed.

Mr Lubinda’s position on mining, which was broadcast on HOT-FM yesterday and confirm by the radio station today during the interview with the Minister of Finance and National Planning, reflects the thinking of the alliance not only about the livelihoods of the majority of people in the Copperbelt, Northwestern and other mining areas, but about the future and foreign exchange-earning prospects for the Republic.

It was also a very sad experience to hear Mr. Lubinda categorizing innocent Zambians as being UNWISE to run the current mining assets in the country and, impliedly, not deserving of the opportunities that the resurgence of mining is bringing to the country

We appeal to our Members of Parliament and party structures on the Copperbelt and in Northwestern Province to assure our

fellow citizens that the New Dawn Administration will not tolerate proposals from Mr. Lubinda and his cohorts to close mines in Zambia. The country depends on mines for foreign exchange. A substantial number of our people depend on mines for jobs and incomes. Mine suppliers and associated businesses depend on mines for their sustainability.

We have not forgotten how thousands of people habitually lost jobs in the mining sector because of bad policies by the administration of which Mr. Lubinda was part. We have not forgotten how mining companies in Mufulira, Kitwe, Chingola, Chililabombwe and other places were failing to meet their corporate social responsibilities such as sponsoring sports clubs.

Our promise to fellow countrymen is that, we will continue to implement policies that are sound and in the interest of the nation while getting a fair share of the financial benefits from the mines without impairing their operational sustainability and competitiveness.

MARK SIMUUWE
UPND MEDIA DIRECTOR

Kafue River Poisoned
…….As Mining Pollution Sparks Environmental Outcry

The once-mighty Kafue River, a lifeline for thousands of Zambians and a vital artery for agriculture, now carries more than just water it carries poison.

A devastating acid spill from CM Leech Zambia Limited on the Copperbelt has not only polluted the river but ignited a fierce debate about environmental accountability, mining practices, and the government’s failure to protect natural resources.

Reports confirm that the acid effluent has severely impacted the Mwambezi and Kafue rivers, causing extensive damage to maize and groundnut fields, killing livestock, and threatening aquatic life.

The surrounding communities, who rely heavily on these rivers for farming and daily water needs, now face an uncertain future. Residents describe the rivers’ once-clear waters now running with a murky, toxic hue a tragic symbol of environmental neglect.

African Rivers, an organization advocating for the protection of water bodies in Zambia and beyond, has condemned the spill, calling it a “preventable disaster.” During a press briefing held at Sun International Hotel, Dr. Bobson Sikala, CEO of African Rivers, criticized both the mining company and regulatory authorities for their slow response.

“This is not just an accident it is the result of poor oversight and weak environmental laws. Our rivers cannot speak for themselves, but we must be their voice,” Dr. Sikala said.

And the Zambia Climate Change Network (ZCCN) echoed these sentiments, highlighting the wider ecological damage caused by the spill. Lydia Chibambo, National Coordinator for ZCCN, emphasized the urgent need for stricter monitoring and enforcement of environmental laws.

“It is truly disheartening that such a crisis had to be exposed by concerned citizens rather than the institutions tasked with protecting our environment. This clearly shows a gap in our regulatory systems,” Chibambo stated.

The mining sector, a cornerstone of Zambia’s economy, has long been a double-edged sword. While it provides jobs and revenue, it also leaves behind a trail of environmental destruction acid spills, deforestation, and soil degradation.

The Kafue River pollution is just the latest in a series of incidents where corporate interests have overshadowed environmental sustainability.

According to the Environmental Management Act No. 12 of 2011, companies are required to implement safety and environmental compliance programs. However, critics argue that these regulations lack enforcement.

Polluters often face minimal penalties, allowing them to continue their operations without meaningful consequences.
African Rivers has put forward a series of urgent recommendations to prevent future disasters.

These include strengthening environmental laws, establishing a multisectoral task force to handle compensation for affected communities, and mandating mining companies to adopt climate-sensitive practices.

“The government must give these laws sharp teeth to bite. We cannot afford to have regulations that look good on paper but fail in reality,” Dr. Sikala stressed.

The social and economic cost of the Kafue River spill is already taking shape. Farmers in the affected areas are counting their losses as their once-thriving crops wither away due to soil contamination. Livestock deaths have further deepened the crisis, leaving families without crucial sources of income and food.

Beyond the human toll, environmentalists warn of the long-term impact on biodiversity. The Kafue River meanders through vital ecosystems, including the Kafue National Park home to countless species of wildlife. An unchecked acid spill could disrupt delicate aquatic habitats, threatening the survival of fish and other species reliant on clean water sources.

In response to mounting pressure, the government has formed a task force to investigate the spill and oversee compensation efforts.

However, activists remain skeptical, citing past instances where similar promises faded into silence once public outrage died down.

As the poisoned waters of the Kafue River flow downstream, they carry more than just acid they carry a grim warning. Unless Zambia confronts the environmental cost of its mining ambitions and strengthens its regulatory systems, its rivers will continue to pay the price.

The Kafue River’s cry for help has been heard. Whether those in power choose to listen remains to be seen.

March 8, 2025
©️ KUMWESU

FR. MWEWA CONDEMN ATTACK ON BISHOP MSIPU

Association of Zambian Diocesan Catholic Clergy (AZADCC) President Fr. Augustine Mwewa has condemned Chief Government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa for issuing threats against the Auxiliary Bishop of Chipata Diocese Gabriel Msipu Phiri.

Mr. Mweetwa, the Minister of Information and Choma Member of Parliament, this week told journalists in Lusaka that the Government will isolate Bishop Msipu and respond to him in person whenever he comments on governance matters.

But Fr. Mwewa said a Bishop cannot be isolated from the Church because he represents the entire body of Christ and the Pope.

He said attacking a Catholic Bishop is disrespecting the entire Catholic Church and shows the much talked about shrinking of the democratic space and freedoms in Zambia.

The Parish Priest of Holy Family – Lulamba in Chingola said the issues raised by Bishop Msipu of failed promises and lack of good roads in Eastern Province are genuine and affect God’s people.

“The UPND Government attacks on the Catholic Church is not happening for the first time and this is what we mean when talking about the shrinking democratic space in Zambia.Mweetwa is being disrespectful to the Church. There is no way you can separate a Bishop from the Church. The Bishops speak in the name of the Church and I participate in the office of the Bishop as a Priest. That is why as a Priest I am appointed by the Bishop to work in the Parish. I work on behalf of the Bishop and so when the Bishop speaks he speaks in the name of the Church. When I preach I preach in the name of the Church,” Fr. Mwewa said.

“We preach in the name of Christ and that of the Church. The Gospel, the Prophetic voice can never be partisan or non-partisan, it is always on the side of the needy, the poor and on the side of justice, on the side of the truth. So threatening Bishop Msipu is threatening the entire Catholic Church and Mweetwa should not use those jargons that we will isolate you. You cannot isolate a Bishop. We know it is a deliberate UPND programme to attack the Catholic Church. They have called our Archbishop Lucifer and because a Bishop is appointed by the Pope they have simply called the Pope Lucifer.”

“Bishop Msipu talked about the bad state of the Chadiza Road, I have been there and I saw how bad that road is. I saw how people were sharing FISP fertilizer. Even the Mpezeni recently complained over the unfulfilled promises of constructing a dam in Eastern Province, is the dam there? No. So how will they campaign without fulfilling promises? Are we buying mealie meal at K50? Is fertilizer at K250? Fuel, the currency, load shedding,” he continued.

Fr. Mwewa has told Radio Icengelo News that President Hakainde Hichilema should suspend Mr. Mweetwa for hate speech against Bishop Msipu.

“Threatening the Bishop’s life amounts to hate speech which the UPND talks about. But for them threatening a Bishop is not a hate speech and no one will arrest Mweetwa because they are in power. Mweetwa is not saying that for the first time and I know he will repeat it. Those are the last kicks of a dying horse and we will never tolerate that, we will never compromise the Gospel by allowing such people. Mweetwa should be suspended if the President is a democratic leader and he respects the law of Zambia as he held the Bible during his swearing in ceremony. We will not take threats on our Bishop lightly. You see this is what we have been pointing to that the space for freedom of speech and democracy is reducing under the current Government,” Fr. Mwewa said.

©Radio Ichengelo

Church Refuses to Bow to Political Pressure
….As he urged government officials to approach the Church with respect and sincerity

In a bold and defiant response, Bishop George Cosmas Zumaire Lungu of the Chipata Diocese has fiercely pushed back against recent remarks made by Cornelius Mweetwa, Minister of Information and Chief Government Spokesperson.

This follows Mweetwa’s controversial press briefing on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, where he appeared to warn the Catholic Church against what he termed as “overstepping their spiritual boundaries.”

Bishop Lungu did not hold back, making it clear that the Church will not be intimidated into silence. He emphasized that the Church has a divine duty to speak truth to power, stating: “We have a God-given mandate and therefore remain resolved to play our prophetic role, which includes acknowledging the good and denouncing the evil in society.” His message was firm the Church’s voice cannot and will not be muted by political threats.

Accompanied by Bishop Gabriel Msipu Phiri, the Auxiliary Bishop of Chipata, Bishop Lungu reminded political leaders of their moral obligations, quoting Micah 6:8: “To act justly, to love tenderly, and to walk humbly with your God.”

He stressed that their role goes beyond the pulpit it involves advocating for justice, holding leaders accountable, and standing with the people, especially the poor and marginalized.

The Bishop’s response comes at a time when tensions between the Church and the government are intensifying. The Catholic Church has been vocal about Zambia’s worsening economic crisis, soaring cost of living, and the government’s failure to tackle corruption. For many, Bishop Lungu’s words reflect a growing frustration with what some see as an administration more focused on silencing critics than addressing national issues.

Despite the charged tone, Bishop Lungu extended an olive branch not as a sign of surrender, but as a call for genuine dialogue. “Our doors for meaningful dialogue remain open,” he said.

“Bishop Msipu and I will continue to engage government on issues of major concern emanating from our local communities.” However, the underlying message was clear the Church seeks collaboration, not control.

The Bishop’s statement also carried a subtle warning. He urged government officials to approach the Church with respect and sincerity, reminding them that dialogue should not be a one-sided affair. “We will not trade our moral duty for political convenience,” he asserted, reinforcing the Church’s role as a moral compass for the nation.

This bold stance has reignited national debate over the government’s handling of dissent. Many Zambians are now questioning whether the administration is becoming increasingly intolerant of opposing voices from the Church, civil society, and beyond.

Bishop Lungu’s words have struck a nerve, echoing the frustrations of ordinary citizens struggling with economic hardship and poor governance.

As the nation embarks on the Lenten season, the Bishop challenged both the Church and the state to reflect deeply not just on their spiritual obligations but also their political and social responsibilities.

Quoting 2 Corinthians 5:20, he said: “We are Christ’s ambassadors of reconciliation.” However, his call for reconciliation came with a strong reminder that true peace is rooted in truth and justice.

Bishop Lungu’s closing remarks were both a prayer and a challenge: “True reconciliation begins with truth. If the government cannot stomach the truth, then it is not the Church that needs to change it is those in power who must repent.” With these words, the Bishop left the government with much to ponder, and the nation with a renewed sense of boldness in the face of intimidation.

March 7, 2025
©️ KUMWESU

Shakafuswa Seeks Detailed Roadmap for Zambia’s 1,000MW Solar Power Ambition

In a move highlighting the need for clarity in Zambia’s renewable energy initiatives, Ephraim Shakafuswa, a member of the Tonse Alliance Council of Leaders, has formally written to President Hakainde Hichilema.

The letter requests a comprehensive roadmap detailing how the government plans to achieve its ambitious target of generating 1,000 megawatts (MW) of solar power by the end of 2025.

Since assuming office in August 2021, President Hichilema has made several commitments to reform and enhance Zambia’s energy sector:

In January 2023, the President announced a $2 billion investment in renewable energy, aiming to add 2,000 MW to the national grid. This initiative includes a partnership between ZESCO and Masdar, a UAE-based renewable energy company, to develop large-scale solar projects across Zambia.

The World Bank has pledged $100 million to improve the financial performance and operational reliability of ZESCO and to support the Rural Electrification Authority (REA). This funding is part of the broader National Energy Advancement and Transformation (NEAT) program, which aims to increase electricity access to 66% of Zambians by 2030.

In his letter, Shakafuswa commended the government’s commitment to expanding Zambia’s renewable energy capacity but stressed the need for transparency and detailed planning to ensure the solar energy generated effectively reaches the Zambian people.

“It is encouraging to see the government’s efforts to boost the energy sector, but achieving sustainability goes beyond just generating power it’s about ensuring this energy is delivered reliably and affordably,” Shakafuswa stated.

The inquiry comes amid growing concerns over Zambia’s energy crisis, with load shedding and power shortages disrupting businesses and households.

President Hichilema has urged the private sector to collaborate with the government in scaling up renewable energy, particularly solar, as part of a broader strategy to diversify the country’s energy mix.

In his letter, Shakafuswa outlined key challenges that could hinder the success of the 1,000MW solar project:

Outdated power grid: Zambia’s existing grid, designed for conventional power sources, needs urgent modernization to handle intermittent solar energy.

Energy storage limitations: Without effective storage systems, surplus solar power generated during the day risks being wasted, leading to unreliable supply at night.

Rural electrification gap: Many rural areas still lack access to electricity, raising concerns about whether the solar power generated will be equitably distributed.

Overreliance on fossil fuels: Solar growth must be balanced with other renewable sources, like wind and geothermal, to ensure grid stability.

Mineral underutilization: With Zambia’s vast copper and cobalt reserves key materials for green technologies Shakafuswa emphasized the need for local processing to support the renewable energy value chain.

In light of these concerns, Shakafuswa has requested the government to provide clarity on:

The modernization of Zambia’s national grid to integrate solar power.

Plans for energy storage technologies to maintain consistent supply.

Strategies for rural electrification to close the energy access gap.

The diversification of renewable energy sources beyond solar.

Policies to support local mineral processing for battery manufacturing and job creation.

“Generating solar power is a crucial step, but without clear systems for distribution, storage, and integration, we risk falling short of the true goal energy accessibility for all Zambians,” Shakafuswa noted.

The Tonse Alliance’s call for a transparent roadmap reflects growing public interest in how the government plans to turn its renewable energy ambitions into tangible results.

March 7, 2025
©️ KUMWESU

“The Green Ghost of Power Haunts Them”
……..Lubinda Criticizes Government’s Failures

Acting Patriotic Front (PF) President Given Lubinda has unleashed a fierce critique of the government, accusing them of economic mismanagement and blaming their failures on the very opposition they replaced.

Speaking at a Tonse Alliance press briefing, Lubinda dismissed the ruling party’s excuses, describing them as a government that “talks, lies, and blames others instead of taking responsibility.”

In a fiery address, Lubinda ridiculed the government’s handling of the maize crisis, highlighting that despite PF’s efforts to boost maize production during their tenure, the current leadership had squandered the reserves within a year.

“We produced maize for three years they sold it all in one year. Now, they’re turning around and saying Zambians are suffering because of the ones they removed from power,” Lubinda said.

He further criticized the UPND government’s decision to allow duty-free maize exports, arguing that it undermined Zambia’s economy.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15nVMAii2b/

“Can you imagine? You produce something here, and instead of strengthening your economy, you tell people to export duty-free. The law is clear when you export any commodity, you must collect duties,” Lubinda added, accusing the government of worsening the maize shortage through poor planning and reckless policies.

On electricity, Lubinda boasted of PF’s track record, stating that Zambia’s electricity generation capacity had grown from 1,600 megawatts in 2011 to 3,200 megawatts by 2021. He questioned how a nation that had doubled its power output was now facing crippling load shedding.

“We doubled electricity generation, yet today, people can’t run their barbershops, women can’t weld, and butcheries can’t store meat because of power cuts,” he said.

Lubinda didn’t hold back on the UPND’S government’s approach to road infrastructure either, accusing them of surrendering Zambia’s economic interests to foreign companies.

“We built roads using public money hard-earned Zambian money. But today, they give foreign companies control over toll gates, telling them to collect fees for the next 25 years. How does that benefit the Zambian economy?”

He went on to mock the current leadership, suggesting that they assumed PF would continue to “run the government for them” even after they took power.

“They thought after forming government, PF would still be running the show like the previous president would remain to do what he knows best: talk and lie,” Lubinda said sharply.

In a direct swipe at President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration, Lubinda echoed remarks by Tonse Alliance spokesperson Sean Tembo, stating that the government’s fear of accountability was evident in their refusal to engage with parliamentary processes.

“How can cabinet ministers run away from parliament a place established by the constitution for the government to answer to the people? This is a government that fears its own shadow,” Lubinda declared.

He ended by accusing the ruling party of being haunted by the “ghost of power,” claiming they had become confused and directionless.

“They thought winning elections meant they would celebrate forever, but now the ghost of leadership is haunting them. They are lost even running away from their own responsibilities,” Lubinda said.

With tensions high and the opposition sharpening its attacks, all eyes are now on how the government will respond to Lubinda’s bold accusations if at all.

March 6, 2025
©️ KUMWESU

FPI Alarmed by Mweetwa’s Threats of Statutory Media Regulation!

The Zambia Free Press Initiative has expressed alarm over Information Minister Cornelius Mweetwa’s recent remarks threatening statutory regulation of the media in response to a headline published by The Mast newspaper. The Initiative firmly rejects this approach, emphasizing the importance of a free and independent press in a democratic society.

In a statement , Zambia Free Press Initiative founder Joan Chirwa argued that while excellence in journalism and accurate reporting are essential, statutory regulation is not the answer. The organization called on the government to refrain from using threats of regulation to control the media.

“The media plays a crucial role in holding those in power accountable and facilitating public discourse,” the statement read. “Such threats are not what we expect in a democracy, where freedom of speech and the press must be protected.”

The statement also referenced Zambia’s history of government interference in the media, citing the forced closure of The Post newspaper in June 2016 as a stark reminder of the dangers of overreach. The closure of the critical newspaper silenced an important voice and had a chilling effect on Zambia’s media landscape.

The Free Press Initiative further pointed out that Zambia already has a well-established self-regulation mechanism for media houses, allowing journalists and media organizations to address grievances without resorting to statutory regulation, which could undermine freedom of expression.

The Initiative also reminded Minister Mweetwa of his endorsement of the self-regulation mechanism during a meeting with the Media Self-Regulation Council in April 2024. According to reports by the state-owned ZNBC, Mweetwa had expressed support for media self-regulation, stating, “The government is keen to see the media regulating itself,” and emphasizing that “the state of any democracy is determined by the freedom of journalists.”

“At that meeting, Mweetwa also reiterated that the government would ‘continue protecting journalists and ensure they carry out their duties without intimidation or interference,’” the statement continued.

The Zambia Free Press Initiative called on Minister Mweetwa to reflect on his previous stance and reconsider his current position. The organization urged the government to engage more constructively with the media and other stakeholders to promote journalism excellence while adhering to President Hakainde Hichilema’s promise of non-interference with the media.

“We stand in solidarity with the Zambian media and call on the government to respect the fundamental rights of freedom of expression and the press,” the statement concluded.

In related news, the Zambia Free Press Initiative also welcomed a recent court ruling in favor of News Diggers newspaper. The Lusaka High Court dismissed a defamation suit brought by former ministers Given Lubinda and Jean Kapata, a verdict hailed by the Free Press Initiative as a victory for press freedom.

“This ruling reinforces our faith in the judiciary’s commitment to upholding press freedom and protecting journalists’ rights,” the statement read. “It also sends a strong message that attempts to intimidate and silence journalists through the courts will not be tolerated.”

FPI commended News Diggers for their courage in pursuing transparency and truth, celebrating the court’s decision as a victory for the rule of law and press freedom in Zambia.

The Death of Justice: How Bail Has Become a Political Weapon

By Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma

I have learned with a deep sense of sadness and outrage that Pastor Duncan Simuchimba’s appeal for bail has been rejected by the Kitwe Magistrate Court. This is not just another case of judicial proceedings. It is a glaring example of how justice in Zambia has been hijacked and turned into a tool of oppression against those seen as political threats.

Pastor Duncan Simuchimba’s crime? Speaking out against the demolition of market stalls at Kitwe’s Chisokone Market. He dared to stand with the struggling marketeers whose livelihoods were being destroyed. He raised his voice against the injustice of a government that claims to care for the people but instead leaves them in deeper suffering. For this, he was charged with “unlawful assembly” and sentenced to nine months in prison with hard labor.

This forced me to ask a painful question. Why is it that every individual jailed for political reasons is systematically denied their constitutional right to bail?

We have seen this before. Honorable Bowman Lusambo, Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba (GBM), Nickson Chilangwa, and Ronald Chitotela, just to mention a few, have all suffered the same fate. These are not isolated incidents. They reveal a disturbing pattern where the right to bail is not determined by law but by the political preferences of those in power.

A Judiciary Under Siege

In any true democracy, the judiciary is expected to function independently, free from political pressure. However, what is happening in Zambia today is nothing short of executive capture of the judiciary.

Why is it that opposition figures and government critics struggle to access a basic constitutional right while others with the right political connections seem to walk free, even when accused of far more serious offenses?

Pastor Simuchimba was not leading an armed rebellion. He was not plotting a coup. He was simply defending the weak and oppressed, just as any true leader of faith should. Yet, instead of being respected for his courage, he has been treated like a criminal.

Justice should never be selective. It should never be dictated by political affiliation. Yet, under this government, the scales of justice have been tilted, and the law is now being applied as a weapon to silence, intimidate, and destroy those who refuse to bow to the ruling party.

A Dangerous Road to Dictatorship

When bail, a fundamental legal right, becomes a privilege reserved only for those favored by the ruling elite, democracy is dead. Today, it is Pastor Duncan Simuchimba, Lusambo, GBM, Chilangwa, and Chitotela. Tomorrow, it could be any ordinary Zambian who dares to express dissent.

A nation where the judiciary serves the interests of the executive is no longer a democracy. It is an authoritarian state in disguise.

The message is clear. If you challenge the government, you will pay the price. If you speak for the poor, you will be silenced. If you demand justice, you will be thrown in jail.

If this government continues down this road, soon no Zambian will be safe from politically motivated persecution. Anyone who speaks out will risk being thrown in jail, denied bail, and left to rot simply because they dared to challenge those in power.

Zambians Must Wake Up

No government should fear an independent judiciary. No political leader should feel entitled to manipulate the courts to settle political scores. No citizen should be denied their constitutional rights based on their political stance.

Pastor Simuchimba is in prison today for speaking out against injustice. If we do not stand up now, tomorrow it will be someone else. And one day, it could be you.

Zambians must wake up before it is too late. Justice is not a privilege for the chosen few. It is a right for all. If we do not defend it now, soon we will have no justice system left to protect us at all.

UPND NEW MEDIA TEAM URGED TO UPHOLD TRANSPARENCY AND INTEGRITY

…carefully consider the broader implications of the ECL remarks on President Hichilema’s directives to LEAs says SHAKAFUSWA

Lusaka… Thursday March 6, 2025

Mr Ephraim Shakafuswa, a member of the Tonse Alliance Council of Leaders, has extended a warm welcome to the newly appointed members of the UPND New Media Team, urging them to approach their roles with a deep sense of responsibility.

He emphasized the significant influence they hold in shaping public discourse and encouraged them to uphold truth and integrity in their work.

Mr Shakafuswa highlighted the weight of the decisions made by the media team, cautioning that their words carry the power to shape Zambia’s political landscape.

He reminded them that their role was not merely about influencing narratives but about safeguarding the nation’s future through transparent and honest communication.

Reflecting on a recent statement by former President Edgar Lungu, Shakafuswa urged the team to carefully consider the broader implications of his remarks.

He stated that President Lungu’s concerns should not be dismissed as mere political rhetoric but should serve as a call to action for greater transparency, accountability, and good governance.

Mr Shakafuswa underscored that the former Head of State had expressed deep concerns regarding President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive to law enforcement agencies (LEAs) and the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) to limit the publicizing of investigations.

President Lungu had described this as “disturbing and worrisome,” arguing that it undermined the principles of good governance and political integrity as enshrined in Article 8 of the Republican Constitution.

During his administration, President Lungu ensured that the public was informed about investigations conducted by LEAs and the FIC.

He stated that transparency had been a core principle, allowing opposition leaders and civil society organizations to hold the government accountable.

President Lungu asserted that this openness had enabled his administration to make necessary amends where required.

However, Shakafuswa noted that President Lungu had raised concerns about the current administration’s handling of such matters, claiming that President Hichilema’s approach to suppressing investigative reports was troubling.

President Lungu had reportedly accused the Head of State of prioritizing investor confidence over public transparency, arguing that concealing information could undermine the country’s long-term stability.

Furthermore, former President Lungu had cited the case of the $3 billion illicit outflow reported by the FIC in 2024, which only came to light after US Ambassador Michael Gonzalez raised the issue.

According to President Lungu, the Zambian government’s failure to disclose this information earlier cast doubt on its commitment to fighting corruption.

In addition, President Lungu had criticized what he saw as inconsistencies in the current administration’s stance on corruption investigations.

He pointed out that while President Hichilema previously championed transparency as an opposition leader, he now sought to shield his ministers under investigation from public scrutiny, arguing that they had “integrity to protect.”

President Lungu urged Hichilema to strengthen LEAs and the FIC by enhancing their transparency and accountability instead of silencing them.

Meanwhile, Shakafuswa called on the UPND New Media Team to heed this message, emphasizing that their role extended beyond defending a political agenda.

He advised them to ensure that truth was never compromised for the sake of electoral gain.

He reminded them that their choices would shape Zambia’s future and determine how history would remember their tenure.

Drawing inspiration from leaders such as Nelson Mandela and Jacinda Ardern, Shakafuswa highlighted how transparent and principled leadership had strengthened nations in times of crisis.

He urged the media team to emulate such leaders by prioritizing the well-being of the country over short-term political victories.

In his concluding remarks, Shakafuswa implored the team to focus on facts and truth, arguing that transparency was essential in rebuilding trust, strengthening investor confidence, and ensuring Zambia’s prosperity.

He stressed that a commitment to integrity would serve as the foundation for a stronger and more accountable government that could stand the test of time.

A TALE OF TWO GOVERNMENTS: HOW PRESIDENT HAKAINDE HICHILEMA’S UPND IS TRANSFORMING ZAMBIA

By Timmy

As Zambia continues on its path to recovery and growth, it’s essential to reflect on the stark contrast between the previous government’s reign and the current UPND administration under President Hakainde Hichilema. The differences are an example of the president’s commitment to good governance, economic stability, and the well-being of the Zambian people.

The Previous Government’s Legacy of Mismanagement

If the previous government were still in power, Zambia’s economy would likely be in shambles. The exchange rate would have plummeted to $1-K60, making the cost of living unbearable for ordinary Zambians.¹ Corruption would have been rampant, with cadres collecting levies from markets and bus stations. The rule of law would have been disregarded, with police officers and civil servants disrespected by PF cadres.

The previous government’s mismanagement would have also led to:

• Limited Employment Opportunities: Only 1,000 teachers would have been employed, instead of the 30,000-plus teachers hired under the UPND government.
• Rampant Human Rights Abuses: Bloodshed, violence, and human rights abuses would have been the order of the day.
• Economic Instability: Zambia would have continued to default on debts while accumulating more, with no end in sight.
• Negative Global Perception: Zambia’s image on the global market would have remained tarnished.

The UPND Government’s Achievements

In stark contrast, President Hichilema’s UPND government has made significant strides in transforming Zambia. Some notable achievements include:

• Free Education and Substantial CDF Resources: The UPND government has introduced free education and increased the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) budget from K1.6 million to more than K28.3 million.
• Employment Opportunities: Over 30,000 teachers have been employed, along with 10,000 young people in graduate and internship programs.
• Economic Stability: Inflation has been reduced, and debt contraction is under control, with major investments from global powerhouses.
• Improved Global Perception: Zambia’s image on the global market has been restored, with improved diplomatic and financial relations with Western nations.

As Zambia continues to move forward under President Hichilema’s leadership, it’s clear that the country is on the path to prosperity and growth. The UPND government’s commitment to good governance, economic stability, and the well-being of the Zambian people is a standard of hope for a brighter future.

WAGON MEDIA