“EMMANUEL MWAMBA ‘s WEB OF DECEIT: A REBUTTAL TO HIS MISGUIDED ARTICLE”

By Timmy

Emmanuel Mwamba’s recent article, “Patricia Scotland Should Decline this Award and Must instead hold Hichilema Accountable,” is a desperate attempt to rewrite history and distract from President Hakainde Hichilema’s remarkable achievements. As a staunch critic of the President, Mwamba seems to have forgotten that the issues plaguing the Patriotic Front (PF) are a result of their own doing.

The 2021 election had one clear winner, President Hakainde Hichilema, and a sore loser, Edgar Lungu, who has failed to move on even after four years. Mwamba’s attempt to spin this narrative is nothing but a web of deceit.

Let’s set the record straight. President Hichilema has made significant strides in rebuilding the nation, despite inheriting a broken economy and a massive debt burden. Here are just a few examples:

– Decentralization: Power has been devolved from the central government to local authorities, resulting in tangible development projects such as schools, health centers, and maternity annexes.
– Free Education: President Hichilema reintroduced free education, bringing over 2 million children back to school.
– Employment Opportunities: The President has employed over 70,000 teachers, health workers, and military personnel in under three years.
– Social Cash Transfers: The government has implemented social safety nets to support vulnerable communities affected by drought.
– Revamping the Mining Sector: President Hichilema has successfully restored stability to the sector, resolving disputes and attracting billions of dollars in investment.

These achievements are an example of President Hichilema’s commitment to delivering on his promises. It’s no wonder that Patricia Scotland, Commonwealth Secretary-General, was awarded the Order of the Eagle of Zambia – 2nd Division by President Hichilema.

Mwamba’s claims of human rights abuses and restrictions on democratic space are baseless and misleading. The UPND government has made significant progress in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.

Emmanuel Mwamba’s article is a desperate attempt to distract from President Hichilema’s achievements and shift attention away from the PF’s own failures. We urge our readers to see through the misinformation and judge the UPND government on its record of delivery.

What do you think about President Hichilema’s achievements? Share your comments, likes, and shares to show your support for the UPND government’s efforts to rebuild Zambia.

WAGON MEDIA

OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema,

Can you say people were wrong to keep you in opposition for 25 years with this style of governance?

Mr President, it took 25 years for people to trust you with power. Unfortunately, you have betrayed the people’s trust in just 4 years of you being in power through broken promises. And if we say, were the people wrong not to vote for you all time you attempted to contest for presidency?

The answer is simply NO. The people were right. You haven’t done anything new that people can say we voted HH for this development. All you have done is taking the country aback. Loadshedding is in days now and not hours like in previous regimes. Mealie-meal prices, cooking oil and other essential commodities have skyrocketed under your watch. And we see nothing being done about it.

The economy is not something to talk about. Even your ministers and MPs can’t withstand a debate about the economy in Parliament, they run away. The only thing that you and your government have demonstrated time and again are lies or fake promises and people are fed up. You had all the time to correct the mistakes immediately you were voted in. But just like one prophet said that there’s a force within state house that controls Presidents. Indeed you quickly shifted your focus to ECL and his family.

It has been a game of vengeance from 2021 to date. While you fight ECL, the economy, the kwacha, fuel, and other things that matter to electorates are also busy fighting you. Debts have hooked us. And I don’t think even the Finance Minister can issue a true ministerial statement on debts. And if nothing tangible has been done to improve the livelihoods of the citizens at large, why do you want another term sir. Okay what should people vote for you?

Your ministers even the VEEP, have taken the people for granted. They always give stubborn answers in Parliament thinking its PF they are fighting without realising that even objective minds follow proceedings and are able to judge that they voted for failures.

We have seen unprecedented number of arrests for the opposition members. We have also seen unprecedented number of Presidential foreign trips without any tangible result the thing you condemned while in opposition. What has changed today Mr President?

1. Address Loadshedding Issue. No investor will come to invest in a dark country sir no matter  how you demonise past Presidents.
2. Address the issue of shrinking democratic space in all wings of government. No investor will come to a country where democracy is at crossroads.
3. Address the issue of debts. A highly indebted country is not a good destination for investors.

4. Address the Cost of Living. Citizens are crying. Others sleep on empty stomachs. Prices of commodities have become unbearable 😫.
5. Address unemployment among the youths.
6. Hospitals don’t have drugs.
7. Corruption is only fought outside. Fight corruption inside out sir.

Mr President sir, former President Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu is not your major opponent, hunger is as we go into the polls in 2026. You have tried your level best to fight political opponents and blocking them from contesting. Now try the same level best to arrest inflation in the country.

Time is not your best friend as we speak now.

Thank-you,
Elijah Tembo.

Is Laura Miti ‘s sycophantic support for Hichilema a result of her being partly Tonga?

By Osward Bwali(The Mast Newspaper)

Laura Miti has a long history in Zambian politics, even longer than that of Hakainde Hichilema’s. The Internet says of her: “Laura Miti has been associated with civil society in Zambian … society for more  than 25 years working in various roles and initiatives to strengthen governance systems. Refusing to be cowed by the attacks that female activists routinely receive, she has used first mainstream media, and more recently social media to publicly ask the accountability questions that the larger public whisper in private.” Although she probably wrote this about herself, to me, it is true, until now. 

I have known Laura for at least 20 years through her writings. I have not met her in person to acquaint myself directly without the filtered persona I get of her from her media engagements. When she writes that she previously engaged through mainstream media, what jumps to my mind is a column she ran in The Post newspaper, the precursor to The Mast. 

Miti has been an all-whether government critic. Chiluba, Mwanawasa, Sata, and Lungu were all at the receiving end of her abrasive criticism. Her firebrand approach against any government reflects well on her as a mentee of the late activist whom she refers to as “great Lucy Sichone”. I remember, as a young man, looking forward to her column. Her masterly of English and bravery were beyond reproach. Along the way, she has garnered many admirers, not just me. This is because she has mostly, until after the election of Hichilema, stood with the people by asking “the accountability questions that the larger public whisper in private.”

But since the ascension of Hichilema to power, she has become like the one whom the gods want to destroy – they first make mad. She has become the definition of flip-flop and inconsistency. Today, she’s indulging in crass sycophancy, tomorrow she’s usurped the government chief spokesperson, the next day she’s mildly attacking the government, usually with a sting in the tail for the Patriotic Front or the opposition. 

Miti’s attack on the opposition is the new norm while attacking the so-called New Dawn government is the exception. She treats her old followers to an occasional accountability check but her new lovers are now the UPND praise singers for whom she has bestowed herself as the choirmaster. She serenades them. They hung on and parrot her every word. In the absence of proper intellectual leadership in the party, they will settle for any pseudo-intellectualism that fills the gap, forming an ill-fated symbiosis. 

How do we explain Miti’s double-standards, her ambivalence, her vacillation, and her departure from the consistency she has shown across four presidents prior to Hichilema? I say four presidents because Miti hardly criticised Rupiah Banda. For some reason, she supported Banda big time and reserved her harshest criticism during the Banda years for Sata even when he was in opposition. Ethnicity explains the behaviour of most of her fellow praise singers or UPND defenders, like her colleague at the Human Rights Commission, Mweelwa Muleya. I am aware that one of Miti’s biological parents, her mother, is Tonga. Could it be that her sycophantic support for Hichilema is somewhat explained by her ethnic identity, her being partly Tonga? Could this be the reason why she hardly criticised Mazoka even before Hichilema succeeded the UPND founding president? Otherwise, how does one explain her zealot support for successive UPND presidents?

Kennedy Kamba has another explanation. Accusing Miti of being a UPND stooge, Kamba wondered, “Have you ever heard Ms. Miti saying anything good about anything that [the PF] Government has done? Have you ever heard her condemning the UPND for anything? This is what makes her operations as a leader of the CSO questionable.” With hindsight, Kamba made a rather wise observation. It is easy to see now. This is because, we are accustomed to activists attacking the government. 

So, we thought it was not Miti’s style to direct her missiles at the opposition. Now that her stance has totally changed with her firing nonstop missiles at the opposition, isn’t Kamba vindicated? She seems torn between double alter egos. The activist and the job seeker or mushanina bwali. This explains to some extent her apparent hypocrisy in praise of the UPND and condemnation of the opposition, a U-turn from the Miti we know or thought we knew. This is an epic self-inflicted entanglement from wanting to eat with both hands. She wants to maintain activist credentials while playing the role of a sycophantic supporter of Hichilema. 

When one is compromised, it is almost impossible to think or talk clearly. Since her entanglement, Miti blurts out incoherent gibberish, half-truths, and sheer falsehoods. Here are a few cases. 

In trying to substantiate her claims that The Post was poisonous and unethical, she said during a Diamond TV interview, “It was The Post that started the tribalism that we ended up with. It wasn’t the politicians. So, The Post became very anti-Tonga.” Such a strong statement goes completely without any support. Tribal politics in Zambia pre-date The Post by far. The schisms and cleavages we see now along ethnic lines are by and large a continuation from pre- and post- independence party and interparty politics. 

Shortly after independence, the likes of Simon Kapwepwe and Chanda Chimba complained about marginalisation of Bembas in Kenneth Kaunda’s UNIP government. How did The Post cause this? Let’s go to the claimed anti-Tonga project of The Post. When did this start? Did The Post incite Tongas to call the UPND cintu cesu? Did The Post cause Tonga politicians such as Syacheye Madyenkuku and Rex Natala to publicly declare that “Only a Tonga must succeed Mazoka” after the death of the UPND founding leader in May 2006? Or did the newspaper incite Ackson Sejani to declare that only a southerner should replace Mazoka? How can The Post be blamed for covering the views of Tonga politicians who stated that only one of their own must succeed Mazoka? And Did The Post determine the huge ethnic vote from Southern Province that the UPND received since its formation?  

Historian Giacomo Macola reports that Harry Nkumbula’s ANC wantonly engaged in ethnic politics. In a book titled One Zambia Many Histories, Macola wrote that “At the local level, the mobilization of regionalist [Bantu Botatwe] feelings passed through the expression of open hostility towards the Bemba and Bemba-speaking peoples with whom the formation of ZANC/UNIP was closely associated.” The ANC leadership used scare tactics that the lazy, and poor Bemba thieves were coming to steal their land, cattle, and women. 

Probably as a result, the ANC would score between 90% and 100% in Southern Province constituencies during elections against UNIP prior to the imposition of the one-party state in 1972. Where was The Post? Where was Fred M’membe? I am not talking about Bemba tribalism not because it did not or does not exist. My point is simply that in pointing out tribalism in the “New ANC”, The Post did not cause it. The rhetoric has not changed. Hichilema and other senior Tonga UPND leaders constantly make references to Bemba “cliques” that eat from government; thieving monkeys; suffering from poverty of the mind. In saying The Post caused tribalism, Miti was dangerously insincere or ignorant, as usual, pontificating cockiness in matters she may be poorly informed.  She was also trying to present or paint a picture of Fred M’membe, now a political opponent of her dearest Hichilema, as a bad person who hates Tongas.

Then, in trying to show Hichilema that she could be the ideal Minister of Information, Miti went totally berserk on Emmanuel Mwamba’s podcast. Of course, the praise team think she did a fantastic job. But it was pathetic. Miti does not see any politician around as economically astute as Hichilema. On Mwamba’s podcast, Miti said many things that defy logic, things aimed at presenting Hichilema as the best president ever. Things like: ‘Money was leaking during the PF. The state of the economy is better than it could have been under the PF.

People were getting rich overnight. We have free education, student allowances, employed teacher. The PF love to say how cheap things were when they left government. If HH had taken over from RB, this country would be paradise. The good thing about this president is that he does not come across as needing more money. Apart from Mwanawasa, every other president has had to build a house from presidential earnings.’ 

Basically, Miti was churning out UPND chorus and making it pass as thoughtful independent analysis. The interview lacked coherence, and strong claims went poorly supported where any semblance of support was advanced. Let me just very quickly address three claims. 

The first is about Hichilema’s house and wealth. Assuming he was as rich as Miti believes, what makes her think that he cannot steal, engage in shady deals, or make policies to advance his personal financial interest? Did all the other presidents really have no house? What of those who may legitimately think after all Hichilema built his house from fraudulent conduct during privatisation? What makes her go out of her way to canonise this president?

The second claim is about the economy being better than it would have been under PF. This is her pure fantasy. Many reasonable people think Hichilema is economically at sea, recklessly splashing CDF money.

The third is that Hichilema is a consummate corporate manager who just appointed incompetent people. Isn’t someone who appoints incompetent people himself incompetent? How does a supposedly competent person appoint or maintains incompetent officials? Let me just say that Miti will come back to eat her own words when she finds out her faith in Hichilema was naïve and infantile. 

When Miti is providing checks and balances, she’s good. When she wants to eat with both hands, she entraps herself in inconsistences that make her look like a clown in cheap costume. Her credibility has tumbled. But even if she cannot regain it completely, making amends now would at least help salvage her currently dented name. After all, it is how we end that matters.

The Weight of Money: Inflation, Honesty, and the Fate of the Kwacha

By Dr Mwelwa

Dr. Steve Hanke, an economist of international repute, has stirred the waters of Zambia’s economic discourse with his claim that the true inflation rate stands at a staggering 47% per year—four times higher than the official figures. His assertion cuts deep, for it suggests not just a miscalculation but a misalignment between lived reality and official pronouncements. It is said among the elders that “a man who hides his wounds will only make them fester.” If Zambia’s economic managers are to guide the nation wisely, they must first be honest with themselves.

The recent introduction of higher-denomination notes, particularly the K200 and K500, raises pertinent economic questions. To the untrained eye, it may seem like a practical measure—one of convenience, a response to the wear and tear of existing notes. But to those who read the language of money, the arrival of bigger notes is often a whisper of inflation’s roar. It signals a quiet admission that smaller denominations are losing relevance, their purchasing power diminished by the silent but relentless tide of rising prices.

Currency is a mirror to a nation’s economy. When a nation prints larger notes, it is akin to a man needing bigger baskets to carry the same harvest—it is rarely a sign of bounty, but rather an indication that the weight of necessity has increased. Money, after all, is not merely paper; it is trust, it is stability, it is the promise that what you hold today will still hold value tomorrow. When the people sense that this promise is wavering, they adjust their behaviors accordingly—hoarding dollars, speculating on goods, distrusting the very medium through which trade flows.

The wisdom of our ancestors tells us that “when termites eat the granary from within, it collapses in silence.” The challenge in Zambia today is not just about currency redesign but about the deeper termites of economic mismanagement, fiscal deficits, and policy inconsistencies. Inflation does not rise in isolation—it is a symptom of excess liquidity, poor monetary discipline, and structural weaknesses that allow external shocks to shake the foundations of the economy.

The response to these challenges must be more than cosmetic. Changing banknotes without addressing the underlying economic imbalances is like painting a cracked wall without fixing the foundation. It is here that wisdom must reign over pride, for no leader, no matter how learned, can know everything. We hire advisors to learn from them, yet too often in Africa, leaders despise wisdom from anthills because they see themselves as mountains. True leadership listens, adjusts, and acts with clarity, for “a wise man does not test the depth of a river with both feet.”

To stabilize the Kwacha and rein in inflation, Zambia must embrace policies that restore confidence. Industrial productivity must be the engine that drives currency stability, not mere monetary gymnastics. The country must earn more than it borrows, produce more than it consumes, and manage its debt with prudence. The Bank of Zambia, instead of merely issuing new notes, must ensure that money supply growth aligns with economic output. The exchange rate must be defended with real economic strength, not just temporary interventions.

History teaches us that no nation prints its way to prosperity. If it were so, Zimbabwe and Venezuela would be among the world’s wealthiest. True economic growth comes from the sweat of industry, the discipline of fiscal management, and the trust of the people in their institutions. Without this trust, money becomes nothing more than decorated paper.

Let us be clear: the road to stability is not an easy one. It requires sacrifices, hard decisions, and, most importantly, honesty. As our elders remind us, “the one who tells you the truth is not your enemy.” If Zambia is to navigate these turbulent waters, it must heed the wisdom of both local elders and global economists alike. For in the end, it is not the size of the currency that defines a nation’s prosperity, but the strength of its economy and the wisdom of its leadership.

TAKEAWAYS FROM PRESIDENT HICHILEMA’S PARLIAMENT SPEECH

By Whitney Mulobela

Anchored on the National Values and Principles, as outlined in the Republican Constitution, today’s speech by President Hichilema reflects a government working tirelessly to build a more united and prosperous Zambia.

Some takeaways;

Morality and Ethics: Upholding Standards

• The President has demonstrated resolute leadership in addressing societal challenges— sensitizing 4 million citizens on alcohol and substance abuse, apprehending thousands involved in illicit drug trade, and ensuring girls rescued from early marriages return to education.
• His firm stance on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and cybercrimes underscores a critical message: it is incumbent upon all Zambians to report such acts and foster a society grounded in ethical conduct.
Patriotism and Unity: Strengthening National Identity

• The President’s exhortation to honor our national symbols and curb vandalism reflects a deep commitment to patriotism. The remarkable doubling of local tourism to 326,929 visitors in 2024 through the ‘Take a Holiday Yamu Loko’ initiative is a triumph of national pride.

• From the dedication of volunteers to the inspiring ‘Zambia Ku Chalo’ ethos of our sports ambassadors, the call is clear: unity and sacrifice are the bedrock of our progress.

Democracy and Constitutionalism: Safeguarding Freedoms
• Under President Hichilema’s administration, democratic freedoms flourish—no media outlets have been shuttered, with 188 radio stations and 66 television channels now operational.
– Inviting the UN Rapporteur exemplifies unprecedented transparency. As the President said it is just a shame it didn’t happen under the old administration.

• Peaceful by-elections and expanded voter registration affirm that political engagement can unite us.
Equity and Dignity: Empowering All Citizens

• The enhanced Constituency Development Fund, at K36.1 million per constituency, is delivering transformative infrastructure—schools, health facilities, and roads—restoring dignity across communities.
• Free education has returned over 2 million learners to classrooms, with 4.7 million now benefiting from school meals.
– The story of Dorothy Kamanisha, resuming school at 42, is an inspiring example and symbolises the President’s inclusive vision.

Governance and Integrity: Building Trust

• The fight against corruption is yielding tangible results—convictions, asset recoveries, and an improved Corruption Perception Index for the first time in a decade, now ranking 92 out of 180 nations.

• Innovations such as the Citizens’ Support Services Portal and 321 online services enhance accessibility, demonstrating a commitment to transparent and responsive public administration.
Sustainable Development: Securing Resilience

• In response to unprecedented drought, the President has championed water harvesting, smart agriculture—adopted by 1.1 million farmers—and renewable energy projects like Mpidi Solar and Kasanjiku Hydro, ensuring rural electrification.
Closing Appeal
• This address is more than a report—it is a charge to every Zambian to uphold our values, work diligently, and unite in purpose. The President has laid a robust foundation; it is now our duty to build upon it.

ZAMBIA AND TANZANIA CALL FOR CEASEFIRE IN DRC

Zambia and Tanzania have called on the warring parties in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to agree on a ceasefire and cease hostilities.

The two countries are concerned about the deteriorating security situation in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In a communique issued at the just-ended 3rd Session of the Zambia – Tanzania Joint Permanent Commission held in Livingstone from 24th to 28th February 2025, the two countries commended the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) for convening the first-ever Joint Summit of Heads of State and Government on 8th February 2025 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, aimed at restoring peace and stability and finding a lasting solution in the DRC.

The Commission echoed calls for a ceasefire by the warring parties and dialogue by all stakeholders to find an amicable solution to the prevailing conflict.

The Commission affirmed its support to the efforts by the SADC Organ Troika on Politics, Defence and Security Co-operation, noting that the United Republic of Tanzania was the Chairperson, while the Republic of Zambia was the Outgoing Chairperson.

The five-day Joint Permanent Commission also reviewed matters of security interest, especially transnational organized crimes, including smuggling, illegal migration, terrorism, human and drug trafficking, as well as cyber security.

The commission also looked at other security matters such as the weaponisation of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and space assets, and the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, which has remained a source of concern.

In this regard, the Commission agreed to continue cooperating and devising new strategies aimed at addressing these security threats and other vulnerabilities.

The Zambian delegation was led by Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwiimbu, accompanied by Acting Minister of Defence  Douglas Siakalima, Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu, Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security Acting Permanent Secretary Mr. Goodson Sinyenga and Zambia’s High Commissioner to Tanzania Mathews Jere.

The Tanzanian delegation was led by the Minister of Defence and National Service Hon. Dr. Stergomena Tax, MP, accompanied by Deputy Minister of Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development Geophrey Pinda, Ministry of Defence and National Service Permanent Secretary Faraji Mnyepe, Ministry of Home Affairs Deputy Permanent Secretary Maduhu Kazi, Ministry of Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development Deputy Permanent Secretary Lucy Kabyemera and Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Zambia Lt Gen Mathew Mkingule.

“Fellow Zambians both at home and abroad,

Today, I woke up to screaming headlines in Zambia that my brother, President Hakainde Hichilema, has directed Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) to work quietly because publicizing cases damages investor confidence. This grabbed my attention because President Hichilema wants the LEAs to be mute and trash the principles of transparency and accountability.

This is very disturbing and worrisome because it undermines the tenets of good governance and political integrity under Article 8 of our Republican Constitution. During my administration, we allowed LEAs and the Financial Intelligence Centre, commonly known as FIC, to publicise the cases they were working on. Our reasoning was simple: we believed the public had the right to know how their resources were being utilized or abused in order to combat corruption. This is a standard practice in all functional elective democracies across the world.

Under my leadership, our transparency with information from LEAs and FIC is what helped my brother, as an opposition leader then, civil society organizations and all Zambians to routinely criticize my administration.  We didn’t mind this criticism because it allowed us to make amends where necessary in the spirit of political integrity, accountability and credible governance.

Today, it is shocking that President Hichilema is concerned about investor confidence and wants LEAs and FIC to sweep information from their investigations under the carpet.  I am now wondering whether or not my brother cared about investor confidence back then, or he was just more interested in looking for what could work against us and win him votes for political power?

The truth, however, is that my brother is not worried about the investor confidence. It is the ever rising cases of corruption and suscipicious transactions in his administration under his watch that he is worried about and want to conceal. Therefore, it is his new approach of silencing LEAs and the FIC, and stopping investigations into high-profile cases that is going to worsen investor confidence and that of the international community, which he desperately needs.

So in the interest of transparency and accountability, I challenge my brother, President Hichilema, to explain to the Zambians what he has done about the US $3 billion illicit outflow of funds reported by FIC just in 2024. This is a lot of money for the President to remain mute about. We only got to know about these illicit funds after the US Ambassador to Zambia, His Excellency Michael Gonzalez, raised the red flag.

By the way, we have not forgotten that in line with President Hichilema’s directive to LEAs, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) HAS CONFIRMED investigations BUT REFUSED to name a number of ministers and other high profile individuals under probe “in order to protect their intergrity” during the course of the investigations.

I recall that during my time in office, my brother was in the forefront not only in calling for the publication of such investigations but also demanded that such ministers under probe be suspended or even fired.

Interestingly, today, this same brother of mine is saying his ministers being investigated by the ACC and other LEAs must not be named because they have integrity to protect and also for his administration to secure investor confidence. These ministers have continued to work without him suspending them. Some of them he even cleared them of the corruption allegations. Remember the calendar and diary carrying minister?

In conclusion, I would like to urge President Hichilema to strengthen LEAs and FIC by making them more transparent, accountable, and responsive to the Zambian people, rather than silencing them. The President must support LEAs and FIC to expose and freely report corruption cases and suspicious transactions in the agriculture, mining, energy, defence, education and health sectors, among others.

This is what will rebuild the waning investor confidence in Zambia! Not the hush-hush approach on the LEAs and FIC.”

Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu
Sixth President of the Republic of Zambia,
PF President and Tonse Alliance Chairman.

PUMULO MUBITA DISMISSES MAST NEWSPAPER’S ALLEGATIONS AGAINST PRESIDENT HICHILEMA AS “BASELESS AND MALICIOUS”

By vashary muleya Lusaka, Zambia 
27 February,2025.

The Kafulafuta UPND Presidential Campaign Team has come out strongly against the Mast Newspaper Company, dismissing recent allegations against President Hakainde Hichilema as false and misleading.

According to a statement released by the team’s media director, Pumulo Mubita, the allegations suggest that President Hichilema directed the Zambia Statistics Agency (ZamStats) to falsify statistics about the 2022 Census of Population and Housing.

Specifically, the allegations claim that the President ordered the reduction of the number of Bembas and the inflation of the number of Tongas. The campaign team takes strong exception to these claims, urging the newspaper to provide evidence to support their allegations.

The team emphasizes that the Zambia Statistics Agency is an independent institution that operates based on scientific methods and professional standards. Any attempts to manipulate or falsify data would be unacceptable, and the agency’s independence is guaranteed by the Constitution of Zambia.

The campaign team believes that these allegations are part of a broader campaign to discredit President Hichilema and the ruling party. “We stand by President Hichilema’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance,” the statement reads.

In contrast, the Mast Newspaper allegations are based on hearsay and speculation. The newspaper has failed to provide any credible evidence to support its claims, and its reporting has been characterized by bias and sensationalism.

The implications of the Mast Newspaper  allegations are serious. If true, they would suggest that President Hichilema is involved in a conspiracy to manipulate the census data for political gain. However, the campaign team asserts that these allegations are false and urges the newspaper to retract its claims and apologize to the President and the people of Zambia.

In conclusion, the Kafulafuta Presidential Campaign Team rejects the Mast Newspaper Company’s allegations as false and misleading, urging the newspaper to provide evidence to support its claims and to uphold journalistic standards.

(C) KFT -PCT UPND MEDIA

President Hakainde Hichilema Must Know That Lies Are Not Sustainable

By Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma

Lies are like pregnancy—at first, they can be hidden, but as time passes, the truth becomes impossible to conceal. A young woman who is one month pregnant may try to deny it when asked, but by the fourth or fifth month, the evidence will be clear for all to see. In the same way, President Hakainde Hichilema can continue to spin lies to cover up his failures, but eventually, the truth will expose him.

While on his state visit to the nation of Egypt, President Hichilema made a bold and misleading claim—that he has managed to open mines that six presidents before him failed to. He made it seem as though his intervention was the deciding factor when, in reality, the reopening of these mines had nothing to do with his leadership but rather with the conclusion of legal battles that began years before he took office.

The Kalengwa Mine Deception

One glaring example is Kalengwa Mine in Mufumbwe District. President Hichilema has boasted that he personally facilitated its reopening. But the truth is far from his claims:

The mine has been the subject of court battles since 2007.

The case finally concluded at the Supreme Court, meaning the legal process—not Hichilema—brought the matter to a close.

The mine was previously an asset of the state, and its reopening was a natural legal outcome, not a political victory.

Yet, instead of telling Zambians and the international community the truth, Hichilema is exaggerating his role, taking credit where none is due, and misleading the public into believing that he is the one who solved the issue.

The Lies Surrounding Luanshya Mines

A similar pattern of deception can be seen with Luanshya Mines. President Hichilema conveniently ignores his own involvement in keeping the mine closed for years.

His firm, Grant Thornton, played a role in the sale of the mine, and the process that followed resulted in a prolonged closure.

The current Deputy Chief Justice, Michael Musonda, SC, was also involved in legal negotiations over the sale of the mine’s assets.

Despite his past involvement, Hichilema now acts as though he is the savior of Luanshya Mines when, in fact, he was part of the reason it remained closed.

This pattern of manipulating facts and twisting history is dangerous. It creates a false narrative where the government claims victories that it never won, while the real issues remain unsolved.

Why Does President Hichilema Lie?

The real question is: Why does he feel the need to lie? The answer is simple—his government is failing, and he needs distractions.

The economy is in crisis—food prices, fuel costs, and electricity tariffs are crippling ordinary Zambians.

Unemployment is skyrocketing—young people, promised jobs, are now drowning in hopelessness.

Zambia’s debt crisis remains unresolved—and deals with foreign interests raise fears of neocolonial control.

With so many failures mounting, Hichilema has chosen to cover them up with lies. But just like a pregnancy, the truth cannot be hidden forever.

The Truth Will Catch Up With Him

History has shown that leaders who rely on deception are eventually exposed. The longer Hichilema continues to lie, the greater the backlash will be when Zambians finally see through his tricks.

He must remember:

Lies do not change reality.

Propaganda does not solve economic problems.

False promises do not put food on people’s tables.

If Hakainde Hichilema truly wants to lead Zambia toward progress, he must abandon deception and start facing the truth. Otherwise, his presidency will be remembered not for achievements but for dishonesty, betrayal, and the suffering he inflicted on the people who once trusted him.

Esther was in South Africa not America for husband’s health not asylum – lawyer

FORMER First Lady’s lawyer, Charles Changano has refuted claims going round social media that her client Esther Lungu traveled to the United States for an asylum.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15P9prVhDb/?mibextid=oFDknk

Changano in an interview with #Kalemba said Esther was not in America but in South Africa taking care of her husband, former President Edgar Lungu receiving medical treatment.

He said the defence team brought her to court deliberately to remove the notion that she was in America.

Esther appeared at the Lusaka Magistrate court on February 26, for mention in a case she is accused of three counts of theft of Motor vehicle and theft of certificate of title.

However, she was not in company of her husband who always accompanied her to court.

“Esther Lungu appeared for mention, but even though she appeared the court gave her a mention in absentia, we allowed her to be present at the courts to clear the notion from the Zambian people that she is present and didn’t seek any asylum anywhere,” Changano said.

“It is not true that she went to seek asylum, she went to South Africa to help the husband in medication.” He said.

In this matter, Esther, 66, is jointly charged with two police officers, James Phiri, 49, Lee Chisulo, 31, and Kapembwa Lungu, and Catherine Banda, all are residents of Lusaka.

It is alleged in count one that Esther, Phiri, Chisulo, Lungu and Banda on unknown dates but between August 9, 2021 and September 30, 2022 in Lusaka, jointly and whilst acting together, stole a motor vehicle namely a Mitsubishi Canter Registration number BAV 5282 valued at K320,000.00 the property of Elizabeth Change Phiri.

In count two and three, it is alleged that all accused persons on unknown dates but between August 9, 2021 and September 30, 2022 in Lusaka, jointly and whilst acting together, stole a motor vehicle, namely a Toyota Runnex Registration number BLA 9772 valued at K110,000.00 and Toyota Allex Registration number BAV 3986 valued at K110,000.00 the property of Furhana Patel.

Trial continues on March 24, 2025

By Lucy Phiri

Kalemba February 28, 2025

“CHUNGA GOLD RUSH CHAOS”

Call it a modern-day gold rush but with a twist of chaos and comedy. What started as an innocent request for a hoe ended in a wild chase as suspected illegal miners fled the scene of a surprise “mining operation” along a gravel road in Chunga.

According to the Matero Police Station, a 69-year-old resident of Lilanda Site Five filed a report at 21:00 hours on February 26, 2025. The baffled woman told officers that earlier that day, around 13:00 hours, a mystery man and woman appeared at her doorstep, requesting a hoe to “dig for minerals.”

Yes, you read that right — minerals.

After she refused, the pair simply shrugged, crossed the yard to a neighbor’s house, borrowed a hoe without hesitation, and began hacking away at the gravel road like they were on the verge of striking gold.

The unusual scene quickly drew the attention of young men and women from the neighborhood. What started with two determined “miners” turned into a full-blown excavation party by 19:00 hours — complete with curious onlookers, hopeful diggers, and plenty of confusion.

By 20:00 hours, the crowd had grown, and so had the holes in the road as if the whole area was preparing to unearth a hidden treasure chest.

But the fun was cut short when Matero Police officers arrived. Upon spotting the flashing blue lights, the self-appointed miners didn’t stick around to explain their business plan they dropped the hoe and bolted like sprinters at the Olympics.

“By the time we arrived, all we found were large holes in the gravel road and a few abandoned digging tools. The suspects fled immediately,” said Zambia Police Public Relations Officer Rae Hamoonga.

The police quickly secured the scene, and Ministry of Mines officials were called in to collect samples and identify the so-called “minerals” that had sparked the bizarre frenzy.

In a stern yet bemused tone, Hamoonga urged the public to steer clear of such reckless behavior.

“We understand the excitement about minerals, but digging up public roads without permission is not only illegal it’s downright dangerous,” he said. “If there’s gold under Chunga, the Ministry of Mines will handle it not a group of unsanctioned, hoe-wielding residents.”

The Zambia Police Service has reminded citizens that illegal mining poses serious safety risks and legal consequences.

“We encourage anyone who notices suspicious activities to report them to the nearest police station not to join in with shovels,” Hamoonga added, half-jokingly.

February 27, 2025
©️ KUMWESU

ONLY 4 ARTISTS WILL FEATURE YO MAPS IN 2025 AT 155,000 KWACHA EACH SAYS DJ KANDEKE

Scrumble for spots as top Zambian music export Yo Maps offers only four feature spots in 2025 at a controversial price

Today, February 25th, 2025 – Through a social media post, singer Yo Maps’ manager took to his Facebook to give an announcement that has caused a frenzy on Zambian social media. The ‘international manager’ said, his artist will only be accepting to feature on four songs at 5,500 USD (which is equivalent to 155,156.60 Zambian Kwacha at today’s exchange rate of 28.23 Kwacha/USD).

The artist’s record label Olios Records, shared a statement concerning the matter. It said the moved was made with the intention to ensure that the music released is of the highest quality and standard. The reduced amount of work will give the artist more time to work on each project to perfection.

The services of the singer have been rising this has been attributed to his growing influence over past years. Last year on February, 2024, the singer shared his rate card which was showing that an artist required 2,000 USD for audio and 1,000 USD for the video cummulating to 3,000 USD. Despite the increase not showing whether it includes audio and video, it shows a 45.45% increase from how much an artist needed to feature Yo Maps on a full project.

The singer through his manager, earlier this year, announced that it would cost event organisers 255,000 Zambian Kwacha to higher the singer’s services in 2024. The announcements have been generalized hence may apply to international business.

Many social users are divided on these announcements as they wondered if local artists and show promoters will be able to afford his services. Most Zambian artists barely make enough money as their source of income is mainly through shows. According to insider reports, event promoters rarely pay over 20,000 Zambia Kwacha for an event. Others feel the artist is charging what he is worth.

In a recent live video, the artist talked of how artists he gave free songs which became successful betrayed him and this move seems to be somewhat centered at reducing such instances. Despite this, the move will most likely disadvantage up and coming artist’s who genuinely need assistance.

A collaboration with the singer would expose the artist to his over 2.5 million social media followers. This influence combined with his infections vocals sets the artist to be propelled into fame which only their consistency after that will keep them afloat.

The fact remains that, the artist despite of how features may be beneficial when a song becomes an internet and commencial success – he’ll be only taking four and all eyes are on the artist who will make that investment.

Well for an artist who produces a song in one night and gets over 2 million YouTube views in a month (Yo Maps’ Dandy Krazy Tribute Song), it might be a worthy move. For now we wait and see, and we will be sure to let you know!

READ MORE: ZEDIFYONLINE.COM