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I can’t stay with one, I need 2 women, Lusaka man insists on marrying widowed sidechick

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I can’t stay with one, I need 2 women, Lusaka man insists on marrying widowed sidechick

A 35-YEAR-OLD man of Lusaka’s Kabanana Compound has lost his wife of 13 years due to his inability to choose between his widowed side chick and her



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Felix Mukuka a builder aged 35 was first sued by his wife, Josphine Mukuka, a business lady also of Kabanana compound for marriage reconciliation in the Matero Local court on Wednesday, stating that her husband had packed all his belongings from their matrimonial house to join his side chick in Makeni, who is a widow with three children.


The couple has been married since 2012 and have three children together.

Josphine said that she discovered about her husband’s extra marital affair after his support at home suddenly reduced. He stopped paying rentals for five months, and their children would not receive any support, let alone be fed.



She said despite finding out, she still forgave him and hoped they could go back to being a happy family, not until he told her that he was not ready to leave his side chick and that he intended on marrying the widow to pave way for a polygamous marriage.

It seems Felix wanted to extract everything good that the late side chick’s  husband left, and was generous enough to become a step father to three children on top of the three he couldn’t provide for.



Unfortunately for him, Josephine was not ready to be a Mai Guru at her age.

“I’m not ready to be in a polygamous marriage, I have tried to do all that I can in my powers to make this marriage work but my husband doesn’t want. His side chick stopped him from eating and bathing from my house, so one day, he just returned home, parked all his clothes and shifted to her place. We even have rental arrears now since August last year.*


“He would only leave me with a K50 everyday for our home and a bag of mealie meal. So if he couldn’t provide for one family, how will he manage to provide for two? I love my husband so much but I will not stay in a polygamous marriage at this age. We sat down in meetings with both families and he still insisted he wanted to marry the woman. That is why I came to court, but if he still insists, I will have no option but to leave him,” said Josphine.


Meanwhile, Felix told the court that he still loved Josephine, but that among the four chambers in his heart, he also found space for the widow who he equally loved.

“This reconciliation will only be possible if she accepts to be in a polygamous marriage, but since she has refused, then we cant reconcile,” Felix told the court.


Magistrate Harriet Mulenga then passed judgement on the reconciliation which failed, and advised the aggrieved party to sue for divorce.

Following the advice, Josephine, sued for a divorce which was heard on the same day.

In the divorce case, Felix had a warning for her which shocked the entire court room.



“Since we are separating, I want her to retrieve the words she said that the woman I’m with will not see good if she continues with me, and she should never say any bad word about her in her life ever again,” Felix warned the mother of his three children.

And for Josephine her submission to the court was that she remains with her children as she may not know how another woman would keep them for her, something her husband objected to.


“Indeed, you never loved this woman. Your love for her drained a long time ago, because those cannot be your last words to the woman you have been with for 13 years. How do you trust a side chick over your own wife, you don’t know what killed your friend and still you want to marry her… it may also bite you,” said Magistrate Mulenga as she upheld the divorce.

The Magistrate ordered Felix to compensate his wife with K15,000, the custody of the children was given to the wife, and to be maintained with K1,500 monthly.


The couple’s plot in 10 miles was given to the wife and the children while the vehicle, a Corolla was given to the husband.

By Buumba Mwitumwa

Kalemba January 10, 2024

2025 SADC MEDIA AWARDS COMPETITION LAUNCH IN ZAMBIA

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2025 SADC MEDIA AWARDS COMPETITION LAUNCH IN ZAMBIA

2025 SADC MEDIA AWARDS COMPETITION LAUNCH IN ZAMBIA

Today, Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana officially launched the 2025 SADC Media Awards competition.

Highlights from the press briefing;



✅️All practicing journalists in Zambia are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity by competing in this prestigious regional media competition.

CATEGORIES AVAILABLE FOR COMPETITION

✅️ Photo Journalism: This category recognises excellence in photography that tells a story about SADC and its activities.


✅️Print Journalism: This category recognises excellence in writing and reporting about SADC and its activities.

✅️Television Journalism: This category recognizes excellence in television reporting and production about SADC and its activities.

✅️Radio Journalism: This category recognizes excellence in radio reporting and production about SADC and its activities.



✅️A panel of independent judges will adjudicate the entries, using the following criteria;

i. Relevance to regional integration themes.
ii. Quality of writing, broadcasting, or photography.
iii.  Impact and reach of the entry.
iv. Adherence to professional ethics and standards.



✅️The first prize winner in each category receives US$2,500 whilst the runner-up receives US$1,000.

BENEFITS

✅️Participating in SADC media awards provides an opportunity for individual journalists to;
i. Showcase their work and skills to a regional audience.
ii. Gain recognition and credibility in their field.


iii. Network with other journalists and media professionals from across the region.
iv. Enhance their knowledge and understanding of regional issues and developments.

✅️At institutional level, participating in the SADC media awards and engaging in regional reporting can;


i. Enhances the reputation and credibility of media houses.
ii. Provide opportunities for media houses to expand their coverage and reach a wider audience.
iii. Foster collaboration and partnerships between media houses and institutions across the region.


✅️And at national level, participating in SADC media awards and engaging in regional reporting can;
i. promotes a better understanding of regional issues and developments among the general public.
ii. Foster a sense of regional identity and citizenship.


iii. Enhance the country’s reputation and credibility within the region.
iv. provide opportunities for the country to showcase its contributions and achievements to the SADC region.


✅️Journalists can obtain more information and entry forms from the department of Press and Media Development at Ministry of Information and Media.

✅️Completed forms, with all required information typed-in and must be submitted by 28th February 2025.


SADC Media Awards were established in 1996 and its main aim is to recognise and reward excellence in journalism that promotes regional integration, cooperation, and development within the Southern African Development Community (SADC)

ZESCO RECORDS INCREASE IN PROPERTY LOSES

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ZESCO RECORDS INCREASE IN PROPERTY LOSES

ZESCO RECORDS INCREASE IN PROPERTY LOSES

Despite the measures put in place to combat security threats, ZESCO Limited has continued to record an increase in property losses, with the latest figures showing a sharp rise in December.


ZESCO spokes person Matongo Maumbi said the company reported a total of K7,457,538.99 in property losses for the month, up from K5,701,599.15 in November.

He said the escalation in losses is a cause for concern, as it not only affects the company’s bottom line but also compromises the reliability of the electricity supply to consumers.


Mr Maumbi has also stressed that theft remains the biggest challenge, with 1,078 cases recorded in December, primarily involving stolen service cables. While vandalism cases showed a slight improvement, dropping by 15% to 220, the overall number of security-related cases increased to 1,328, up from 1,278 in November.

ZESCO’s intensified security efforts have led to the recovery of assets worth K877,672.30, the arrest of 61 individuals, and 11 convictions.


However, the human cost of these security breaches was tragically highlighted by the incident in Mufulira, where A YOUNG MAN IN MUFULIRA WAS FATALLY ELECTROCUTED while attempting to steal a live conductor from a power line.

Mr Maumbi said such incidents not only result in the loss of life but also disrupt the electricity supply, causing inconvenience to consumers and undermining the country’s economic activities.


He added that ZESCO has repeatedly warned the public about the risks of interfering with electricity installations, but unfortunately, some individuals continue to engage in such reckless behavior.


Mr Maumbi said the company commends the vigilance and cooperation of community members who have played a critical role in reporting suspicious activities, which has significantly contributed to the prevention of further losses and ensured accountability.


“The company will continue to work tirelessly to prevent security breaches and protect the nation’s electricity infrastructure. We appeal to the public to join us in this effort by reporting any suspicious activities and avoiding interference with electricity installations”, he concluded.

Mozambique tense as opposition leader returns from exile

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Mozambique tense as opposition leader returns from exile

Mozambique’s opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane has returned home from exile where he has been in hiding following October’s disputed presidential election that sparked deadly protests.

Mondlane landed at the main airport in the capital, Maputo, on Thursday morning amid tension and heavy security, with thousands of people having gathered to welcome him.

He said he was returning to be closer to the protest movement that has seen weeks of nationwide demonstrations in which dozens of people have been killed.

His return comes ahead of next week’s swearing-in as president of Daniel Chapo, of the ruling Frelimo party, who was confirmed as the winner of October’s poll by the constitutional court.

After having emerged from the airport building, video shows Mondlane kneeling on the ground with a Bible in his hand being cheered by supporters.

He began to pray and swore to serve the people of Mozambique as the president elected by the people and not by a court.

In his first comments Mondlane said that he was ready to talk about how to resolve the tension over the disputed poll, which he says was stolen from him.

“I’m here in the flesh to say that if you want to negotiate… I’m here,” he said.

Mondlane has been organising protests through broadcasts on Facebook, but over the weekend announced his impending return, saying they “don’t need to chase me anymore”.

In a defiant message he said: “If [the authorities] want they can kill me, but the fight will continue”.

Ahead of his landing, the airport was heavily guarded with police officers trying to prevent Mondlane’s supporters from reaching the area.

Roads leading to the airport were blocked with security forces restricting people from getting to the airport unless they had a ticket for a flight.

Tear gas was fired on crowds in the area and snipers were positioned on buildings nearby, the Reuters news agency reports.

Mondlane said his return was “a unilateral decision” that did not result from any political agreement.

He maintains he won the election and has previously said he would install himself as president on 15 January.

The final official results from the constitutional court two weeks ago gave Chapo 65% of the vote and Mondlane 24%.

Since the October election, waves of protests have left more than 270 people including protesters, children and members of the security forces dead, according to rights groups.- BBC

Nelson Mandela’s Grandson Arrested With Three Others For Carjacking

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Nelson Mandela’s Grandson Arrested With Three Others For Carjacking

Four suspects, including the late Nelson Mandela’s grandson, were apprehended earlier today. Authorities recovered a suspected hijacked vehicle at Mandela’s historic Houghton residence, located in Sandton, Johannesburg.

Details of Mbuso Mandela’s Arrest
The grandson, Mbuso, is entangled in a case that has captured national attention. This case not only underscores concerns about public safety but also highlights the deteriorating state of a once-iconic family property.

According to police reports, the vehicle in question was hijacked the previous evening in Benoni. Reports suggest the perpetrators retained possession of the car while the driver was still inside. Although details about the driver’s condition remain unclear, it has been confirmed that he is currently filing a hijacking case at a police station in Ekurhuleni.

The Decline of Mandela’s Houghton Residence
Reports reveal that the Mandela residence has suffered significant neglect since Mandela’s grandchildren vacated the property. The decline began after the City of Johannesburg cut off electricity services due to unpaid municipal bills, reportedly surging from R15,000 to R50,000 per month.

Disputes Within the Mandela Family
Mbuso Mandela, one of the former president’s grandchildren, once voiced frustration over what he perceives as mismanagement of the estate. Speaking to the media, Mbuso accused certain trustees of the Nelson Mandela Trust of colluding to neglect the property, potentially paving the way for its eventual sale.

“There is a lot of collusion happening between the trustees and the executor of the estate. Everybody knows that if you sit on the board of a trust, you get a stipend for maintaining the trust. I believe these guys are working together to ensure that the maintenance of this house does not happen.”

ALSO READ: Munhumutapa Day: Govt Spokesperson Nick Mangwana Clears the Air on New Public Holiday in 2025

Efforts to Restore Mandela’s Legacy
Amid the ongoing controversies and legal battles, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has pledged to restore the Houghton residence. Recognizing the historical and cultural significance of the property, Lesufi emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of South Africa’s most revered leader.

Adding to these efforts, philanthropist Collen Mashawana, through his foundation, has stepped forward to also offer renovation assistance.

Mzansi Express Mixed Reactions after Mbuyiseni Ndlozi Resigns as EFF Member of Parliament

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Mzansi Express Mixed Reactions after Mbuyiseni Ndlozi Resigns as EFF Member of Parliament

Mzansi Express Mixed Reactions after Mbuyiseni Ndlozi Resigns as EFF Member of Parliament

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) MP Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has resigned from Parliament.

Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, a founding member, former party spokesman and confidant of leader Julius Malema resigned from parliament together with Yazini Tetyana.

EFF Confirms Ndlozi’s Resignation
The EFF announced Mbuyiseni Ndlozi and Yazini Tetyana’s resignation from Parliament in a statement shared on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The party confirmed it had accepted Ndlozi and Tetyana’s voluntary resignations.

“The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has received the voluntary resignations of Fighter Yazini Tetyana and Fighter Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi as representatives of the EFF in the Parliament of South Africa.

The voluntary requests to be released from deployment, which were sent to the Secretary General of the EFF consecutively and within days of each other, expressed gratitude to the EFF for the opportunity to serve the organization and the people of South Africa.

The EFF has accepted the respective voluntary requests to be released from deployment of the two Fighters, who have diligently served the organization in their respective deployments since the EFF has had representation in the legislative sphere,” reads part of the statement.

In a statement, the EFF commended Mbuyiseni and Tetyana for their exemplary service as Public Representatives and extended best wishes for their future endeavors.


“Fighter Tetyana has served in the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature and subsequently the Parliament of South Africa, while Fighter Dr. Ndlozi has served in the National Assembly since 2014. They have both been exemplary in their deployments and acted as commendable Public Representatives.


The EFF wishes the Fighters well in their future endeavors.:

Mbuyiseni Ndlozi’s Resignation Amid Tensions and Leadership Criticism
Mbuyiseni Ndlozi’s resignation follows a series of events that underscored growing tensions within the EFF. His departure comes a month after he was barred from attending the party’s elective conference in Johannesburg.

At the EFF’s third National People’s Assembly (NPA) held in December, Ndlozi was notably absent. During the conference, EFF leader Julius Malema publicly criticized him, accusing him of egoism and ignorance, stating that these traits disqualified him from being a leader within the party. Malema also urged members to regard Ndlozi as an ordinary member.

The situation was further complicated by former deputy president Floyd Shivambu’s resignation from the party. Reports later revealed that Ndlozi was aware of Shivambu’s decision but failed to inform Malema or other party officials, thus fueling internal tensions.

Social Media Reacts
Mbuyiseni Ndlozi’s resignation from parliament has sparked a buzz on social media.

Here are some of the reactions;

@ka_madesi;

So Ndlozi’s crime was not telling Malema that Floyd is leaving? Madness.

@KayMatthews;

Parliament will never be the same, Malema is now surrounded by domkops.

@Sicelo_702black

Would’ve made better sense if he resigned from the party as a whole. He’s clearly being pushed out slowly.

@only_shakespear;

Chad say military foiled armed assault on presidential complex, 19 killed

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At least 19 people have been killed in Chad where security forces said they had prevented an attempt by armed fighters to storm the presidential complex in the capital N’Djamena.

At least 18 of a force of 24 armed men were killed in the failed assault on the president’s office on Wednesday evening, the government said, and one member of the security forces also died in the gun battles.

“There were 18 dead and six injured” among the attackers “and we suffered one death and three injured, one of them seriously”, Chad’s foreign minister and government spokesman Abderaman Koulamallah said.

Hours after the shooting, Koulamallah appeared in a video, surrounded by soldiers and with a gun on his belt, saying, “The situation is completely under control … the destabilisation attempt was put down.”

The attack coincided with an official visit by China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Chad.

Hours before the shooting erupted, Wang Yi had met with Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Deby and other senior officials.

Deby was in the presidential complex at the time of the attack, according to Koulamallah

In a statement following the incident, China’s foreign ministry said it firmly supports Chad in its effort to keep the country safe and stable.

When asked at a regular news briefing about the deadly gunfire, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman noted that Wang had concluded his visit to the African country.

Deby seized power after rebels killed his father, longstanding President Idriss Deby, in 2021. The older Deby had ruled Chad since a coup in the early 1990s.

A security source told the French news agency AFP news agency that the attackers were members of the Boko Haram armed group, but Koulamallah later said they were “probably not” rebels, describing them instead as drunken “Pieds Nickeles” – a reference to a French comic featuring hapless crooks.

A security source also told the Reuters news agency that the incident was likely an “attempted terrorist attack”.

“Individuals in three vehicles attacked the military camps around the president’s office, but the army neutralised them,” the source said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Residents in the area described hearing loud volleys of gunfire.

The attack comes less than two weeks after Chad held a contested general election that the government hailed as a key step towards ending military rule, but that was marked by low turnout and opposition allegations of fraud.

A call by the opposition for voters to boycott the polls left the field open for candidates aligned with the president.

The former French colony, which is rich in oil resources but one of the poorest countries in Africa, hosted France’s last military bases in the region known as the Sahel, but at the end of November, ended defence and security agreements with Paris, calling them “obsolete”.

About 1,000 French military personnel were stationed in the country and are in the process of being withdrawn. Their departure follows after France was driven out of three Sahelian countries governed by military governments hostile to Paris: Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger.

Senegal and Ivory Coast have also asked France to vacate military bases on their territory.

Jay-Z is seeking legal sanctions against attorney Tony Buzbee for filing ‘false’ r@pe lawsuit

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Jay-Z is seeking legal sanctions against attorney Tony Buzbee for filing ‘false’ r@pe lawsuit

Jay-Z is seeking legal sanctions against attorney Tony Buzbee, accusing him of filing a false r@pe lawsuit that has damaged his reputation.

In a motion filed by his lawyer Alex Spiro, Jay-Z claims Buzbee failed to conduct even basic due diligence before pursuing the case, which accuses Jay-Z and Diddy of drugging and r@ping a woman after the 2000 MTV VMA Awards when she was 13 years old.

Spiro’s filing criticizes Buzbee for not withdrawing the lawsuit even after an NBC News interview with the accuser cast doubt on several key details in her allegations. The accuser described the incident as occurring at “a large white residence with a gated U-shaped driveway” located about 20 minutes from the VMAs. However, Jay-Z contends that photographs place him at Lotus nightclub in Manhattan after the awards show.

The woman also claimed her father picked her up after the alleged assault, but her father reportedly has no recollection of such an event. Jay-Z’s legal team highlighted the logistical improbability, noting the journey would have taken 10 hours round trip, making it an event the father should remember.

Further questioning her account, the woman alleged she watched the VMAs on a Jumbotron outside Radio City Music Hall. However, Jay-Z’s filing states that photos show no such screen was present, and the city had denied MTV’s request to install one.

Another inconsistency noted in the filing involves her claim of speaking with Benji Madden at the afterparty. However, following the accuser’s interview, Madden’s representative told NBC the singer was not even in New York City during the 2000 VMAs as his band, Good Charlotte, was touring the Midwest at the time.

Jay-Z argues that these inconsistencies could have been easily disproven with minimal investigation, and claims Buzbee’s failure to verify the facts before filing such damaging accusations warrants sanctions.

Buzbee responded defiantly, stating, “With each frantic filing, Mr. Spiro’s team reeks of desperation. Mr. Spiro and his team think the laws and rules don’t apply to them. They are flat wrong. They also think they can bully or intimidate counsel by filing meritless and frivolous pleadings full of lies and half-truths. Again, they are dead wrong. We won’t be bullied or intimidated, ever.”

Chakwera Concedes Failure, Begs for Forgiveness Over Unfulfilled Promises

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Chakwera Concedes Failure, Begs for Forgiveness Over Unfulfilled Promises

In a shocking admission, President Lazarus Chakwera has conceded failure to run the government, begging for forgiveness from Malawians for lying about reducing the price of fertilizer to K4,500 per 50kg bag. The president’s remarks, made during the MCP NEC orientation in Lilongwe, have sparked widespread debate and criticism.

Chakwera wondered aloud why the price of fertilizer, which was K19,500 during the DPP era, has skyrocketed to K104,000 under his administration. “Surely, my fellow Malawians, I have failed on this, and I am sorry,” he said, acknowledging his inability to control the rising costs of goods.

The president, who is also a church reverend, attributed the rising costs to God’s will, saying, “I am not an economist, but a church reverend who believes in God.” He promised to pray for the prices to be lowered, saying, “As a pastor, I will pray so that the price should be lowered. Everything I do, I know, but God is able.”

Chakwera’s admission of failure has raised questions about his administration’s economic policies and ability to deliver on campaign promises. The president’s plea for forgiveness and promise to pray for lower prices have been met with skepticism by some, who argue that his administration lacks a clear plan to address the rising costs of goods.

The price of maize, a staple food in Malawi, has also increased significantly, with a 50kg bag now costing K80,000. Chakwera’s administration has been criticized for its handling of the economy, with some arguing that his policies have exacerbated poverty and inequality.

Despite his admission of failure, Chakwera asked Malawians to vote for him again in next year’s elections, promising to “turn the tables” and deliver on his promises through prayers.
“If you vote for me, I will pray that goods must be reduced because God is able,” he said, amid cheering from supporters.

Chakwera’s remarks have sparked widespread debate, with some arguing that his administration’s failures are a result of poor economic management, rather than a lack of divine intervention. Others have questioned the president’s decision to attribute the rising costs of goods to God’s will, rather than taking responsibility for his administration’s policies.

As Malawians prepare to head to the polls next year, Chakwera’s admission of failure and plea for forgiveness are likely to be major campaign issues. The president’s ability to deliver on his promises and address the rising costs of goods will be closely watched by voters.

In recent months, Malawian farmers have cried foul over the sharp increase in fertilizer prices, which have doubled in the last year.

The Freedom of Worship Association of Malawi (FOWAM) has also written to Chakwera, urging him to take swift action to stop the skyrocketing prices.

As the debate over Chakwera’s admission of failure continues, one thing is clear: Malawians are watching, and they expect more from their leaders. Whether Chakwera’s administration can deliver on its promises remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – the president’s concession of failure has set the tone for a heated campaign season ahead.

Sengezo Tshabangu Suspended By CCC Acting President Welshman Ncube

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Sengezo Tshabangu Suspended By CCC Acting President Welshman Ncube

Sengezo Tshabangu Suspended By CCC Acting President Welshman Ncube

In a dramatic twist within the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), self-proclaimed secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu has been given a taste of his own medicine after being suspended by the party’s acting president, Professor Welshman Ncube.

CCC Suspends Self-Styled Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu
In a statement released on Thursday, CCC presidential spokesperson Mr Kurauone Chikwayi confirmed that Tshabangu had been suspended.

The statement revealed that Sengenzo Tshabangu had been suspended pending a disciplinary hearing for contravening the CCC party’s constitution.

“Acting in terms of Article 9.1.2.3 of the CCC Constitution, the Acting President, Prof Welshman Ncube, has suspended Sengezo Tshabangu with immediate effect. This decision was made in light of Tshabangu’s actions, which were deemed to be in contravention of the party’s constitution. Tshabangu’s suspension is pending a disciplinary hearing, which will be conducted in accordance with the party’s internal processes,” the statement reads.

High Court Ruling Spurs Action
The suspension follows a recent High Court ruling that blocked Tshabangu from making changes to the CCC’s parliamentary leadership. The court found that Tshabangu, who acted without official authority, had overstepped his bounds by initiating recalls and reassignments within the party.

Justice Neville Wamambo of the Harare High Court ruled that Tshabangu’s attempts to remove Karenyi Konye, Sessel Zvidzai, and Edwin Mushoriwa from the Parliamentary Committee on Standing Rules and Orders (CSRO) constituted illegal recalls. The judge further noted that the position of opposition chief whip, to which Tshabangu appointed Nonhlanhla Mlotshwa, does not exist under Zimbabwe’s constitution.

The court granted an interim order sought by Ncube, reversing the changes Tshabangu had made in December 2024.

A Taste of His Own Medicine: Sengezo Tshabangu Suspended
Tshabangu has been a contentious figure within the CCC since the August 2023 elections. Styling himself as the party’s secretary-general, he initiated widespread recalls of over 100 councillors and numerous MPs and senators. His actions were carried out through letters to the Speaker of Parliament and the local government minister, leading to significant disruptions and by-elections.

The CCC filed a court case (HC 6872/23) in October 2023, arguing that Tshabangu was impersonating a legitimate party official and lacked the authority to initiate the recalls. The matter remains pending.


The CCC secured an order from Justice Tawanda Chitapi, barring Sengezo Tshabangu from making further recalls until the court determines whether he has any legal basis for his actions. This interdict formed the foundation of Ncube’s successful application to overturn Tshabangu’s recent parliamentary changes.

Gun-wearing leader sparks concern at Ghana inauguration

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Gun-wearing leader sparks concern at Ghana inauguration

Burkina Faso’s military leader Capt Ibrahim Traore sparked concern when he attended Tuesday’s inauguration of Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama with a holstered pistol at his waist.

Some have described this unusual move as a breach of security protocol.

Others have seen it as a lack of trust in the ability of Ghanaian officials to protect the Burkinabe junta chief.

It is not clear if Traore had permission to carry the weapon and the new Ghanaian government has not responded to a BBC request for comment.

Mahama was sworn in after beating the candidate from the then governing party, Mahamudu Bawumia, by a large margin in last month’s election.

Traore, was one of 17 heads of state present, and his visit came at a time of diplomatic tension in West Africa.

Burkina Faso, along with two other military-led states – Mali and Niger, has broken away from the regional bloc ECOWAS to form a new alliance.

Security analyst Vladmir Antwi Danso said that it is unusual for a head of state to carry a sidearm to an inauguration ceremony as the security of the visiting leader is the responsibility of the host.

He indicated that Ghanaian and Burkinabe security personnel should have discussed the issue to ensure the right protocols were being followed. “Either that wasn’t done or it was poorly done,” Dr Danso told the BBC.

While another security analyst, Retd Col Festus Aboagye, agrees that the host nation is typically responsible for protecting visiting presidents, he says bilateral arrangements can lead to variations.

He suggested that a consensus may have been reached to allow Traore to wear his military attire and carry his sidearm, along with some of his personal security detail.

“I don’t think it’s a security breach in the context of how people are saying, [as] if he had taken out the weapon to shoot. That’s a bit far-fetched,” Col Aboagye said.

The Alliance of Sahel States, made up of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, has accused Ecowas of trying to destabilise their countries. Traore may have had that at the back of his mind when attending the inauguration ceremony.

But the fact that a military leader was “wielding a gun demonstrating that they have that power of the gun because they’re military leaders and attending an investiture of a democracy is a bit awkward”, Emmanuel Bensah who works on issues of regional integration, said.

Relations between Ghana and Burkina Faso have been strained, particularly after Ghana’s former President Nana Akufo-Addo accused Traore of harbouring Russian mercenaries.

Traore’s attendance at the inauguration was seen as a significant diplomatic gesture aimed at normalising relations between the two countries.

Ghana’s support is crucial in helping Burkina Faso address its deadly militant jihadist insurgency, which poses a threat to coastal West African states.- BBC

Italian town bans residents from falling ill

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The mayor of a small town in southern Italy has issued an unusual proclamation: “Getting sick is prohibited.”

Residents of Belcastro in the southern region of Calabria have been “ordered to avoid contracting any illness that requires medical assistance, especially an emergency,” a decree from Mayor Antonio Torchia stated.

Torchia told local television that while “we take (the decree) with a bit of irony,” it is intended to highlight the town’s inadequate access to healthcare.

Belcastro, a town of about 1,300 people of whom half are elderly, has a health center that is often closed, and on-call doctors are not available on weekends, holidays or after hours, the mayor said.

The closure of nearby healthcare centers, and the fact that the nearest emergency room is about 45 kilometers (28 miles) away in the city of Catanzaro, led the mayor to believe it necessary to “adopt an urgent and non-deferrable act of a precautionary nature,” he said.

“This is not just a provocation, the ordinance is a cry for help, a way to shine a spotlight on an unacceptable situation,” Torchia told local news outlet Corriere della Calabria.

In his decree, the mayor asked people not to “engage in behaviors that may be harmful and to avoid domestic accidents,” and “not to leave the house too often, travel or practice sports, and to rest for the majority of the time.”

It’s not clear if, or how, the ordinance will be enforced.

The mayor said the order was aimed at provoking regional authorities and health officials to address the issues. The ordinance will stay in effect until the town’s public health center is open regularly, the mayor said.

CNN has reached out to the Ministry of Health.

“Come and live a week in our small village and try to feel safe knowing that in the event of a health emergency the only hope is to get to Catanzaro in time,” he said while speaking to local media. “Try it and then tell me if this situation seems acceptable to you.”

The sparsely populated Calabria region is one of Italy’s poorest and has been susceptible to desertification and brain drain, with many young people moving out of rural communities to live in cities.

Over 75% of Calabria towns – roughly 320 – currently had fewer than 5,000 residents in 2021, sparking fears that some communities could die out completely without regeneration. Some towns have even started offering to pay people to live there in an effort to reverse their population decline.

Belcastro’s mayor knows that many of the towns face similar healthcare access issues.

“I am a drop in the ocean,” Torchia told local broadcaster LaC News24. “The province of Catanzaro has 80 municipalities, and I believe that most of them suffer from the same problems.”

FILM STARS, CELEBRITIES LOSE HOMES IN LOS ANGELES WILDFIRES

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FILM STARS, CELEBRITIES LOSE HOMES IN LOS ANGELES WILDFIRES

FILM STARS, CELEBRITIES LOSE HOMES IN LOS ANGELES WILDFIRES

By Alan Devall (Reuters)

LOS ANGELES, Jan 9 (Reuters) – Billy Crystal lost the Pacific Palisades house where he had lived since 1979. Paris Hilton watched her Malibu beach mansion burn down on live TV.


The list of celebrities who lost their homes and neighbourhoods in the worst fire in Los Angeles history reads like a Hollywood who’s who.

Jamie Lee Curtis, James Woods, Mandy Moore, Mark Hamill and Maria Shriver were among those who publicly described being forced to evacuate as out-of-control fires swept across some of the most lavish real estate in the world.



The largest blaze consumed nearly 12,000 acres (5,000 hectares) in Pacific Palisades, home to film, television and music stars, where the median house is worth $4.5 million.

Some had yet to comment publicly even as pictures of burning homes said to be theirs were shared by media outlets. Among them were “Gossip Girl” star Leighton Meester and her husband Adam Brody of “The O.C.”, two-time Oscar winner Anthony Hopkins, “Roseanne” star John Goodman, “Top Gun: Maverick” actor Miles Teller and “Scary Movie” star Anna Faris.


Perennial Oscars host Crystal and his wife Janice said they were heartbroken to lose the Pacific Palisades house where they had raised their children and grandchildren, “but with the love of children and friends we will get through this.”

Media personality Hilton said she was “heartbroken beyond words” to lose her beachfront mansion.


“Sitting with my family, watching the news, and seeing our home in Malibu burn to the ground on live TV is something no one should ever have to experience,” she wrote on X.

Woods, a two-time Oscar nominee and three-time Emmy winner, recounted how he fled his house in Pacific Palisades as flames bore down “like an inferno.”


“One day you’re swimming in the pool, and the next day it’s all gone,” he said. He teared up in a TV interview as he described a niece who “came out with her little Yeti piggy bank for us to rebuild our house.”

Reality TV star Spencer Pratt posted on X: “The one positive sign I saw as our house burned down was our son’s bed burned in the shape of a heart. A sign of how much love was in this house, so thankful for all the years and memories there with our family.”


Jennifer Grey’s daughter Stella Gregg said the “Dirty Dancing” star’s house had “burnt to the ground” but Grey and her dog had escaped.

Shriver, a journalist and former first lady of California when she was married to then-Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, said the destruction in the upscale enclave was devastating.


“Everything is gone. Our neighborhood, our restaurants,” she wrote on X on Wednesday. “The firefighters have and are doing their best, but this fire is massive and out of control.”

Oscar winner Curtis said “my community and possibly my home is on fire.”

“It is a terrifying situation,” the actress wrote on Instagram. “Pray if you believe in it and even if you don’t, pray for those who do.”



Moore, known for television series “This is Us” and as the voice of Rapunzel in Disney’s “Tangled,” said she and her family and pets were safe but did not yet know the fate of their house.


“Honestly, I’m in shock and feeling numb for all so many have lost, including my family. My children’s school is gone. Our favorite restaurants, leveled. So many friends and loved ones have lost everything too. Our community is broken but we will be here to rebuild together.”


Hamill, who played Luke Skywalker in the “Star Wars” films, said on Instagram that he evacuated his Malibu home on Tuesday evening with his wife and dog..

Zimbabwe’s Nurses Council Warns Global Employers Of Fake Certificates

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Zimbabwe’s Nurses Council Warns Global Employers Of Fake Certificates
The Nurses Council of Zimbabwe (NCZ) has raised alarm over a surge in fake Certificates of Good Standing (CGS) being circulated by fraudulent organisations. Employers worldwide have been urged to verify the authenticity of these documents.

Fake Certificates Threaten Global Health Standards
The NCZ has expressed concern about the potential risks posed by fake certificates in the global healthcare sector.

Speaking on the matter, NCZ Registrar Mr Benjamin Maheya made it clear that the organisation is not responsible for the counterfeit documents.

“The Nurses Council of Zimbabwe (NCZ) has noted with concern the presence of fake Certificates of Good Standing (CGS) and confirmation letters purported to have been issued by the NCZ,” said Maheya as per Health Times.

“Circulation of these fake documents poses a significant risk to people’s health and safety globally. Therefore, the NCZ is taking this matter seriously and is working closely with law enforcement agencies to investigate the origins of these fraudulent certificates.”

Authenticity Checks Urged for Employers
The NCZ is the sole authority for issuing Certificates of Good Standing and confirmation letters for nursing professionals in Zimbabwe.

These documents validate a nurse’s professional reputation and good behaviour within their community, which are essential for international job applications.

Maheya stressed the importance of verification:

“The NCZ urges employers, healthcare institutions, registration bodies, and stakeholders globally to verify the authenticity of Certificates of Good Standing and confirmation letters presented to them. Suspicious cases should be reported to the NCZ.”

Official Costs and Warnings Against Fraudsters
The NCZ has also clarified the official charges for obtaining these certificates, aiming to protect citizens from being duped by unscrupulous individuals or organisations.

“It is important to note that it costs USD300 to obtain a Certificate of Good Standing or confirmation letter issued by the NCZ,” Maheya stated.

“Any individual or organisation charging more than the stipulated USD300 is an imposter with the intention to defraud unsuspecting citizens and tarnish the NCZ’s reputation.”

Members of the public have been encouraged to report fraudulent activities directly to the NCZ or law enforcement authorities. The NCZ is committed to upholding the highest standards of nursing professionalism to safeguard public health globally.

“Together, we can safeguard public health and uphold the highest standards of nursing practice,” Maheya concluded.

Diddy’s Bodyguard, Intern, and Producer Speak Out In New Documentary (WATCH)

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Variety reports that Peacock is set to premiere a 90-minute Diddy documentary on its streaming platform on January 14.

The documentary is titled Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy.

This documentary is about some people who worked closely with Sean “Diddy” Combs who are speaking out about their horrific experiences.

According to the outlet, it promises to give viewers “crucial insight into the forces that shaped [Combs] and may have made him a monster.”

Peacock has however unveiled the trailer for the upcoming documentary about the music mogul, which features his bodyguard, intern, makeup artist, and producer all speaking out against him.

Producer and singer-songwriter Al B. Sure!, who was at Uptown Records with Combs and dated Kim Porter before him, also speaks out about Diddy in the doc.

There are other Interviews with one of Combs’ childhood friends, former bodyguard, and one of the winners of Diddy’s music competition series Making the Band.

Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy also has footage of Combs partying at home and in his studio.

One of the alleged people in Combs’ inner circle can be seen saying in the released trailer,

That a room being lit up red meant that Diddy was not working but having sex. Honestly, I didn’t want to be around him unless there was cameras.”

This alleged person can also be seen in the video saying.

“I’ve been with Sean for quite a while, and I’ve captured a lot of moments. He went on to say,

“Any time a studio or any room is red, he’s making love and sex. Some of the ones who went in the room, for sure they were underage.”

Combs has been charged with rape, child sexual abuse, and sexual misconduct for claimed acts that occurred between 1991 and 2023 in numerous lawsuits filed by various parties.

Following a grand jury indictment, the Bad Boy founder was arrested following a Department of Homeland Security raid on his houses last year.

Now awaiting a criminal trial in May, Combs remains behind bars in Brooklyn after being accused of sex trafficking and racketeering.

He has, however, pleaded not guilty to all federal criminal charges from 2024.

This documentary, titled Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy, is not the only one being made about the music mogul.

Netflix is also said to be working on a documentary about the disgraced music mogul, producing a docuseries from Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson about the allegations.

Despite all allegations, Diddy’s family continues to stand by him.

Black woman kicked off first class flight after ‘racist’ claims from white passenger

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ABlack woman claims she was removed from an American Airlines flight after she was accused of being racist by a white passenger.

The passenger, named Erica, shared details of how it all unfolded in a series of TikTok videos posted on December 29.

According to Erica, she and her partner were escorted off a flight from Chicago to Austin, Texas, after the altercation involving the white passenger.

The couple had boarded the flight, which actually delayed for three hours, and taken their first-class seats when the situation escalated.

“When I got on the flight, I put my backpack under my front seat, and the flight attendant asked me to move my backpack,” Erica said. “I said, ‘That’s fine. I can put it above me if there’s any more space up there.’”

As Erica made the attempt to adjust the bags in the overhead compartment, the man seated next to her reacted angrily.

“He yelled, ‘Do not touch my bag. Do not touch my stuff,’” Erica said. “I said, ‘Okay. I’m sorry. My bad. I could put my bag somewhere else, even though this is right above my seat.’”

A flight attendant offered to help Erica find another spot for her bag, but she says she was concerned about the distance, as she had valuables such as her laptop and iPad in her bag.

“I don’t know anyone on here, and I have my MacBook, iPads in my backpack,” she said. “First class—I paid over $1,000 for these tickets.”

Right after the flight attendant walked away, Erica said the man began to whisper to his wife before shouting, “I’m threatened. I feel threatened.”

“He yelled at the people that worked on the plane and told them that he felt threatened and that he felt uncomfortable because I did not want my bag to be right above him,” she said.

“He said that it was a ‘race thing,’ and that he felt threatened because he is white and I’m Black and that I mentioned something racist towards him, although I never spoke to him or even said anything out loud other than that I didn’t want my bag to be next to people I didn’t know because I have products in them.”

@lovergirlmagic #americanairlines ♬ original sound – MAGIC ✨

After the man’s accusations, Erica and her partner were then removed from the flight.

“The flight attendant said, ‘This is a race thing,’” Erica said. “What’s the race problem? Clarify to me because I don’t understand.”

Erica also claimed the flight attendant pushed her while escorting her and her partner off the plane. She then requested that Chicago police be involved, yet was told it was not necessary.

In another TikTok video, Erica captured footage of one of the crew members touching her partner as they were being taken off the plane.

In that video, the crew member is seen smiling and waving while she records the incident.

In another clip, a worker explained that the crew made the decision to remove Erica and her partner from the flight.

Erica also filmed the man who accused her of racism, showing him ignoring her as he raised his hand to block her camera.

Why Cardi B is abstaining from s333x and dating

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American rapper Cardi B has opened up about why she wants to abstain from sex and dating. She talked about this choice during a recent Instagram Live session.

According to her, the decision to abstain from sex and dating will help her to focus on her career. Cardi shared her belief that stepping back from relationships will help her stay on track with her goals.

Cardi, 32, explained that her dating life has often distracted her from her priorities, and she intends to avoid relationships until she completes her mission. While she didn’t explicitly reveal what the mission entails, it appears to be tied to finishing and releasing her long-awaited sophomore album.

“I don’t even want to take dk right now. Every single time I take dk, I get distracted,” Cardi said. “I don’t want no distraction.”

As 2025 begins, the I Like It rapper emphasized that January is a crucial month for setting the tone for the rest of the year.

“I put a little pause on my dating life because January is very, very, very, very important, and I have a mission to complete,” she explained. “And if I don’t complete this mission, it’s gonna f**k up the schedule for this year.”

Cardi’s comments come shortly after she addressed rumors about her finances. Critics claimed she relied on numerous brand deals to maintain her lavish lifestyle due to alleged financial troubles.

“I want to let y’all know that I could wake up tomorrow and sign a contract, and I would have half of $65 million, or half of $70 million, in my bank,” Cardi said in December, referencing substantial offers she’s received for a potential touring deal.

She clarified that she hasn’t signed a touring contract yet because she’s prioritizing the completion of her next studio album. Cardi also revealed she spends an average of $3 million per month, a staggering figure even for a superstar of her caliber.

Cardi’s debut album, Invasion of Privacy, released in April 2018, catapulted her to stardom with its GRAMMY-winning success, multiple hit singles, and multi-platinum certification. Fans have been eagerly awaiting the follow-up, which Cardi has been working on for several years and promised to release soon.

OpenAI founder Sam Altman denies his sister’s allegation that he sexu@lly abused her 

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OpenAI founder Sam Altman denies his sister’s allegation that he sexu@lly abused her 

OpenAI co-founder and CEO, Sam Altman has denied allegations made by his sister in a lawsuit filed this week, which claimed he s3xually abused her for almost a decade.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Missouri, accuses him of sexual assault and sexual battery spanning from 1997 to 2006.

His sister, Ann Altman, alleged the s3xual abuse began when she was three years old and her brother was 12 at their family home in suburban St. Louis, Missouri, according to the suit.

The alleged abuse included “numerous acts of rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse, molestation, sodomy, and battery,” according to the lawsuit.

She also alleged the last instances of abuse occurred when she was a minor and her brother was an adult.

Altman, in a joint statement with his mother and brothers, said the claims were false and that his sister had struggled with mental health issues and “refuses conventional treatment.”

“All of these claims are utterly untrue. The situation causes immense pain to our entire family,” the statement, posted on X Tuesday, said.

Sam Altman said “Annie” continued to demand money from the family despite financial support.

“Our family loves Annie and is very concerned about her well-being,” the statement said. “Annie receives monthly financial support, which we expect to continue for the rest of her life. Despite this, Annie continues to demand more money from us.”

In response to the Altman family statement, Ann Altman’s lawyer Ryan Mahoney said “It is not uncommon for parents and other family members to deny (sexual abuse perpetrated by a sibling). In this case, they are focusing on the wrong sibling.”

Mahoney told the Wall Street Journal “There is no evidence that her own mental health has contributed to her allegations.”

Ann Altman, who was 30 when the lawsuit was filed, claimed she has experienced PTSD and extreme emotional distress, mental anguish and depression and has incurred medical bills as a result, according to the lawsuit. She is seeking at least $75,000 in damages.

Ann Altman had previously alleged abuse on her X account beginning in 2021.

The lawsuit says the claims were brought under a Missouri law allowing child sexual abuse victims to file lawsuits up until their 31st birthday. Ann Altman’s X profile indicates she turned 31 on Wednesday, two days after the lawsuit was filed.

Sam Altman is a 39-year-old venture capitalist and the CEO of OpenAI, which kicked off the artificial intelligence wave with its ChatGPT bot. The Microsoft-backed OpenAI had a $157 billion valuation as of October.

Paris Hilton’s Malibu house burns down in Los Angeles wildfire

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Paris Hilton is the latest celebrity to lose their home in the Palisades Fire.

The heiress’ beachfront house in Malibu has been burned down, she confirmed in an emotional social media post.

“Heartbroken beyond words. Sitting with my family, watching the news, and seeing our home in Malibu burned to the ground on live TV is something no one should ever have to experience,” Hilton, 43, wrote while sharing local news coverage of her area.

She reflected on the memories she’d had in the house, noting that it was a special place for her two young children.

“This home was where we built so many precious memories. It’s where Phoenix took his first steps and where we dreamed of building a lifetime of memories with London,” Hilton continued.

“While the loss is overwhelming, I’m holding onto gratitude that my family is safe. My heart and prayers are going out to every family affected by these fires,” she said. “To all the people who have lost their homes, their memories, and their beloved pets. My heartaches for those still in harm’s way or mourning greater losses. The devastation is unimaginable.”

The Malibu house is not Hilton’s main residence. The “Cooking with Paris” star owns multiple properties in the Los Angeles area.

“Heartbroken beyond words” Paris Hilton?s Malibu house burns down in Los Angeles wildfire

The Palisades Fire was first reported Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. PT. By nightfall, the blaze had spread to more than 2,900 acres and torn through the Pacific Palisades neighbourhood of Los Angeles.

Tens of thousands have been forced to evacuate their homes as the wildfire continued to wreak havoc across the Pacific Palisades. Several other fires have also started to rage in the region.

The flames were fanned by winds that reached over 100 miles per hour in some areas.

Hilton was not the only celebrity to be affected by the fire. Mark Hamill, Ben Affleck, Jamie Lee Curtis, Eugene Levy and Mandy Moore are among those who have evacuated their homes.

Reality TV stars Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag, Oscar nominee James Woods, along with Adam Brody and Leighton Meester, have lost their homes to the fires.

Lebanon army chief becomes President

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Lebanon’s lawmakers elected army chief Joseph Aoun as president on Thursday, January 9, ending a two-year vacancy in the position in a step towards addressing the country’s severe financial crisis. Aoun, who turns 61 on Friday, arrived at parliament wearing a dark suit and bright blue tie, a departure from his military uniform, and was met with general applause as he took his oath. “A new phase in the history of Lebanon begins today,” he told the chamber.

Supporters celebrated in his home village of Aishiyeh in south Lebanon, where residents gathered from the morning in front of the church adorned with Lebanese flags and his portrait. Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri declared Aoun’s victory after 99 out of 128 lawmakers voted in his favor.

Aoun now faces the immense challenges of overseeing a ceasefire on the Israeli border and appointing a prime minister capable of implementing reforms required by international creditors to rescue Lebanon from its worst economic crisis in history. He becomes Lebanon’s fifth army commander to ascend to the presidency and the fourth in a row. Under Lebanon’s sectarian power-sharing system, the president must be a Maronite Christian, as must military chiefs.

The presidency had been vacant since Michel Aoun, who is unrelated to the new president, left office in October 2022. Tensions between Hezbollah and its opponents had blocked a dozen previous attempts to fill the role. International pressure mounted for a resolution with just 17 days left in a ceasefire agreement requiring the deployment of Lebanese troops alongside UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon after a conflict between Hezbollah and Israel last autumn.

While the president’s powers have been reduced since Lebanon’s civil war ended in 1990, the role remains critical for leading consultations to appoint a prime minister and form a government capable of implementing necessary economic reforms. Aoun was widely seen as favored by the United States, a key military supporter, as well as Saudi Arabia. However, lawmakers from the pro-Hezbollah bloc abstained in the first round of voting, leaving Aoun short of the two-thirds majority needed. They later met with him during a break before returning for a second round, where he secured enough support to win.

The election drew international attention. Pope Francis expressed hope Lebanon could “possess the necessary institutional stability… to address the grave economic and social situation.” However, some lawmakers objected to what they saw as foreign interference, with a few casting symbolic protest votes for “sovereignty and the constitution,” while others wrote in the names of figures like Saudi envoy Yazid Al Farhan and former U.S. presidential candidate Bernie Sanders.

‘

Critics have previously accused Hezbollah and its allies of obstructing presidential votes, but the group’s influence has weakened after suffering heavy losses in its conflict with Israel last year, including the reported death of its leader Hassan Nasrallah in an airstrike. In Syria, Hezbollah lost another ally after the recent toppling of President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces. Lebanon’s economy has suffered more than $5 billion in losses due to the Hezbollah-Israel conflict, with additional structural damage amounting to billions, according to the World Bank.

CITIZENS FIRST PARTY A CLEAR ALTERNATIVE TO THE UPND IN 2026- Henry Chilombo

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CITIZENS FIRST PARTY A CLEAR ALTERNATIVE TO THE UPND IN 2026- Henry Chilombo

CITIZENS FIRST PARTY A CLEAR ALTERNATIVE TO THE UPND IN 2026

By Henry Chilombo

As Zambia approaches the pivotal 2026 general elections, the electorate faces a critical decision in determining the nation’s trajectory. Among the contenders, the Citizens First (CF) Party, under the stewardship of President Harry Kalaba, has positioned itself as the most viable and competent alternative to the United Party for National Development (UPND). This analysis outlines the key factors that elevate CF above other political entities in offering transformative leadership.



1. A STATESMAN WITH COMPREHENSIVE GOVERNANCE EXPERIENCE

President Harry Kalaba’s extensive experience in governance is a testament to his readiness to lead Zambia at the highest level. His track record spans multiple strategic portfolios, which he held with distinction under two consecutive administrations:

As Deputy Minister in the Office of the Vice President, Kalaba was instrumental in policy coordination and disaster management, ensuring effective governmental responses to national crises.



As Minister of Lands, Natural Resources, and Environmental Protection, he spearheaded land reforms, promoted environmental sustainability, and safeguarded Zambia’s natural resources against exploitation.

As Minister of Foreign Affairs, he significantly enhanced Zambia’s diplomatic standing, strengthened bilateral and multilateral relationships, and advocated for Africa’s integration into the global economy.



His bold decision to resign from his ministerial post in protest against systemic corruption underscored his unwavering commitment to ethical leadership—a rare quality that sets him apart in Zambia’s political landscape.



2. POLICY CLARITY AND ECONOMIC PRAGMATISM

The Citizens First Party is distinguished by its coherent policy framework aimed at addressing Zambia’s socio-economic challenges. CF’s policy priorities include economic diversification, debt management, and empowering local enterprises.



CF’s strategy emphasizes developing key sectors such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing to create sustainable jobs.

This approach contrasts with existing economic policies perceived as overly reliant on external interventions, which often fail to address the structural inequalities in the economy.



By advocating for financial transparency and fiscal discipline, CF presents a pragmatic alternative for economic recovery and growth.

3. INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE: A PEOPLE-FIRST AGENDA

True to its name, the Citizens First Party places the Zambian people at the core of its governance philosophy. The party’s agenda includes improving access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for all citizens.



President Kalaba’s leadership style is consultative and inclusive, ensuring that decisions are informed by the realities faced by ordinary Zambians. This bottom-up governance approach resonates with the electorate, especially in underserved communities, who feel marginalized under the current system.



4. UNMATCHED GRASSROOTS MOBILIZATION

CF’s robust grassroots mobilization strategy is a key pillar of its political success. Through effective structures and a well-organized mobilization committee, the party has built a strong connection with constituents across urban and rural areas.



CF’s approach ensures that policy proposals are grounded in the lived experiences of the electorate. This grassroots orientation has enabled the party to gain significant traction in constituencies traditionally overlooked by other political players.



5. AN ETHICAL AND FORWARD-LOOKING LEADERSHIP ALTERNATIVE

The Citizens First Party distinguishes itself as a party free from the baggage of historical controversies and governance failures. Its leadership cadre has consistently demonstrated a commitment to accountability and transparency, setting a new standard for political ethics in Zambia.


The CF’s emphasis on youth and women’s empowerment underscores its forward-looking vision. By creating avenues for inclusive participation, the party is fostering a new generation of leaders equipped to drive Zambia’s development.



6. COALITION BUILDING FOR STRATEGIC IMPACT

As a key player in the United Kwacha Alliance (UKA), CF has demonstrated its capacity to foster strategic partnerships. Through its alliance with other progressive parties, CF is contributing to a united front capable of challenging the UPND’s dominance.



This coalition-building approach reflects a commitment to national unity and the broader public interest. It positions CF as a leader in fostering a collaborative governance model, which is essential for addressing Zambia’s multifaceted challenges.



CONCLUSION

The Citizens First Party, under the visionary leadership of President Harry Kalaba, presents a transformative and ethical alternative to the UPND in the 2026 general elections. Kalaba’s extensive governance experience, coupled with CF’s pragmatic policies and inclusive agenda, provides a credible pathway to national renewal.



As Zambia stands at a crossroads, the choice for a government that prioritizes the people, embodies ethical leadership, and offers clear, actionable solutions is evident. The Citizens First Party is ready to chart a new course for the nation—one that puts citizens at the forefront of development and governance.

The 2026 elections offer Zambians a chance to redefine their future.

The Citizens First Party stands prepared to lead the way.

Why Blaming ECL for Opposition Party Disunity Misses the Point

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Why Blaming ECL for Opposition Party Disunity Misses the Point

Why Blaming ECL for Opposition Party Disunity Misses the Point

By Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma

There is a growing narrative that former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu (ECL), as the PF president and Tonse Alliance chairman, is responsible for the fragmentation within Zambia’s opposition. Some even suggest it is his duty to unite the opposition. But the key question is: Are the opposition parties themselves ready to unite?



ECL has repeatedly called on opposition leaders to set aside their differences and work together for the future of the nation. He has underscored the importance of a strong, unified opposition to secure Zambia’s long-term stability and prosperity. However, placing the blame for the opposition’s disunity solely on his shoulders is not only unfair—it is fundamentally misguided. The real issue is: Why aren’t opposition parties stepping up to unite? Why do they continue to foster division when the need for unity has never been greater?



The Opposition’s Own Responsibility

It is far too easy to blame one individual, but the uncomfortable truth is this: Unity cannot be imposed from above. It requires the collective will and commitment of every party involved. ECL, as a former head of state, does not have direct influence over opposition parties. The onus falls squarely on the opposition parties to take the lead in overcoming their divisions. Unity begins within their ranks, and it is their responsibility to transcend personal ambitions, political egos, and old grievances in service of Zambia’s future.


Rather than pointing fingers at ECL, we should encourage opposition leaders to focus on finding common ground. They must align their goals, set aside their differences, and work toward a shared vision for the country. Unity is not something that can be dictated or forced; it is built through self-reflection, mutual respect, and the realization that their collective strength is far greater than their individual pursuits.


Moreover, opposition leaders must understand that their disunity has direct, tangible consequences for the very people they claim to represent. Every time they fail to unite, they create a vacuum that others are eager to fill, effectively disenfranchising voters and perpetuating a political system that favors the status quo. The Zambian people deserve better—an opposition that is organized, credible, and capable of challenging the government while offering viable alternatives.



The Analogy of Building a House

Imagine the opposition as a team of builders tasked with constructing a house. Each builder has a specific skill—whether bricklaying, plumbing, or electrical work. But if the builders refuse to collaborate, the house will never be built. One might insist on working in a different room, ignoring the blueprint. Another may argue that the plumbing must come before the walls are finished. The electrician may refuse to wire the house until the walls are completed. No matter how much the foreman (ECL) tries to organize them, if each builder pursues their own agenda, the house will remain incomplete.


Similarly, opposition parties, despite their differing strategies and viewpoints, must work together around a unified plan. If they continue to operate in isolation, each chasing narrow interests and ignoring the broader vision, the “house” they aim to build—a united, effective opposition—will remain an illusion. Just as a house cannot be completed without cooperation, the opposition cannot succeed without unity and a shared vision. The responsibility lies with opposition leaders to rise above their differences and collaborate for the nation’s greater good.


Unity Beyond Personal Ambitions

The real challenge facing opposition leaders is not merely recognizing the necessity of unity but translating that recognition into concrete action, despite personal ambitions. Too often, individuals within opposition parties view unity as a compromise of their power or status. This short-sightedness weakens their collective ability to challenge the government effectively. True leadership requires prioritizing the nation’s needs above personal political survival.


Instead of focusing on vying for leadership positions or seeking dominance over one another, opposition leaders must embrace collaboration. They must approach the table with humility, understanding that no single party or individual can change the nation’s trajectory alone. The combined strength of a united opposition is a formidable force. If harnessed properly, it could drive the transformative change Zambia desperately needs.



The Consequences of Continued Division

What’s at stake here is much more than the opposition’s success or failure—it’s the future of Zambia’s democracy itself. If the opposition remains divided, it risks losing credibility in the eyes of the people. Failing to present a united front only reinforces the perception that the opposition is weak, fragmented, and incapable of offering a viable alternative to the ruling party. This will only serve to entrench the current political order, giving the government even more room to consolidate power.


The opposition has a profound responsibility to the people of Zambia. Citizens deserve a credible, accountable opposition that can effectively hold the government to account. If they fail to unite, they will deepen political fragmentation, erode public trust in the democratic process, and pave the way for the rise of an increasingly authoritarian regime.



Conclusion

Unity within the opposition is not the responsibility of any one individual—whether ECL or anyone else. It is a collective endeavor that requires determination, maturity, and a relentless focus on Zambia’s long-term well-being. Rather than continuing to place the blame on ECL for the opposition’s failure to unite, we should champion the cause of unity. Zambia deserves an opposition that works together for the betterment of the nation and its people. It is time to stop the blame game and start working toward a united, prosperous Zambia.



For this vision to become a reality, all opposition parties must recognize that their survival and relevance depend on their ability to unite. They must rise above petty divisions, transcend personal ambitions, and focus on finding common ground for the nation’s future. Only then will Zambia be able to look forward to a truly democratic, accountable, and prosperous future.

Police formally charge Mumbi Phiri with aggravated robbery, a non-bondable and non-bailable offence

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Police formally charge Mumbi Phiri with aggravated robbery, a non-bondable and non-bailable offence

POLICE FORMALLY CHARGE MUMBI PHIRI WITH A NONEBILABLE OFFENCE



Police in Kawambwa have formally slapped former Patriotic Front (PF) Deputy Secretary General Mumbi Phiri with aggravated robbery charge.


The charge is not billable meaning Mumbi has to stay in police custody during the entire period of trial.


She was arrested from Lusaka and moved to Kawambwa where the offence is alleged to have been committed.


Mumbi a former Lawmaker is accused to have stolen K20,000 and a mobile phone when she confronted Green Economy Minister, Mike Mposha.

She spent 376 days in prison when she was charged of murder.


She spent the days in Mongu jail the entire period of trial. On the day of judgement the state entered a nolle.

ARREST OF MUMBI PHIRI – AGGRAVATED ROBBERY FOLLOW-UP REPORT

January 9, 2025

The Zambia Police Service wishes to inform the public of the latest developments in the case of aggravated robbery reported on December 18, 2024 by Male Baldwin Chilambikwa, aged 28, of Katungulu Village, Chief Mushota, Kawambwa District. Mr. Chilambikwa, reported that his Infinix cellphone, valued at K3,800=00 and cash amounting to K20,000=00 were stolen from him by Male Peter, other names not known, suspected to be from the Tonse Alliance team, and who was in the company of Mrs. Mumbi Phiri.


The incident is allegedly to have occurred on December 18, 2024 at approximately 18:00 hours at Chisheta Primary School in Kawambwa District. On the material date, the complainant was in the company of the Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Honourable Mike Mposha MP and other UPND cadres checking on their members when they were confronted by a team from the Tonse Alliance, led by Mumbi Phiri, aged 55, of Plot 32A, Waterfalls, Chongwe District of Lusaka Province.

The confrontation arose from allegations by Mumbi Phiri that the UPND team was collecting voter’s cards from members of the public in collaboration with the ECZ. Amid the confusion, another suspect Peter, other names not known, attacked the complainant with a Taser gun, causing him to fall to the ground.


While incapacitated, the suspect grabbed the complainant’s cellphone and the cash, which had been provided by the Honourable Minister for fuel. Following the incident, a docket of aggravated robbery was opened, and investigations were launched.

Police in Kawambwa have today January 9, 2025 formally charged and arrested Mrs. Mumbi Phiri, aged 55, for the offence of Aggravated Robbery, contrary to Section 294(1) of the Penal Code Act Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia. This arrest comes after investigations revealed her involvement in the incident, jointly acting with others unknown.


Mrs. Mumbi Phiri is currently detained at Kawambwa Police Station and is awaiting her court appearance. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend her accomplice, identified only as Male Peter, and any other individuals involved in this case.


The Zambia Police Service reiterates its commitment to ensuring that justice is served in all reported cases. We strongly condemn all forms of violence and criminality and urge the public to report any further information related to this matter to law enforcement authorities.

Rae Hamoonga
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

MUNDUBILE DEMANDS CLARITY ON FUEL TANKERS YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM

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MUNDUBILE DEMANDS CLARITY ON FUEL TANKERS YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM

MUNDUBILE DEMANDS CLARITY ON FUEL TANKERS YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM

Calls for Full Transparency and Accountability from Minister Nkandu

Thursday, January 9, 2025 (Smart Eagles)

Patriotic Front (PF) Mporokoso Member of Parliament, Hon. Brian Mundubile, has raised serious concerns regarding the recent announcement by Minister of Youth and Sport, Elvis Nkandu, that all fuel tankers under the Youth Empowerment Program are now operational. Hon. Mundubile described the statement as vague and called for a comprehensive update on the financial and operational status of the program, which commenced in 2020.


“This program was initially designed to run in phases. Phase one started in 2020, and phase two in 2022. By now, the program should have generated substantial revenue, and the cooperatives involved were expected to fully own the tankers. However, the minister’s announcement has failed to provide the necessary details,” Hon. Mundubile remarked.


Hon. Mundubile questioned why the government has not disclosed how much revenue has been generated since the inception of the program. He argued that Zambians deserve to know how much money has been earned, how much has been paid to tanker suppliers, and why the tankers are still under the Ministry of Youth and Sport.



“By design, these tankers were meant to empower youths. After three years, phase one tankers should have been fully paid off, with ownership transferred to cooperatives. Why are the tankers still tied to the ministry?” he queried.


The lawmaker expressed dissatisfaction with the management of the tankers, pointing out that many of them have depreciated due to overuse without any meaningful benefits accruing to the intended youth beneficiaries.


“Youths have approached us with complaints about the state of these tankers. Many are nearly non-operational, yet the intended beneficiaries have not seen even a fraction of the promised financial empowerment. Who is truly benefiting from these tankers?” he asked.

Hon. Mundubile alleged that proceeds from the fuel tankers are being misused to fund political campaigns, further accusing the government of abusing public resources.


“The UPND government must categorically deny these allegations and provide a clear breakdown of how the proceeds from the tankers have been utilized. Oil marketing companies involved in the program should also disclose how much they have paid to the government,” he demanded.

Hon. Mundubile also called for answers regarding allegations that a key figure in the program, linked to the company Kapesika, fled the country with significant sums of money meant for youth empowerment.


“The minister must explain why there has been no report on this individual and the company’s involvement in the program. Was there any collusion with government officials? This matter requires a full audit and investigation by relevant authorities, including the Anti-Corruption Commission and the Drug Enforcement Commission,” he stated.



The Mporokoso MP emphasized the need for transparency in the management of public resources, particularly those meant for empowering vulnerable groups like youths.



“This program was meant to uplift the lives of our young people, but it has been turned into a cash cow for a select few. By the time these tankers are handed over to the cooperatives, they will be broken down and worthless. This is an act of corruption and abuse of office,” he said.



Hon. Mundubile urged the government to present a detailed financial and operational report on the fuel tankers, including revenue generated, funds disbursed, and the status of repayments. He also called for an independent audit to ensure accountability and transparency in the program.



“We will not rest until the Zambian people get the answers they deserve. The government must come clean on the management of these resources and ensure that future programs genuinely benefit the intended recipients,” he concluded.

#SmartEagles2025

HOW MANY TEACHERS MUST DIE- Fred M’membe

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HOW MANY TEACHERS MUST DIE- Fred M’membe

HOW MANY TEACHERS MUST DIE, BEFORE GOVT INTERVENES?

There is urgent need for Mr Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND government to address the growing number of suicide cases due to indebtedness amongst teachers, and other civil servants in the country.



It is evident that financial struggles and subsequently stress, anxiety and depression is taking a heavy toll on the mental health of most civil servants, especially teachers, some of whom, are resorting to committing suicide, owing to their failure to settle loans with various lending entities. It is also clear that many people nowadays are unable to sleep due to financial pressures. The country is losing more people every day because of the high cost of living, hypertension, and in extreme cases suicide, both of which are caused by stress.



Wherever one goes in Zambia today, the cries of the people are the same, and they are growing louder and louder every other day. Words fail me to best describe the level of grief, sadness, anger and hunger I have come into contact with during my visits to several and different households and communities across the country. In my trips to these communities, the sadness, brokenness and desperation, which the rise in cost of living has brought to our people is heartbreaking and painful. We have witnessed unprecedented levels of hunger, poverty and despair amongst citizens, which is difficult to comprehend and later on articulate in a way that best reflects what is currently happening in our nation.



It is a fact that the rising cost of living is more than an economic squeeze: it is a public health emergency, potentially on a par with the pandemic. Not being able to afford the essentials, such as food, rent, electricity or transport, has wide-ranging negative impacts on mental and physical health and well-being. Families are in distress. Basic daily feeding has become a very big challenge. Our mothers, our wives, our aunties, our sisters are failing to sleep. Blood pressures are rising exponentially with the rise in the cost of living. Far too many people in the country today can barely afford a meal or two in a day.



This may sound weird and baffling but that is the reality. It’s happening in many households. Families are stressed and are breaking as providers battle to deal with the mental trauma of losing a livelihood and the inability to cope with the situation and fend for their families. Without a doubt, it is this situation, which is compelling most of civil servants, teachers in particular, to opt for loans to survive, which is often leading to indebtedness, and subsequently suicide when they fail to service these loans.


Today, civil servants are in a very serious and painful debt trap that is benefitting their political leaders, who are connected to these money lending companies, which are mercilessly exploiting them. This is why cries and concerns by several institutions like the National Action for quality Education in Zambia (NAQEZ) are falling on deaf ears. Even attempts at debt swaps to bail out civil servants have been frustrated or thwarted because some people in the key leadership of this government are benefitting from this unbearable and painful reality facing civil servants. They are against any measures, which will help alleviate the indebtedness of our people because they are ripping huge profits out of this exploitation. What kind of leadership is this? What level of greed and self-interest is this?   



Things can’t continue this way. We cannot be waking up to news of teachers and other civil servants committing suicide due to indebtedness and the leadership is treating this matter like its business as usual, no.

Enough is enough!

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

Our minister Haimbe, kindly reply to M’membe over Zambia’s alleged support for Morocco’s occupation of Western Sahara- Austin Mbozi

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Our minister Haimbe, kindly reply to M’membe over Zambia’s alleged support for Morocco’s occupation of Western Sahara- Austin Mbozi

Our minister Haimbe, kindly reply to M’membe over Zambia’s alleged support for Morocco’s occupation of Western Sahara



By Austin Mbozi



I suggest that our able foreign affairs minister Mulambo Haimbe fully replies to opposition leader comrade Fred M’membe’s allegation that Zambia is supporting Morocco’s ‘invasion’ of Western Sahara just because President Hakainde Hichilema (HH) is an American puppet (Zambian Observer 2 June 2023).



I already showed in my previous Monday articles that HH is not a Western puppet. My point today is that our foreign ministry must explain more about reasons behind our foreign policy positions. First, any president accused of being a Western puppet risks being a target of anti-West rebels like Islamic jihadists or the types that have taken over Western Africa in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger who hide their actions in the name of removing puppets. As I showed last week, the current Zambia-Zimbabwe diplomatic rift is also coming from Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF lie that HH is a Western puppet, as evidenced when its President Emerson Mnangagwa told Russian President Vladimir Putin. Second, our foreign ministry’s explanations will help Zambian diplomats to take clear positions at international fora. Third, it helps us, pro-UPND writers, to elaborate government positions without risking contradicting our own government. As party members we are bound by collective responsibility. And collective responsibility requires that every member has detailed reasons justifying the agreed upon position, so that every member can defend and coherently elaborate that collectively agreed upon position. 


So far, our diplomats and we writers have faced problems on how to defend Zambia’s diplomatic positions. In March 2022, Zambia joined the majority vote in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to ‘reprimand’ Russia for invading Ukraine. I supported this in my two articles entitled, ‘Zwa mu Ukraine Putin, Nanga NATO niya anyoko’ (The Mast, part one on 18th April 2022 and part two on 25 April 2022). Only to be discouraged later when the then foreign affairs minister Stanley Kakubo said, ‘we are not against Russia. We are only against the war’. I wondered, ‘Ummu boss! If you are a judge, are you going to jail the stealing but not the thief? Let us make pragmatic statements! If a world war breaks out, Zambian soldiers will have to be ordered by our commanders to target specific ‘enemy’ soldiers. They won’t be ordered to shoot at the war. They will shoot at our fellow human beings!



Another case, in July-August 2023, President HH was invited by, and met Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. President HH does not like meddling in international disputes. So, he mainly appreciated Zambia’s religious heritage from Israel and potential agro-tech mutual benefits. But the escalating Israeli-Palestinian war, with the US increasing its military aid to Israeli, puts Zambia in a dilemma. In late September 2024, many UNGA delegates walked out in protest against Netanyahu’s address. Dear reader of this article, suppose you were Zambia’s representative in the UNGA that day, if you walked out, how would you have known whether President HH would be displeased that you are messing the good relationship established with Netanyahu during his visit? If you stayed, how would you know that he would be displeased that you have abandoned the UNGA members with whom Zambia voted against Russia?


Western Sahrawis are indigenous. Their ancestors never created centralised government because of conquests and a nomadic lifestyle. Because of this, some are in Morocco while some Moroccan tribes are in Western Sahara. Spain claimed their territory at the Berlin Conference in 1884, and began ruling it as a protectorate in 1912 while France claimed Morocco, making it its protectorate. In 1956, both Spain and France began the process of leaving these ‘protectorates’. So, the Organisation of African Unity (now African Union) admitted Western Sahara as an independent nation. But Morocco annexed it in 1975 and left the OAU. Morocco also rejected the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling against is occupation of Western Sahara.


Then the conflict went global.  During the border war between Morocco and Algeria, Algeria was receiving Russian support while Morocco received American support. Inspired by Algerian’s war-victory against French colonialism with the help of Russia, Western Sahrawis also mobilised to fight off the Moroccans. The 1991 UN-brokered ceasefire promised a referendum for Western Sahara. But Morocco is frustrating this referendum. Meanwhile, because America needs Arab support in its support for Israel, it persuaded Morocco to also support Israel. Morocco is even getting natural gas from Western Sahara and selling it to Isreal.


The wide reader comrade M’membe is aware of all this. This is what he interprets as President HH being an American puppet. He thinks US is recruiting HH to support Morocco in fighting both Palestine and Russia. But international matters are complex. So, we as Zambians must debate them thoroughly within our parties before we form governments. Even comrade M’membe himself has problems remaining consistent. For instance, he supports Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to ‘prevent an armed hostile neighbour’. Yet, he opposes Isreal’s invasion of Palestine for the same security reasons. He supports the independence of Western Sahara, yet he rejects the independence of Barotseland.


Even Kenneth Kaunda did not consistently follow his non-alignment. He agreed with OAU ban on secessions, yet he and Tanzania’s Julius Nyerere supported the 1966 secession of Biafra from Nigeria. My fellow Mast columnist Professor Hamalengwa, did you not tell us in your book, ‘Thoughts Are Free’ that it took you as UNZA students to force Kaunda to stop supporting American-backed UNITA rebels in Angola so that he supports Russian-backed MPLA?


So, minister Haimbe, Zambia has the right to take any diplomatic position, even against the OAU/AU and ICJ in the case of Western Sahara. What we need are detailed reasons so that we rally behind you without Zambia being accused of merely obeying American orders.



The author, a UNZA lecturer, specialises in global justice and ethnic grievances. Phone: 0978-741920. Email: austin.mbozi2017@gmail.com

HIGH COST OF LIVING IN THE PRACTICAL SENSE- Fred M’membe

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HIGH COST OF LIVING IN THE PRACTICAL SENSE- Fred M’membe

HIGH COST OF LIVING IN THE PRACTICAL SENSE

When we urge the government to address the issue of high cost of living, we are branded anti Mr Hakainde Hichilema and that we criticise his government without being objective.



When we say we need to revisit the mining concessions and tax waivers to improve dollar inflows to the treasury, which in turn can stabilise or improve the exchange rate, we are told we don’t think and understand economics.



When we caution government against heavy external borrowing and increase domestic revenue mobilisation through industrialisation, we are told how the PF borrowed recklessly instead of addressing the continued current borrowing. Each time the exchange rate depreciates, we need more Kwacha for external debt servicing.

Here is the reality: casual workers in farming communities get paid around K50 per day if not in permanent employment or between K800 to K1,500 per month when you are a permanent employee.



K50 is now equal to $1.77 per day at the current exchange rate of K28.3

K800 is now equal to $29 per month worth of a salary.

K1,500 is now equal to $53.



Translate your own salary in Dollars, and you will understand why you are really struggling, noting that Zambia is import dependent and hence most goods are purchased outside Zambia in Dollars.

Most mind-boggling if you earn $53 (K1,500) monthly salary or $53 multiplied by 12 months, a farm worker receives $636 per annum.



$2 billion of tax waivers per annum can employ 3 million farm workers. This is the reality on the issue of tax incentives. You are depriving Zambians to improve their well being; through the provision of improved salaries, infrastructure, social amnenities, education, health, and so on and so forth.


Finally, we believe that business or FDI is attracted through ease of doing business in a particular jurisdiction such as, access to clean water, electricity, roads, air transport, good education and health facilities, communication systems, stable political environment, safety to mention but a few, than this misplaced belief that tax incentives are a precursor to attracting FDIs at the expense of depriving 3 million farming jobs.

Food for thought!

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

Flawed Minerals Regulation Act Leaves Zambia’s Communities and Small-Scale Miners in the Lurch

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Flawed Minerals Regulation Act Leaves Zambia’s Communities and Small-Scale Miners in the Lurch

In a move celebrated by some as progress, Zambia’s government enacted the Minerals Regulation Commission Act No. 14 of 2024, ostensibly aimed at improving oversight in the mining sector. However, a closer inspection reveals glaring weaknesses that render the law a patchwork solution, failing to address the systemic inequities that plague the industry. Beneath the veneer of reform lies a disturbing disregard for the livelihoods of Zambians most affected by mining operations.



The absence of binding provisions for Community Development Agreements (CDAs) is nothing short of an insult to the communities that bear the brunt of mining activities. By failing to mandate these agreements, the government has effectively told Zambians living in mining areas that their well-being and development are expendable. “The omission of binding CDAs leaves affected communities without direct benefits or meaningful participation in mining projects,” remarked Lucy Musonda, Legal Researcher at the Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD).


Equally concerning is the Act’s feeble approach to compensation for displaced landowners and disrupted communities. While it mentions compensation, it lacks robust enforcement mechanisms, leaving affected individuals at the mercy of mining companies notorious for evasion and exploitation. “Without sufficient enforcement measures, landowners remain vulnerable, eroding trust between communities and mining companies,” Ms. Musonda added.


The government’s outright ban on renewing exploration licenses for small-scale miners is yet another slap in the face to Zambians striving to earn an honest living. Instead of addressing the financial and technical challenges faced by these miners, the Act exacerbates their struggles, paving the way for increased illegal mining and fueling economic instability. This decision reflects a lack of understanding—or worse, a deliberate disregard—of the realities faced by small-scale miners.


Moreover, the Act’s provisions on beneficial ownership disclosure expose its lack of commitment to genuine transparency. Allowing mining rights to be transferred without requiring updated ownership records opens the door to corruption, fraud, and tax evasion. “The discrepancy between the Ministry of Mines and PACRA on beneficial ownership records creates accountability loopholes, undermining transparency in the sector,” Ms. Musonda stated.


For a nation so rich in natural resources, the Minerals Regulation Commission Act is a tragic failure of governance. Instead of empowering communities, ensuring equity, and fostering sustainability, it prioritizes the interests of powerful mining conglomerates. This law, touted as a milestone, is a stark reminder of how far Zambia has to go in creating a mining sector that serves its people rather than exploiting them.


Unless these issues are addressed through immediate and comprehensive amendments, the Act will remain a symbol of broken promises and missed opportunities. “To fully realize the Act’s potential, the government must address these gaps to promote inclusivity, transparency, and sustainability in the mining sector,” urged Ms. Musonda. Zambia deserves better. Its people deserve better. But as it stands, the Minerals Regulation Commission Act is a monumental betrayal of trust, leaving Zambians to wonder: whose interests is the government really serving?

KUMWESU JAN 9, 2025

SP CAUTIONS ECZ

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SP CAUTIONS ECZ

SP CAUTIONS ECZ

…as the opposition party successfully fields candidates in all the 4 upcoming by-elections scheduled for 6 February



Mpongwe… Thursday January 9, 2025

The Socialist Party (SP) has called on the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to sternly deal with political stakeholders engaging in electoral malpractice during the by-elections.



SP Chief Advisor to the party President Brian Hapunda says unfortunately, the culprits in most electoral malpractices are the ruling UPND and the ECZ does nothing to punish them.



Mr Hapunda said the ECZ is mandated to ensure that they conduct free, fair and transparent elections saying this is what the people are expecting from them during the February 6, 2025 by-elections.



Mr. Hapunda has also disclosed that the SP has managed to field candidates in all the four (4) by-elections doted across the country.



“The Socialist Party wishes to announce to the nation that it has managed to field candidates in all the four by-election that are doted across the country. The nominations took place on Tuesday January 7, 2025 and voting will be on 6th February, 2025. In Pambashe Constituency Parliamentary by-election, the party has fielded Comrade James Mulenga Chabi, in Petauke Central Parliamentary by-election in Eastern Province the party has fielded Comrade Julius Mwale, in Mutanda Ward in Local ward by-election in Mpongwe District, Copperbelt Province the party has fielded Comrade Clinton Sankayi and in Litawa Ward in Mongu District, Western Province the party has fielded Comrade Walubita Mate,” he said.



“The SP is calling upon the ECZ, which is the body mandated by law to run elections in Zambia to ensure that these by-elections are free, fair and transparent. Going forward, any political stakeholder who will be found wanting in by-elections either advancing political violence of vote buying or indeed conducting any electorate malpractice is brought to book without fear or favor. Unfortunately, the culprits caught up in electoral malpractice in most instances is the ruling party UPND and they are left to go scot free without any punishment handed to them by the ECZ which is unfortunate.”



He has called on the electorate in the affected areas and citizens at large to support the Socialist Party candidates and the party for it is the only party currently that has shown political stability, maturity and advancing issue based campaigns across the country.

It will be hard for opposition to turn youths against UPND – Former PF MP

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It will be hard for opposition to turn youths against UPND – Former PF MP

It will be hard for opposition to turn youths against UPND – Former PF MP

FORMER PF Chifunabuli Member of Parliament Ponde Mecha says it will not be easy for the opposition to turn Zambian youths against the ruling UPND.

Mecha believes the ruling party’s programmes aimed at empowering young people have built strong support among the youth for the government.


He stated that the youths who played an important role in President Hakainde Hichilema’s 2021 election victory still remain a powerful force.

“Those hoping to rally the youth against the current administration must first grapple with the reality that many young Zambians are beneficiaries of policies and Programmes under the New Dawn government.”


“For instance, public service jobs in education, health etc, the free education policy, the scaling up of technical and vocational education and the expansion of youth entrepreneurship programmes like the Youth Empowerment Fund have all directly benefited thousands of young Zambians,” said Mecha.

However, Mecha said while the UPND has done well in connecting with young people, it must sustain its efforts to avoid losing their support.


He urged the government to clearly explain its policies and programmes to ensure young people understand the benefits.

Meach said social media and other platforms can be utilised to connect with the youth.



He added that young people should be shown that they are part of decision-making processes by including them in leadership roles.

He said government must also ensure that key programmes like skills training and youth funds, reach those who need them most.



Meanwhile, Mecha also noted the dissatisfaction among some youths but stressed that it does not automatically mean that they will join the opposition.

“The youth movement in Zambia remains a powerful force, but any attempt to turn it against President Hichilema and the UPND faces significant challenges. The government’s systems-thinking approach, coupled with its focus on youth empowerment has created a reservoir of goodwill among many young people. While gaps exist, they are not insurmountable.”


“For the youth movement to shift meaningfully, the opposition must address these dynamics critically and present a coherent and inclusive vision. Similarly, the New Dawn government must remain vigilant, ensuring that its policies and programs continue to resonate with the aspirations of Zambia’s youth. Only then can either side lay claim to this influential demographic,” he added.


He added that government projects in sectors like mining, agriculture, and infrastructure are creating opportunities that appeal to many young Zambians.


Mecha said the opposition must do more than rely on frustrations to win over the youth.

By Catherine Pule

Credits/Kalemba, January 8, 2025

HH has basically cornered ECL such that, he can’t do much politically. He is as good as a prisoner – Chilufya Tayali

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HH has basically cornered ECL such that, he can’t do much politically. He is as good as a prisoner – Chilufya Tayali

By Chilufya Tayali

IGNORE MY POLITICAL INSIGHTS AT YOUR OWN PERIL, 2026 WILL SOON BE HERE WHILE YOU ARE STILL WAITING FOR THE SAVIOUR
====================
I am being bombarded with all sorts of messages accusing me of having been paid for UPND to ask President Lungu to resign.

But let’s stop for a moment and ask this question….🤔🤔🤔



Do you think President Hichilema needs me (let alone pay me), to bring down President Lungu? Honestly haven’t you realized that a lot of damage has already been done?

What is left of President Lungu, apart from being a Former Head of State?

It may take time for ordinary people and sycophants to realize this, but President Hichilema has destroyed the political and financial muscle of President Lungu.



Yes, President Lungu is still a factor, but that is because he is the former head of State, otherwise show me any political stint of Edgar Lungu which makes him a factor and viable for 2026.

Imagine if we had other former heads of State alive, do you think President Lungu would be a factor, especially if they have their own political interests like ECL does.



In case you have not realised, President Hichilema has been tossing and bullying ECL without any resistance, or push back, at all.

HH has basically cornered ECL such that, he can’t do much politically. He is as good as a prisoner serving a sentence in an open Prison called Zambia.

His family members and close friends imprisoned in jails while others are also in an open prison depending on how they behave, otherwise they go in as well.



His number one cheerleader and public lawyer sent in exile to be a political refugee. And tomorrow they will even convict me so that, the moment I come back, it’s jail, without negotiations.

They (HH and his people), have grabbed PF and given it to small boys to play with it like toys.



President Lungu is trying to get up using other oppositions, like a boxer stangering on the ropes, but it’s game over.

President Lungu can’t unite the opposition based on a magical card, that he is holding, to anoint one of political leaders, to stand in the 2026 general elections.



That issue is more complex than most of you can think of. It may even bring more division than the little unity we have.

Tell, why is ECL failing to unite opposition parties in these by-elections, because it should start from there, before we talk about the big one  – PRESIDENCY.

If President Lungu had capacity to make a King, he wouldn’t be where he is, he would have fought for himself to be that King, because it was easier for him to be the king than to anoint another person.



Look at my points instead of accusing me of being bought by UPND, I AM JUST TRYING TO SALVAGE SOMETHING OUT OF THIS MESS AND THAT IS THE FREEDOM OF PRESIDENT LUNGU AND HIS FAMILY, SO THAT HE CAN LIVE IN PEACE.



YES, I AM TALKING TO SOME PEOPLE IN GOVT, BUT ONLY TO PLEAD WITH THEM TO LEAVE THE MAN ALONE.

I  know someone will say, why are you not pleading  for yourself, well…. that is what I will explain at 20:00hrs.

TAYALI THE PUBLIC LAWYER OF THE PUBLIC COURT OF OPINIONS!!!

How Long Will Madam Mwangala Zaloumis Continue Abrogating the Constitution with Impunity?- Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma

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How Long Will Madam Mwangala Zaloumis Continue Abrogating the Constitution with Impunity?- Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma

How Long Will Madam Mwangala Zaloumis Continue Abrogating the Constitution with Impunity?

By Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma

Madam Mwangala Zaloumis, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), has brazenly defied constitutional directives with her recent declaration that elections will not be canceled when candidates withdraw. This defiance flies in the face of Zambia’s supreme law, raising an urgent and troubling question: Where does Madam Zaloumis derive the audacity to undermine constitutional mandates and erode public trust in the electoral process?



A Constitutional Breach in Full View

Article 52(6) of the Zambian Constitution, reinforced by a binding judgment from the Constitutional Court, clearly dictates the procedure when a candidate withdraws after the close of nominations. In Governance Elections Advocacy Research Services v. Attorney General and Electoral Commission of Zambia (2022/CCZ/0020), the Court decisively ruled:


> “For the avoidance of doubt, we wish to state that in terms of Article 52(6) of the Constitution, where a political party-sponsored candidate for election as a Member of Parliament resigns after the close of nominations but before the election date, the Electoral Commission is obligated to cancel the election and call for fresh nominations from eligible candidates and call for fresh elections in accordance with Article 52(6).”


This ruling leaves no room for ambiguity. The Constitution mandates the cancellation of elections under these circumstances, followed by fresh nominations and elections. By defying this requirement, Madam Zaloumis is not merely misinterpreting the law—she is blatantly violating it, threatening the rule of law and the integrity of Zambia’s democratic framework.



Disregarding Constitutional Directives

What is even more alarming than the breach itself is Madam Zaloumis’s dismissive attitude. Her suggestion that those who disagree with her approach should “go to court” reeks of arrogance and a disturbing disregard for constitutionalism. By emphasizing the financial burden of legal recourse, she trivializes justice and undermines public confidence in democratic institutions. This posture implies a belief that judicial complicity or political protection will shield her actions—an implication that gravely damages perceptions of an impartial ECZ and independent judiciary.



Betrayal of a Sacred Oath

Madam Zaloumis took an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of Zambia when she assumed her office. That solemn promise was made before the Zambian people and carries with it an unwavering obligation to adhere to the law. Why, then, has she chosen to abrogate the Constitution with such impunity? A person who demonstrates blatant disregard for constitutional principles is unfit to hold public office.


The growing perception that Madam Zaloumis is a political operative of the United Party for National Development (UPND) further compounds the crisis of confidence in the ECZ. She cannot remain at the helm of an institution tasked with safeguarding electoral fairness and integrity. Her continued presence compromises the impartiality of the electoral process. The right and honorable step is for her to step down.



A Clarion Call for Constitutional Fidelity

Zambians cannot afford complacency in the face of constitutional violations. Citizens must demand that leaders and officeholders adhere to the highest standards of accountability. The Constitution must remain the ultimate guide in electoral governance, untainted by personal interests or political manipulation.



Conclusion: A Future at Stake

The path forward for Zambia’s democracy must be paved with adherence to the law and unwavering commitment to justice. No individual, regardless of office or influence, can be allowed to place personal or political interests above the supreme law. Madam Zaloumis’s actions not only compromise her integrity—they jeopardize the very foundation of Zambia’s democratic future. It is time for action, vigilance, and the unwavering defense of constitutionalism. She must resign, for her continued tenure undermines the very democracy she swore to protect.

LAZ MUST INTERVENE IN THE DELIBERATE INTENT OF CONSTITUTIONAL ABROGATIONS BY ECZ CHAIRPERSON- Lusaka Lawyer

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LAZ MUST INTERVENE IN THE DELIBERATE INTENT OF CONSTITUTIONAL ABROGATIONS BY ECZ CHAIRPERSON- Lusaka Lawyer

THE LAW ASSOCIATION OF ZAMBIA (LAZ) MUST INTERVENE IN THE DELIBERATE INTENT OF CONSTITUTIONAL ABROGATIONS BY THE ELECTORAL COMMISSION OF ZAMBIA (ECZ) CHAIRPERSON 



By Lusaka Lawyer Celestine Mambula Mukandila

It is with sad reading that Zambia is slowly turning into a Jungle Law Republic where those who wield power or those who are strong and apply ruthless self-interest will be most successful.



Electoral Commission of Zambia Chairperson Madam Mwangala Zalomis SC has shockingly made a very daunting statement during a stakeholder meeting with Political Parties to insinuate that the Electoral Commission of Zambia will NOT abide by the Constitutional Provisions as provided under Article 52 of the Constitution of Zambia Act No. 2 2016. 


State Counsel has been quoted stating that the Commission will not cancel any elections when candidates withdraw despite the Constitutional provision on the matter.

This will be in clear breach of Article 52(6) of the Republican Constitution as read together with the guidance of the Constitutional Court in the GEARS Initiative case.


The Courts’ guidance in the case of Governance Elections Advocacy Research Services Vs the Attorney General and Electoral Commission of Zambia (2022/CCZ/0020), is instructive to the effect that the Constitutional Court ruled on Page J34 of the Judgment that;


“For the avoidance of doubt, we wish to state that in terms of Article 52(6) of the Constitution, where a political party sponsored candidate for election as a Member of Parliament resigns after the close of nominations but before the election date, the Electoral Commission is obligated to cancel the election and call for fresh nominations from eligible candidates and call for fresh elections in accordance with Article 52(6).”



It’s amazing how State Counsel decided to proudly brag about a Constitutional abrogation with so much confidence.

This is an indictment on State Counsel Zalomis to resign on moral grounds as this goes to the core of her Legal Profession’s Ethics. 



I can only now say, God help Zambia.

#protect_and_defend_the_constitution
#Mukandila_Nabakwe_73

WHERE ARE THE AMBULANCES? ENOUGH WITH THE CORRUPTION!

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WHERE ARE THE AMBULANCES? ENOUGH WITH THE CORRUPTION!

WHERE ARE THE AMBULANCES? ENOUGH WITH THE CORRUPTION!

By Richard Bravo Mulenga, SP Deputy National Youth Secretary

This ambulance scandal is a disgrace, and Zambians deserve answers. The government gave $13 million to two companies, ACE Pharmaceuticals and Aqueous Investments, to deliver 156 ambulances. What do we have to show for it? Just 11 out of 156 questionable vehicles that aren’t even proper ambulances have been delivered.


The deadlines keep getting extended, and still, nothing happens. Now we hear these companies are trying to buy old, abandoned cars in Dubai, fix them up, and pass them off as ambulances. Is this what $13 million of taxpayer money was meant for? We need answers as soon as yesterday.


The pressing questions that demand immediate answers are:
1. Why were these companies awarded the contract in the first place?
2. How could such a critical deal be handed to companies with no proven track record or capacity to deliver?
3. Who approved this arrangement despite clear signs of incompetence and fraud?
4. Most importantly, why are the police and government allowing these criminals to walk free while public hospitals remain overwhelmed and under-resourced?


Meanwhile, the owners of these companies are living lavish lives, building mansions in Lusaka, and bribing officials to cover up their theft. Yet our people are dying because there are no ambulances to take them to the hospital.

This is unacceptable and this government must act now to cancel these contracts without further delay, there’s no room for more lies or excuses. Every dollar of the $13 million must be recovered because it belongs to the people of Zambia, not to corrupt individuals who have looted public funds.



The culprits behind this outright theft must be arrested and face justice. Allowing them to walk free is an insult to the citizens who are suffering due to their greed. Furthermore, ZAMMSA needs urgent reform, as it has become a breeding ground for corruption. Without serious changes, scandals like this will keep happening, hurting the people who need help the most.



This isn’t just about missing ambulances. It’s about lives lost because of greed. People in rural areas are suffering. Cholera is spreading. Pregnant women can’t get to clinics. Emergencies are turning into funerals.



Let this government hear this,: if you won’t fight corruption, the people of Zambia will hold you accountable. This kind of rot is what destroys trust in government. Stop the stories, stop the lies, and do what’s right for the people.

ADMIT FAILURE, DO NOT MASK IT- Faston Mwale, SP Deputy General Secretary

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ADMIT FAILURE, DO NOT MASK IT- Faston Mwale, SP Deputy General Secretary

ADMIT FAILURE, DO NOT MASK IT

By Faston Mwale, SP Deputy General Secretary – Political

Claims by the UPND government that they have successfully delivered on their promises is, to the say the least, hollow and is political flattery seeking self-consolation in the light of failure to deliver development as pledged during the run up to the 2021 general elections. If indeed the UPND has fulfilled its promises, then, why is a 25kg bag of mealie meal costing K418 instead of the assured K50, for example? Masking the shame of failure could be more damaging than openly acknowledging that things have been very difficult. Who does not know that Zambia is enduring the worst cost of living crisis under the watch of the UPND?


In the face of systemic crises, it is proving impossible for the broad masses of the people to escape poverty. Given a disabled energy sector, a broken agriculture sector and a rundown health and educations sectors, breaking out of the vicious cycle of poverty is not easy. It is not a secret that the neoliberal prescriptions of the International Monetary Fund religiously pursued by government are not reducing poverty, rather, they are exacerbating the crisis.


Today, large numbers of households including middle class families are experiencing the inhumanity of hunger, poverty, starvation, deprivation and social exclusion. 60 percent of Zambians are trapped in a vicious cycle poverty while approximately half of the population has already been pushed to the edge of the cliff.



Thousands of our young people who otherwise must be in tertiary institutions are not able to access higher education because they have been excluded from a bursary loan scheme. Yet, we have a government that cannot account for $3bn illicitly drained out of government coffers in a single year. The crisis of accountability over public resources has been occasioned by ruthless forms of rent-seeking behaviors and grand corruption that has become the norm rather than the exception. If one closed their eyes for a moment and imagined about how many of our young people would be awarded bursaries from a $3bn to advance their education, they would be profoundly amazed.


In today’s world, development dynamics have changed drastically. No country can move forward if it ignores tertiary education. The systematic exclusion of thousands of young people from educational processes especially at tertiary level is a grave mistake which cannot be remedied easily. The main thrust of the 21st century education must be the acquisition of science and technology backed by research and development. 


We in the Socialist Party have repeatedly belabored the point that the development of countries nowadays no longer hinges on the geographical size of the country, nor on the size of the population, nor on the mineral resources buried underground but on the brain power of its people. This is precisely why the Socialist Party in government will spend not less than 25 percent of the national resources on education besides socializing the educational sector. Under the socialist government, no child must be excluded from education processes at any level on account of fees. Every child is special and has a right to education. This will be complemented by a commitment of not less than 20 percent of the national resources to the health sector to enhance social capital formation. Healthcare will be free and socialized.


I must put it to the UPND leadership that they have lamentably failed and must own up. Masking the shame of failure by claiming credit in the face of a visible shortcomings is not leadership but the worst form of fascism. There is honor and respect in admitting failure. It is only when one acknowledges their failures and deficiencies that a path is set for reform. To obstinately deny that there is a crisis of leadership in Zambia is being disingenuous. Zambians of today are not dull to be constantly fed with a diet of lies. They know too well that their predicament is enshrined in the insatiable lust for wealth accumulation, propelled by rent-seeking behaviors, corruption and wanton looting of state resources perpetrated by those who wield political power.


Zambians must not succumb to the fear of change. In our current circumstances, change is inevitable. But change must be thorough. It must not be superficial change just for replacing one set of failures by another but must be change that entails socio-economic, political and cultural transformation. The construction of a society that is less ugly but more humane, less discriminatory but more inclusive is possible but building it is but a collective task.

Simon Mwewa ‘survives’ jail as he begs court for mercy

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Simon Mwewa ‘survives’ jail as he begs court for mercy

Simon Mwewa ‘survives’ jail as he begs court for mercy

ANTI-drunk driving campaigner Simon Mwewa narrowly survived going to jail yesterday after begging the Lusaka Magistrates Court for mercy.



https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1A4uBbd512/?mibextid=oFDknk

Last November, the Lusaka Magistrates Court issued a bench warrant against the Simoson building boss and controversial social media content creator after he failed to turn up as a witness in a case Chishimba Kambwili is charged with Hate Speech and Unlawful Assembly.


On Tuesday, the court ordered that a police officer tasked with apprehending Mwewa shows up and explain why the self-appointed national English language tutor was neither in court nor behind bars.

To save himself, Mwewa suspended his street TikTok filming session and and Yango-ed himself to court first thing yesterday.



Appearing before magistrate Kawama Mwamfuli, the content creator pleaded with her to have leniency on him stating that he was ready to testify immediately.

When asked why he was a no-show during the hearing, Mwewa said he was now available and ready to testify.



However, Mwewa’s appearance quickly turned comical as in a moment of apparent panic, he awkwardly lifted the Bible with his left hand to take the oath, sparking a mixture of confusion and amusement in the courtroom.

“Use your right hand to swear,” the court Interpreter reminded him.


After taking oath, Mwewa explained that the first time he was called to testify, he had a conflicting commitment at the High Court that required his attention and the second time he was summoned, he simply forgot to appear.

“My sincere apologies, the first time I was supposed to appear before this court I had another matter at the High court. And the other day I was supposed to come I forgot, I sincerely apologize, I am so sorry, I apologize, am ready to testify today,” Mr Mwewa said.


And when the court called the senior arresting officer, Michael Matafwali to explain why they failed to bring Mwewa on warrant, he said the actual arresting officer who was summoned to appear before court was in North Western province attending to other duties.

Matafwali said the warrant was never executed at the time of arrest and Mwewa was never met.


The court however, gave Mwewa a benefit of doubt and revoked his bench warrant.

The court also warned him to attend court without fail at the next sitting.

In this matter, Kambwili pleaded not guilty to one count of unlawful assembly.


It is alleged that Kambwili on January 26, 2023, in Lusaka jointly charged with other persons unknown unlawfully assemble with intent to commit an offence or breach of peace.

The matter has been adjourned to March 6, 2025 for continuation of trial.

Kalemba January 9, 2025

ConCourt Explains Presidential ‘Pardons’

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ConCourt Explains Presidential ‘Pardons’

ConCourt Explains Presidential ‘Pardons’
By Dickson Jere

A lady Zambia Air Force (ZAF) officer was arrested and charged with an offence of assault on a child. She was later found guilty by the Magistrate Court and sentenced to six years simple imprisonment. Consequently, she was dismissed from ZAF where she was serving as Lieutenant.



However, whilst in prison, the President released her on what appeared to have been a Presidential pardon as part of the Independence Day celebrations. She then wrote to ZAF demanding to be reinstated, arguing that a presidential pardon erases the conviction.


ZAF refused to bring her back on the grounds that her release was a “conditional” pardon which did not erase her conviction.

Being dissatisfied with ZAF response, she petitioned the Constitutional Court averring that presidential “pardons” erases the conviction and therefore she should be reiterated.


The Court heard both sides and intimated that the Presidential pardon can either be “conditional” or “unconditional” and the two have different legal effects. But there is also a third one which is a “remission of sentence”.

The Judges observed that the ZAF officer was in fact granted a remission of sentence and not pardon when one reads the actual content of the Presidential Order of Release.



“Nowhere is it suggested that the concerned persons have been pardoned,” the Judges observed after reading the Order of Release.

“Had the framers of the Constitution intended that a pardon and a remission should overlap, they could have expressly stated so,” the Judges said, adding that remission is separate from pardon.


The ConCourt said Article 97(1) of the Constitution empowers the President to exercise various acts of Prerogative of Mercy, which includes “conditional” and “unconditional” pardons as well as “remissions”.

The officer was therefore given a remission which is different from pardon.


“The remission entails that her conviction remains intact and the legal disqualification which triggered the termination of her employment is not extinguished,” the Judges explained.


They guided that when one is not sure as to which relief the President has given to the convict, they should read the content of the Release Order, which gives details of the decision.


Case citation – Mildred Luwaile v Attorney General (2023/CCZ/0022).

This case is important as it explains the three different types of Prerogative of Mercy given by the President. Only the unconditional one erases the criminal record of the person and he is treated as if he never committed an offence.

FAZ DRIVES BIG INTO 2025…Unveils State of the Art Bus for National Teams

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FAZ DRIVES BIG INTO 2025…Unveils State of the Art Bus for National Teams

FAZ DRIVES BIG INTO 2025…Unveils State of the Art Bus for National Teams

THE Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has set the tone for the brand new year by officially unveiling a modern, state-of-the-art bus for the national teams, which aims to address logistical challenges in Zambian football.


The bus, funded under FIFA’s Forward Development Programme at $428,187.32 (about K11,991,332), is designed to provide the national teams with reliable and comfortable transportation for local and international engagements.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony held at Football House attended by key stakeholders, including FIFA Representative David Fani , FAZ President Andrew Kamanga highlighted the importance of the new bus in elevating the operations of Zambia’s national teams.


“There could have been no better way to drive into 2025 than the way we are moving in the brand-new year.  What we are witnessing today is a continuation of the progressive trajectory that we were on in 2024. The project that we are unveiling today speaks to real football development as its impact is instant,” Kamanga said.


“It is only befitting that having recorded positive results in 2024, our teams should also be elevated in the manner they are projected to the public. Over the years, transporting our national teams during local and international engagements has been a persistent challenge.”

Kamanga also acknowledged FIFA’s broader support for Zambian football, including the $10 million Technical Centre project launched in 2024.



“This modern bus, acquired through the FIFA forward support program, marks a major milestone in resolving that issue. We extend our gratitude to the FIFA regional office and our dedicated faz secretariat, whose tireless efforts ensured the successful delivery of this project.”

FIFA Representative David Fani lauded FAZ for its efficient use of FIFA’s resources, emphasizing the strategic importance of the bus acquisition.



“We are here this morning to bear witness to the unveiling of this bus and it is a proud moment for FAZ to have reached this important milestone. It is undeniable that the FAZ’s needs are many and varied. By purchasing the bus we are about to unveil, FAZ took an important step to address some of the challenges it faces,” Fani said.


“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the FAZ president, FAZ Executive Committee and staff on the work they are doing to develop football in Zambia. It’s never easy and, with limited resources, it is even more difficult.”

Fani added that the FIFA Forward Development Programme is designed to empower member associations to make meaningful investments, and FAZ had done just that.


“The forward funding is not enough but, properly invested, as FAZ is doing, it can make a difference. FAZ also needs to be congratulated for the progress that the Zambia teams, national and clubs, have made on the continental and international scenes.  Zambia is by far the dominant force in Cosafa and has of late qualified for numerous continental and international competitions,” Fani said.



National Sports Council CEO Sombwa Musunsa underscored the importance of infrastructure development in improving the standards of sport in Zambia.

“Let me congratulate FAZ on successfully securing the bus and on your broader vision for football development. Thank you, FIFA for your continued support and investment in Zambia’s football. I wish you FAZ and the teams success in your future endeavors and I pledge the council’s continued support,” Musunsa said.

LITAWA WARD  PAINTED RED AS UPND CANDIDATE FILES SUCCESSFULLY.

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LITAWA WARD  PAINTED RED AS UPND CANDIDATE FILES SUCCESSFULLY.

LITAWA WARD  PAINTED RED AS UPND CANDIDATE FILES SUCCESSFULLY.
——————————————-
8/1/25

Litawa Ward in Nalikwanda Constituency was painted red in UPND party regalia as Mwitumwa Susiku who is standing on the UPND ticket filed his nomination successfully in the Litawa Ward local government by election slated for 6th February, 2025.


Other parties which filed their nominations successfully are Socialist Party, Citizens First and Leadership Movement.
The by election is as a result of the death of late UPND Councillor Moses Munyinda who passed away last year.



Speaking to a politically charged well attended crowd clad in party regalia, UPND Provincial Chairman Hon Kapelwa Mbangweta urged the people of Litawa Ward to replace their late Councillor Moses Munyinda by voting for the UPND candidate Mwitumwa Susiku and not to waste their votes on small parties whose leaders are blank about development as all they do is spend their time spreading falsehoods and disparaging President Hakainde Hichilema in an effort to tarnish his image.


He went on to remind the people of Litawa Ward that all the development in Nalikwanda and and Western Province in general is a result of sound leadership by President Hichilema who has a heart for the people especially rural areas like Western Province which was marginalized by previous administrations, but are now enjoying social security programs like Social Cash Transfer, Food for Work, Drought Rapid Response and introduction of sales points in Wards where people can access maize.



And speaking after being introduced to the cheering crowd UPND candidate Mwitumwa Susiku pledged to serve the people of Litawa Ward to the best of his ability and continue with the development projects that were started by late the Councillor.



The Provincial Chairman’s entourage included officials from the Provincial Executive Committee, District, Western Province Presidential Campaign Team Coordinator General Max Kasabi, Nalikwanda MP Hon Simunji Simunji and Mayor of Mongu His Worship Nyambe Muyumbana.

Issued by:

Spuki Mulemwa
UPND Western Province Presidential Campaign Team Spokesperson.

PETERSHAKES DEFENDS TRIPPLE M ZAMBIA OVER BABY SCANDAL

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PETERSHAKES DEFENDS TRIPPLE M ZAMBIA OVER BABY SCANDAL

PETERSHAKES DEFENDS TRIPPLE M ZAMBIA OVER BABY SCANDAL

By Beatrice Chabaya

The Zambian entertainment industry has been abuzz with drama and controversy surrounding Triple M and Comfort, the daughter of the late King Dandy.

Revelations have been circulating on social media that Triple M got Comfort pregnant, allegedly leading to her dropping out of school.



However, the two parties involved, along with their families, had chosen to keep the matter private, until the passing of King Dandy.

Petershakes Kozo, a member of the renowned music group Peace Preachers, has come to Triple M’s defense, urging the public to respect the privacy of the individuals involved.



“Don’t punish or throw stones at Triple M just because they didn’t allow the public to know about their lives that didn’t need the public to know. You might be a public figure, but that doesn’t mean your family is public as well, and you decide and control what stays private and what stays public, he said in a post on his Facebook page today.



Petershakes also said  that Comfort, who is turning 23 this year, is an adult capable of making her own decisions, unlike people’s claims.

“Comfort is not a young girl, she’s actually turning 23 this year, and she is able to choose who she can date and be with in this life,” he stated.

He expressed disappointment that some individuals had chosen to bring up the private matter at a time when the family is mourning.



“It’s unfortunate that some f00l decided to come out at such a time where the family is mourning and start bringing issues that the family decided to be private in the public and busy throwing stones and lying against him, Leave the two alone and let them mourn in peace”, he urged.


Petershakes concluded by cautioning against spreading lies and rumors, saying, “Imwe mulongana emo bwailila nemo bwachela nokuponya amafumo, bamo mwalifyala no one has ever said a thing about it, so why iyi inkale monga apaya muntu olo bapaya muntu? Let them be and stop spreading lies that are not even happening at all”.

©️Zambia Reports, 8th January 2025.

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