RELEASE FRANCIS KAPWEPWE (WHY ME)

Why does Mr Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND government continue to go against the law, and the promises they made to the Zambian people? Can the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Mr Jack Mwiimbu and the Inspector General of Police Mr Graphael Musamba explain to the nation the continued and unlawful detention of Tiktok blogger Mr Francis Kapwepwe a.k.a WHY ME in Livingstone for many months now?

Why have they kept the young man in illegal detention for this long? What grave crime has he committed to warrant this kind of punishment? Why this cruelty and total disregard of the law? What type of leaders are these, who do not care or listen to others? Where is the justice and equality before the law Mr Hichilema promised us? Can they explain to the nation why bail has been denied for this young man? And can they also explain why people are not allowed to visit Francis in prison? Is Francis still alive?

This level of cruelty, abuse of human rights, and injustice is beyond the acceptable standards that govern any civilized society. These kind of jungle governance strategies are a huge embarrassment to nation, and humanity as a whole. We cannot be treating each other with so much cruelty and hatred. We can do better. This barbarism and evilness should be condemned by every objective, and well-meaning citizen of this country. Whatever crime Francis is alleged to have committed, he deserves to be treated humanely and fairly.

We should not forget that there are people close to Mr Hichilema, who have committed worse cyber crimes, and continue doing the same thing to this very day, without reprimand or punishment. In fact, some of these people have actually been rewarded with jobs in the foreign service, and some are presently running Mr Hichilema’s guerrilla media channels, and are engaged in all manner of seditious practices, and maliciously abusing and insulting private citizens, and Mr Hichilema’s political opponents with impunity. They’re simply untouchable. Where is the fairness? Where are human rights? Where is the decency of this government and its leaders?

We have said it over and over again, that those who seek equity must come with clean hands. Mr Hichilema and his league must not seek to enforce the law, when they themselves are in breach of it. It is immoral and a shame that they should treat some citizens of this country like animals rather than humans deserving a chance to live like themselves.

We demand justice for Francis Kapwepwe (WHY ME).

May God help Zambia!

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

2025 NAPSA Adjustment: A Blow to the Ordinary Zambian

The recent 2025 NAPSA adjustment, raising the maximum monthly deductible contribution to ZMW1,708.20, has been celebrated as a step toward greater retirement security. However, for the average Zambian worker, this policy feels more like a financial burden than a benefit. Behind the polished rhetoric lies a harsh reality: this move disproportionately disadvantages ordinary citizens while further straining an already fragile economic ecosystem.

For the typical Zambian earning close to the National Average Earnings (NAE) of ZMW8,541.00, the increase translates to a significant deduction from their paycheck. While the government touts this as “more savings,” it’s hard to ignore the immediate consequence—less money for daily survival. With inflation driving up the cost of essentials such as food, transport, and housing, most workers cannot afford to have more of their income locked into a system that offers no immediate relief. This adjustment robs ordinary citizens of their financial flexibility, leaving them scrambling to make ends meet.

Moreover, the promise of long-term retirement benefits feels hollow to many. The trust in NAPSA is low, with frequent complaints about delayed payouts and insufficient benefits. For the ordinary Zambian, sacrificing a larger portion of their earnings today feels like throwing money into a black hole, with no guarantee of reaping the promised rewards in retirement. It’s a gamble many can’t afford to take, especially in a country where financial literacy and trust in public institutions remain challenges.

The impact on families is even more pronounced. For households relying on dual incomes to sustain basic needs, the increased NAPSA contributions from both spouses further shrink disposable income. Parents may be forced to cut back on school fees, healthcare, or even food budgets to accommodate these deductions. This policy doesn’t just hurt individuals—it undermines the welfare of entire families, perpetuating cycles of poverty and financial insecurity.

For workers in the informal sector, who already lack access to NAPSA, this adjustment widens the gap between them and their formally employed counterparts. It creates a perception that formal sector workers are being unfairly taxed to compensate for systemic inefficiencies. This further alienates a large portion of the population and deepens economic inequality, leaving ordinary Zambians questioning who this policy truly serves.

From a macroeconomic perspective, the timing of this adjustment couldn’t be worse. Businesses, especially SMEs, are grappling with post-pandemic recovery, and now face increased payroll costs. These costs inevitably trickle down to workers, either through job cuts, stagnant wages, or reduced benefits. For an ordinary Zambian, this means fewer opportunities for employment and growth, coupled with higher job insecurity.

The policy’s lack of transparency further aggravates the situation. Ordinary Zambians have no clear understanding of how their contributions are managed or invested. Without accountability, it feels like a coercive system where the government takes more without giving back in meaningful ways. For workers who are already burdened with taxes and other deductions, this is an unwelcome additional strain.

Ultimately, the 2025 NAPSA adjustment is a stark reminder of how disconnected policymakers can be from the realities of ordinary citizens. It imposes a one-size-fits-all solution in a country where economic disparities are vast, leaving the average worker to bear the brunt of poorly conceived policies. Rather than empowering Zambians, this adjustment strips them of agency, leaving them with less money, less trust, and fewer opportunities to improve their lives. It’s a harsh blow to those who can least afford it.

KUMWESU JAN 2, 2024

HH’S LACK OF EXPERIENCE IN GOVERNMENT HAS AFFECTED SERVICE DELIVERY – MUNDUBILE.

….Says the opposition should continue relying on ECL’s guidance on unity.

MPOROKOSO PF MP Brian Mundubile says President Hakainde Hichilema’s lack of experience in government leadership has affected the UPND’s service delivery.

And Mundubile has urged Zambians to prepare for a new leadership in 2026.
Further, Mundubile says the opposition should continue relying on former president Edgar’s guidance on unity, saying that’s the only way to dislodge the UPND in 2026.

In an interview, Tuesday, Mundubile said people had enough time to evaluate leaders to take over, saying they should not vote out of frustration because of the failures of the UPND.

He said it had been very difficult to know the direction that the UPND were taking the country.

“The lack of direction we are facing now is on account of lack of capacity to deliver. Yes, President Hichilema is trying to work hard, but are the results visible? No. And we quickly have to find out why they are not showing. Some of the reasons are that there was no clear vision, no policy direction as to where we want to go, no anchor projects. It’s been very difficult to know the direction the UPND wanted to take the country, everybody is left guessing. As we go forward, Zambians must begin to prepare for a new leadership. But even as they prepare for a new leadership they should not vote out of frustration because of how the UPND have failed. They still have enough time for Zambians to begin to evaluate the leaders that will take over office,” Mundubile said.

“It’s also important to look at the past performance by individuals that aspire to lead. It doesn’t matter in what capacity they have been serving. Zambians should not lose hope and confidence. I fear that we could have voter apathy if we are not careful. People will not see the need to go and vote because President Hakainde Hichilema had raised the hopes of the people, they will not see the need to wake up at 02hrs. The flagship project is free education but out of that what do we have? Have we really gotten the best deal out of that? No. Funding of CDF has been a big challenge, this is a story that nobody tells. Most of the times you get CDF funded actually in December, meaning the whole year people will just be waiting for their projects to be funded”.

He said there was need to have more than the current minimum requirements for one to be president.

“So as a politician there are certain minimum expectations that I had from the UPND and these were not from nowhere. We need to take time to evaluate the people that we vote for, evaluate the vision that they have, evaluate the capacity they possess to deliver on their visions as it was.There’s some minimum exposure a leader should go through before he can even be chosen as president. Learning from the UPND and their failures it also goes to show one thing, it’s true that President Hakainde Hichilema has never been in government before, he’s been in the private sector. I think the lack of experience in the public sector has had an impact on service delivery and the way that he’s been able to run government,” Mundubile said.

“So it’s important going forward that if we want to come up with transformational laws and policies, one of the areas in future to look at is how one ascends to the position of president. It’s not enough to put conditions such as a grade 12 certificate. We are talking about the lives of the people that must be secured. Many other positions lower than president can have minimum qualifications. I think it’s within our power as a people to also demand that for one to be president they must possess certain experiences, they should have been exposed to certain positions so that there are no experiments as it were”.

He said the three years of the UPND had taught them lessons to ensure that they made promises they would be able to deliver.

“The three years of UPND in power have lessons, even as politicians we know what not to do because of what the UPND have done. They overpromised without carrying out an assessment on how they can do certain things. So when it came to implementing it was a total failure. We now know that before you make a promise, do a study, some research and look at the capacity to deliver those promises. It’s not a very comfortable feeling to be called liars all the time as leaders. Leaders are supposed to be respected but they are called for who they are that they are liars because they lied. It takes away a lot from leaders so they can avoid that by only making promises on things that they can do, not things they dream or wish that they can do. They look at the practicality of doing those things,” Mundubile said.

And Mundubile said the opposition should continue relying on former president Edgar’s guidance on unity, saying that was the only way to dislodge the UPND in 2026.

“I wish to send my seasonal greetings to the Tonse alliance led by president Edgar Lungu for the leadership that has been provided during this difficult time. We saw what was happening in Kawambwa, Tonse was barely a month old and yet performed very well. We want to continue relying on president Lungu’s leadership going forward to navigate and guide opposition political parties to come together to work and have concerted efforts so that in the 2026 elections the number of candidates are reduced. That’s the only sure way that will dislodge the UPND government given the many failures that they’ve registered so far,” said Mundubile

(Credit: news Diggers)

ARREST AND DETENTION OF DETECTIVE INSPECTOR TITUS PHIRI FOR AIDING PRISONERS TO ESCAPE – KANYAMA POLICE STATION

January 01,2024-The Zambia Police Service wishes to confirm the arrest and detention of Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, Team Leader at Leonard Cheelo Police Post under Kanyama Police Station, for aiding thirteen (13) suspects to escape from lawful custody.

The incident occurred yesterday  December 31, 2024 at approximately 10:00 hours at Leonard Cheelo Police Post. This was reported at 14:30 hours by Chief Inspector Maiya, Officer-In-Charge at Leonard Cheelo Police Post. Preliminary investigations reveal that Detective Inspector Phiri, in a state of intoxication, forcibly seized cell keys from Woman Constable Serah Banda .

Subsequently, Detective Inspector Phiri unlocked both the male and female cells and instructed the suspects to leave, stating they were free to cross over into the New Year. Out of the 15 suspects in custody, 13 escaped. Following the incident, the officer fled the scene and disappeared into the nearby compound.

The names of the suspects who escaped are as follows:

1.Kennedy Musonda – Assault OABH (GBV)
2.Caredi Mumeka – Affray
3.Memory Tembo – Affray
4.Agness Mwaba – Assault OABH
5.Maclean Shanaube – Assault OABH, Burglary, and Theft

6.Lastone Ngosa – Assault OABH
7.Fletcher Nkosani – Conduct likely to cause a breach of peace
8.Enock Banda – Obtaining goods by false pretenses

9.Memory Mpukuta – Theft
10.Jane Banda – Theft
11.Simon Phiri – Possession of psychological substances
12.David Sibalwi
13.Kelvin Mwape

Current Status
All the suspects, remain at large. A docket of case has been opened, and a manhunt has been launched. The Zambia Police Service has intensified efforts to locate and apprehend the escapees.

We urge members of the public with any information that may assist in locating the suspects  to report to the nearest police station.

The Zambia Police Service reiterates its commitment to upholding law and order and assures the public that decisive action will be taken against any officer found to be abusing their authority or acting contrary to the law.

Rae Hamoonga
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

EDITOR’S CHOICE – THANDIWE SCHOOLS CARELESS “GIANT” MWEWA

Open Letter to Mr Simon Mwewa

Dear Mr. Mwewa,

I trust this letter reaches you in good health, but the reason I write today is far from a pleasant one. I am deeply disturbed by the callous and irresponsible comments you posted on your social media in the aftermath of the tragic road traffic accident involving renowned artist Wesley Chibambo, also known as Daddy Krazy. Your post, which attacked and belittled artists in a highly degrading manner, has ignited widespread outrage and disbelief, leaving many to question your complete lack of empathy and common sense.

The accident occurred along the Great North Road, between Kabwe and Kapiri, when a Shacman truck, driven by Kachalwa Lweendo, lost control due to excessive speed and collided with two vehicles. Tragically, the driver of the Toyota Allex and two passengers lost their lives at the scene, while Daddy Krazy, who was also in the Toyota Allex, sustained severe injuries. Additionally, the driver of the Nissan Hardbody involved in the crash was another life lost in this horrific tragedy.

Yet, instead of showing any decency or compassion in response to this devastating event, you took to social media to make a repugnant comment that singled out and mocked artists, saying, “You dunda head artists… don’t drink and drive. Muzafa.” This remark was made despite the fact that police had already confirmed the cause of the crash was the reckless driving of the Shacman truck driver. Your post blatantly disregarded the truth, focusing instead on casting blame on an entire group—artists—who had no involvement in the accident whatsoever.

Mr. Mwewa, I must ask: What on earth possessed you to make such an ignorant and cruel statement at a time like this? Lives were lost, a beloved public figure is fighting for his life in the hospital, and yet you chose to mock and generalize an entire profession in the most thoughtless way possible. Your words were not only insensitive; they were a complete distortion of the facts. The real cause of this tragedy, as confirmed by law enforcement, was the reckless actions of the truck driver. Yet, in your self-righteousness, you chose to deflect the blame and direct it at innocent people for no reason other than your own misguided impulse.

If the public backlash you received wasn’t enough, you followed up by defending your offensive statement with an even more disgraceful justification: “ONLY DRUNKARDS ARE OFFENDED BY THAT POST…KAILI 90% OF ZAMBIANS ARE DRUNKARDS.” To say this was irresponsible would be an understatement. How could someone with your platform—someone who should be using their influence for positive change—utter such harmful, divisive, and deeply irresponsible words that only serve to perpetuate damaging stereotypes and division?

What is most shocking, and frankly unforgivable, is the complete lack of empathy in your words. Instead of seizing this moment to encourage responsibility, promote road safety, or offer condolences to the grieving families, you chose to belittle an entire group of people for the sake of making a cheap point. That point was not only misguided but downright cruel, especially when so many are mourning the loss of their loved ones.

It is difficult for me to fathom that your actions were not driven by a desire to provoke attention or expand your audience at the expense of others’ suffering. If, however, that is the case, then it is clear that you are treading a dangerously reckless path. No amount of social media clout or attention can justify the kind of thoughtless, harmful comments you have made during this tragic time.

As a public figure, you carry a significant responsibility. Your words have the power to influence, to heal, and to educate. Instead, your comments have contributed to further division, disrespect, and an utter disregard for the grief and pain that families are enduring. Your words matter, Mr. Mwewa, and they are either a force for compassion and unity or they continue to undermine the very fabric of our society.

I implore you to take a long, hard look at the consequences of your statements. Reflect on the kind of example you are setting for your followers, especially given the position you hold in the public eye. It is not too late to right this wrong. You still have the opportunity to issue a sincere apology, demonstrate genuine empathy, and use your platform to drive conversations about responsible driving, the importance of compassion, and the value of human life.

I strongly urge you to recognize the severity of the situation and reconsider the approach you’ve taken. We all have a role to play in shaping a society that upholds respect, empathy, and human dignity, particularly in times of tragedy. Your actions can either contribute to healing or continue to perpetuate harm. The choice is yours.

Sincerely,
Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma

Mr. Syakalima’s Shameful Remarks: A Call for Leadership That Unites, Not Divides

By Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma

On January 1, 2025, News Diggers reported an outrageous statement allegedly made by Mr. Douglas Syakalima, the Minister of Education, in which he referred to members of the Patriotic Front (PF) as “monkeys.” Such language, coming from someone in a position of national leadership, is not only deeply offensive but also profoundly dangerous. It highlights an utter disregard for the principles of unity, respect, and national cohesion that are essential for Zambia’s progress.

This is far from the first time Mr. Syakalima has shown such reckless disregard for decency. He has previously disparaged the people of Luapula Province, claiming they suffer from a “poverty of the mind.” These are not mere insults—they are a direct assault on the dignity of entire communities, an outright dismissal of their struggles, and an attack on the very essence of servant leadership.

Leadership Is a Sacred Responsibility, Not a Privilege

Mr. Syakalima, as the Minister of Education, must be reminded in no uncertain terms that his position is not a personal entitlement, but a responsibility entrusted to him by the Zambian people. His recent derogatory remarks about the Patriotic Front (PF) and his previous disparagement of Luapula Province residents reveal an appalling disregard for the citizens he is meant to serve.

The Ministry of Education is a critical institution, one that should foster inclusivity, growth, and unity. It is not a platform for reckless insults or divisive rhetoric. If Mr. Syakalima cannot rise above petty name-calling and degrading behavior, he must be told clearly: his position is not guaranteed. Leadership is earned through service, respect, and accountability—not through arrogance and inflammatory language.

The Zambian people are demanding leaders who act with objectivity, maturity, and vision, not leaders who pit one group against another for political gain. Mr. Syakalima must recognize that failure to rise to this occasion is not just an insult to his office, but to the very people who entrusted him with it.

A Shameful Betrayal of Leadership

What kind of leader resorts to dehumanizing, hate-filled language to describe fellow citizens? Leadership is about bringing people together, not tearing them apart. It is about rising above personal grievances, fostering unity, and pursuing the common good.

Mr. Syakalima’s comments represent everything that leadership should reject. Referring to political opponents or entire communities in such vulgar, degrading terms sets a dangerous precedent of hostility and division that weakens national unity. It is childish, reckless, and utterly unworthy of the office he holds. True leadership demands the ability to transcend petty squabbles and to inspire hope. Mr. Syakalima’s words are a betrayal of the trust placed in him to lead and uplift the nation.

The Far-Reaching Damage

Mr. Syakalima’s rhetoric is not only harmful to the PF or Luapula Province—it undermines the entire nation. It deepens divisions, erodes public confidence in leadership, and distracts from the real issues facing Zambia, such as reforming the education system, creating jobs, and improving healthcare.

This kind of language is toxic. It legitimizes hate speech, perpetuates a culture of insults, and turns political discourse into an arena of personal attacks. It shifts the focus away from governance and toward sowing division, making public institutions battlegrounds instead of platforms for national progress.

The Youth Are Watching

Perhaps the most insidious impact of Mr. Syakalima’s words is their effect on Zambia’s youth. As Minister of Education, he is responsible for shaping the future of the nation. Yet, with his rhetoric, he is sending a dangerous message to young people: that intolerance, insults, and hatred are acceptable in political life.

This is a direct betrayal of the youth. At a time when Zambia’s young people are struggling with unemployment, limited opportunities, and an education system in dire need of reform, they deserve leaders who inspire, unify, and provide hope. Instead, Mr. Syakalima is normalizing hate speech and intolerance, tarnishing the moral fabric of society, and robbing the next generation of the example they deserve.

A Call to Accountability

Words have consequences. Mr. Syakalima’s reckless language must not go unchecked. The Zambian people deserve leaders who focus on solutions, who build consensus, and who treat every citizen with respect, regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, or region.

Hate speech, insults, and dehumanization have no place in Zambian politics or public office. Leaders must understand that their words shape the nation’s discourse, and they are entrusted with the sacred duty of upholding the values of unity, diversity, and respect.

A National Reflection

Now is the time for all Zambians to demand better from their leaders. We cannot allow our political culture to degenerate into a cesspool of insults and personal vendettas. Zambia’s democracy, with its rich diversity and commitment to debate, must remain a beacon of unity and progress. Mr. Syakalima, and others like him, must reflect on the damage they have caused and the example they set for the country.

We must reject divisive, hate-driven leadership and instead champion those who lead with respect, inclusivity, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of all citizens. The Zambian people will not be divided by the toxic rhetoric of a few. Our future demands leaders who unite, not divide—leaders who serve with integrity and inspire hope.

The Way Forward

Zambia is at a crossroads. Our challenges are vast, but so are the opportunities. To overcome them, we need leaders who rise above personal differences and work tirelessly for the common good. We need leaders who see Zambia as one nation, united in purpose and shared destiny.

Mr. Syakalima’s actions serve as a stark warning about the dangers of irresponsible leadership. Let this moment be the turning point. Let Zambians demand accountability, respect, and unity from their leaders. Let us reject hate speech, dehumanization, and division and instead champion a vision for a stronger, more united Zambia.

The power of words can build or destroy. It is time to demand leadership that builds. Zambia deserves nothing less.

AM NOT RECONTESTING THE PETAUKE SEAT- DORA SILIYA

Dr Dora Siliya writes…

Since Christmas day, there’s been a lot of speculation about my possible candidature for the Petauke Central by-election.

It has been very humbling to read all the wonderful messages sent directly to me from all over Zambia and beyond, encouraging me to contest again.

I am particularly humbled by the show of support from the UPND, a gesture I don’t take for granted.

Petauke Central has been very special to me after serving diligently since 2006. The record will show how many roads, bridges, schools, clinics, and hospitals were built. Under the water for all, hundreds of boreholes were sunk. Working with NGOs, women, and children’s safety was also brought to the fore. Our agenda was always to improve the lives of the Petauke residents through clean and adequate water supply, food security, increased access to education and health, family responsibility, and private sector expansion.

You will recall that since 2021, I have not been active in politics. Thus, on 30th August 2024, the day of my book launch, I informed the nation, through Hot FM radio that, if there were a by-election in Petauke Central, my name would not be on the ballot due to other priorities.

My name will not be on the ballot on 6th February 2025. I remain indebted to the people of Petauke Central with whom I worked well.

I have trust that as they go to the polls, Petauke voters, such as myself, will consider seriously the lack of representation the past months and elect a suitable candidate to benefit from the national cake.

I will continue to champion development issues for Petauke and the nation as a whole. As we enter the New Year, I will also continue to consult with the people of Eastern Province on how best we can engage all stakeholders on development issues now and into the future.

Happy New Year & Remain blessed!