Weakening the Trade Union Movement in Zambia

Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba wrote;

The promotion of proliferation of Trade Unions is a liberal concept promoted by Governments to weaken the trade union movement and dissipate the voice of workers.

This is called “Craft Unionism”, a concept that promotes a model of trade unionism in which workers are organised based on the particular craft or trade in which they work.

The Craft Unionism benefits employers and big businesses than it does the employees or workers.

It is different from “Industrial Unionism”, where all the Workers in one industry form one big union of that industry.

Instead of being split up into a lot of separate units, with divided and often conflicting interests, they strengthen and unite their forces in one mighty and irresistible combination.

Lets take the trade unions in the education sector alone, where over eight (8) new trade unions have been registered to represent teachers since 2021! This is part of an earlier longer list of trade unions that have been introduced in the sector sinve 1991.

LIST OF UNIONS IN EDUCATION SINCE INDEPENDENCE

1. Zambia National Union of Teachers (ZNUT) registered in 1953 – Northern Rhodesia/UNIP regime.

2. Secondary Schools Teachers Union of Zambia (SESTUZ) registered in 1997 – MMD regime.

3. Basic Education Teachers Union of Zambia (BETUZ) registered on 10/12/1999 – MMD regime.

4. Professional Teachers Union of Zambia (PROTUZ) registered on 11/12/2011 – PF regime.

5. National Union of Private and Public Educators in Zambia (NUPPEZ) registered on 14/03/2017 – PF regime.

6. United Teachers Union of Zambia (UNITUZ) registered on 24/03/2020 – PF regime.

7. Special Educators Teachers Union (SPETUZ) registered on 10/02/2021 – PF regime.

8. Professional Educators Union of Zambia (PEUZ) registered on 28/07/2022 – UPND regime.

9. Amalgamation Rural Teachers Union of Zambia (ARTUZ) registered on 28/07/2023 – UPND regime.

10. Zambia Teachers Union (ZATU) registered on 22/08/2023 – UPND regime.

11. 12. National Teachers Union of Zambia (NATUZ) registered on 23/10/2023 – UPND regime.

12. National Educators Union of Zambia (NEUZ) registered on 17/11/2023 – UPND regime.

13. Dynamic Teachers Union of Zambia (DTUZ) registered on 13/11/24 – UPND regime.

14. Zambia Union of Professional Educators (ZUPE) registered on 13/11/24 – UPND regime.

15. Zambia Union of Teacher Empowerment (ZUTE) registered on 13/11/24 – UPND regime

Summary of Zambia’s regimes registration of unions is as follows;

1. Northern Rhodesia/UNIP regime 1 union in 27 years

2. MMD regime 2 unions in 20 years

3. PF regime 4 unions in 10 years

4. UPND regime 8 unions in 3 years
Even mother bodies have not been spared with rhe Zambia Congress of Trade Unions in Zambia (ZCTU) faces the Federation of Free Trade Unions of Zambia (FFTUZ) and the Confederation of Trade Unions of Zambia.

REMEMBER YOUR CONSTITUTIONAL MANDATE AS YOU DELIVER ELIGIBILITY JUDGEMENT, HON CHISANGA IMPLORES CONCOURT JUDGES

…as the PF Legal Chair urges Chief justice to vacate decision to carry live broadcast of the judgement

Friday, December 6th 2024 (SmartEagles)

Patriotic Front Chairperson for Legal George Chisanga has appealed to the judges of Constitutional Court to remember their constitutional mandate that they wield and the duty that they owe to the Republic of Zambia as they deliver judgement in the eligibility case involving Sixth Republican President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

The Constitutional Court has set 10th December, 2024 on which to deliver judgement in the matter stemming from a petition by Citizen Michelo Chizombe who is challenging President Lungu’s eligibility to contest in the 2021 elections as well as future election.

And Hon Chisanga says under the Constitution, judicial power just like executive and legislative power, belongs to the people of Zambia hence it is a rare privilege for one to be given an opportunity to serve as a Constitutional Court judge.

“Please apply yourselves to the duty that you owe to this nation. Consider the levels of accountability that is expected of you as people with a unique privilege of serving the nation as a Constitutional Court judges,’ he implored the ConCourt judges.

Hon Chisanga says the most important thing the judges should bear in mind is that they are out there to do justice which must not only be done, but must also be seen to be done.

Speaking at a press briefing today, he has observed that there is too much controversy surrounding the eligibility case this time around because there is too much of a political agenda around the matter.

Hon Chisanga however states that the courts are trained, experienced and can extricate themselves from the politics surrounding a case and they can decide a case based only on the law and the constitution.

“I expect that this time around, we are going to have judges that the nation can be proud of once they deliver a judgement in the eligibility case,” he said.

Meanwhile, Hon Chisanga has implored the Chief Justice Mumba Malila to vacate the decision to broadcast the live proceedings of the ConCourt judgement in the eligibility case on 10th December, 2024.

The Lukashya MP has further questioned the motivation behind the decision to broadcast the judgement live on national television.

He states that the appropriate time to conduct a live broadcast of proceedings would have been at a time when arguments were being advanced so that the public could hear and appreciate both sides of the coin.

“The timing is so controversial. What has motivated the Judiciary to announce that cameras can be brought in the court at the tail end of the case when the arguments have been closed, the submissions made and the only thing remaining is for the court to read the judgement?” Hon Chisanga wondered.

#SmartEagles2024

Are we missing something?Publish the Audit Report at Ministry of Health and ZMMSA

Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba wrote;

President Hakainde Hichilema received a preliminary report on the theft and plunder of public and donated funds occurring at the Ministry of Health and the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZMMSA).

We are aware that there has been an earlier forensic audit commissioned by the Global Fund, one of the key donors to the health sector, which revealed predatory and corrupt behaviour, for example by the Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Administration, Prof Christopher Simoonga, who attempted to literally award himself a $6.8million contract meant for faith based organisations.

This is a ministry where the Minister of Health Silvia Masebo at the time, was fingered as being heavily involved in the procurement of the $100million infectious diseases hospitals.

The person who was awarded the contract, accused the Minister of soliciting for a bribe and proceeded to write his complaint and allegations to President Hichilema and to the Anti-Corruption Commission.

President Hichilema instead fired the Permanent Secretary, Dr. George Magwende for the saga.

Masebo was also named in the $70million procurement of medicines from Egypt.

The Ministry of Health through ZMMSA single-sourced the Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement Medical Agency(UPA) and signed a preliminary contract worth $70million for the importation of medicines.

Government officials purported that this was a government-to-government bilateral arrangement.

UPA would then buy from manufacturers in Egypt and India to supply the medicines to ZMMSA.

In October 2023, UPA sent drugs worth $25million to Zambia. 

It has since been established that, later 61 trucks carrying medicines worth $25million were marooned in Beira, Mozambique for three (3) months and later at a yard in Makeni in Lusaka for seven (7) months!

We don’t know the efficacy and potency of drugs marooned in trucks and subjected to the harsh elements of wind, rain, heat for ten months!

The corrupt had moved on and did not bother about the logistics of the delivery of the medicines.

And now President Hichilema says, from the audit, there is a cartel that has been found to profit from government drugs.

We hope that President Hichilema is NOT repeating Masebo’s tired rhetoric of blaming the “Indian Cartel”, or nurses, doctors and pharmacists of pilfering medicines instead of dealing with the real thieves and plunderers who are currently being investigated by the Anti-Corruption Commission.

To be fair to all including cooperating partners, let the President publish the audit report.

The weight of stability: a rebuttal to Prof Hamalengwa’s rejoinder on vacating the Danny Pule precedent



By Dr Lawrence Mwelwa



Let me begin my response by expressing my concerns about the tone and emphasis in Professor Munyonzwe Hamalengwa’s article.

His argument appears to be politically charged rather than grounded in a purely academic discourse. For instance, the phrase “whether Dr Mwelwa likes it or not” is repeated twice, reflecting a confrontational stance that detracts from the neutrality expected in scholarly debate. Furthermore, Prof Hamalengwa asserts or strongly implies at least six times that the Danny Pule decision will be vacated, citing its perceived flaws and its alignment with the patterns of historically overturned precedents. His confident predictions about the decision’s eventual reversal convey an impression of prescience, suggesting an air of inevitability that raises questions about the objectivity of his argument.

Prof Hamalengwa’s argument for vacating Zambia’s Danny Pule precedent aligns it with historically vacated rulings such as Dred Scott, Plessy v. Ferguson, and Roe v. Wade. He identifies shared characteristics, including controversy, judicial dissent, and societal reverberations, contending that these factors signal Danny Pule’s eventual reversal. Furthermore, he asserts that vacated precedents often fall under new political regimes or judicial compositions, framing Danny Pule within this historical pattern. While Prof Hamalengwa’s argument is rich in historical references, it misconstrues the principles underlying vacated precedents and their applicability to Danny Pule. Unlike the systemic injustices corrected in cases like Plessy and Dred Scott, Danny Pule does not reflect a misinterpretation of Zambia’s constitutional provisions or broader inequities.

Prof Hamalengwa’s outlined principles for vacating precedents—controversy, dissent, reverberations, shifts in political regimes or judicial composition, perceived injustice, and inherent flaws—are overly broad and fail to provide a substantive legal basis for overturning the Danny Pule precedent. Controversy and criticism, while often accompanying landmark decisions, are not reliable indicators of legal error. Courts are tasked with interpreting the law, not appeasing public opinion. Similarly, dissent, though integral to judicial discourse, does not invalidate majority rulings; its role is to provide an alternative view for future jurisprudence, not to undermine the stability of settled law.

The argument that precedents align with political or judicial changes conflates political convenience with legal necessity, disregarding the judiciary’s obligation to transcend political cycles and safeguard constitutional consistency. Furthermore, the claim that vacated precedents reflect “inherent flaws” relies on hindsight bias, presuming that all criticised decisions are destined for reversal—a premise unsupported by the endurance of many controversial rulings. These principles, while historically observed in some cases, are neither definitive nor universally applicable, and they fail to address the specific constitutional and jurisprudential merits of Danny Pule, which was grounded in clear and reasoned interpretation of Zambia’s Constitution. To apply these generalised principles without rigor risks undermining the rule of law and judicial independence.

Below, I address the flaws in his reasoning and demonstrate why upholding the Danny Pule precedent is critical to the stability and credibility of Zambia’s judiciary.

1. Controversy alone does not erode precedent

Prof Hamalengwa suggests that controversy surrounding Danny Pule is sufficient grounds for vacatur, drawing parallels to decisions like Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857) and Plessy v. Ferguson (1896). However, controversy is not an indicator of legal error. Courts are not meant to reflect public sentiment but to interpret and uphold the law. Chief Justice John Marshall’s assertion in Marbury v. Madison (1803) remains relevant: “It is emphatically the province and duty of the judicial department to say what the law is.”

The Danny Pule decision clarified the constitutional definition of a presidential term under Articles 106(3) and 106(6)(b) of the Zambian Constitution. While controversial, this was a product of sound legal reasoning and not a failure of judicial interpretation. Controversy reflects the significance of the decision, not its instability. To vacate a precedent based solely on public dissent would undermine judicial independence and render the judiciary vulnerable to transient political pressures.

2. Dissent is a natural feature of judicial process, not a signal of error

Prof Hamalengwa highlights dissent in Danny Pule as evidence of its instability, likening it to dissents in Plessy and Dred Scott. However, dissent is a natural and essential part of judicial deliberation. As Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes observed, “The life of the law has not been logic; it has been experience.” Dissent provides a platform for evolving jurisprudence but does not inherently invalidate majority decisions. For instance, Justice Harlan’s dissent in Plessy famously argued that “Our Constitution is colorblind.” While his dissent contributed to the eventual overturning of segregation in Brown v. Board of Education (1954), it was societal and legal shifts—not dissent alone—that warranted vacatur. Similarly, the dissent in Danny Pule reflects a robust judicial debate but does not undermine the majority ruling, which was grounded in a clear constitutional interpretation. Unless proven unconstitutional, majority decisions must stand as the guiding framework.

3. Controversy and litigation reinforce stability, not instability

Prof Hamalengwa argues that Danny Pule planted the seeds of its own reversal through controversy and repeated litigation. However, history demonstrates that highly litigated decisions often endure because they clarify pivotal legal questions. For example, Miranda v. Arizona (1966), which established the Miranda rights, has faced repeated challenges yet remains a cornerstone of American jurisprudence because of its clarity and legal utility.

Similarly, Danny Pule addresses a crucial question of presidential eligibility. Its repeated litigation underscores its importance, not its vulnerability. Zambia’s constitutional framework depends on clarity to avoid governance crises. Overturning Danny Pule would introduce uncertainty into electoral processes, leaving the judiciary vulnerable to accusations of partisanship and creating long-term instability.

4. Political shifts must not influence judicial independence

Prof Hamalengwa asserts that vacated precedents often fall under new political regimes, citing Dred Scott and Korematsu v. United States (1944). While this observation is historically accurate, judicial independence requires that courts transcend political changes. Judicial decisions must remain grounded in constitutional fidelity, not political expediency.

Professor Hamalengwa’s advocacy for vacating precedents appears rooted in political processes rather than legal principles such as jurisprudential or international law developments, relying on political leaders to determine what constitutes good law. His strong criticism of the Dan Pule case reflects a perspective shaped by political rather than purely legal considerations, in contrast to cases like Kopa v. University Teaching Hospital Board of Management (SCZ No. 8 of 2007), which, despite controversy over its application of the Bolam Test, remains unvacated likely due to its lack of political alignment.

The Kenyan Supreme Court’s decision in Raila Odinga v. Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (2017) is instructive. In nullifying a presidential election, the court affirmed its independence from political influence, declaring, “The greatness of any nation lies in its fidelity to the Constitution.” Zambia’s judiciary must uphold this principle by ensuring that its rulings are guided by legal principles rather than transient political dynamics. Overturning Danny Pule solely because of a new political dispensation would erode public trust in the judiciary and undermine its role as an impartial arbiter of justice.

5. Historical vacatur: misplaced comparisons

Prof Hamalengwa draws heavily from the history of vacated precedents, such as Dred Scott and Plessy. However, these cases were overturned to correct systemic injustices and egregious moral failures. Dred Scott was vacated through constitutional amendments (13th and 14th Amendments), while Plessy was overturned by the landmark decision in Brown. These reversals were driven by evolving societal norms and legislative reforms that directly addressed the injustices enshrined in the original rulings.

By contrast, Danny Pule addressed a technical constitutional question regarding presidential term limits. It did not perpetuate systemic injustice or violate fundamental rights. Prof Hamalengwa’s comparisons oversimplify the unique historical, moral, and legal imperatives that necessitated vacating the cited precedents. There is no comparable moral or legal failure in Danny Pule to justify its reversal.

6. Judicial stability and public confidence

Prof Hamalengwa contends that Danny Pule undermines judicial stability. On the contrary, the decision has reinforced the judiciary’s role as an impartial interpreter of constitutional provisions. Judicial stability depends on consistency, not capitulation to controversy. As justice Robert Jackson noted in West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette (1943), “The Constitution is not a panacea for every blot upon the public welfare, nor should it be judicially distorted to meet the wishes of a transient majority.”

Vacating Danny Pule without compelling legal justification would weaken the judiciary’s credibility and expose it to accusations of political bias. The rule of law demands that courts uphold established precedents unless clear constitutional or jurisprudential errors are identified.

Conclusion: the necessity of stability

Prof Hamalengwa’s argument for vacating Danny Pule is an engaging exploration of judicial history but fails to address the specific constitutional and legal context of Zambia. Controversy, dissent, and political change are insufficient grounds to challenge a decision grounded in constitutional fidelity.

Judicial independence requires that courts act as pillars of stability, interpreting the law without succumbing to external pressures. The Danny Pule precedent provides clarity and predictability in Zambia’s legal framework, ensuring stability in governance. Overturning it would undermine the rule of law and erode public confidence in the judiciary. As Zambia navigates its democratic journey, its judiciary must uphold constitutional principles and resist the temptations of revisionism. The integrity of the Danny Pule precedent is a testament to this commitment and must be preserved.



The author is an academician, politician, musician, and revolutionary writer. He holds a PhD in Political Science. Send feedback to:

lmwelwa@gmail.com

From Advocate of Freedom to Champion of Control: President Hichilema’s Cyber Bill U-Turn

By Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma

When President Hakainde Hichilema was in opposition, he unflinchingly labeled the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill a “bad law.” He described it as a direct threat to Zambia’s democratic freedoms, a weapon for repression, and a dangerous step toward authoritarianism. He pledged to repeal it if elected as president.

Yet, after taking office, President Hichilema has done the unthinkable. Not only has he retained this contentious law, but his administration has also proposed its reinforcement. This shocking betrayal has left Zambians asking: What changed? How has a law once declared “bad” suddenly become essential to strengthen?

From Defender of Freedom to Advocate for Control

President Hichilema’s dramatic shift is more than just a policy reversal—it is a betrayal of trust. This is the same law President Hichilema once condemned as an instrument of state overreach, repression, and control. Today, his administration is championing it with alarming enthusiasm.

This inconsistency strikes at the very core of President Hichilema’s credibility. How can the president defend strengthening a law he once called oppressive? More importantly, why is his administration advocating for more surveillance and control when Zambia’s current legal framework is sufficient?

An Overwhelming Public Outcry

The proposed strengthening of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill has provoked fierce and widespread resistance. Civil society organizations, journalists, legal professionals, political analysts, and ordinary citizens have come together to oppose this draconian move.

Critics argue that the bill grants the government excessive and unchecked power to monitor private communications, access personal data, and suppress dissent. It is a textbook example of state overreach—a dangerous tool that could be weaponized against opposition voices, independent media, and civil society.

The recent decision by the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Mr. Jack Mwiimbu, to defer the bill’s second reading has done little to calm the storm. Stakeholders are not calling for a delay; they are demanding the complete rejection of this legislation. Zambia does not need new laws to tackle cyber-related crimes—it needs existing laws to be enforced justly and transparently.

A Betrayal of Campaign Promises

President Hichilema’s current stance directly contradicts his campaign rhetoric. While in opposition, President Hichilema argued passionately that Zambia already had sufficient legal mechanisms to address cyber-related offenses. He emphasized that enforcement, not additional legislation, was the real issue.

He also declared that there was “no need for additional laws to gag citizens,” asserting that freedom of expression and accountability are the cornerstones of a healthy democracy. These were not vague promises—they were bold, clear commitments to the Zambian people. Today, those commitments lie in tatters.

By proposing to strengthen this oppressive law, President Hichilema is undermining the very democratic principles he once championed. He is sending a chilling message: promises made in opposition can be conveniently discarded in power.

A Dangerous Precedent

The strengthening of this bill would do more than erode individual freedoms—it would set a precedent that endangers Zambia’s democratic future. It signals a government that prioritizes control over empowerment and suppression over engagement.

Globally, such laws have been exploited to silence dissent, weaken opposition, and consolidate authoritarian regimes. Zambia, once a beacon of democracy, risks slipping into the same perilous path. Strengthening the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill is not just unnecessary—it is dangerous.

A Test of Leadership

This issue is more than legal or political—it is a defining moment for President Hichilema’s leadership. The widespread rejection of the bill is not just a protest; it is a demand for accountability. The people of Zambia have spoken clearly: They do not want this law strengthened. Delaying its passage is not enough. The administration must abandon this misguided initiative entirely.

President Hichilema must remember the principles that brought him to power: liberty, accountability, and justice. These values are not negotiable—they are the bedrock of a free and democratic Zambia.

Democracy at Stake

At its core, democracy is about empowering citizens, not silencing them. Passing a strengthened Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill would undermine this fundamental principle, placing Zambia on a dangerous trajectory toward authoritarianism.

President Hichilema has a choice: honor the promises he made to the Zambian people, or betray the freedoms they fought to secure. The strengthening of this law would be a direct affront to the rights of every citizen.

Reaffirming the Democratic Promise

President Hichilema’s own words in opposition should guide his actions in power: Zambia does not need new laws to combat cybercrimes. The focus should be on fair, transparent, and impartial enforcement of existing laws—not on curtailing freedoms through oppressive legislation.

The strengthening of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill serves no purpose except to consolidate control over public discourse and silence dissent. This is not the Zambia Zambians fought for.

President Hichilema must recommit to the principles of freedom, accountability, and justice that define a true democracy. Anything less would not only be a betrayal of his campaign promises but a betrayal of Zambia’s democratic ideals.

The people deserve a leader who stands by his word—a leader who puts their freedoms above political expediency.

Tracing clever Mpoha’s business journey: how it all began



By Bengu Wambuyi



In Zambia and, indeed, many other African countries, there are many examples of people who shot to the pinnacle of financial influence only after having worked in government or simply inherited family wealth.

There are also examples of people who only became financially prominent after having landed big government contracts. Equally, many are times when some people have amassed sudden wealth by being connected to politically-powerful personalities. It must also be accepted that some forms of wealth could be questionable, especially when there is no traceable record of the years in which one conducted their business.

However, the Zambian people are fortunate to have businessmen and women from whom they can learn the values of hard work, perseverance and tenacity; people whose wealth is traceable. One Clever Siame Mpoha, a native of Nzoche village in Isoka district of Muchinga Province, is one of Zambia’s success stories whose business journey is as educative as it is motivational. The 56-year-old Dr Mpoha is a believer in seven Ps which have guided him in his conduct of business since he incorporated his initial company, Savenda Management Services, in February 1997.

“From the time I was a kid, the principles that have guided me have been purpose, potential, persistence, planning, perseverance, people and prayer,” writes Dr Mpoha in his book titled The Business Mind of Clever Mpoha: The Group MD who built Savenda Group of Companies into an African Conglomerate.

On purpose, it is very easy to see that Dr Mpoha had purpose when he decided to quit his job as an accountant at Barloworld in 1997 and incorporate a company under the name Savenda Management Services. That was shortly after Dr Mpoha had arrived back from Johannesburg, South Africa, where he had gone to attend a business conference addressed by Bahamian evangelist, author and leadership consultant Myles Munroe. It must also have been purpose that had inspired Dr Mpoha to undertake the trip to South Africa to listen to Dr Munroe.

“At the time I made this trip, I was just a mere employee with a tight budget of finances. Therefore, my friends and I had to take a bus from Kitwe to Livingstone and then connect with a train from Livingstone to Johannesburg,” Dr Mpoha writes.

Having arrived in Johannesburg and listened to Dr Munroe, Dr Mpoha’s perspective of being purposeful was reignited.

“Dr Myles Munroe was amazing and he opened up my mind. I was challenged by Dr Munroe when he asked if each one of us who attended the conference knew what our purpose on earth was,” he adds.

Dr Mpoha returned to Zambia a changed man and, with a capital of only $1,000, began a small family business with his wife Esther Chanda Mpoha, reselling South Korean phones, focusing on anti-magnetic wave products.

“In 1997, after attending Dr Myles Munroe’s conference, I was determined to become a person of value, someone who was going to find his purpose. I was committed and I had faith in God that we were going to succeed,” Dr Mpoha explains.

Because of having purpose, what began as a small business would, over 30 years later, grow into the Savenda Group of Companies, a huge global supply chain conglomerate with a network of partnerships in the United States of America, Europe, the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region. Having begun with the resell of phones, the Savenda Group now has investments in energy, logistics, insurance, medical supplies, mining services, financial services, telecoms, agroindustry construction, express printing and risk assessment for the International Organisation for Standardisation certification.

The second P which Dr Mpoha believes in and utilised to be where he is today is potential.

“Every human being is like a seed. Every seed has the potential to grow into a plant or tree. Humans are like that too. We all have the potential to be what we dream about. You have to believe in yourself and begin the journey. You have to begin today and believe in your potential. That’s what I did. Begin the journey and leave the rest to God,” he says.

On the third P, which is persistence, Dr Mpoha says his experience in life and business has taught him that great things take time and effort.

“In the process of trying to realise your potential, you will face challenges and opposition. When you are persistent, you are always ready to work despite not getting the immediate rewards you want. You work as unto the Lord and not to please men,” says Dr Mpoha whose business empire is worth over $300 million.

On planning, which is the fourth P, Dr Mpoha says from his interactions with successful people, he has realised that most of them spend more time sharpening their axe than cutting down a tree.

“If you don’t plan, you are merely wishing for success to come into your life. That strategy has never worked for me,” says Dr Mpoha who was, in 2022, conferred with an honorary doctorate degree in entrepreneurship by India’s Myles Leadership University in recognition of his business prowess.

On the fifth P, perseverance, Dr Mpoha says there were times when business was so bad that he thought quitting was the only way out but he persevered.

“Business and entrepreneurship are not as easy as motivational speakers would make them look. There are many things in business and life that may happen to you or your business, which you did not anticipate.

“There is no successful person who has never gone through challenges. They could be there, but I personally don’t know any despite knowing a number of successful people. Therefore, I believe perseverance is a good principle in business,” Dr Mpoha counsels.

The sixth P is people, with Dr Mpoha advising that for one to succeed in life, they must learn to associate with the right people, which he did when he began associating with a certain white farmer while he was working for Barloworld in Kitwe.

“The 48 Laws of Power, one of my favourite books, teaches that you have to avoid the unhappy and the unlucky. So, choose the right people on your journey of life,” says Dr Mpoha who is the executive chairman of the Savenda Group of Companies.

Lastly, Dr Mpoha discusses the seventh and most important P, which is the power of prayer.

“As an adult, I have been in situations where I have questioned the existence of God or his love upon our lives. But every time I have questioned God, He has shown me who He is. Whenever I am about to give up, He has lifted me up. When times look so dark, He brightens His light upon my life,” says Dr Mpoha.

These have been the seven Ps which Dr Mpoha has lived with, right from the time he was growing up in Nzoche village, herding cattle, hunting rabbits and fishing in small rivers. This is how it all began.

No wonder, he was one of the nominees for the 2024 The Forbes Best of Africa Awards, which recognise outstanding individuals and organisations who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation and social impact across various sectors in Africa. Earlier in the year, an international magazine, LEADERS, listed Dr Mpoha among 15 global business leaders and influencers.

Silence of the gods: ba Zambia, well are suffering because of lack of knowledge



By Michael B Munyimba



Have we ever wondered why we keep praying, but nothing happens?

I have seen dedicated Christians who have prayed for ages for them to have a child in their marriage, but God has been silent. And in the end they turn to cults, to sangomas, yes, witch doctors for answers in desperation, and in the end find themselves in greater trouble with the forces of nature and God.

I am not one to question why God does not answer prayers in time, or at all in some cases or circumstances. Some say it is lack of faith on our side as His creation, or lack of understanding of how He operates. But I remember in one of my Sunday School lessons, the Bible states that God’s ways and thoughts are not mine who is human (Isaiah 58: 8-9) I know of a friend I lived with in South Africa who had seven daughters. The guy was a staunch Christian and so was his wife. He was determined to have a male child, but each time the wife got ballooned, it was a baby girl that popped out. You see, our friends in some of these countries believe in having a male child as a symbol of strength to take over the mantle when they passed on, which is of course foolish mentality in my view (please that’s my personal view, respect it). So, they keep pressing, impregnating their wives, hoping to fulfill what they feel is the right course. And that is what this friend of mine did, he kept on pushing the odds, but only girls popped out of his wife’s belly. And so this couple, that was so Godly, decided to seek a witch doctor’s intervention, they abandoned God’s teachings and sought the teachings of men (Mark 7:7-9). And you know what, that witch doctor did his rituals, and they had a son, their eighth child!  They were so happy, but you know what happened, suddenly, their businesses started dwindling. All construction contracts they had with government started being cancelled one by one. They had initially been blessed with wealth, but suddenly, everything started going wrong, all their wealth vanished! Their children who initially went to exclusive, expensive private schools, now suddenly could not even afford to go to government schools. The guy got so broke, he lost his mansion to the bank he owed, together with his fleet of luxury cars. He eventually committed suicide and the wife and kids went back to Nigeria where they had come from.

All I’m saying is that we have all witnessed situations where we think God is not answering our prayers. And we find ourselves in instances where we are coerced to seek other means of sustaining ourselves, but as Jesus said, without Him, we are nothing and can do nothing (John 15:5). Our pastor at Deeper Life once told of a story of a man who was a senior congregant for 30 years, very dedicated man of God, he got sick and got bedridden for three years. They tried everything, prayers took him to pastor after pastor, but his condition kept getting worse. It got so bad that the family decided to take him to a witch doctor, at the disapproval of the church. But even himself, the seek guy, maybe due to the pain he felt, appended the assertion that since prayers had failed (meaning that since God had failed), they should take him to a sangoma, a witch doctor (meaning to the devil), of which the church let go of him. And two days later, he died in the sangoma’s hut! Now, my pastor asked the church that which was better, to die in the light, or in darkness – in the hands of God, or the devi? Yes, he never got healed through those prayers and people knew he would die, but which was better, to die in a sangoma’s hut, or in the church, in the light of God?

Now getting back to today’s theme, it’s not God’s silence I want to talk about in this article, it’s our silence as humans. God, we understand, is not human like you and me (Numbers 23:19). So His ways are not like ours, we admire Him for that. But we are a bad species. We keep quiet even when we see wrong. You are wondering what I’m talking about? Don’t worry, I will tell you. This country is on oxygen economically, politically and otherwise because of the wrongs of our forefathers that we refuse to talk about and address.

One famous American photo journalist went to Rwanda during that genocide of 1994. As they passed through some desolate plane area with a helicopter, he saw a girl, about one year old, abandoned there by her parents who were probably killed in the genocide. She sat there alone, crying weakly without clothes on her. Behind her was a vulture moving slowly towards her, ready to devour her. The photographer started taking pictures. The helicopter left that baby, knowing too well she would die and be eaten by birds. When that photo journalist reached America and printed those photos, he won an award for best photographer.  But when the story came out in the papers and online, one person commented and asked, “…But where is the child?” That’s when the world got to start thinking about it, that it was giving awards to a photo journalist who was more interested in taking the best photos than saving that poor dying child who was about to be savagely ravaged by vultures alone there, defenseless, when he had the means to save her. Those who gave that journalist the award came back to their senses and revoked it and suddenly, newspapers across the world named that photo journalist, “THE SECOND KILLER”, in their headlines. And a week later, he committed suicide. Praise the Lord.

Let me end the article with this wise saying, that the problem is not that there are evil men out there committing atrocities to mankind, to others, to the frail, to the old, the meak, to the defenseless, to children and women. The problem is that there are too many good men out there doing nothing about it! We seek glory in bad things and hate good things. Yes, we adore badness, and abhor goodness. Zambia is on oxygen, but we want to take Panadol when we have cancer and shun chemotherapy because it’s painful. But Panadol cannot cure cancer, it’s a temporal remedy. Alebwelelapo is Panadol, let this country undergo chemotherapy. It may take time, the way God takes time to answer sometimes, the way He took time to answer that friend of mine who had seven girl children. And when he pushed God by seeking answers elsewhere, he got crushed. Even that staunch Christian who abandoned God and went to a sangoma when he got sick, he died in darkness. Zambia has cancer, it’s on oxygen, it needs chemotherapy which is painful, not Panadol.
It is the only way for its healing process to begin and be complete.
Pick it up studio one, till next Wednesday, this is Michael Brandon signing off!



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Young Soldiers Join Zambia Army’s Corps of Signals

The Zambia Army inducted a group of young soldiers into its elite Corps of Signals during a colorful ceremony held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at Arakan Barracks in Lusaka. The event marked the culmination of an intensive Signals Cadre course aimed at preparing soldiers for vital roles in military communication and information technology.

The parade was presided over by Brigadier General Sileko Banda, the Director General of Signals and Information Technology Branch, who congratulated the soldiers on their successful training. The new inductees were adorned with the Corps’ signature blue berets, distinguished by the orange, white, and blue flash bearing the motto Certa Cito—Latin for “speed and accuracy.”

“This course was designed to lay a strong foundation for you to perform your duties with utmost dedication, efficiency, and professionalism,” Brig Gen Banda said. He highlighted the importance of the Corps’ role in maintaining seamless communication across the Zambia Army’s operations, a critical function in today’s fast-evolving military landscape.

The Corps of Signals, entrusted with managing the Army’s communication and IT systems, plays a crucial role in supporting military strategy and operations nationwide. Brig Gen Banda urged the soldiers to remain committed to lifelong learning, embrace emerging technologies, and adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and security.

“You will be entrusted with handling sensitive information,” he emphasized. “Treat it with the utmost care and discretion.”

Acting 1 Signals Regimental Commander, Major Tanthwe Mpambasha, echoed Brig Gen Banda’s sentiments and expressed confidence in the Corps’ operational readiness with the boost in manpower. “The training aligns with the Army Commander’s mission command concept, ensuring that our soldiers are disciplined and prepared to serve at their respective units,” he said.

The induction parade concluded with the ceremonial replacement of the soldiers’ jungle hats with the blue berets, symbolizing their official entry into the Corps of Signals.

The ceremony, held at the 2 Infantry Battalion’s Parade Square, showcased the discipline and precision of the inductees, a reflection of the Army’s commitment to excellence.

The Corps of Signals is at the heart of the Zambia Army’s communication and technological framework, ensuring the smooth flow of critical information. As the inductees embark on their new roles, their training and dedication will contribute to safeguarding Zambia’s defense systems.

This proud moment for the young soldiers underscores the significance of their roles in strengthening the Army’s strategic capabilities.

UPND HAS ALREADY LOST THE 2026 POLLS – KALABA

… Zambians cannot continue to be subjected to mediocre type of leadership.

LUSAKA, FRIDAY, DECEMBER, 06,2024 (SMART EAGLES)

CITIZENS First President Dr.Harry Kalaba says UPND exit in 2026 is certain because Zambians are resolved to usher in a new government.

In an interview, Dr. Kalaba said Zambians cannot continue suffering because of mediocre type of leadership from the UPND.

He said the UPND and President Hakainde Hichilema have lamentably failed to run the affairs of citizens and cannot be allowed to govern beyond 2026.

” The problem with our friends in the UPND and President Hichilema is that they have burried their heads in the sand and are detached from reality. To them everything is normal and they think Zambians are happy,” Dr. Kalaba said.

” To make matters worse they are insulting the Intelligence of Zambians to claim that they have fulfilled most of their campaign promises when there is nothing to point at, its a shame. These people should take time to mingle with the grassroots and see the level of suffering they have subjected majority citizens. Zambians can’t afford a decent t meal,” He said.

And Dr. Kalaba said the UPND government will one day be made to account for their continue abuse of the law to fix citizens and induce costly by- elections.

” Today citizens are quiet because they are scared of being locked and this is not a sign of weakness, the voice of Zambians will be heard through the ballot.Today court orders are disregarded with impunity, thinking they will be in those offices forever,” Dr. Kalaba said.

Meanwhile Dr. Kalaba said CF is a serious party determined to uphold democratic tenets by holding successful and peaceful intra party elections.

He said the holding of the party convention tomorrow is a clear demonstration of how democratic CF as a party is.

” We are a serious party with serious people, we are not here to play games. Zambia will be in safe hands under our leadership and come 2026 we are determined to give Zambians proper leadership that will steer this country to greater heights, not these jokes we have been subjected to, ” the  CF leader said.

#SmartEagles2024.

I have never cared about tribe, dad even stopped talking to me for supporting UNIP –   Vernon Mwaanga

VETERAN politician Vernon Mwaanga has revealed that ever since he joined politics, he had never cared about anyone’s ethnicity or tribe.

Appearing on Prime TV’s Oxygen of Democracy programme, Mwaanga shared how he lost friends in the MMD for simply supporting the late President Rupiah Banda who hailed from the East.

He mentioned that many people distanced themselves from him as they wanted someone who belonged to their ethnicity.

“I have never been into ethnic politics. I’m a nationalist. When President Levy Mwanawasa died, he had a Vice President Rupiah Banda at the time and it meant that the President had to hold an election. I said to my colleagues in MMD let us support the Vice President he’s already there, he has been working with the President and some of my colleagues who came from the ethnicity as I was said ‘VJ has opted to support Rupiah Banda’ who is from Eastern province, I said yes I am a nationalist. I’m not into ethnic politics and I have never been,” shared Mwaanga.

He also revealed that during the time he was joining UNIP in the struggle for independence, his father wanted him to support his uncle Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula’s party ANC but refused stating that he would go for his choice.

He disclosed that this made his father go silent on him for three years.

“So I said I’m joining the struggle for independence through UNIP, my dad almost fainted because he thought that I should join the struggle through the ANC because he was very supportive of the ANC.”

“I said no, no, I respect your choice and you have to respect mine as well and my father didn’t talk to me for three years because of that,” he shared.

The former cabinet minister disclosed that his credentials have always been anchored on unity and love regardless of where one comes from.

“I don’t really care where a person comes from, our family, they marry from wherever they want, it’s not an issue. When I stood in Roan constituency in Luanshya, they told me to go and stand in Choma where I come from. I said no, I will stand where I want,” he stated.

He shared this to encourage old and upcoming politicians to embrace everyone in the country regardless of where they came from so as to succeed in their political career.

Mwaanga also advised Zambians to avoid politicians who anchor their campaigns on tribal remarks.

Picture credit: Zambia Daily Mail

By Catherine Pule

Kalemba, December 6, 2024

Silencing Dissent: Shielding Tribalism Behind the Veil of Hate Speech Laws

By Dr Mwelwa

The introduction of new laws under the guise of curbing hate speech raises profound questions about their true intent. For decades, Zambia has prided itself on being a beacon of peaceful coexistence in a region often plagued by strife. Why, then, has the government chosen this moment to legislate against expressions of hate, ridicule, or contempt? Could it be that the real target is not hate speech itself but the voices calling for accountability, fairness, and inclusivity?

Critics have long warned against the weaponization of legal frameworks to suppress dissent. When laws are crafted in broad, ambiguous terms, they become tools of convenience for those in power. “Freedom is the right to tell people what they do not want to hear,” George Orwell reminded us, yet the essence of such freedom appears under siege. If the architects of these laws sought only to protect social harmony, why have similar measures not been deemed necessary during the decades of Zambia’s peaceful coexistence?

This legislation arrives at a time when the specter of tribalism looms larger in national discourse. Critics like Dr. Sishuwa Sishuwa have courageously highlighted disparities in representation across regions and tribes, not as an act of malice but as a call for fairness. These critiques demand not punishment but introspection. As Theodore Roosevelt once observed, “Patriotism means to stand by the country. It does not mean to stand by the president or any other public official.”

The law’s harsh penalties, coupled with its vague wording, suggest a calculated effort to silence critics under the pretense of protecting unity. Who benefits when discussions about tribal imbalances are swept under the rug? Are the true culprits of tribalism—the manipulators of appointments and enforcers of exclusionary policies—seeking refuge behind these laws? These questions linger uncomfortably in the minds of many.

The potential for misuse is undeniable. By granting the Director of Public Prosecutions exclusive authority to greenlight prosecutions, the law centralizes power in a way that undermines impartiality. It allows for selective application, shielding allies of the ruling party while targeting critics. Is this justice, or is it a veiled form of repression? Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s timeless warning resonates here: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

History offers grim lessons about the consequences of unaddressed tribalism. Rwanda’s genocide and Nigeria’s Biafran war both stemmed from the festering wounds of ethnic favoritism and exclusion. Zambia must not tread a similar path. Yet, silencing those who point out such dangers only increases the likelihood of unrest. As Nelson Mandela wisely noted, “Resentment is like drinking poison and hoping it will kill your enemies.”

The philosophical foundations of human rights demand transparency and accountability. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights enshrines the right to freedom of speech and opinion, recognizing that open dialogue is essential for democracy. To erode these freedoms under the guise of combating hate speech is to undermine the very principles upon which a just society is built.

This legislation also raises broader philosophical questions. Is it just to criminalize thoughts and expressions that challenge authority? Aristotle taught us that “It is the mark of an educated mind to entertain a thought without accepting it.” Shouldn’t a democratic society foster an environment where ideas—however uncomfortable—are debated, not criminalized?

The Zambian government faces a critical choice. Will it embrace transparency and dialogue, addressing the root causes of tribal tensions, or will it cloak itself in legal impunity, stifling the voices of those seeking justice? Silence, after all, is not a cure for tribalism. It is merely a mask for its perpetuation.

Unity cannot be legislated. It must be earned through equity, fairness, and respect for diversity. By enacting laws that punish dissent, the government risks deepening divisions rather than healing them. As Zambians, we must ask ourselves: Are we building a society where all citizens feel valued and represented, or are we allowing fear and repression to dictate the future?

The answers to these questions will define Zambia’s trajectory. Let us hope they are guided not by fear of criticism but by a genuine commitment to justice, equality, and democracy. Only then can Zambia honor its legacy as a nation of peace and unity, free from the shadows of tribalism and oppression.

Zambia’s Political Future in Jeopardy: Mweetwa’s Stark Warning Unveils the Shaky Path Ahead for Hichilema

December 6, 2024

Zambia is headed towards a political earthquake, and if recent statements by Choma Central MP Cornelius Mweetwa are anything to go by, President Hakainde Hichilema’s 2026 re-election bid may very well be a desperate fight for survival. Mweetwa, known for his sharp political commentary, has pulled no punches in predicting the brutal reality of the upcoming elections, leaving many questioning whether the UPND can weather the storm ahead.

In a recent post that sent shockwaves through political circles, Mweetwa acknowledged that despite his confidence in Hichilema’s eventual victory, the 2026 General Elections will not be a cakewalk. Instead, they will be a grueling and cutthroat contest that could see the ruling party’s carefully built political empire crumble under mounting pressure. “We know it will be tough,” Mweetwa admitted, but his words spoke volumes about the tenuous hold the UPND has on power.

With Zambia facing an economic crisis triggered by an ongoing drought, inflation, crippling power shortages, and a growing food insecurity crisis, the mood in the country is far from hopeful. Rather than taking bold action to address these pressing issues, the UPND appears to be floundering, caught in a cycle of empty promises and political finger-pointing. Mweetwa’s frank admission of the looming electoral battle comes as a bitter acknowledgment that the current government’s handling of the nation’s challenges has left much to be desired.

“We cannot afford to be complacent,” Mweetwa urged. But isn’t complacency exactly what has plagued the UPND since taking office? With an economy in shambles, Hichilema’s promises of change and prosperity seem increasingly hollow. The political honeymoon period that followed his victory in 2021 has long since ended, and now, the reality of governance is setting in—one where the UPND has failed to deliver on the basic needs of its people.

Mweetwa’s message also served as a thinly veiled plea for unity within the party, a party that has already begun to show signs of internal division. The very fact that he felt the need to apologize for his previous outbursts highlights the level of dysfunction within the UPND. If the leadership is already at odds with itself, how can they hope to unify the nation ahead of 2026?

“We are defending power for the first time,” Mweetwa said, which might as well be a code for “we are vulnerable.” The reality is that the UPND is facing not just external opposition, but an electorate that has grown tired of the same broken promises, the same political games. While Mweetwa pleads for hope and unity, many Zambians are left wondering whether their suffering will ever end.

The 2026 elections will test Hichilema and his government in ways they have yet to experience. If they cannot confront the very real issues of poverty, unemployment, and economic instability, they will not only lose the election, but they will lose the faith of a nation that put its trust in them. Mweetwa’s warning is not just an acknowledgment of the battle ahead—it is an admission that the UPND is unprepared, disorganized, and on the verge of collapse.

In what is shaping up to be one of Zambia’s most brutal and consequential elections, the UPND’s grasp on power may slip away before 2026 even arrives. And while Mweetwa wishes for unity and renewal, the hard truth is that the UPND’s reign is looking increasingly fragile, with no clear direction to save them from the inevitable political demise.

KUMWESU DEC 6, 2024

PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release -5th October 2023-

ACE Pharmaceutical Limited Responds to Media Queries Regarding Ambulance Delivery Project
ACE Pharmaceutical Limited   acknowledges the public interest and media queries surrounding our project to supply ambulances to the Zambian Government. As a trusted partner in advancing healthcare solutions, we remain committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in all our operations. Below, we address the key issues raised to provide clarity on the matter and dispel unsubstantiated stories:

1. Clarification on CFO’s Travel

Our Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Mr. Surjit Sahani, left Zambia on 12th November 2024 to attend a private function and other business matters in India way before the ambulance project gained media attention. Mr. Sahani is neither a fugitive nor a runaway, and is expected to return to Zambia in January after the festival holidays. We challenge any one to provide credible evidence supporting claims that Mr. Sahani left the country the week before the PAC hearing on Ambulance procurement.

2. Managing Director’s Non-Affiliation with Aqueous Investments

ACE’s Managing Director, Ms. Panetta Masala, has no ties or affiliations with Aqueous Investments, the other awarded bidder, contrary to social media reports suggesting that she is a shareholder in Aqueous Investment.  To this day, neither ACE nor the Managing Director are aware of the owners of Aqueous Investments. Any claims suggesting otherwise are unsubstantiated. We encourage media houses to conduct due diligence with PACRA, where clear evidence will validate our position.

3. ACE Pharmaceutical’s Registration Status and Corporate History

ACE Pharmaceutical Limited is a wholly Citizen owned company, registered in early 2022 under PACRA registration number 120220030337. Contrary to speculations, companies registered under Zambian law are required to file their first returns after one year of operation. ACE is, in fact, nearly three years old.

4. Clarification on Garden Address

Ace has warehouse facility for storing and wholesaling pharmaceuticals on a larger scale. This facility ensures efficient distribution and storage of critical medical supplies to meet national healthcare needs. Social media reports suggesting that ACE runs a retail pharmacy outlet in Garden Compound are not only false, but also malicious with the view to tarnish our corporate image.

As a company, we will continue to leverage good government policies and leverage on opportunities available to Citizens in our quest to contribute to the nation’s economic building agenda. Currently, we are actively expanding our operations to support Zambia’s healthcare infrastructure. To this end, we are in the process of establishing a new facility in the Multi-Facility Economic Zone near the airport which started in August 2024.

5. Previous Ambulance Tenders 

Over the years, ACE Pharmaceutical Limited has participated in several tenders for ambulance procurement through open international and national bidding. Unfortunately, these attempts were unsuccessful for various reasons, some outside the control of bidders.  Ace will continue to participate in pubic tenders while upholding Governments procurement policy of competitive pricing, quality and timely delivery. Under the current project, Ace is almost 25% cheaper than previous prices offered for the same units.

6. Urgency of Procurement and Capacity to Deliver

Our understanding is that the Government’s need for ambulances became urgent after over a year of unsuccessful procurement attempts, during which no contracts for supply were awarded.

Consequently, several companies, including ACE, were shortlisted and re-invited to submit bids. Due to our competitive pricing and proven track record, ACE emerged as the most viable supplier and was awarded to supply 78 units.

For a record, Ace has adequate financial capacity to deliver on this project. As a matter of fact, the company has paid more than what has been received as advance payment from government on this project to our suppliers.

7. Progress on Ambulance Delivery

ACE has already provided the Government with shipping documents for the ambulances currently en route to Zambia. Additionally, 18 ambulances were shipped prior to the project gaining media attention and are expected to arrive before the end of the year. The remaining units are under production and will be delivered as scheduled.

8. Competitive Pricing and Proven Quality

ACE was the cheapest bidder in the recent tender, without compromising on quality. Our ambulances, equipped with high-grade medical features, are already available for inspection at ZAMMSA premises. ACE does not engage in overcharging and stands by its commitment to delivering affordable, high-quality products.

9. Challenges with Chassis Supply

The supply of ambulance chassis is beyond our direct control, as they must first be delivered by Toyota to our conversion specialists before being shipped to Zambia. We are actively coordinating with our partners to ensure timely delivery despite these logistical challenges.

Conclusion

ACE Pharmaceutical Limited reaffirms its commitment to supporting Zambia’s healthcare system through the delivery of life-saving medical equipment. We are confident that this project aligns with our mission to enhance access to quality healthcare services and to serve the public interest.

We encourage the public and media to verify all facts and remain open to constructive dialogue. Our focus remains on fulfilling our obligations to the Government of Zambia and delivering on our promise to the Zambian people.

For further inquiries, please contact:
0777 850 702
info@acepharmaceutical.co

Sincerely

Panetta Masala
Managing Director
End of Statement