A CRY FOR ACCOUNTABILITY..

The untimely passing of the Bank of Zambia Governor’s wife has not only brought grief but also served as a moment of national reckoning. In the presence of President Hakainde Hichilema, the Governor issued an emotional indictment of Zambia’s leadership, stating…

“People are dying because we’re dipping our hands into money meant for healthcare.”

This heartfelt statement reflects the pain of millions of Zambians who rely on a collapsing healthcare system, a system crippled by corruption, mismanagement, and misplaced priorities under the current administration. It is a powerful call to action for the President and his government to address the glaring failures that continue to cost lives.

The healthcare sector remains underfunded, with critical shortages of medicines, inadequate staffing, and dilapidated infrastructure. Despite repeated promises, the Hichilema administration has failed to provide adequate resources or accountability.

Instead the little, funds intended for life saving services are being misappropriated, leaving vulnerable citizens to suffer the consequences. The Auditor General’s reports and public outcries have repeatedly highlighted these issues, yet meaningful action remains absent.

President Hichilema’s administration campaigned on the promise of fighting corruption. However, the reality suggests otherwise. As the Governor’s remarks confirm, even critical healthcare funds are siphoned off with impunity.

This highlights weak enforcement mechanisms to  institutions meant to safeguard public resources lacks independence to execute their duties and selective justice. The Anti-corruption efforts focus on only on high profile cases while the current systemic corruption persists and it goes unchecked.
Leadership is not about promises it is about results. The Governor’s plea underscores the human toll of governance failures.

When resources for healthcare are stolen, it is ordinary citizens especially the poor and marginalized who pay the price, often with their lives.
The lack of transparency and accountability in the Ministry of Health is a direct reflection of the government’s failure and misplaced priorities.

While speeches about development and progress dominate headlines, the reality is that Zambia’s citizens are dying from preventable causes due to the mismanagement of resources and poor governance.

President Hichilema must urgently respond to the crisis in the Ministry of Health if he has any conscience or genuine will to serve the Zambian people. A healthy nation is the foundation of economic stability and progress.

Without addressing the healthcare crisis, the President risks losing the trust of the very people who entrusted him with their votes. To restore faith and ensure a functional healthcare system, the President must take decisive action:

1. Accountability to allow the ACC to work independently, to curb misappropriation of healthcare funds and hold all involved accountable, regardless of political affiliation.

2. Strengthen Oversight marketing sure the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and Auditor General’s office are working independently  and free from political interference.

3. Increase Healthcare funding allocate sufficient resources to revitalize healthcare infrastructure, ensure the availability of medicines.

4. To demonstrate Leadership, to give and inspire Public confidence to address the issues raised by the Governor and commit to specific timelines for reform in the healthcare sector.

In conclusion i would like to echo the statement from Governor’s emotional outburst as a wake up call. President Hichilema must recognize that the cries of a grieving husband and a suffering nation cannot go unanswered.

The time for rhetoric is over, the President’s legacy will not be defined by his promises and long speechs but by his actions.

Zambia deserves leadership that prioritizes the welfare of its citizens over political games. It is time for the President to step up, address the rot in the Ministry of Health, and prove that he has the conscience and the will to build a healthier, more prosperous nation.

A healthy nation is a productive nation. But the question remains, will President Hichilema rise to the occasion, or will he let history remember him as a leader who failed his people?

Abraham Simpamba
Together We Can
Ichalo Bantu!

Dickson Jere writes….

The Kaumba Brothers
By Dickson Jere

I received a call from a longtime colleague working for the US-based Human Rights organization. He was profiling the case of the two brothers – Elijah and Ernest Kaumba – who had been detained by Zambia Police (ZP) for over 50 days without being taken to Court. The case of the two brothers, is likely to appear in organization’s Annual Report on the “deteriorating” human rights situation in Zambia. He was looking for government contact to hear their other side of story as to why these two boys were detained inordinately. To gravitate the matter, the two brothers were transported from their hometown of Kalulushi to Lusaka.

What did they do to deserve this harsh treatment? They allegedly produced a TikTok video “insulting” the President.

Here is my take on this matter and similar cases.

Who within the ZP is trying very hard to tarnish the name of Zambia in particular President Hakainde Hichilema? The President, from date of his inauguration, has made it clear and irrevocable that no one should be detained more than 48 hours when arrested. He has also made it clear that ZP should never arrest until when it has evidence and that culprits should be brought to Court within 48 hours or granted bond. This is a Presidential directive- which automatically becomes policy! So, who is tainting the President’s name within ZP?

You see, President Hakainde is one only President thus far who went ahead and repealed the law on defamation of the President. He did that knowingly that some rogues will defame while he carries out his duties of President. He scored international accolades for this but now all his good intentions being thrown away by overzealous ZP. But why?

Until this matter of the two brothers was brought to my attention, I didn’t know about the video. I am now looking for it and so are many other people. The ZP are now making that video has wide circulation and impact when it would have just died within few circles had they arrested and dealt with the boys right in Kalulushi. This is bringing negativity to yourselves when the President is supposed to be concentrating on dealing with pressing issues of the economy and not those who insults him. By why ZP?

Because of the mishandling of this matter, international Human Rights organizations, LAZ, Catholic Church and other civil society organizations have now joined in trying to help these two brothers. We are turning them into martyrs when in fact they were just rogues on TikTok.

I don’t know, maybe the President was not even aware of these kids being detained. I say so because it happened in my time in State House when a man was arrested, prosecuted and jailed in Ndola for “insulting” President Rupiah Banda. The President only came to know about this case when it was finally reported in newspapers. He was livid! He immediately ordered the unconditional release of the man and be given back his job at Zamtel – which he had lost by virtue of the conviction!
“If he cannot insult the President, who will he insult for his problems?” President Banda asked, adding that even in villages chiefs are insulted by subjects.

Sometimes we do things in the name of pleasing the President when in fact he has different position on the matter. ZP, please, do not taint the name of Zambia. Do not taint the name of the President who has given straightforward instructions on how to deal with suspects. I have never heard the President issue contrary position on this matter. He has been consistently consistent!

LATE NIGHT CALL FROM THE PRESIDENT.

We were trying to enjoy our sleep after some back-breaking work in our garden during the day when the shrill sound of my sikolokolo (cheap) handset drilled our ears. Who could be calling at such an awkward hour? I tried to ignore it. Now that we were half awake, the noise was even much louder. The phone wouldn’t stop ringing……it kept perforating our ears, annoyingly!
“Why don’t you answer your damn phone?” my wife snapped at me. “Suppose it’s something urgent….”

It was pitch dark. I languorously reached for my phone on the sideboard, careful not to open the mosquito net wide enough lest I inadvertently invited in a flurry of mosquitoes hovering around relishing to come in and feast on us! There was already one bothersome vampire in the net we were having a challenge ridding of. One moment, I’d literally be slapping myself hoping I had trapped it…. shortly, my wife would be doing the same and before we knew it, it was mockingly humming in our ears up in a corner where we couldn’t easily reach it.
“Hello….hello…” a familiar deep voice echoed in the mobile phone. “Abena Kopala, mulishani hmm? Ba Prince……”
Wait a minute……was I dreaming or hallucinating? I was dumbfounded……I was talking to the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema!

“Good evening boss…. Sir” I stammered….. clueless about the right choice of words when talking to such a dignitary. “Your Excellency…….”
The President went on to explain that his government was overly impressed with the work we were doing with street kids. He was desirous to find out what his administration could do to make the lives of children, unfortunate enough to find themselves eking a living on the streets, much better – away from perpetual begging or eating from the rubbish bins.

“First and foremost, Sir, these children need counselling and mentoring….” I was trembling, spasmodically. “As opposed to imposing ideas on them, we must start engaging them like our own children to find out what they really want to do with their lives. Your Excellency, you may be keen to learn that not all of them want to be plumbers or carpenters…. making coffins. They aspire to be like Yo Maps or Chanda na Kay of this world; they itch to take to the pitch and showcase their skills on the global stage like Barbra Banda; they envy to be seen cruising around as Yango drivers….”

He asked me to briefly pause to allow Levy Ngoma to record whatever I was saying.
“And the junkies….” he abruptly changed the topic. “What do you think my government must do about it to ameliorate their plight?”
“I was coming to that, Sir….” I exclaimed.

I observed that randomly rounding-them up and detaining them once in a while isn’t a practical solution….and neither is treating them with kid’s gloves. I prayed that authorities should consider taking the junkies to places like Chilubi Island far away from undue influence, and where they can’t easily be making daring escapes from time to time to go back to their way. I proposed that Gen. Solochi’s men and women in green uniforms can then take charge ‘panel beating them’….. nay straightening them up while imparting knowledge and vocational skills in them……I was whacking my brain trying to recall everything I had learnt about this segment of society over the years.
“Carry on please, we’re listening….” he encouraged.

I further submitted that most of the junkies are suffering from addiction of substances of one sort or another – ifinyelele (cough syrup), Chavuma water (highly potent alcoholic beverages) and of course, fwaka yachi Ngoni (marijuana).

“Once these people have been turned into useful citizens,” I was desperately trying to find the right words. “They can be out to work growing maize to feed our people or better still producing marijuana in large numbers for export purposes…..”
Suddenly, there was pin drop silence on the other end of the line. Did I say anything wrong to offend the head of state?
“Mr. President……Sir,” I bawled in the handset. “Are you still there, Your Excellency….Sir”
I became aware of my wife shaking my body at that particular moment.

“Stop competing with the dead and dreaming,” her soft voice rung in my ears. “It’s time for you to wake up and do some work….”
Say what! Readers won’t imagine the disappointment.
Until next time…..
Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

ANDD TO ASSESS PROGRESS AT KCM UNDER VEDANTA MANAGEMENT

The Advocates for National Development and Democracy (ANDD) has announced that it will conduct a comprehensive study on the current state of Konkola Copper Mine (KCM) under the management of Vedanta Resources.

The research will specifically assess the progress at KCM since Vedanta Resources resumed operations at the mining site.

ANDD Executive Director Samuel Banda says the aim is to evaluate the extent to which the company has fulfilled its commitments to the Zambian people, particularly those made prior to resuming operations.

“It is important to remind Zambians, as indicated by Mr Masuzyo Ndhlovu  Vedanta Corporate Communications Director on several media platforms, Vedanta committed to investing US$1 billion into KCM for mining recapitalization and development, US$20 million for supporting corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, a one-time payment of K2500, and a 20% salary increase. Additionally, Vedanta pledged to increase production, create business and job opportunities for Zambians, and contribute to the country’s socio-economic growth,” he said.

“The key focus areas of the study will center on these investment commitments, with an emphasis on whether Vedanta Resources has adhered to its promises and obligations. ANDD, as an organization dedicated to advocating for sustainable socio-economic development and human rights in Zambia, seeks to assess whether Vedanta is fulfilling its mining obligations as agreed before resuming operations at KCM.”

Mr Banda further said his organization will examine Vedanta’s commitment to developing a Community Trust, which KCM is supposed to use to implement its CSR programs in the areas where the mine operates.

“The study will also assess whether this Community Trust is serving the interests and aspirations of the Copperbelt communities. Specifically, the organization will evaluate whether youths, church leaders, civil society organizations, and other community leaders have been included in the KCM Community Trust Board to foster development,” he added.

“The initiative is not intended to antagonize Vedanta but rather to promote transparency and foster a mutually beneficial partnership between the investor, the Zambian government, and local communities. We firmly believe that holding investors accountable to their commitments builds trust and ensures that the wealth generated from our natural resources translates into improved livelihoods for all Zambians.”

He indicated that the findings of the research will be shared with key stakeholders, including government authorities, community leaders, civil society organizations, and the media.

He further added that this will encourage informed decision-making and promote dialogue on improving KCM’s operations.

“This initiative is part of ANDD’s broader mission to advocate for inclusive development and responsible investment in Zambia’s mining sector. We are calling on all stakeholders to support this initiative and collaborate in transforming KCM into a model of sustainable development and accountability,” he concluded.

“By doing so, Zambia can ensure that its mining sector contributes meaningfully to the nation’s long-term prosperity.”

Credit: Daily Nation Newspaper

CSO’s CALL FOR CYBER, TERRORISM BILLS WITHDRAWAL, CITING THREATS TO HUMAN RIGHTS, DEMOCRACY

A COALITION of civil society organisations have  expressed deep concern over the Cyber Security, Cyber Crimes, and Anti-Terrorism Bills currently before Parliament and are calling on government to withdraw these Bills and subject them to broader consultation and review.

The organisations include; Alliance for Community Action, Transparency International – Zambia, Council of Churches in Zambia, Bloggers of Zambia, Zambia Council for Social Development, PANOS Institute Southern Africa and Media Institute of Southern Africa Zambia (MISA).

The organisations argue that while the government’s intention to enhance national security is understandable, the proposed legislation poses significant threats to fundamental human rights and democratic governance.

They shared that these bills will affect the future of the people’s freedoms, privacy, and ability to speak out.

In a joint statement signed by Chapter One Foundation executive director Josiah Kalala, the civil society groups highlighted several provisions within the Bills that could potentially infringe upon constitutional rights.

“An analysis of these bills reveal several provisions that, if enacted, would not only fail constitutionality tests by their very text but also pose significant risks to fundamental human rights by their application,” Kalala said.

The CSOs expressed their disappointment in the UPND administration, which they believe came into power on promises of strengthening democracy and human rights.

“Regrettably, the approach taken with these bills reflects a troubling continuity of practices that were heavily criticised under the PF administration. The rushed and non-inclusive process mirrors the PF’s push for similar legislation, which was rightly condemned for its disregard for transparency and public participation,” Kalala said.

He added that the enactment of the Cyber Crimes and Cyber Security Bills under the pretext of addressing critical issues while at the same time having provisions that undermine human rights sets a dangerous precedent.

Kalala stated that Zambia deserved better than recycled authoritarian practices disguised as
progressive security reforms.

The CSOs called on Members of Parliament to fulfil their duty to the Zambian people.

“We call on MPs to write to the Speaker to establish a Tribunal as provided for under Article 27 of the Constitution to independently assess the implications of these bills.”

“Such an assessmentis critical to ensure that any legislative action reflects constitutional values and does not erode our hard-won freedoms,” Kalala explained.

The Civil Society rallied the citizens to read the bills and voice out any lacunae.

“To the citizens of Zambia, this is your fight as much as ours. It is our family, our friends, neighbours and community members who continue to be detained for long periods, often away from their communities for expressing displeasure and discontent with the government.”

“These bills will shape the future of your freedoms, your privacy, and your
ability to speak out. We urge you to read the proposed legislation and make your voices heard,” read the statement.

The CSOs urged citizens to call their MPs, demand accountability, and remind them that their mandate comes from them.

“Let them know that laws protecting Zambia’s security must also protect Zambia’s democracy and rights,” shared Kalala.

Kalemba

The Illogical Implementation of Live Broadcasts by the UPND Government

By Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma

I recently came across a press release from Thabo Kawana, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Information, announcing that the government has implemented live broadcasts of court proceedings to promote justice. For those unfamiliar with Kawana, this is the same individual who, in a leaked audio recording, was allegedly heard coercing Hon. JJ Banda to exonerate his alleged abductors—Clayson Hamasaka, Trevor Mwiinde, and Levy Ngoma—in exchange for his freedom. This controversial background raises serious questions about the sincerity of the government’s latest move.

The decision to start broadcasting court proceedings, beginning with the judgment of the eligibility case of former President Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, scheduled for December 10th, is illogical and appears politically motivated.

A Misguided Approach to Transparency

If the UPND government’s intent is to promote justice, why begin live broadcasts at the judgment stage of Dr. Lungu’s case? Transparency is about allowing the public to witness the entire judicial process, from the arguments and evidence presented to the deliberations leading to the decision. Starting at the conclusion of such a high-profile case is counterproductive and raises doubts about the authenticity of this initiative.

This piecemeal approach not only fails to achieve true transparency but also risks distorting public perception. Justice must not only be done, but it must also be seen to be done in its entirety. Broadcasting just the final judgment denies Zambians the opportunity to assess the process and understand how the decision was reached.

Who Defines ‘Public Interest’?

The government’s claim that live broadcasts will be reserved for cases of public interest is also problematic. What criteria will be used to determine which cases qualify as “public interest”? The lack of clarity leaves room for selective application, undermining the credibility of the policy.

For instance, the recent gold scandal at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, involving individuals linked to the UPND government, was undeniably a matter of public interest. However, this case was handled behind closed doors, shielded from public scrutiny. When this case occurred, it attracted public attention, and citizens wanted to follow it to the end, only to be told it would be handled privately. The question that begs an answer is: why? Is it because certain individuals linked to the President were mentioned?

Coming back to this policy, the fact that we do not know the criteria that will be used to determine which cases are of public interest means this selective approach creates the perception that the policy will be used as a political weapon, targeting opponents while protecting allies. Genuine transparency cannot exist under such biased conditions.

Mockery of Justice

By selectively applying live broadcasts, the government risks turning the justice system into a tool for political theater. Zambians deserve an impartial and consistent judicial system, free from the influence of partisan politics. Broadcasting some cases while shielding others undermines trust in the judiciary and fuels skepticism about the government’s intentions.

Transparency cannot be a half-measure. A selective approach not only erodes confidence in the justice system but also disrespects the Zambian people, who deserve fairness and impartiality in all matters of public interest.

A Call for Genuine Transparency

If the UPND government is serious about promoting justice, it must apply the live broadcast policy consistently and impartially. This means televising proceedings from the very beginning, not just at the judgment stage. Additionally, there must be clear and transparent criteria for determining which cases qualify as being of public interest.

Without these safeguards, the policy will continue to be seen as a tool for political expediency rather than a genuine effort to enhance accountability. Zambians deserve more than symbolic gestures and political theatrics; they deserve a government that is genuinely committed to upholding justice and transparency.

Conclusion

The UPND government’s selective and ill-timed implementation of live broadcasts undermines its credibility and the integrity of the judiciary. The use of Dr. Lungu’s case as a “test” for transparency feels more like a political spectacle than a genuine reform. The involvement of individuals like Thabo Kawana, whose past actions have raised questions about his commitment to justice, only deepens these suspicions.

Zambians are not fooled by this facade. If the government wants to rebuild trust and demonstrate its commitment to justice, it must abandon its selective approach and embrace genuine transparency for all cases of public interest. Anything less is an insult to the intelligence of the Zambian people and a betrayal of democratic principles.

President Hichilema’s Corruption Fight: A Smokescreen of Deception

By Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma

When President Hakainde Hichilema took office, he vowed to wage an unrelenting war against corruption, promising Zambians an era of accountability, transparency, and good governance. His rhetoric was bold, inspiring trust and raising hopes for a cleaner government. Yet, nearly halfway through his term, it has become evident that this “fight against corruption” is little more than smoke and mirrors.

A Campaign of Selective Persecution

The so-called anti-corruption crusade appears to be a thinly veiled witch hunt targeting former Patriotic Front (PF) officials. While rooting out corruption is imperative, the one-sided nature of these efforts suggests political vendettas rather than a sincere commitment to justice.

Meanwhile, allegations of corruption involving United Party for National Development (UPND) officials have been swept under the rug. Insider deals, questionable contracts, and nepotism are whispered about daily, yet no meaningful investigations have been launched. Is this crusade truly about justice, or is it a weapon to silence opponents and solidify power?

Turning a Blind Eye to Rot Within

Despite widespread accusations of misconduct under his own administration, President Hichilema has remained disturbingly silent. Examples of unaddressed corruption abound:

1. The Auditor General’s Report
The Auditor General has flagged numerous cases of financial mismanagement within UPND-led ministries. Millions of kwacha intended for essential public services have been misappropriated. These funds could have supported education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. Yet, no significant action has been taken. Where is the President’s accountability to the Zambian people?

2. Dubious Road Contracts and Toll Gate Deals
Contracts for major road projects, such as the Lusaka-Ndola dual carriageway, have been awarded under questionable circumstances. Toll gates have been handed over to private investors like Macro Ocean Investment Consortium without transparency. These investors have failed to raise their own funds, instead relying on loans from institutions like NAPSA and Stanbic Bank—resources that belong to the Zambian people.

3. Overpriced Fertilizer Procurement
Scandals surrounding fertilizer procurement have exposed a network of well-connected insiders profiting at the expense of taxpayers. Fertilizer meant to support farmers and boost food production has become another avenue for profiteering. Who is protecting these individuals, and why is there no accountability?

4. Scandal at the Ministry of Education
The Ministry of Education scandal involves Joel Kamoko, the Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, who paid K3.6 million without following proper procedures. He did not adhere to tender processes or obtain clearance from the Attorney General for the purchase of an educational software tool. Kamoko directed all public and private schools to deposit K800 each into M-SAT’s account for the procurement, with government schools expected to contribute over K8.5 million. The purchase was not part of any approved annual procurement plan, violating the Public Procurement Act and Regulations. This raises concerns of mismanagement and possible criminality.

5. 61 Containers of Medical Supplies Hoarded
In a shocking revelation, 61 containers of essential medical supplies were found stored at a private residence instead of being distributed to hospitals in dire need. These containers contained medicine and equipment meant for public hospitals facing critical shortages. Despite public outrage, the perpetrators remain untouched.

6. Ambulance Procurement Fiasco
Only 11 out of 156 emergency ambulances, which were procured under dubious contracts, have been delivered.

7. The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) Report
The latest FIC report details illicit financial flows, unexplained wealth accumulation, and rampant misuse of public funds under the current administration. Certain government officials have been flagged for suspicious transactions amounting to millions of dollars. Yet, there has been no serious attempt to follow up or prosecute offenders.

8. Questionable Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Beyond the Lusaka-Ndola road, several PPP agreements have raised red flags. Projects lack transparency, with agreements heavily favoring private investors while exposing the government to financial risks. The lack of public consultation or independent oversight has fueled suspicions of corruption.

Where Are the Structural Reforms?

Fighting corruption demands more than words—it requires systemic change. Strengthening institutions, ensuring the independence of anti-corruption agencies, and upholding judicial impartiality are essential steps that remain ignored.

Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC): The ACC has become a political tool, focusing disproportionately on opposition figures while ignoring corruption within the ruling party. Its credibility is in tatters. Without a neutral, independent body to investigate and prosecute corrupt activities, Zambia will continue to fall prey to political favoritism and selective justice.

Judicial Independence: The judiciary’s susceptibility to political interference makes a mockery of justice. Without an independent judiciary, true accountability is impossible. Political influence over the courts undermines the very foundation of the rule of law.

Weak Procurement Systems: Loopholes in public procurement processes continue to enable corruption. Proper digitalization, oversight, and transparency mechanisms are overdue. The absence of rigorous checks and balances in procurement processes makes it all too easy for corrupt officials to channel funds into their pockets while public services suffer.

The Heavy Cost of Inaction

President Hichilema’s empty promises are costing Zambians dearly. Public funds are vanishing into private pockets, vital infrastructure remains neglected, and trust in government has eroded. The cost of corruption is felt in failing healthcare systems, crumbling schools, and an economy weighed down by mismanagement.

What Zambians see today is not a war on corruption but a theater of deceit—a hollow performance designed to distract from the real issues plaguing the nation. The economic ramifications of corruption are profound, with critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure suffering from chronic underfunding.

A Plea for Real Leadership

Mr. President, your war on corruption is an illusion. The Zambian people are tired of waiting for real action. They deserve a leader who confronts corruption at all levels—not just in the opposition, but within their own party as well.

If you are truly committed to rooting out corruption, start by cleaning your own house. Empower institutions to operate independently, strengthen transparency mechanisms, and hold your officials accountable.

Restore the trust you promised. Without genuine reforms, your presidency risks being defined by inaction and betrayal.

Zambians deserve better. The time for excuses is over.

WITNESS SAYS THERE WAS NO ABDUCTION OR THEFT IN ESTHER LUNGU’S CASE

Lusaka-3rd December 2024

A witness has testified that in his estimation, Esther Lungu and four others did not abduct or commit the case of theft.

Hakuwa Charles, a witness in the case where the former first lady, Esther Lungu, is charged  with the offence of theft of motor vehicles.

In this matter, Mrs. Esther Lungu is jointly charged with James Phiri and Lee Chisulo, both police officers, as well as Kapambwe Lungu and Catherine Banda.

The matter is before Magistrate Honourable Mbuywana Sinvula.

In cross examination by defence lawyers Charles Changano, and Makebi Zulu, Hakuwa stated he was informed by the former first lady that the case was matter for the family to handle.

Hakuwa also confirmed that he knew that the vehicles were not stolen but were taken from Elizabetha Phiri for safe custody and the act did not amount to theft.

Below is the Verbatim:

Charles Changano; Your honour, we did subpoena a witness to bring the  rough book ( a book the police make rough notes during unvestigations) from Woodlands Police Station.

Witness takes the stand and takes Oath;

I’m Officer in Charge; Siwito Anayeni, 41, 23416, Chalala, Woodlands Police, as officer in charge with a rank of Superintendent.

Lawyer Charles Changano; You were summoned before this court. What were you directed to bring?

Anayeni-I was told to bring the rough book.

Changano- in whose custody was the rough book?

Anayeni- it was in custody of Woodlands Police Station under mAy charge.

Changano- show us the rough book.

Anayeni- checks the book. yes, this is the book I meant.

Changano- What would you do with this book?

Anayeni- I want to produce it as evidence before this court?

Changano- describe the book.

Anayeni: it is an A4 book, black in colour.

Changano – My Lord may the evidence be marked.

Changano- What would you like to do with this book?

Anayeni; I wish to produce the book as part of my evidence, as an exhibit?

Changano- your honour,that is all for this witness.

Court- Witness may stand down.

Another witness taked the stand.

Hakuwa Charles takes the stand.

Changano- witness now that you  have the rough book, tell us about the details of the custody of the cars.

Hakuwa Charles- reads portion identified as of the 403 in the rough book which explains the details of the 3 vehicles.

Changano-do you remember the officer who recorded the statement in the rough book?

Hakuwa- I don’t remember.

Changano- why did you sign with a blue pen when the statement was written in black?

Hakuwa-That’s the pen I had.

Changano-When you went to Lewanika Mall, did you meet Elizabeth Phiri?

Hakuwa- yes

Changano-did A1(Mrs. Esther Lungu) call you?

Hakuwa- yes.

Changano- What did she say?

Hakuwa- she said that “we have discussed and the vehicles can be released”.

Objection was raised by prosecution. Objection sustained.

Changano; what did she say.
Hakuwa- she asked me if i knew that this was related to a family matter. She stated that the matter was a family matter and the youngman in question was her son.

Changano-when the vehicles left Lewanika Mall,did they pass through Woodlands Police Station?
Hakuwa- no your honour.

Changano- that is all for me.

Makebi Zulu- Goodmorning, Mr. Hakuwa, you said that you received a call that there was an abduction. Was there an abduction?

Hakuwa- there was no abduction.

Makebi Zulu- in your view, was there theft of motor vehicles?

Hakuwa:No,  there was no theft of vehicles.

Makebi Zulu -I’ve no further question.