THE UPND LAWFARE HAS CLAIMED THE LIVES OF ITS FIRST VICTIMS- THEY SHOULD STOP TAKING POLICE AND COURT CASES TO FAR AWAY PLACES

17/10/2024

The case were our former Vice President and Secretary General Mr. J. Akafumba and Mrs. B. Atanga, respectfullly, sued our former President hon. C Kambwili that he is not NDC President is still in court.

All of the three, are no longer members of NDC and the matter has been overtaken by events, but this is the vindictiveness of this government. Wanting to see everyone in court for the most ridiculous of cases.

Imagine being sued that you are not President of a party by the very people that you actually appointed in those same positions that they are using to sue you in? Mrs Atanga, as the person who sued, vowed never to go to court after realizing her mistake and she has never been to court even once. But Mr. Akafumba and his colleagues in government have sustained this case using all sorts of gimmicks, from 2021 to date.

All the people involved in this case, from the plaintiffs, defendants, lawyers from both teams and even witnesses, live in Lusaka. But we always have to travel to Ndola to just attend this case. This is the case I was actually traveling to when I had that minor accident last month.

Making people attend cases in far off places other than where they live has a lot of consequences and sadly the Kambwili family has suffered the worst case scenario after losing two brothers. This could have been avoided. This lawfare is now fatal.

I urge the UPND government to ensure that people attend police and court cases in the areas they live in. For the NDC case, they even buy air tickets, pay legal fees, transport, accommodation and food for people that are not even supposed to be part of the case. While UPND cadres cry of hunger and neglect, they waste money on these people from NDC and other parties just to sustain court cases that have even been overtaken by events.

We can do better as a nation, the hate and vindictiveness is too much and will certainly boomerang on you.

Issued by;
Saboi Imboela
President- NDC

I have only lived with one wife and I’m satisfied – Hichilema

PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema says despite coming from an extended family, he has only lived with one wife for years whom he is satisfied with.

Officiating at this year’s National Day of Prayer and Fasting yesterday, President Hichilema said this to encourage young couples that marriages can work if only there is mutual respect and tolerance in the home.

“I come from an extended family but I have only lived with one wife, one wife and I’m satisfied with one wife.”

“I want to help young couples. There must be mutual respect in the home, there must be tolerance in the home but we ask the church since it helps these people before they marry,” he said.

The President also urged parents to teach children from a young age to love those who may speak a different language from theirs.

President Hichilema said children must be taught from a young age that even those who speak different languages from theirs are children of God and should be treated with love and respect.

“This ethnic issue we keep on squabbling about is because we have not taught our children early in the homes that there will be people who speak a language different from yours but they too are children of God in a Christian nation.”

“The church must continue to intercede for the nation, guiding leaders not just politicians traditional leaders, church leaders and other leaders. Embrace everyone from diverse backgrounds,” he said.

President Hichilema also addressed the fights that get to happen amongst churches stating that the conflicts or divisions are not necessary as there is only one God.

“I do hear churches squabbling because that church does not do things like my church. Isn’t that a source of conflict? We are all worshiping one God. If some sing different from the way your church sings that shouldn’t be [an] issue.”

“The church must continue performing those roles. We may be Catholics, Evangelical, SDA but the body of Christ is one. We must continue preaching social justice,” he said.

By Catherine Pule

Kalemba, October 19, 2024

Critical Analysis of the 2025 Zambia National Budget: A Missed Opportunity for Sustainable Growth and Social Equity

By Dr. Mwelwa

Critiquing the 2025 budget from an opposition standpoint requires a focus on areas where the government’s plans may fall short, where there could be inconsistencies, or where the budget may not fully address key issues. Here is a critical analysis of the 2025 budget presented by Honourable Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, from the perspective of an opposition party:

1. Unrealistic Economic Growth Projections
The government’s projection of 6.6% GDP growth for 2025 seems overly ambitious, especially considering the slowdown in global growth and the domestic economic contraction due to the severe drought in 2024. With the Zambian economy only expected to grow by 2.3% in 2024, a jump to 6.6% within one year seems optimistic at best. This optimism is built on hopes of a recovery in agriculture and mining, but these sectors have historically been volatile and susceptible to external shocks, particularly climate change. There is little in the budget to suggest how these ambitious targets will be met in a practical and sustainable manner.

2. Debt Servicing Burden
The allocation of K37.3 billion to domestic debt servicing and K16.7 billion to external debt paints a bleak picture of Zambia’s fiscal health. This means over 25% of the budget is being used to service debt, rather than to directly benefit citizens. While the government claims progress in debt restructuring, the real impact of debt on the economy is still significant. This massive debt burden continues to limit fiscal space for social services, infrastructure development, and job creation.

Additionally, the government’s borrowing plan raises concerns about the sustainability of Zambia’s financial future. Borrowing K34.7 billion (16% of the budget) may solve short-term liquidity issues, but without clear long-term strategies for economic growth and revenue generation, this could lead Zambia back into a debt trap. The opposition should demand a clearer and more sustainable debt management strategy.

3. Inflation and Cost of Living Crisis
The budget acknowledges high inflation, with a rise to 15.6% in 2024, primarily due to the drought and depreciation of the Kwacha. However, the government’s target to reduce inflation to 6-8% seems overly optimistic given the economic realities. The budget does not offer sufficient measures to address the cost of living crisis that Zambians are currently facing. While efforts such as the Social Cash Transfer and Cash for Work Programme are commendable, they are temporary fixes and do not address the root causes of inflation, such as food and fuel prices. There is little in the budget to suggest a sustainable plan for tackling inflationary pressures or cushioning households from rising costs.

4. Agriculture Sector – Overreliance on Drought Recovery
The government places heavy emphasis on agricultural recovery, projecting it to be a significant driver of economic growth in 2025. However, this fails to take into account the deep structural problems facing Zambia’s agriculture sector, including climate vulnerability and poor infrastructure. The measures outlined in the budget, such as irrigation development and dam construction, are not enough to transform the sector, which is still largely dependent on seasonal rainfall.

The Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) continues to be marred by inefficiencies, and there is a lack of clear plans on how to reform it beyond a shift to the e-voucher system. Without addressing issues like limited access to markets, post-harvest losses, and low mechanization, the sector is unlikely to achieve the desired growth.

5. Overreliance on Mining
While mining remains a key sector for Zambia’s economy, the government’s reliance on it for future growth is problematic. The budget speaks of a recovery in the mining sector and mentions investment in new projects, yet there is insufficient discussion about the long-term sustainability of mining and diversification. Copper prices are highly volatile, and Zambia’s overdependence on this single commodity exposes the economy to global shocks.

Additionally, the environmental and social costs of mining are not adequately addressed in the budget. The government seems more focused on reviving mines without offering strong environmental protections or addressing the inequitable distribution of mining revenues to local communities.

6. Education and Healthcare Underfunding
While education and healthcare receive significant allocations (14.5% and 10.7% of the budget, respectively), the amounts may still be insufficient to meet the growing needs of the population. Zambia’s education system, for instance, suffers from overcrowded classrooms, poor infrastructure, and inadequate teacher training. Despite an increase in teacher recruitment, the teacher-pupil ratio remains high, and the quality of education continues to decline.

Similarly, the health sector has long faced challenges such as drug shortages, inadequate facilities, and overburdened healthcare workers. The K23.2 billion allocated to the health sector may not be enough to address these issues comprehensively, especially when the majority of funds will likely go to maintaining current facilities rather than expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas.

7. Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Issues
The Constituency Development Fund (CDF), allocated K5.6 billion, has been hailed as a game-changer. However, its implementation has been inconsistent across the country, with many constituencies experiencing delays and bureaucratic inefficiencies in accessing and utilizing these funds. There is also a concern about transparency and accountability in the disbursement and use of CDF, raising fears of potential misuse for political gain. The opposition could argue that more stringent oversight mechanisms are required to ensure equitable distribution and effective utilization of the CDF.

8. Environmental Sustainability – Lack of Ambition
While the budget includes measures related to environmental protection and climate change resilience, the allocation of just 0.7% of the budget to environmental protection is inadequate, especially in light of the drought and climate vulnerabilities Zambia faces. The National Green Growth Strategy seems more like a token gesture rather than a comprehensive plan for environmental sustainability. More ambitious climate adaptation and mitigation strategies are required, especially for a country heavily dependent on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture and hydropower.

9. Social Protection – Insufficient Coverage
The government’s Social Cash Transfer program and other social safety nets, while helpful, may not be sufficient to cover the vast number of vulnerable households affected by the drought and economic hardships. The K400 emergency transfer for drought victims, though welcome, may not significantly change the lives of those suffering from food insecurity and loss of income.

Conclusion:
The 2025 budget, while presenting some promising interventions, falls short in critical areas such as debt management, agriculture reform, social protection, and inflation control. The ambitious growth targets appear disconnected from the realities of Zambia’s economic challenges, and the budget does not provide sufficient safeguards to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth. More focused, long-term strategies are needed to address the deep-rooted structural problems in Zambia’s economy.

Kampyongo Backs Motion for Mining Companies to Generate 50% of Their Power Needs

Lusaka, 18th October 2024

Shiwang’andu Member of Parliament Hon. Stephen Kampyongo, MP, has thrown his weight behind a motion in Parliament aimed at compelling large-scale mining companies to generate at least 50% of their own power needs. The motion, brought forward by Hon. Christopher Kang’ombe, MP for Kamfinsa, is seen as a crucial step to ensuring the continuity of mining operations, which are vital to Zambia’s economy.

During the debate, Hon. Kampyongo highlighted the importance of innovative solutions to address the ongoing energy crisis, which has negatively impacted the country’s industrial and mining sectors. He pointed out that the idea of companies generating their own electricity is not far removed from previous government pronouncements encouraging individuals to install solar panels to contribute to the national grid.

“Madam Speaker, what this motion is teaching us is that mining companies should utilize our country’s resources, like uranium, to invest in reactors and other renewable energy solutions to meet at least half of their consumption needs,” Hon. Kampyongo said.

He added that such measures would alleviate the burden on ZESCO, allowing the national power utility to focus on supplying power to underserved rural areas.

Hon. Kampyongo drew comparisons to past energy initiatives, referencing the now-defunct nuclear endurance program and the production efforts of Maamba Collieries.

He noted that the current energy crisis, exacerbated by climate change and worsening weather patterns, demands bold, forward-thinking strategies.

“Madam Speaker, this crisis is not new, but it has escalated to a point where we must act decisively. The mining sector cannot continue to depend solely on ZESCO for power when we have alternative options that can be explored,” he said, citing examples of companies burning through thousands of liters of diesel daily to run generators, further straining their operations.

The former Home Affairs Minister also dismissed arguments against the motion as shortsighted, asserting that it was in line with the government’s own push for renewable energy solutions. He emphasized the need for the government to provide a clear policy framework that would enable mining companies to take on the responsibility of generating their own power without going through ZESCO.

“The motion, Madam Speaker, is about offering progressive solutions. It’s not just about Christopher Kang’ombe; it’s for the entire nation,” he stressed. “People are suffering, companies are shutting down, and workers are losing jobs due to power shortages. We have a collective responsibility to support ideas that will see us through this crisis.”

The lawmaker also casted out the Members who thought this motion was meant to satisfy the opposition stating that “yes you can question because you don’t know own that people out there are suffering” he reminded them that not all Zambians can afford to buy solar energy.

In his closing remarks, Kampyongo urged the government and Parliament to embrace the motion, cautioning that failure to adopt such innovative solutions would lead to further economic hardships.

STATEMENT BY BUSINESS COALITION TASKFORCE (BCT), ON THE RECENT IMF FORECASTED GDP DOWNGRADE TO 1.2%

It is with alarm and great concern that we note that the IMF forecasts a downgrade of GDP growth to a mere 1.2%. The consequence of this will likely lead to increased hardships Zambians face in their daily lives.

As we continue to advocate for a private sector-led economy in Zambia, we acknowledge that we are in agreement with the UPND leadership on the policy direction they have set for the country. The policy statements are clear. Zambia should be a private sector led economy.

Unfortunately, this has not been translated into action by the civil service administration and therefore has not yielded the desired results.
We remain deeply concerned about the current state of the Zambian economy. In particular, is the failure to implement agreed policies. Policies that would lead to enhanced GDP growth. Our economy continues to be strangled by bureaucracy, licenses, controls, and restrictions. Initiatives like the PPDF have failed to bring about meaningful change, as they themselves are impeded by the same bureaucratic quagmire!

The private sector plays a vital role in driving economic growth, and it’s essential the private sector is given the support needed to bring about the economic changes they are capable of achieving. The private sector has huge capacity to create jobs and wealth for the people of Zambia, providing over-regulation and the heavy hand of government is removed.

Unfortunately, our experience has been marked by entrenched resistance from deep within the Civil Service that hinder our ability to contribute effectively to Zambia’s economic development.

We again urge the UPND government to action agreed policies, recognizing the mutual benefits of a private sector- led economy. We stand ready to provide meaningful input that will help address the country’s economic challenges.

Our commitment to Zambia’s economic prosperity remains unwavering, and we look forward to forging a more productive partnership with the GRZ. We strongly believe that working together, we will be able to navigate our way out of this economic disaster.

Signed,
Diego Casilli
Chairman, Business Coalition Taskforce (BCT)

About BCT:
BCT, a non-political alliance of businesses committed to catalyzing economic transformation in Zambia through private-sector engagement, is deeply concerned about the escalating energy catastrophe that is currently afflicting Zambia. This crisis is undermining the nation’s economic growth and critically compromising the livelihoods and the well-being of millions of Zambians.
BCT remains committed to working with all stakeholders to provide policy advice and technical support in addressing Zambia’s economic challenges.

Homosexuality unchristian, unAfrican – Hichilema

PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has reiterated that any marriage other than one between a man and a woman is unchristian and unAfrican.

Officiating for the first time at this year’s National Day of prayer, Fasting, Repentance and Reconciliation in Kitwe yesterday, President Hichilema stated that Zambia shall continue to be a Christian nation noting that being a Christian nation alone comes with its obligations.

He said one of those obligations is to ensure that all the Christian values are maintained.

“If we are a Christian nation then marriages should be between man and woman. We agreed that we must be a Christian and so there are obligations. Marriages must not be on any other concoctions. Any marriage that is not between man and woman is not a normal marriage, it is something else.”

“Why should you make me repeat this message over and over. Anything else, any marriage other than man and woman is unchristian, it’s unAfrican,” said the President.

The President added that not allowing homosexuality in the country does not mean that he does not respect human rights.

“I have said to colleagues, global leaders on this subject that as partners, as independent countries governed separately for our people, we share common values. Out of 10, maybe we share eight, but if we are different on two including the issues of homosexuality, we shouldn’t fight each other. To say what I have said does not mean we don’t respect human rights. We do respect human rights,” he noted.

President Hichilema further urged the church to help promote decent marriages anchored on religious values in the country.

“I want to help young couples. There must be mutual respect in the home, there must be tolerance in the home but we ask the church, [to help] these people before they marry,” he said.

President Hichilema also called on the church to support the fight against corruption and take part in bringing the culprits to book.

And as part of Zambia celebrating 60 years, President Hichilema offered to the church 60 female cows and two bulls.

Meanwhile, Kitwe District Inter-Denomination Committee called on Zambians to use the National day of prayer and fasting to reflect on their sins and renew their faith…https://kalemba.news/local/2024/10/19/homosexuality-unchristian-unafrican-hichilema/

By Catherine Pule

Kalemba, October 19, 2024

PRESS STATEMENT BY THE CHIEF GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON ON THE DECISIONS MADE BY CABINET AT THE 19TH CABINET MEETING HELD ON 15TH OCTOBER, 2024.

The President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, called for the 19th Cabinet Meeting in the Year 2024, on Tuesday, 15th October, 2024, at State House, to deliberate on policy and legislative matters aimed at enhancing socio-economic development for the people.

Cabinet made the following decisions:

1. Legislative Matters – Bills approved for Publication and Introduction in Parliament:

(a) The Plant Health Bill, 2024.

Cabinet approved “The Plant Health Bill, 2024,” for publication and introduction in Parliament.

The objectives of this Bill include among others, to protect plant resources; provide for the registration of pest controllers and plant-related structures; and regulate imports and exports to prevent the introduction or spread of pests.

The implementation of the Bill shall improve Zambia’s ability to prevent and manage plant pests and diseases, which will safeguard agricultural productivity and plant health.

(b) The Zambia Institute of Quantity Surveyors Bill,2024.

“The Zambia Institute of Quantity Surveyors Bill, 2024,” was approved for publication and introduction in Parliament by Cabinet.

The objectives of this Bill include to, provide for the registration of quantity surveying professionals; quantity surveying organisations and quantity surveying units and regulate their practice and professional conduct.
Currently, the legal framework is not comprehensive in regulation to the conduct and practice of quantity surveying professionals.  The Bill, once enacted, will result in the effective operation of the Zambia Institute of Quantity Surveyors and the effective delivery of services by quantity surveying professionals.

(c) The Green Economy and Climate Change Bill, 2024.

Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament, “The Green Economy and Climate Change Bill, 2024.”

The objectives of this Bill are to provide for climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction; provide for climate change mitigation, low emission development, green economy and related actions; regulate carbon markets; and provide for environmental and social safeguards in climate change actions.

Currently, the regulatory framework on green economy and climate change is inadequate in responding to green economy and climate change issues in the country.  The Bill, once enacted, will facilitate the effective implementation of green economy and climate change programmes in all sectors of the economy.

(d) The Local Authorities Superannuation Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Another Bill approved for publication and introduction in Parliament is “The Local Authorities Superannuation Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

The objectives of this Bill are to, revise the accrual rate of a retirement benefit and revise the commutation factors.

Currently, the Local Authorities Superannuation Fund Act Cap 284 of the Laws of Zambia, does not provide for a comprehensive legal framework to compute and pay benefits for retirees at 60 and 65 years.

The proposed Bill, once enacted, will enable the Local Authorities Superannuation Fund to accurately compute and pay retirement benefits for members retiring at 60 or 65 years and, therefore, ensuring that the retirement benefits align with the revised retirement age policy.

(e) The Penal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

During the same Meeting, Cabinet also approved “The Penal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2024.”

The objectives of this Bill are to amend the Penal Code, so as to strengthen the law on the offence of expressing or showing hatred, ridicule or contempt for a person or group of persons; provide for the offence of stealing medicine, allied substances, medical supplies, medical equipment, critical information infrastructure and electronic communications apparatus; redefine the word “vandalism;” revise the penalties relating to vandalism; and make the possession, conveyance and receipt of vandalised property or material an offence.

(f) The Judiciary Administration (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament, “The Judiciary Administration (Amendment) Bill, 2024,” in order to harmonise the Judiciary Administration Act of 2016, with the Judicial Training Institute of Zambia Act No. 14 of 2023.

Currently, the Judiciary Administration Act of 2016, empowers the Judicial Service Commission to make regulations with respect to training courses for the judicial service.  However, with the enactment of the Judicial Training Institute of Zambia Act No. 14 of 2023, whose functions include providing and developing judicial education and professional training for judges, judicial officers and judicial staff, it has become necessary to amend the Judiciary Administration Act of 2016, so as to remove from the Judicial Service Commission, the power to make regulations relating to training courses in the Judicial Service.

The proposed Bill, once enacted, will ensure that the mandate to provide judicial education and professional training for judges, judicial officers and judicial staff, is solely vested in the Judicial Training Institute, thereby, avoiding a duplicity of functions between the Judicial Training Institute and the Judicial Service Commission.

2. Legislative Matters approved in Principle:

(a) Lands (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet approved in principle, to the introduction of a Bill in Parliament to amend the Lands Act Cap 184 of the Laws of Zambia, in order to align the law to the National Lands Policy of 2021, allow for the use of information and communications technology in the delivery of services and to make the law more responsive to the needs of the people of Zambia.

The Lands Act is the Principal Act that guides land administration in Zambia, however, since its enactment in 1995, the Act has not had substantial review to respond to persistent and emerging challenges in land administration such as, an increase in unauthorised occupancy of land, leading to litigations, and in some instances, clashes between land invaders and rightful owners.

The proposed amendments will enhance equitable access to secure land rights for all, in a cost-effective way, for government and beneficiaries, reduce unauthorised occupancy, as well as improve Government’s fiscal position.

(b) The Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet also approved in principle, to the introduction of a Bill in Parliament to repeal the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation Act Cap 154 of the Laws of Zambia, in order to designate the Corporation into a public service broadcaster which will, provide balanced, diverse, innovative and independent Broadcasting Services; inform, educate and entertain the public; and enhance revenue sources and accountability in fulfilling its mandate.

The repeal of the Act will also provide for enhanced public accountability; facilitate for alignment with other pieces of legislation and provide for the establishment of state-owned broadcasters, such as the Parliament TV and radio, ZANIS TV, Education TV, and LIMA radio.

(c) The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Bill, 2024.

During the same Meeting, Cabinet approved in principle, to the introduction of the Bill in Parliament to repeal the Independent Broadcasting Authority Act No. 17 of 2002, in order to provide for mechanisms that will strengthen the functions, administration and regulation of the broadcasting industry in Zambia and enhance professional, ethical and independence of the media industry.

Since 2002, a number of developments have taken place which have necessitated the proposed repeal of the current Act.  Some of the major developments include advancements in technology, the need for comprehensive and consolidated legislation and alignment with other pieces of legislation.

3. Legislative Matters – Statutory Instrument:

The Insurance (Tribunal) Rules, 2024.

Cabinet approved the issuance of the Insurance (Tribunal) Rules, 2024, in order to operationalise the ad hoc Insurance Tribunal, which was established under the Insurance Act of 2021.

It is necessary to issue the rules, as without them, the Tribunal would remain inoperative which would have the effect of depriving a person, aggrieved by a decision of the Pensions and Insurance Authority to exercise their right of appeal.

The Insurance Act No. 38 of 2021, establishes the ad hoc Insurance Tribunal.  However, the Tribunal cannot be put into operation as there are no rules to govern the procedure that the Tribunal will follow in presiding over appeals against the Authority’s decision.

Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, MP
MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND MEDIA AND CHIEF GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON

19th October, 2024

´The Best of Enemies´ on Dialogue

By Amb. Anthony Mukwita

Our local media was this week flooded with news of a hitch in a proposed meeting or dialogue between President Hichilema and predecessor Edgar Lungu, the sixth President on Zambia.

It has been a long-awaited proposition as political tensions rise high while the two leaders trade political punches with a possibility of gas-lighting the whole political field of Zambia.

As tensions escalated, the Oasis Forum, an influential civil society organisation credited for being a huge reconciliatory body in Zambia since the return to multiparty democracy in 1991 stepped up to the plate.

They called for a cease fire—let’s have a dialogue between Don H and ECL they said.

FROM ´BEST ENEMIES´ TO ZAMBIA

The development vividly reminded me of one of my favourite movies available on Netflix fight now—´The Best of Enemies´.
It’s a 1991 American movie based on real events around civil rights activist Ann Atwater and local Ku Klux Klan leader, C.P Ellis, who regard each other as enemies.
It’s an acrimonious and fractious American conflict race movie story, you must watch it.

As tensions mount, conflict experts put Atwater and C.P Ellis together to co-chair a meeting to discuss racial desegregation of schools and dialogue so that racial tensions in the south can simmer down.

Now remember that this is like telling ice to love fire, black people and white people hated each other immensely back in the day but nevertheless, CP Ellis and Atwater agree to this ´charade´ to find peace.

BACK TO THE OASIS AND DIALOGUE

I believe this is the bridge the Oasis Forum is trying to build between our two leaders Edgar Lungu and Hakainde Hichilema hence the reason I personally feel sad that the dialogue road seems to have hit a road-block before it even gets tarred.
The Oxford English dictionary defines dialogue as ‘a conversation carried on between two or more persons ‘.
According to my research, ´the ancient meaning of the word dialogue (dia lagos) is a” flow of meaning” which stands in stark contrast to the word ’debate’ which means to ‘beat down’, or even the word ‘discussion’ which has the same route as ‘percussion’ and ‘concussion’ or simply to break things up.

The author proceeds to say ´dialogue is a process where the participants commit to listen, reflect and question with a curious mindset to seek a shared understanding.´
A ´resolution dialogue´ has the purpose of ´resolving conflict through dialogue.´
Enough of the academic stuff, back to life and back to reality in Zambia, the case between UPND president and state President Hichilema aka Don H and Edgar Lungu aka ECL.

The sixth President agreed to a proposition to dialogue initiated by Oasis Forum, ECL agreed but with two conditions, the major one being ´set PF free from legal shenanigans.´ Shots fired!

The response from the Don H was ´no conditions´ let’s just meet and your asking for conditions borders on being ´contemptuous and preposterous.´
I thought that got off on a bumpy start because it had no tone or iota of willingness to dialogue or reconcile, the dice was loaded from the start.

THE PARRALEL OF ISRAEL AND GAZA

What happened between Don H and ECL is not very different from what is happening between Gaza and Israel where Israel has racked up a 42k dead bodies in a year against 1.2k Israelis just because they can’t dialogue around the table with the UN et al..

International mediators fostering dialogue and conflict resolution seeking a ceasefire have hit a brick wall for a year now as children and women in Gaza die needlessly because Israel says ´we wont leave Gaza, we shall keep dropping the bombs until we annihilate the human animals in Palestine called Hamas.´
Palestine conversely says we will hold onto Jew hostages from Israel until Israel totally vacates Gaza and the West bank.
Way to dialogue or ending a conflict, right?
As along as Israel holds its hard line and Hamas hankers on its own line, no peace deal is in sight in the middle east, thousands more Arabs shall find their death as Israel bombs rain on.
It is the same thing back home in Zambia for as long as Don H holds his own and refuses to agree to pre dialogue conditions, the political stalemate remains in Zambia and tensions escalate.
Its at this point that with my limited humble common sense, I ask the esteemed Oasis Forum not to give up on dialogue and give peace a chance.

WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE

Please put together a committee that shall look at what ECL wants and what Don H wants before they can meet and sign a potential truce because nothing development wise succeeds amid tension, hatred and dispute.

The onus in my view is ON Don H, he is the Big Kahuna here, the boss at State House.
He can end this stand-off with a blink of an eye lid, I am willing to help just as the Oasis Forum is. But does he want an end to the conflict?

I recall reading once that the absence of war doesn’t necessarily mean there´s peace in a country.

The onus to dialogue and bring peace lies right on Don H´s table and nowhere else hombres and amigos.

Zambia has crossed much more dangerous bridges and baptisms of fire, this too can be crossed, only if Don H has the will. ECL has laid his cards on the table.
Put that team together to find peace through dialogue, expand the economy and create jobs.

Poverty levels in copper rich Zambia at more than 64 pc is criminal if I may say so myself, it cannot be tackled while leader’s fight.

But then even as I preach this peace message, I realise that it might end up as a dream because I am a dreamer ´we chiloto ukwama.´

Make love not war and good luck to the ´best of enemies´ in Zambia as we grapple with prolonged days of lack of electricity in our houses. The darkness of Zambia.  

–Source: The Daily Nation “Mukwita on Point.”

Contact: mukwitaone@gmail.com
Amb. Anthony Mukwita is a former Ambassador of Zambia to several European countries and a published author whose books are available in Bookworld, Grey Matter and Amazon.

Court throws out Changala’s application to subpoena Hichilema

THE Lusaka magistrates court has ruled that Brebner Changala has not described the type of evidence that he wants President Hakainde Hichilema, senior government and UPND officials among others; to produce in his seditious case.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/GWfhd8LBmAKUKTsi/

Lusaka chief resident magistrate Davies Chibwili said if Changala’s intended witnesses had documents in their possession or power, he was supposed to specify or sufficiently describe them in his summons.

Changala had asked the Court to subpoena President Hichilema, senior UPND officials, leaders of opposition parties, Academicians, and police officers among others to testify and produce evidence in his seditious case that will prove him innocent.

Changala said he could not proceed with his defense without conducting a pre-trial with his intended witnesses, hence the Court should summon them on his behalf so that they can aid his defense.

Ruling on the case, magistrate Chibwili said the affidavit in support of application has not specified nor described any evidence or documents that are in the possesion or control of the intended witnesses which will assist the case.

“The applicant has merely submitted a list of names without indicating what evidence he hoped to get from each of those individuals on that list, which will assist his defence,” magistrate Chibwili said.

“It was not sufficient for the defence to only submit a list of names of their potential witnesses. They were required by section 143 to make it appear to the court that the material evidence can be given by or was in the possesion of those individuals.”

He said Changala should have specified the documents in the summons.

“If, for arguments sake, the court was inclined to summon the Republican President as prayed by the defence, was he expected to come with the whole presidential library to court ? The same applies to all those on the list,” magistrate Chibwili said.

“Section 143 of the Criminal Procedure Code states that the documents or writings must be specified or otherwise sufficiently described in the summons.The defence have not done so nor attempted to do so. It follows that their application to subpoena witnesses can therefore not succeed. It is dismissed forth with.”

Magistrate Chibwili further ordered that Changala should be the first one to open his defense, before his intended witnesses.

By Mwaka Ndawa

Kalemba October 18, 2024.

Former President Edgar Lungu Calls for Unity Prayer on National Day of Prayer and Reconciliation

Lusaka, Zambia – October 18, 2024 (SMART EAGLES)

As the nation observes the National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation, former President Edgar Lungu has urged all Zambians to come together in prayer for mercy and healing over the country. In a heartfelt message to the nation, President Lungu emphasized the power of prayer in fostering national unity, peace, and spiritual renewal, calling for citizens to join in seeking God’s face.

“let’s all pray for Zambia,” the former head of state said.

“I am praying for you and I ask you to pray for me too. Together, let’s seek God’s face for mercy and healing in our country on this day of national prayer and reconciliation. Stay blessed!”

The call comes as the country continues to face numerous challenges, including economic difficulties, and political tensions. President Lungu’s message seeks to unite Zambians in collective repentance and reflection, urging them to lean on their faith during these trying times.

Instituted in 2015, the National Day of Prayer and Reconciliation has become a key event on the Zambian calendar, bringing together people from all walks of life, regardless of their political or social affiliations. The day is marked by prayers, church services, and moments of reflection aimed at promoting peace, love, and harmony in the country.

President Lungu’s appeal for prayer follows his continued involvement in matters of faith. Despite the numerous political challenges surrounding him, his family, the PF party and opposition political parties, he has remained a vocal advocate for national unity and has consistently used his platform to encourage Zambians to hold on to their faith and seek God in every situation.

Philippians 2:10-11: “That at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” This verse serves as a reminder that, no matter the differences or challenges, every heart will ultimately recognize God’s sovereignty.

As Zambia gathers in churches, homes, and communities for this solemn occasion, President Lungu’s message resonates with many who view prayer as a crucial tool for healing the nation’s wounds and bridging divides.

May we have a genuine repentance and reconciliation and MAY EVERY KNEE BOW.

Ndola City Council
Ministry of Information and Media – Zambia
@topfans Gary Nkombo Ministry of Infrastructure,Housing and Urban Development

PRESS STATEMENT

(For Immediate release)

17th October, 2024

GOVERNMENT CLARIFIES ON REMOVAL OF BOOTHS IN NDOLA

LUSAKA: The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD) wishes to provide clarification regarding the exercise in which Ndola City Council (NCC) Management removed some mobile money Booths in the Central Business District (CBD) in Ndola.

The Ministry wishes to update the Nation that the Council management on 15th October, 2024, undertook an exercise to remove about 100 mobile money Booths in the CBD in line with a Council Resolution No. PHS/110/12/2023 and following months of engagements with the mobile money traders and operators.

The decision to remove mobile money booths was made way back in December 2023 to prevent the spread of diseases following the outbreak of Cholera and make Ndola Clean. This was because a huge number of booths were not in use, while many were being used for other purposes rather than mobile money transactions. Some booths are also used as toilets by unknown members of the public especially at night, and Council workers are made to clean the mess every morning.

In December, 2023, during the Cholera outbreak, the Local Authority under Minute Number PHS/110/12/2023 resolved to remove mobile money booths and directed that all mobile money transactions should be conducted under umbrellas and tables as one of the measures to curb and prevent diseases such as cholera.

The Department of Public Health, however, did not remove the booths in that particular month in order to allow for engagements and sensitisation of the affected people to give them room to adjust.

From January 2024, the Ndola City Council has engaged in THREE (3) PUBLIC MEETINGS with mobile money traders in which it communicated the decision to remove mobile money booths and further emphasised that mobile money trading would continue while using other means rather than booths.

The Local Authority also engaged the public through radio, Press release and media engagements. A Public Notice was issued in May 2024 communicating designated areas of operations and that mobile money booths were no longer permitted in the CBD.

Ndola City Council management undertook the exercise to remove all the booths that had not been removed by the owners and all those abandoned on 15th October, 2024. It is, however, regrettable that during the exercise, some booths were damaged.

Following the exercise and concerns raised by mobile money traders, a meeting was held on 15th October, 2024 addressed by the Town Clerk in which it was tentatively agreed that booths remained unaccepted in the CBD and that all mobile money traders could continue operating with umbrellas and tables.

A committee of concerned stakeholders was established to take stock of damaged booths and to do a report to the Town Clerk so that in cases where it was confirmed that the action by Ndola City Council officers was excessive and that the booths could not be recovered, the Ndola City Council management may replace the booths with the view of owners relocating elsewhere other than the CBD.

As at the time of this publication, mobile money traders are normally trading in the CBD.

As a Ministry, we wish to reiterate our support for all businesses, large and small, including mobile money trading in the Country.

Further, we wish to assure all residents and businesses that Ndola City Council, like any other Local Authority, is committed to providing an enabling environment through efforts to promote a cleaner, healthier and sustainable trading environment including in residential compounds.

Issued by:

(Original copy signed)

Mr. Nicholous Phiri

PERMANENT SECRETARY (TECHNICAL SERVICES)
MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

GBM PUSHES FOR BAIL, APPEALS 5 YEAR SENTENCE

AFTER a week in jail over corruption-related charges, former defense minister Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba is now pushing for his release.

Mwamba has applied for bail pending appeal against his jailing to the Economic and Financial Crimes Court (High Court division).

On October 9, 2024 Mwamba alias GBM was jailed five years by the Economic and Financial Crimes Court on eight counts of conflict of interest, four counts of possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime, and fined home K50, 000 for money laundering.

Mwamba was facing 24 criminal charges among them; eight counts of conflict of interest, one count of money laundering and 15 counts of possessing property suspected to be proceeds of crime.

In his judgment magistrate Stanford Ngobola said Mwamba, having held the senior most position in the ministry as minister of defence, he was not supposed to allow his companies nor relatives to engage in business with the ministry he superintended over.

Magistrate Ngobola said Mwamba as a public servant owed his fiduciary duties to the public.

GBM has filed eight grounds of appeal on which he wants to challenge his conviction.

He argues that magistrate Ngobola erred in law and fact when he convicted him on eight counts of failure to declare interest contrary to section 28 (2) and (3) of the Anti-Corruption Act No.3 of 2012.

Mwamba said the trial Court erred in law and fact when it failed to attach any evidential weight to his declarations of interest which clearly demonstrated that such interest had been declared and the matter was previously closed after investigation by an earlier Joint Investigation Team in 2013.

“The learned trial magistrate erred in law and fact by holding that declaring interest in writing as required by section 28(2) is not enough to be absolved from the offence created by Act No.3 of 2012, thereby falling to appreciate that the law by itself declares an absolute defence against prosecution once an accused declares such interest,”he said.

“The trial Court erred in law when it relied on provisions of the Public Procurement Act in convicting the appellant in relation to Section 28(2) and (3) of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012.”

Mwamba stated that the trial court misdirected itself by convicting him on one count of money laundering and four counts of possessing property suspected to be proceeds of crime, when the source of the money was from government, which cannot be termed as
“tainted” or money laundering, or indeed proceeds of crime.

He said magistrate Ngobola misdirected himself and failed to appreciate that the contracts in question had all been perfected with the goods delivered to the Government of Zambia.

“The trial Court erred in its failure to appreciate that the payments to Curzon Global, HongKong was as a result of the High Court Judgement which is still valid to date,” argued Mwamba.

“The lower court also erred in law by ignoring the evidence of the accused and his witnesses when they put it before court that the accused was not involved in the running of his family businesses when he was holding public office.”

Hearing for his bail application has been adjourned to Wednesday .

Kalemba