NO LAWYER WAS BLOCKED FROM ACCESSING HIGH COURT PREMISES
For Immediate Release
Contact : Cheelo Katambo
Deputy Media Director – UPND
October 7th, 2024
LUSAKA – We find the statement by lawyer Dickson Jere that lawyers were not allowed into the High Court premises today as they were locked out by the Zambia Police highly misleading.
It is not true that lawyers were not allowed into the court premises by police officers that were manning the gates today during the hearing of the eligibility case of Youth Activist Michelo Chizombe and sixth Republican President Edgar Chagwa Lungu at the ConCourt.
The correct position is that police officers worked closely with Judiciary security in identifying officers of the court which included lawyers as well as everyone else who was identifiable or those that had court documents.
All lawyers and other officers of the court including Counsel Jere that had been identified by the judiciary security were allowed inside court premises. This was to ensure that the security of the litigants was assured and it is the duty of the Zambia police to ensure that law and order is maintained at all costs.
We therefore wish to advise Mr Jere and members of the public to desist from wantonly attacking the police by dragging them into unnecessary public ridicule.
We have noticed a growing trend by some members of the legal fraternity to attack members of the judiciary and police indiscriminately, something the UPND feels needs to be weighed in by the Law Association of Zambia if the two critical institutions of governance are to retain public confidence.
We last week saw Senior Counsel Makebi Zulu through his client Edgar Chagwa Lungu bringing the name of three senior ConCourt Judges into disrepute but upto now, we have not heard any word of rebuke from LAZ against its member despite the Judges making their frustration known.
The silence by the Law Association of Zambia in the midst of attacks against the Judiciary and the police especially in cases that have political undertones is becoming too loud and the UPND is getting concerned.
Being a senior member at the bar, Mr Jere should have been the first one to render a helping hand to the Zambia Police and Judiciary security considering the unnecessary political pressure that this case has exerted on the two wings of the government.
Both the police and judiciary need everybody’s support and not ridicule especially from the legal fraternity as they navigate through this and many other cases of public interest.
We therefore wish to commend the Zambia Police service for the professional manner they have carried themselves since the start of the eligibility case even under extreme provocation from overzealous political cadres.
Remember yours is to maintain law and order which has this far been professionally exhibited as we call upon politicians to avoid denting the decorum of the courts.
It is therefore not true that police officers were instructed to lock out lawyers from accessing the court premises as both Mr Lungu and Chizombe’s lawyers attended the session with the full cooperation of police officers that were providing security.
NO LAWYER WAS BLOCKED FROM ACCESSING HIGH COURT PREMISES
2016 constitution cannot be relied on to invalidate Lungu’s first term – Chizombe
2016 constitution cannot be relied on to invalidate Lungu’s first term – Chizombe
STUDENT leader Michelo Chizombe has argued that the Constitutional Court was wrong to rely on the 2016 constitution when it pronounced that Edgar Lungu’s first presidential term was not a complete term, yet he was elected into office under the 1991 constitution.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/CfqvKn1jYn4mroG4/
Chizombe’s lawyer Micheal Moono argued that; Lungu was sworn into office under the 1991 constitution which clearly defines what constitutes a term, therefore the Court could not rely on the amended constitution of 2016 which was a fresh document to invalidate his first election.
Moono said the 2016 Constitution as amended, could only come into effect after the expiration of his term under the 1991 Constitution by going to an election but that did not happen, as the Constitution was altered and effected into law whilst Lungu was still serving as president under the 1991 Constitution.
In this matter Chizombe has petitioned Lungu in the constitutional court questioning his qualifications to contest for presidency in the 2021 election and whether he can push for a third term for the second time, after assuming the office of President twice.
He wants the Court to declare that Lungu’s participation in the previous election was unconstitutional.
Chizombe also wants the Court to declare that it was illegal for the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to include Lungu on the ballot paper in the last poll.
He is seeking a pronouncement that Lungu is not eligible to contest a presidential election under the current constitution as read with the now repealed 1991 Constitution (as amended).
Chizombe is seeking a combined interpretation of Sections 7 of Act no.1 of 2016 and Section 2 of the same Act.
He also wants the Court to declare that the entire Article 106 of the Constitution (Amendment) Act no. 2 of 2016 did not apply to Lungu’s first presidential term.
Submitting before judges Margaret Munalula, Arnold Shilimi, Martin Musaluke Judy Mulingoti, Mudford Mwandenga, Mapani Kawimbe, and Kenneth Mulife, the petitioner said Lungu and the electoral body abrogated the law with regards to the last election.
Moono argued that Article 106, in its entirety, does not apply to Lungu’s term of office which ran from January 25, 2015 to September 13, 2016 as the said term of office was deliberately and intentionally excluded from Article 106 by Section 7(1) a transitional provision found in the Constitution of Zambia Act no.1 of 2016 which tied it to the repealed Article 35 of the Constitution as amended in 1996.
He said the Court has powers to interpret the provisions of the Constitution and interrogate contraventions by Lungu and the Electoral body.
“It is not in dispute, that Lungu participated and won the presidential election in 2015 which culminated into his first term. At that time, Zambia was governed by the 1991 Constitution amended in 1996. He sought the mandate of the people according to the rules and obligations provided in that document,” he said.
“The people of Zambia decided to give him mandate within the bounds of that document. We can actually say that he formed a contract with the people of Zambia, a Constitutional contract. That contract was set to expire at the expiry of his term and the conduction of fresh elections. That did happen in August, 2016, when he participated in the presidential elections.”
He said Lungu signed a second Constitutional contract with the people which was set to expire at the end of his term upon the conduction of fresh elections in 2021.
“What the petitioner argues is that Zambia enacted a new Constitution in 2016 during which time the former president was still president. To attempt to apply the 2016 document to a social contract entered into within the bounds of a different document is unconstitutional,” Moono said.
He argued that Chizombe’s issues have not been decided upon therefore Lungu cannot say that his eligibility debate was settled on merit.
“There cannot be any res judicata (already decided upon) where a party argues that the judgement is rendered in ignorance of a point of law,” Moono said.
“Chizombe has brought a new matter before you, new reliefs, he has argued that previous judgements made in the three previous cases ignored statutory provisions and he has asked this court to review those provisions as it interogates his petition and he has no doubt that in doing so, the court will reach an inescapable conclusion that Article 103(6) disqualified any person who seeks election more than twice.”
Lungu’s lawyer Bonaventure Mutale argued that the petition was incompetent on grounds that the court has no jurisdiction to entertain it.
He said the constitution has specific provisions or mechanisms for challenging the nomination or election of a candidate.
“As regards to nomination Article 52 provides for the manner in which a person dissatisfied with the nomination of a candidate in which such can be challenged, which is seven days.An attempt to challenge the nomination at this late stage is misconceived and an abuse of the court process,” he said.
“Article 106(3) provides a mechanism for the challenge of a person who has been declared president but that is not the case we are dealing with, it is a very unique question presented before court as Chizombe has petitioned a losing candidate.”
Mutale argued that there’s no provision that caters for challenging a losing candidate in the constitution.
“Lungu’s eligibility has been deliberated upon in three previous cases by the court. Those judgement are erudite, as the law in those judgments firmly establish Lungu as eligible to contest future elections,” said Mutale.
Makebi Zulu said the Court had already pronounced that Lungu’s first term in office was not a full term as it was an inherited term, following the death of late President Micheal Sata.
“You said he was eligible, there is no reason to back track. This matter was already dealt with. The court was fully aware of those provisions in deciding the matter and concluded that Lungu was eligible,”he said.
“The petition is asking you to review your judgement. In the Dan Pule case you said you would amend the question so that everyone one is bound by it. The court having made the that conclusion everyone is bound by it. Certainly it is a hallmark of a good judicial system.”
He said nothing can be changed when a court pronounces itself on a matter.
“Lungu can’t be harrased again by being brought to court on a matter that has already been brought to court,” said Zulu.
Jonas Zimba said; “Out of nothing comes nothing and this matter has brought nothing to court. The court cannot open this matter. The court cannot entertain this matter so that posterity can be fair upon all of us as you already made your decision.”
As per tradition, the ECZ lawyer Triza Phiri said the electoral body would not make any submissions but, it would rely on its answer to the petition and supporting documents which it had filed.
Solicitor General Marshal Muchende argued that Chizombe’s case was sui generis (unique) as it had brought a new dimension that has not been determined by the Court especially Section 2 of Act no.1 of 2016 as read with the provisions of Section 7 of the said Act.
He said the past petitions did not take into consideration Section 2 of the Constitution Amendment Act no 2 of 2016 which defines the operative of the Constitution.
“The Dan Pule case was purely centered on Article 106 and other sub articles under it and there was no contextulising. We noticed by reading all those judgements that this provision, Section 2 was never discussed. The court discussed Section 7. There was no contextulising of Section 2,”he said.
He indicated that the court made wrong inferences in the Dan Pule case regarding the provisions and Mutale was part of the team that made the Court arrive at such a wrong decision.
“There was no need to provide for transitional period in Section 7 because the issue was catered for in Section 2 due to the Constitution which applied on the effective date. It was speaking to twice elected and not holding office,”he said.
“It was wrong for the court to resort to making inferences as was submitted by Counsel. It’s to that extent that we agree that this court does have power to look at these issues because this court has jurisdiction to interpret the Constitution.”
Muchende added that the issue of making decisions in disregard of the law (per incurium) by the majority in the past, can be revisited by the Court.
The hearing was not short of drama as State advocate Chibesa Mulonda simmered tempers in the the humorless debate, when he sent everyone into fits of laughter after he fumbled in his submissions that the petition be dismissed on reasons that Chizombe had brought new arguments about Lungu’s eligibility and that he was not a party to the previous petitions.
He quickly corrected his line of thought and prayed that the petition be sustained.
In reply Moono emphasized that the court should correct the wrong decisions in the previous petitions to avoid creating a bad law.
“We therefore pray that this court exercises it’s jurisdiction to interpret the provisions as prayed to interrogate the contraventions of the Constitution by Lungu and ECZ: and in so doing, to declare the effect of those interpretations on the constitutionality of Lungu’s participation in the presidential election of 2021.”
Court president Margaret Munalula said judgement will be delivered on December 10, 2024.
By Mwaka Ndawa
Kalemba October 8, 2024.
Your oral arguments are not needed – ConCourt tells John Sangwa
Your oral arguments are not needed – ConCourt tells Sangwa
VOCAL lawyer John Sangwa yesterday made his exit in Edgar Lungu’s eligibility case in rage after the Constitutional Court prevented him from debating the former president’s qualification for a third term.
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Sangwa had been joined to the proceedings as a friend of the court.
The lawyer who in the past had put up spirited arguments that Lungu was not qualified to contest the 2021 presidential election after he was sworn into office twice, changed goal post arguing that nullifying the former president’s nomination will also affect other candidates who participated in the election, including President Hakainde Hichilema who emerged triumphant.
When the matter came up yesterday before the full bench of the Court constituting of seven judges, Sangwa rose to speak after the parties to the case had argued their points, but he was in for a shock as the Court stopped him in his tracks.
Court president Margaret Munalula guided that the Court would rely on Sangwa’s written opinion about the implications of declaring Lungu ineligible to contest the last election and future elections.
“We are satisfied with your submissions which are very clear, We do not need you to make further clarifications. We will put them into consideration,” she said.
Sangwa attempted to argue that, the Court had given him 24 hours to make submissions and he indicated in his brief that he would make oral submissions at the hearing.
His participation in the matter was however declared unwelcome by the Court.
Court vice president Arnold Shilimi reminded him that he did not indicate in his submission that he would address the Court viva voce as he indicated that he would only do so when need arises.
“It is the position of the court that your submissions are very clear. They will be taken into consideration,”he said.
“You recall that you yourself came about 24 hours to make an application as a friend of the court and the court was gracious enough to grant you permission. So, we will take consideration of the brief that you submitted.”
Sangwa retreated from the legal debate and asked the Court to allow him take his leave on reasons that; he had no business to sit in Court since he had been denied the opportunity to support his arguments that Lungu is qualified to contest future elections.
“I was of the impression that I would be given time to make submissions, may I have the Court’s permission to excuse myself from the proceedings,” he said.
Judge Munalula granted him permission to leave the room.
“You are excused from the proceedings. We thank you for your submissions,” she said.
Sangwa packed his thick heavy files and walked out on the Court in annoyance.
In this matter Michelo Chizombe is questioning Lungu’s qualifications for his second bid at third term in the 2026 election, after being sworn in twice as president…https://kalemba.news/court/2024/10/08/your-oral-arguments-are-not-needed-concourt-tells-sangwa/
By Mwaka Ndawa
Kalemba October 8, 2024.
Don’t blame Ten Hag, blame the players – Man Utd’s Maguire defends coach
Harry Maguire has called on Manchester United’s players to take accountability for their recent poor performances, rather than placing the blame on embattled manager Erik ten Hag.
With just three wins from nine matches this season, Ten Hag faces increasing scrutiny as United prepare for their upcoming clash against Aston Villa on Sunday.
Tensions escalated further after United squandered a two-goal advantage in a 3-3 draw against FC Porto in the Europa League on Thursday. However, Maguire believes the responsibility lies with the players, not the manager, for the team’s struggles.
“As a footballer, it’s easy to look around and blame other people and blame your teammate or blame the staff or the tactics,” Maguire said.
“You’ve got to look at yourself. We’re the ones that go on the pitch. We’re the ones that have to defend. You’ve got to take responsibility.”
Sources have told ESPN that Ten Hag could face the sack if his team loses at Villa Park on Sunday.
United did the double over Villa last season — winning 2-1 at Villa Park in February — and Maguire believes a similar result on Sunday could finally kick-start their season.
“We’ve got to find belief within ourselves,” he said. “Take the belief from what we did last season at Villa Park. It was on fire last season there. Then we went there and got the victory that we needed last season. And we feel like we’re playing better than we were last season.
“The results haven’t been there. I feel like we should have more points on the board. But they’re not, so we need to do something about it starting with Sunday.”
Harry Maguire has experienced a rollercoaster week, coming off the bench to score a stoppage-time equaliser in Manchester United’s 3-3 draw against FC Porto, despite learning earlier that day that he had been excluded from the latest England squad.
The 31-year-old expressed his surprise at interim head coach Lee Carsley’s decision but shared that he had been reassured about his future with the national team.
“He [Carsely] told me I’m a big part of the future,” Maguire said. “He just wants to see the other lads playing in this camp. And he doesn’t want to take me if I’m not going to start either game [against Greece and Finland], which is fair enough.
“Of course I’m disappointed. I want to play every game for England. But I know where he’s coming from, and I’ve got to make sure that I perform when I’m on the pitch and give him no option to leave me out.
“I was a little bit surprised, I must say. But obviously I back his decision and he’s told me I’m part of the future.”. He emphasized the underutilization of solar energy in Africa and described the situation as tragic
Pogba-Juve open talks for contract termination after truncated doping ban
Paul Pogba may soon become a free agent, with discussions reportedly underway to terminate his contract with Juventus, according to sources from ESPN.
After successfully appealing his doping suspension, which was reduced to 18 months, Pogba is set to resume training in January 2025 and return to competitive football by March.
Both Pogba and Juventus are reportedly considering the possibility of him continuing his career at a different club. Though Pogba is under contract with Juventus until June 2026, a mutual agreement might allow the 31-year-old to leave early and sign with another team.
Since his return to Juventus after leaving Manchester United in 2022, Pogba has only made 12 appearances for the Serie A side, and this potential contract termination could signal a fresh start for the midfielder.
His last competitive appearance was as a second-half substitute in a 2-0 win over Empoli more than a year ago.
Pogba was provisionally suspended in September 2023 before being handed a four-year ban in February. He gave evidence at an appeal in the summer and last week was cleared to begin playing again early next year.
In a statement, CAS outlined their reasoning behind the reduction in Pogba’s ban: “The CAS Panel based its decision on the evidence and legal arguments made that Mr Pogba’s ingestion of DHEA, the substance for which he tested positive, was not intentional and was the result of erroneously taking a supplement prescribed to him by a medical doctor in Florida, after Mr Pogba had been given assurances that the medical doctor, who had claimed to treat several high-level US and international athletes, was knowledgeable and would be mindful of Mr Pogba’s anti-doping obligations under the World Anti-Doping Code.
“Much of the evidence provided by Mr Pogba was unopposed. The CAS Panel determined, however, that Mr Pogba was not without fault and that, as a professional football player, he should have paid greater care in the circumstances.”
A statement issued by Pogba on Friday read: “Finally the nightmare is over. I can look forward to the day when I can follow my dreams again.
“I always stated that I never knowingly breached World Anti-Doping Agency regulations when I took a nutritional supplement prescribed to me by a doctor, which does not affect or enhance the performance of male athletes.
“I play with integrity, and although I must accept that this is a strict liability offence, I want to place on record my thanks to the Court of Arbitration for Sport’s judges who heard my explanation.
“This has been a hugely distressing period in my life because everything I have worked so hard for has been put on hold.”
Immigrants are bringing bad genes into US — Donald Trump
Former President Donald Trump once again stirred controversy on Monday, claiming that illegal immigrants are bringing “bad genes” into the United States.
The comments, made during a radio interview with conservative host Hugh Hewitt, are the latest in Trump’s ongoing rhetoric about immigration, which has often been accused of demonizing migrants.
Trump made the remarks while attacking Vice President Kamala Harris, his Democratic rival in the upcoming presidential election. He referenced government figures showing that 13,000 immigrants were not being detained by federal immigration authorities despite homicide convictions.
“How about allowing people to come to an open border, 13,000 of which were murderers, many of them murdered far more than one person? They are now happily living in the United States,” Trump said. He went on to state, “A murderer — I believe this — it’s in their genes. We’ve got a lot of bad genes in our country right now.”
The figures Trump cited appear to be a misrepresentation of data released by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in September. The statistics do not reflect individuals incarcerated in non-ICE facilities, such as state or local prisons, and span across several decades, including years when Trump himself was president.
Critics quickly condemned Trump’s remarks. Conservative commentator Richard Hanania, while disagreeing with the 13,000 murderer figure, supported Trump’s broader argument on crime and genetics, though he called on Trump to consider the low crime rates among immigrants. “I don’t normally defend Trump’s statements, and even here he drops the 13,000 released murderers lie,” said Hanania, president of the Center for the Study of Partisanship and Ideology. “But he’s right that crime is largely genetic. He should just learn about the low crime rate among immigrants and think about the implications.”
The remarks come as Trump and Harris remain locked in a tight race ahead of November’s election. Trump’s campaign has focused heavily on immigration, with the 78-year-old frequently portraying undocumented migrants — and even some legal immigrants — as a threat to public safety.
In a rally last month, Trump called for Vice President Harris to be prosecuted over President Joe Biden’s border policies, branding immigrants as “animals” intent on “rape, pillage, thieve, plunder and kill.” He also falsely accused Haitian residents in Ohio of eating local pets and threatened them with deportation.
This is not the first time Trump has made incendiary statements about immigrants. In December, he was widely condemned after accusing immigrants of “poisoning the blood of our country,” drawing parallels to the rhetoric of Adolf Hitler.
Despite his inflammatory comments, Trump continues to remain competitive in the polls, with the election shaping up to be one of the most contentious in recent history.
Diddy’s celebrity accomplices quietly paying off victims to avoid being publicly named – Lawyer claims
Diddy’s celebrity accomplices are quietly paying off victims to avoid being publicly named in lawsuits related to the Diddy s3x assault case, according to a lawyer.
Diddy has been charged with a host of s3x trafficking and racketeering offences with upwards of 120 victims already coming forward.
Attorney Tony Buzbee, who is representing more than 120 of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ alleged victims told TMZ that huge stars are about to be sued by his firm and he’s giving them a chance to settle up before the claims hit public court.
Some celebrities have opted to settle, he said.
“In every single case, especially cases like this… because it’s in the best interests of the victim, we attempt to resolve these matters without the filing of a public lawsuit and we’ve done that already with a handful of individuals, many of which you’ve heard of before,” Buzbee said.
Buzbee will separately be lodging a slew of lawsuits including on behalf of 25 minors, beginning this month. He has first sent out demand letters notifying others who will be sued in addition to Combs.
Buzbee also said he’ll be “aggressively” going after anyone who saw the alleged abuse occurring and failed to act to protect victims.
“If you were there in the room, participated, watched it happen and didn’t say anything or helped cover it up, in my view, you have a problem,” the plaintiff’s lawyer said.
“A lot of people saw this activity going on, a lot of people allowed it to go on, said nothing, didn’t intervene… all of these individuals and entities have exposure.”
But the unveiling of notable names won’t start coming out this week, Buzbee said.
“Everyone is focused on what other celebrities were involved, who is going to be named, who is going to be outed. I don’t expect that to happen this week,” he said.
“We want to make sure if we name individuals beyond Mr. Combs that we have done our homework because it is going to create a firestorm, and we understand that.”
Combs, 54, has been behind bars since his Sept. 16 arrest on allegations he forced women to participate in drug-fueled “freak off” sex sessions with male prostitutes that sometimes lasted days long.
The feds claim Combs carried out the abuse for more than a decade, often using violence or threats of violence to get his alleged victims to comply with his twisted wishes.
Combs and his legal team have claimed the “freak offs” were among consenting adults and they have denied he ever abused anyone, including minors.
Whitney Houston’s mother Cissy Houston dies at 91
Cissy Houston, acclaimed soul singer and mother of pop icon Whitney Houston, has died at the age of 91.
Houston, a two-time Grammy winner who sang backup for Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley, died on Monday morning, October 7, in her New Jersey home while under hospice care for Alzheimer’s disease, her daughter-in-law Pat Houston told The Associated Press. The acclaimed gospel singer was surrounded by her family.
“Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We lost the matriarch of our family,” Pat Houston said in a statement. She said her mother-in-law’s contributions to popular music and culture are “unparalleled.”
“Mother Cissy has been a strong and towering figure in our lives. A woman of deep faith and conviction, who cared greatly about family, ministry, and community. Her more than seven-decade career in music and entertainment will remain at the forefront of our hearts.”
A church performer from an early age, Houston was part of a family gospel act before breaking through in popular music in the 1960s as a member of the prominent backing group The Sweet Inspirations with Doris Troy and her niece Dee Dee Warwick. The group sang backup for a variety of soul singers including Otis Redding, Lou Rawls and The Drifters. They also sang backup for Dionne Warwick.
Houston’s many credits included Franklin’s “Think” and ”(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” and Dusty Springfield’s “Son of a Preacher Man.” The Sweet Inspirations also sang on stage with Presley, whom Houston would remember fondly for singing gospel during rehearsal breaks and telling her that she was “squirrelly.”
The Sweet Inspirations had their own top 20 single with the soul-rock “Sweet Inspiration,” made in the Memphis studio where Franklin and Springfield among others recorded hits and released four albums just in the late ’60s. The group appeared on Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” and sang background vocals for The Jimi Hendrix Experience on the song “Burning of the Midnight Lamp” in 1967.
Houston’s last performance with The Sweet Inspirations came after the group hit the stage with Presley in a Las Vegas show in 1969. Her final recording session with the group turned into their biggest R&B hit “(Gotta Find) A Brand New Lover” a composition by the production team of Gamble & Huff, who appeared on the group’s fifth album, “Sweet Sweet Soul.”
During that time, the group occasionally performed live concert dates with Franklin. After the group’s success and four albums together, Houston left The Sweet Inspirations to pursue a solo career where she flourished.
Houston became an in-demand session singer and recorded more than 600 songs in multiple genres throughout her career.
Sally Field recalls undergoing horrific illegal ab0rtion 60 years ago
Sally Field, 77, is speaking about the “h0rrific” experience of undergoing an illegal ab0rtion as a teenager.
The “Steel Magnolias” actor became visibly emotional in a video shared on Instagram in which she acknowledged still feeling “very shamed” about the procedure, which took place before she landed what was to be her breakout role on the comedy series “Gidget.”
“I was 17. I had no choices in my life,” Field explained.
“I didn’t have a lot of family support in any way or finances. I’d graduated from high school, but no one ever said, ‘How about college?’ I didn’t know what was going to be, and then I found out I was pregnant.”
Accompanied by her mother and a family doctor, Field said, she travelled to Tijuana, Mexico, to undergo the abortion, which she paid for in cash.
“It was beyond hideous and, you know, life-altering,” she said. “I had no anaesthetic.”
During the procedure, she realized that a technician had begun “molesting” her.
“It was just this absolute pit of shame,” she said.
Field also likened her story to that of many young women today who are living in states that have restricted access to abortion in the two years since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.
“These are the things that women are going through now — when they’re trying to get to another state, they don’t have the money, they don’t have the means, they don’t know where they’re going,” she said.
The Academy Award winner, 77, previously disclosed the abortion in her 2018 memoir, “In Pieces.”
In revisiting the experience now, she said, she hopes to motivate viewers to “stand up and fight” by ensuring former President Donald Trump, who has expressed extreme views on abortion rights and wants decisions made on the state level, is defeated in November.
“It’s one of the reasons why so many of us are supporting Kamala Harris and Tim Walz,” she wrote on Instagram alongside the video. “Everyone, please, pay attention to this election, up and down the ballot, in every state — especially those with ballot initiatives that could protect reproductive freedom. PLEASE. WE CAN’T GO BACK!!”
Halle Berry slams ex-husband Eric Benét’s claims of being a s3x addict
American actress, Halle Berry, 58, has slammed her ex-husband, Eric Benét’s claims that he battled a sex addiction.
Recall that it was reported back in 2002 that musician Benét, 57, went to rehab to treat sex addiction.
On Monday’s episode of Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast, she referred to her second husband when she said she doesn’t ‘f***ing believe’ his self-proclaimed sex addiction.
‘I had one husband who said he was a sex addict,’ she said about an unnamed ex. ‘But I don’t fing believe that s.’
Berry and Benét tied the knot in 2001 after two years of dating. However, things turned tumultuous for the pair after Berry learned that Benét was unfaithful throughout their relationship. Following the cheating allegations, Benét went to rehab.
In 2003, Berry and Benét announced their decision to separate.
“Eric and I have had marital problems for some time now and have tried to work things out together,” Berry said in a statement to Entertainment Weekly at the time. “However, at this point, I feel we need time apart to reevaluate our union. We ask that you respect our privacy as we are going through this emotional time.”
After their divorce was finalized in 2005, Benét moved on with Manuela Testolini, whom he wed in July 2011. The couple share two daughters Lucia Bella, 12, and Amoura Luna, 10.
Months later, Berry went on to date Gabriel Aubry from 2005 to 2010. The exes welcomed daughter Nahla Ariela in March 2008. Following her split from Aubry, Berry began a relationship with Olivier Martinez. The pair wed in July 2013 and welcomed son Maceo-Robert in October of that same year. The actress and Martinez divorced in 2016.
After her split from Martinez, Berry found love with her current boyfriend, Van Hunt, who she began dating in 2020. The Oscar winner confessed that her relationship with the “Seconds of Pleasure” singer has been her “longest” to date.
“We celebrated when we hit four years like we had been married 20 years, that’s how big it was for me personally. He’s had long relationships, not me. … We both were scared,” she said on Monday. “He was waiting for the shoe to drop, and I was waiting to drop the f—ing shoe. Because I just can’t get past that. It’s been such a relief. ‘OK, yes, I can do this relationship thing.’ And he is my person and you just know it. And [he’s] calm and he’s what I’ve been dreaming of, searching for, needing.”
He was caught with another man – Lord Jamar alleges that Diddy’s S3xuality made Uptown Records sack him
American rapper, DJ, record producer, actor and podcaster Lord Jamar has weighed in on the Diddy situation saying he is unsurprised by the wave of allegations levelled at the Bad Boy Records founder.
According to Jamar, he heard stories about Diddy dating back to the early 1990s claiming that Diddy’s sexuality actually led to him being fired from his first job in the music industry at Uptown Records.
Diddy got his job as an A&R at Uptown Records in the early 1990s. He worked under Andre Harrell, and helped to develop iconic R&B acts like Mary J. Blige and Jodeci. Diddy was fired from Uptown in 1993, in turn leading to the creation of Bad Boy Records.
Diddy has repeatedly said in the past that his ambition was the reason he was fired from the job, but Lord Jamar alleges that Diddy was let go because he was caught having sex with another man in the Uptown offices.
“That’s why I heard,” Lord Jamar told The Art of Dialogue.
“He got caught in a precarious act, doing something real baby oil-ish in the office.”
He was caught with another man – Lord Jamar alleges that Diddy
Lord Jamar implied that the other man involved in the alleged “precarious act” is also someone of not. He declines to name the man, however. “I don’t know,” the rapper stated. “I’m just saying, that was the rumor.” Jamar then went on to allege that Diddy is part of a so-called “Gay Mafia” within the music industry. He didn’t get into detail about who the other members of this alleged group were. He did, however, claim that the Bad Boy founder is not actually the one in charge.
“You just saw one of the gay mafia members. That’s who he is, that’s who Puffy is,” Lord Jamar told the outlet. “He is one of the members of the mob. He’s a mafia member. But he might not be the Don Carl, he is not the godfather. He is one of the heads of the family.”
Jamar isn’t the only one who has claimed to have heard unnerving rumours about Diddy in the 1990s. Diddy’s former bodyguard alleged that he heard a story involving Diddy and a teenage Usher.
PRESIDENT EDGAR LUNGU IS A VICTIM OF WESTERN COUNTRIES BY PROMOTING CHRISTIAN VALUES
PRESIDENT EDGAR LUNGU IS A VICTIM OF WESTERN COUNTRIES BY PROMOTING CHRISTIAN VALUES
By Chishala Chilufya (Political and Social Analyst)
The silence of the western countries is loud enough to be heard that they have taken a position to support illegality,unconstitutionalism and undemocratic practices.
One wonders why champions of democracy like America, Britain, Germany, Sweden,Australia, France, Norway and Canada have gone quite.
The European Union and Commonwealth are institutions that promote justice, peace and accountability but they have gone quite indicating that they have taken a position to support bad governance.
This is the worst betrayal in history.
They should be ashamed even to move in public because this will haunt them forever.
The silent cry of Zambians, the move to suppress the judiciary and the legislature, the poverty, tribalism and white collar theft are things before you the western countries and you have opted to ignore them.
Your embassies and homes are near the high court and you have no time to condemn the behavior of the police on how they treat former President Edgar Lungu and ordinary citizens. This is the way you destroyed some of the countries in Western Africa because of your double standards.
The only offence President Edgar Lungu committed was to reject the establishment of AFRICOM and as well rejected liberal values.
The other offence he committed was to promote Christian values by creating a Ministry of Religious Affairs and a declaration of national day of prayer as a holiday.
We want to draw you back to the Sky News interview were President Lungu publicly rejected liberal values, this earned him hatred from the western countries (very shameful).
Apart from the western countries keeping quite, we have observed that the Catholic Church has also gone quite, many are asking questions as to what has happened to the Catholic church.
Our country is at cross roads and all stakeholders have to come out and defend democracy by condemning how the executive wants to manipulate the judicial system by blocking President Lungu.
The blocking of President Lungu is not about PF, it is about democracy and the rule of law.
Several prominet lawyers like state counsel John Sangwa, Fred Mmembe and many others have indicated that President Lungu qualifies to stand in 2026 because this matter was adjudicated more than 4 times and the court has given a same position.
Why would the executive want the court to go against its own judgment.
The wrongs of PF in goverment should not be used as weapon to punish its leadership by crashing democracy using state apparatus.
The judges should have conscious as they make a decision because this is a break or make kind of situation and it will be unwise to create unnecessary confusion because of patronage.
Judges have a duty to protect the sacred elements of the judiciary and we are taking a challenge to full bench of judges to apply the wisdom of King Solomon which is in the book 1 Kings 3:16-28 to understand the context.
The judges should also understand that the ceremony on mountain by our lord Jesus Christ in the book of Matthew 5:9,Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, because they will be called children of God”
Zambians should not pay attention to disgruntled Pastor Nevers Mumba who has never added value to Zambia’s democracy and governance.
Nevers Mumba claims to be a man of God but his dealings, behavior and utterances are showing the opposite because of his conduct of demonizing leaders starting from the Chiluba days.
Late President Levy Mwanawasa brought him closer but he fired him because of bad behavior.
Late President Rupiah Banda gave him a job in Canada but he ended up betraying him.
During President Lungu’s tenure, Pastor Mumba was getting favors in many forms.
Pastor Mumba always wishes other to be in trouble and does not show effort to bring peace as a man of God he claims.
Zambians should not forget that the same Pastor Mumba condemned the formation of MMD in its infacy but today his holding on to it when he has no people.
PF Chairperson for Information Says Mufulira Incident Exposed UPND’s Communication Crisis
PF Chairperson for Information Says Mufulira Incident Exposed UPND’s Communication Crisis
By Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba
The security incidence in Mufulira, in the era of social media, required an immediate, mature and calming robust response, especially that it involved both the Zambia Army and civilians in the area.
Last night, some soldiers engaged in wanton acts of violence and disturbances against civilians, resulting in numerous injuries and property damage.
Their conduct was confirmed by Kankoyo MP, Hon. Heartson Mabeta who posted the deeply concerning development and violence, on his Facebook page.
It has however taken over 18hrs before a credible response could come from Government.
The first statement issued by the Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana, in the morning was totally careless, without authority and unfairly condemned citizens while justifying criminal conduct of the recruits…sadly the public media began to use it immediately.
In the first place, where was the statement from the Zambia Army? or Ministry of Defence? Ministry of Home Affairs? Or the Chief Government Spokesperson?
You mean in Zambia, a group of uniformed soldiers can gather and drive into CBD, encircle the town and mercilessly beat citizens? And Kawana says that’s normal?
I’m glad that the Zambia Army has affirmed its role and the essence of promoting public trust and discipline in its rank and file.
It is good that a mature, serious statment has finally been issued.
This was serious matter requiring an authorative, calming and robust statement.
Below is the statement;
Statement on Army Recruits Attacking Mufulira Residents.
The Zambia Army is deeply concerned about an incident that took place yesterday, 05 October 2024, in Mufulira involving a Section of Army Recruits based at Taung Up Barracks.
Reports received indicate that three of our Recruits were attacked by a group of taxi drivers in the Central Business District of Mufulira resulting in one of them receiving various body injuries and has since been admitted to Ronald Ross Hospital. We are further informed that on seeing their injured comrade, the other two recruits called for reinforcement from their fellow recruits, who consequently engaged in acts of violence and disturbances against civilians, resulting in injuries and property damage.
We wish to unequivocally condemn this behaviour by our Recruits. The Zambia Army is mandated to serving and protecting the people of Zambia. Any actions that violate our mandate are unacceptable and will not be condoned.
A thorough investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and to identify those responsible.
The perpetrators will face appropriate disciplinary measures, in accordance with the provisions of the Defence Act Chapter 106 of the laws of Zambia.
We extend our sincere apologies to the affected individuals and communities.
However, in line with the unfortunate incident in Mufulira, the Zambia Army would like to urge members of the public to co-exist with soldiers, and refrain from provoking or harassing Army personnel, especially Recruits who are just beginning to understand tenets of good soldiering.
Provocative behaviour can lead to dangerous situations and undermine the trust between the Army and the public.
The Zambia Army is committed to preserving the sovereignty and defending the territorial integrity of the Republic of Zambia, and contribute to the maintenance of world peace.
Let us work together to maintain peace and harmony in our country and communities. We are a People’s Army.
(Signed)
Sydney Mwewa
Lieutenant Colonel
Army Spokesperson
North Korea’s Kim Jong Un threatens to destroy South Korea with nuclear weapons
North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un threatened to use nuclear weapons to destroy his rival and neighbour South Korea if attacked, state media reported Friday, October 4, after South Korea’s president warned that if the North used nuclear weapons it would “face the end of its regime.”
The fiery rhetoric comes at a time of tension on the Korean Peninsula and just weeks after North Korean state media released images of Kim visiting a uranium enrichment facility, which produces weapons-grade nuclear materials.
While touring an army base in the western part of the country on Wednesday, Kim said if the South were to disrespect the North’s sovereignty, Pyongyang “would use without hesitation all the offensive forces it has possessed, including nuclear weapons,” the state-run Korean Central News Agency reported Friday.
“If such a situation comes, the permanent existence of Seoul and the Republic of Korea would be impossible,” Kim added, using the proper name for South Korea.
Hostilities between the two Korean countries have been simmering this year as North Korea has appeared to have intensified its nuclear production efforts and strengthened ties with Russia, deepening widespread concern in the West over the isolated nation’s direction.
Kim’s comments appeared to come in direct response to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who on Tuesday showcased Seoul’s most powerful ballistic missile and other weapons designed to deter North Korean threats during a parade for Armed Forces Day.
Yoon unveiled the Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missile, which is reportedly capable of penetrating North Korean underground bunkers.
“If North Korea attempts to use nuclear weapons, it will face the resolute and overwhelming response of our military and the SK-US alliance,” Yoon said, in reference to the United States as the country’s key military partner. “The North Korean regime must now break free from the delusion that nuclear weapons will protect them.”
North and South Korea have been separated from each other since the end of the Korean War in 1953, which concluded with an armistice, not a peace treaty, leaving the two sides still technically at war.
Last month, North Korean state media released photos of Kim Jong UN purportedly touring a nuclear facility in a rare glimpse of the nation’s closely guarded weapons program.
Hotline set up for Diddy victims flooded with 12,000 calls in just 24 hours
A hotline set up for Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ victims was reportedly flooded with 12,000 calls in just 24 hours as 120 are already gearing up to sue the rapper.
Earlier this week, Lawyer Tony Buzbee publicized a hotline encouraging those who were victims of the rapper, 54, or those who know about his crimes to come forward.
Combs was arrested last month in Manhattan following a probe into his alleged sex trafficking crimes, where he is accused of drugging and raping victims as young as nine.
‘When I made the announcement that I was going to pursue these cases, the floodgates really opened,’ Buzbee told Law & Crime. ‘The volume of calls has been overwhelming and it’s been kind of shocking.’
Within 10 days of the hotline going live, Buzbee’s team got around 3,200 calls. But after the press conference on Tuesday, they received 12,000 calls in just 24 hours.
‘So, our Herculean task is to try to sift through every one of these calls and make sure that we’re identifying those who are victims and those who are witnesses and collect evidence,’ he told the outlet.
The Texas-based lawyer has around ‘100 people working on this task,’ and they expect to start filing civil cases within 30 days.
His team has already gathered enough evidence to file 120 victims’ lawsuits against the rapper.
Of the 120 victims, 25 were underage at the time of the abuse. The youngest victims were 9, 14, 15 at the time.
‘This individual, who was 9 years old at the time, was taken to an audition in New York City with Bad Boy Records,’ the attorney disclosed at the press conference.
‘This individual was sexually abused allegedly by Sean Combs and several other people at the studio in the promise to both his parents and to him himself of getting a record deal.’
The claims are coming from victims who were seeking TV or music careers and the rapper promised to make them a star, as well as, those who were simply invited to Diddy’s afterparties, Buzbee said.
The attorney hasn’t filed the claims yet as they are looking for ‘every potentially liable party’ to include before doing so.
‘I mean any entities or other individuals that either were involved, participated, facilitated, egged it on, provided the venue, benefited from it, profited from it, that sort of thing,’ he told Law & Crime.
Although his team was initially shocked by the amount of calls, the lawyer said they’re shifting through 25 years of alleged behavior by Diddy that took place at album release parties, his famous White Parties, and Freak Off parties, among other events.
Some of the cases about to be filed include names that would shock viewers, Buzbee said, although he did not release the names of these high-profile individuals.
‘We want to be very careful about who we name,’ he told the outlet. ‘I’m not going to be the person who starts naming names of potential people and smearing people for no reason.’
Buzbee said there was a ‘pattern’ of behavior at Diddy’s parties and it was an open secret among Hollywood’s elite.
‘I have no doubt that there are people right now who know that they were somehow involved in this, who are now scrubbing their social media, who are searching their memories, who are deleting their texts, probably deleting pictures and trying to distance themselves from this, and we know who they are or we will find out who they are,’ the lawyer said.
‘This is this is not something that’s going to happen overnight, but I think we’re at the tip of the iceberg.’
Female primary school teacher, 44, jailed for m0lesting two schoolboys aged 11 and 12
A British teacher who was jailed after she m0lested two schoolboys has been handed a lifetime classroom ban.
Carol Ann White, 41, targeted the youngsters, then aged 11 and 12, while employed in two primary schools in North Lanarkshire.
A police investigation was launched when it was discovered she had been texting a 12-year-old boy during the first Covid-19 lockdown.
It was revealed that a total of 1,185 messages had been exchanged over a three-week period.
White asked the boy to touch himself, sent revealing photos of herself, and sent one photo captioned ‘C* of the year goes to Covid-19’.
The probe led police to an 11-year-old boy who said White had kissed him on the lips in a school store cupboard.
White, of Uddingston, Lanarkshire, was convicted of engaging in sexual activity with the boys spanning between August 2018 and May 2020.
She was jailed for three years at Airdrie Sheriff Court.
She had also admitted possessing eight indecent images of her 12-year-old victim.
Shamed mum-of-two White has now had her registration to teach removed by education watchdog the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS).
A ‘removal’ order has been marked against her registration on the official GTCS website which means she has been banned from the classroom and will not be able to teach again unless she proves she is fit to do so.
The GTCS website states: ‘A removal order prohibits a teacher from making a registration application for a specified period – the maximum period is two years.
‘A teacher who has been removed from the register will only be granted registration again where they demonstrate to a fitness to teach panel that they are now fit to teach.’
White was placed on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely and ordered to be kept on licence for 18 months following her release from prison after a sheriff ruled she posed a risk to the public.
Sheriff Morag Shankland told her: ‘You have been convicted of a serious breach of trust and you have shown absolutely no remorse for these actions.’
man has admitted to helping a woman have s333x with a dog and causing unnecessary suffering to the animal.
Aman has admitted to helping a woman have s3x with a dog and causing unnecessary suffering to the animal.
Graham Marshall, 38, and his partner are said to have caused unnecessary suffering to a dog called Charlie by ‘regularly subjecting him to habitual sexual activity’.
On Thursday, October 3, he pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and abetting a female person to have s3xual intercourse with a dog.
He also pleaded guilty to one offence of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, ‘namely regularly subjecting him to habitual sexual activity’ including ‘inappropriate physical handling of the dog’.
And he admitted another offence of failing to ensure the welfare of the dog in that he ‘failed to protect him from pain and suffering caused by habitual s3xual activity’.
Marshall also pleaded guilty to one count of voyeurism and three counts of possessing extreme pornographic images relating to sexual acts involving a ‘dead/alive animal’.
He admitted seven counts of making indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of children of Categories A, B, and C.
He pleaded not guilty to one count of making indecent photographs of children of Category C. Category A is the most serious.
His co-accused Paige Reaney has not yet entered any pleas to the charges she faces.
She is accused of ‘causing or allowing’ sexual intercourse with a dog.
The charge is said to relate to sexual activity alleged to have occurred on ‘no fewer than five occasions’.
She is also charged with one offence of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, ‘namely regularly subjecting him to habitual sexual activity’ including ‘inappropriate physical handling of the dog’.
And she is further accused of failing to ensure the welfare of the dog and one count of possessing extreme pornographic images relating to sexual acts involving a ‘dead/alive animal’.
Judge Sarah Wright released Marshall on conditional bail ahead of his next court appearance on December 12, 2024.
His co-accused is due to appear in court on November 28, 2024.
Diddy ‘warned’ Justin Bieber to stay quiet about things he did with ‘big brother Puff’ in resurfaced video
A 2011 video of Justin Bieber and Sean “Diddy” Combs on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” has resurfaced in the wake of the music executive‘s arrest for alleged s3x trafficking and racketeering.
The video starts with host Jimmy Kimmel asking the pair what their friendship is like and if they are working on music together.
“I think that we have become friends in a strange way,” Combs, 54, replied, to which Bieber, then 16, quipped, “It’s like Rob & Big,” in reference to skateboarder Rob Dyrdek and his bodyguard, the late Christopher “Big Black” Boykin.
“He’s, to a lot of us, he’s like a little brother. He’s not afraid to call and ask for advice. He’s somebody that industry wise, the record industry is a strong family,” Combs reflected.
?He knows better? – Diddy ?warned? Justin Bieber to stay quiet about things he did with ?big brother Puff? in resurfaced video
“He’s somebody that we definitely have our arms around and we wanna protect him because he’s genuinely such a nice person besides his talents.”
“He’s one of the greatest kids you could ever know,” he added.
Bieber then reached out to shake hands with Combs as the two laughed and pointed to one another.
“You know, Diddy bought his son a Bentley, maybe he could buy you one also while you’re at it,” Kimmel, 56, said;
“He got me a Lamborghini,” Bieber, now 30, responded. “I haven’t gotten it yet, though.”
“When is that coming? That Lamborghini,” the talk show host interjected. “We talked about this last time.”
“The Lamborghini for a day or two and he had access to the house,” Combs said.
“And he knows better than to be talking about the things that he does with big brother Puff on national television. Everything ain’t for everybody.”
Another video of Diddy and a then-15-year-old Bieber has been getting renewed attention.
“He’s having 48 hours with Diddy, where we hanging out and what we’re doing we can’t really disclose,” Combs said in the video.
“But it’s definitely a 15-year-old’s dream.” he added
“I have been given custody of him,” he continued. “He’s signed to Usher and I had legal guardianship of Usher when he did his first album.”
He added: “I don’t have legal guardianship of him [Bieber] but for the next 48 hours he’s with me, and we’re gonna go full crazy.”
South African serial r£pist whose victims are mostly children, sentenced to 42 life terms and 791 years imprisonment
The Pretoria High Court in South Africa has sentenced a serial r@pist, Nkosinathi Emmanuel Phakathi (40) to 42 life terms and 791 years and 6 months direct imprisonment.
The National Prosecuting Authority in a statement on Friday, October 4, 2024, said the court ordered that he be declared unfit to possess a firearm, and his name be added on the National Register for Sexual Offenders and the National Child Protection Register.
Furthermore, the Judge ordered that the victims be informed when Phakathi is considered for parole, to enable them to make representations.
This is after he was found guilty of 90 counts of rape, 4 counts of compelled rape, 3 counts of compelling or causing a child to witness a sexual act, 43 counts of kidnapping, 2 counts of assault as well as 4 counts of theft on 08 November 2022.
Phakathi committed these offences in and around Ekurhuleni, from June 2012 until March 2021 when he was arrested.
The majority of his victims were school-going children, the youngest being 9 years old, while the oldest was a 44-year-old female.
Initially, Phakathi was facing 203 charges, however the state withdrew 55 minor charges. In court, he pleaded guilty to 148 charges and his guilty plea statement was read in court.
He targeted his victims while they were going or coming back from school or work in the morning or evening. He also targeted some in their own homes.
He would pretend to be an electrician coming to fix a geyser or other household appliances and rape them. He raped some of his victims in the presence of children, in some instances raping more than one person at a time.
He made the others watch while raping the other, whereafter he would run or leave the house.
Phakathi was arrested and linked to some of the offences through DNA evidence, and a modus operandi linkage report. A total of 96 dockets were investigated by warrant officer Tlala John Mokoena of the South African Police Service.
During sentencing proceedings through his legal representative, he asked the court to be lenient when imposing the sentence and consider the 3 years and 6 months he spent in custody while awaiting finalisation of the case.
He also asked the court to consider the fact that he is not the same person he was when he committed the offences, since he has now lost one of his legs when he was shot during his arrest. Therefore, he is no longer physically able to commit those offences, they said.
However, the prosecutor, Advocate Salome Scheepers argued that Phakathi committed serious offences, and that rape is a very serious offence as it causes humiliation, degrading and brutal invasion of the privacy and dignity of the victim.
Not only did he rape his victims, he also forced young boys to rape their female friends and terrorised some of his victims at the comfort of their homes.
Furthermore, Phakathi showed no remorse for the offences, buy only pleaded guilty because the state had overwhelming evidence against him.
Adv Scheepers also read in the Victim Impact statements, where some of the victims wrote about how the offences affected them. One of the victims who was a virgin at the time of the incident, said Phakathi stole her innocence as she cannot participate in the virginity testing ceremony.
The Acting Judge, Lesego Makolomakwe agreed with the state that Phakathi showed no remorse and was beyond rehabilitation. Furthermore, the judge said the courts had a responsibility to protect communities against perpetrators such as Phakathi. Therefore, she found that there were no compelling and substantial circumstances to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence.
“The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed the sentence, hoping that the sentence will send a strong message that the NPA takes matters of sexual offences seriously,” NPA stated.
“We also thank the dedication and commitment by the Investigating Officer, warrant officer Mokoena which led to the conviction and sentence”.
THE ARROGANCE OF POWER AND ABUSE OF INCUMBENCY EXHIBITED BY KELVIN SAMPA MUST NOT BE LEFT UNCHECKED – MUKANDILA
THE ARROGANCE OF POWER AND ABUSE OF INCUMBENCY EXHIBITED BY KELVIN SAMPA MUST NOT BE LEFT UNCHECKED – MUKANDILA
….says Zambia Police will do well to re-exam the demeanor of Sampa and assess whether it is still legally correct for him to continue holding a fire@rm license
Lusaka… Sunday October 6, 2024 (SMART EAGLES)
Lusaka Lawyer Celestine Mambula Mukandila notes that the path of arrogance of power being exhibited by known UPND sympathizers has resulted into serious intimidation of civil servants which in turn has eroded service delivery towards proper and normal economic growth.
Mr Mukandila says it is becoming more apparent that the blatant disregard for due process by UPND sympathizers posses as a great danger to maintenance of the rule of law, the strength and integrity of institutions of government.
The Matero Strongman further said the police are indicted to look into and investigate the brandishing (discharge) of a fire@rm by a known UPND sympathizer which occurred during an altercation with some villagers regarding a disputed land that appears to be before court and potentially contemptuous.
“The bedrock of our democracy lies in the confidence that the Zambian people possess in institutions of government such as the judiciary, the police, the Anti corruption commission and the drug enforcement commission. I must hasten to mention that once this confidence is lost, history has had it that people resort to taking the law into their own hands,” he said.
“The creed of lady justice entails that the law is blind and that it must be applied equitably regardless of status or might in society. The strength of institutions of government and application of law is meant to protect the weak in society such as those being intimidated in the foregoing video from bullies with the hand or support of authority or the leading elite.”
Mr Mukandila stated that the Zambia Police Service will do well to re-exam the demeanor and temperament of Mr. Kelvin Sampa in order to assess whether it is still legally correct for him to continue holding a fire@rm license.
“Further more this is also an indictment on the Republican President Dr. Hakainde Hichilema to not let loose of cadres with ill intentions that are eroding the integrity of his presidency,” he concluded.
#SmartEagles2024
WRIGHT MUSOMA RESIGNS FROM THE UNITED KWACHA ALLIANCE (UKA) – ZRP
ZRP PULLS OUT OF UKA
The President
ZRP
Lusaka
The Chairman
United Kwacha Alliance
New heritage Party secretariat
Woodlands
Lusaka.
Dear Sir,
RE: RESIGNATION FROM THE UNITED KWACHA ALLIANCE (UKA) – ZRP
Following the expulsion of the three alliance partners from UKA, which action was not procedural one also saw the resignation of the Secretary General, we have introspected over the development and found it no longer desirable to continue our membership in the Alliance.
From the time we joined, we have found ourselves as mere silent partners without any involvement in either decision making, or political activities of the Alliance.
UKA prides itself as an alternative to the undemocratic governance of the UPND led government, yet UKA itself is very undemocratic as can be seen from the treatment of the expelled three political parties. You have also failed to challenge the reasons given by Hon. Lacky Mulusa for his resignation.
Your application of double standards is extremely worrying for a political alliance that prides itself with hope to provide alternative governance to the UPND governance failures. Its sad that the Council of Presidents led by SC. Sakwiba Sikota and Chishala Kateka is failing to provide and practice good governance and fair treatment of Council of Presidents and Assembly of Presidents members.
It is shameful that you, the Chair and your Vice Ms. Kateka, Zambian people know as having immense experience have allowed yourselves to come out as spineless leaders, incapable of providing leadership of a buoyant organization so many people found hope in. How could you allow political upstarts such as Jackson Silavwe and Saboi Imboela who do not even know where they are coming from, where they are, or where they should be going destroy UKA?
One would have expected the two of you to provide leadership and guidance to Silavwe and Saboi but instead you have assumed the shameful role of Yoyos!
Any organisation formed with the good intentions which millions of people have bought into, would have long distanced itself from the unacceptable conduct of Ms. saboi Imboela and Silavwe who we believe have sowed the damaging seeds of confusion in all the structures of UKA and damaged the reputation of the Alliance to the outsiders. The COP’s failure to discipline these two has caused the collapse of UKA whether you like it or not!
Your preference for the suspected hired guns such as Ms. Imboela and Slavwe among others at the expense of political figures who were bringing more relevance to UKA than the damage the two cause each time they open their loose mouths has shown the weaknesses in your leadership and that of the Vice Chair.
The arrangement of COP and AOP structures have left the Assembly of Presidents members to exist as passengers thus making it embarrassing to convince our membership of the relevance of our membership in UKA. There is absolutely no difference between political parties that do not belong to UKA and those that belong to UKA as AOP members.
Given the above, we find it absolutely unnecessary to continue our membership especially after the resignation of the SG and the reasons advanced, which reasons you have failed to debunk.
Wishing you the best in your existence.
Yours Sincerely
Mr Wright King Musoma
ZRP President.
Show the investigators the trail of legal money, and all the problems your beloved wife, sons and daughters are experiencing will go away- LAURA MITI
LAURA MITI WRITES
President Lungu complains, with evident high distress levels, that his family is being accused of and punished for possessing extreme wealth. His unhappiness is that no one has told him where he, who gave them what they own, stole from.
He argues that, surely as a successful lawyer then Republican President, he earned thw millions and millons in question.
I didn’t know what to think of that so basically erroneous understanding of the law – coming from a lawyer. What it did remind me of, though, was the former President’s frustrating – bring me the evidence – argument when he was in office and asked to deal with perceived high levels of corruption, in his government.
As many will remember the apex of that – I will act if you show me where they stole from – position was that mfwiti mfwiti performance at Ndola Airport, I think it was.
Anyhow, President Lungu, I know lawyers, like doctors, do not like ordinary mortals to correct them on a matter in their profession. But then, you are so wrong in your expressed understanding of how things work.
It’s like this. As regards what we own, it is not the responsibility of law enforcement to show that it was obtained via less than kosher means. It is our responsibility and fully so, to have and present receipts.
Simply, it is not enough to say – because I was a prominent lawyer, then President of the nation, I could afford to gift my whole family – wife and children, with my wife also gifting nieces etc – property collectively worth tens of millions of dollars. Rather, what you should do is:
1. Show how your legal earnings as lawyer and President – add any businesses maybe – amounted to these millions.
2. Show the tax you paid on all these earnings. Salaries are easy. It’s the business earnings you have to prove you paid tax on. You understand, I am sure, as former President, how paying tax is a critical responsibility of all citizens, if we are all to have passably decent schools and hospitals – vaso.
3. Prove that you bought the properties members of your family own (from these earned millions) then gifted them, or how you transferred money for them to purchase properties and scores o vehicles.
It’s easy really. It’s the legal trail of money, Sir. Show the investigators the trail of legal money, and all the problems your beloved wife, sons and daughters are experiencing will go away.
The root causes of judicial crises and the Constitutional Court of Zambia- Prof Munyonzwe Hamalengwa
The root causes of judicial crises and the Constitutional Court of Zambia
By Prof Munyonzwe Hamalengwa
There is judicial crisis centred around the Constitutional Court of Zambia.
The reason is simple. The Constitutional Court has power to determine who becomes qualified or disqualified to be president of Zambia, member of parliament and other political positions of power and consequently with that power, to command economic resources for the benefit of Zambia or for personal aggrandisement and corruption. There are high stakes of power domiciled in the Constitutional Court of Zambia making it the epicentre of struggle to remain in power, get into power, regain power or prevent others from getting into power. If in the process it means destroying the court and gain power on its ruins, so be it.
As the author is writing this article, the ConCourt is under siege from many angles without and within the court. Three judges have been suspended by the President on advice of the Judicial Complaints Commission (JCC), for reasons not disclosed to the public in violation of the principles of transparency and accountability. The affected judges have gone to court to challenge their suspension. There is a matter before the ConCourt to decide whether a former president is eligible to run for office again. That former president has filed an application to have three ConCourt judges recuse themselves from deciding the matter involving his eligibility to run for office again. One lawyer has gone to court challenging the suspension of the three judges. One State Counsel, who litigated against the eligibility of the former president to run for office for a third time, has been given amicus curiae status to assist the court in their deliberations as to whether the former president is eligible to run for office again. Previously the ConCourt had remained mute on the application for amicus curiae status of three prominent externally based Zambian professors on the then president’s eligibility to run for a third time. Will the court incorporate those extensive submissions in their deliberations this time around since they were not considered last time and in light of the court having given State Counsel John Sangwa status as amicus curiae status this round?
This article is wide ranging and it will touch on a lot of issues surrounding the current seige of the ConCourt. It is my thesis that the current crises embroiling the ConCourt started during the weekend of September 2 to 5 of 2016 when the ConCourt had agreed on September 2 to allow the presidential election petition to be argued beginning on September 5 then during the weekend, three judges mysteriously changed their minds and refused the petition to be heard. These are the three judges who are under current suspension.
The refusal by these three judges ignited a lot of consternation and litigation that is still simmering and reverberating. It is the manner in which these judges changed their minds over that weekend in September 2016, without giving the petitioners a chance to be heard on the matter that is in issue. The absence in court on September 5, 2016 of the lawyers for the respondents signalled perhaps that those lawyers had knowledge in advance of the decision of the three judges to abort the petition and the unprecedented action of those lawyers has never been questioned or sanctioned and it still remains a troubling outcome. The crises on the eligibility case continued when the three judges in issue were part of the majority that confirmed in subsequent decisions the eligiblity of the then president to run for a third term.
This author is on record in arguing that the decisions of the ConCourt on this issue have been some of the worst decisions in Zambia’s constitutional jurisprudence and the author has not been alone on this. The decisions have ignored Articles 1 and 7 of Amendment No. 1 of 2016. The decisions have ignored that former president Edgar Lungu was elected in 2015 under the 1996 constitution and therefore could not be covered under the 2016 constitutional amendments and the Constitution never applies retrospectively no matter how one wants to dress it. Articles 1 and 7 of Amendment No. 1 of 2016 is even poignant on this and it is important for each person to read those Articles for themselves and as such I have deliberately not quoted them here.
One can also opine that the crises in the Constitutional Court were ignited in the character of those who were initially appointed to that court. I cover this matter below in reference to their characterisation by John Sangwa, SC and the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ). I also posit that the incorruptibilty of the judiciary, qualifications, competence and independence of the judiciary, a judiciary appointed by an independent body and not by the President is our path to a secure society under the rule of law and constitutionalism.
I now elaborate on the judicial crises centred in the Constitutional Court. I float the idea of recalling the ConCourt and starting all over. The crises in ConCourt are so deep that there is no other way unless the Supreme Court takes over the ConCourt’s jurisdiction in the interim.
Charles de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu, the father of the concept of “Checks and Balances” and “Separation of Powers” once stated that “No tyranny is more cruel than that which is practised in the shadow of the law and with the trappings of justice: that is, one would drown the unfortunate by the very plank by which he would hope to be saved”.
Is this the case in Zambia where you hope for judicial salvation only to be kicked in the groin because the judiciary is not there for the purpose for which it was installed? That those appointed to sit in judgment were not initially qualified and must be recalled. This is the subject matter of this column:. Should our ConCourt judges have been recalled for the reason of being constitutionally unqualified when they were initially appointed? The crises we endure may relate to the initial calibre of the judges of the ConCourt. The events of the weekend of September 2-5, 2016 are connected to the judiciary we were initially given in the ConCourt.
A law lecturer citing our Constitution Article 118(1) posited thus: “The Judicial authority of the Republic derives from the people of Zambia and shall be exercised in a just manner and such exercise shall promote accountability”. A former magistrate in Zambia responded this way: “That is the Legal fiction. In reality it derives from the political party in power. …I don’t believe in the practical reality of that legal fiction. In fact the judiciary is only answerable to themselves and the politicians as opposed to the people”. The former magistrate excited me to no end when he concluded, “I have radical views on making the judiciary operate by the rule of law”. The law lecturer responded, “I wonder why we adopt provisions that we have no intention of respecting. Perhaps the people are to blame for not taking back this power that ‘they have given themselves'”. The Law lecturer is not me. I have not talked to the former magistrate whom I don’t know.
This article discusses how the people can possibly take back the power that they gave themselves through the judiciary. But since Zambians have never taken back this power, I can only discuss this by looking at how other countries have tried to take back this power, to make judges accountable to the people who gave them power and on whose behalf they are supposed to exercise that power. I will go about it the long way first by looking at how we the people never had or now have the power to give to the judiciary to account to us. The power was given by us or those who drafted the Constitution, to the President to nominate and appoint the judiciary. The current Constitution gives so much power to the executive to do almost anything and whatever he wants and the President can also do that through the legislature which he controls. The President controls both the legislatu
re and the judiciary. Let’s take back the power we have given to the executive as the first step we the people can do.
How we appoint our judiciary in Zambia is so different from how the judiciary is appointed in the US, UK, Canada, Kenya and South Africa. There is a measure of people-input in judicial appointments in those and other countries. In Zambia people have no or little in-put in drafting and approving the Constitution either. Examine how the 2016 amended Zebra-stripped Constitution came about in Zambia and compare how the Kenyans and South Africans came about their current constitutions and how their judiciaries are appointed, there is a world of difference. Theirs are people-driven and ours is not but executive-driven.
Our President literally controls both the Legislature through his majority in parliament and the Judiciary through the power of appointment. The innovation of checks and balances and separation of powers that de Montesquieu fostered in constitutional democracy is currently foreign in Zambia. That is the fiction the former magistrate is referring to: it is fictional to claim that the people gave the judiciary powers to exercise on behalf of the people. There is no such thing according to the magistrate who states that the judiciary is only accountable to itself and to the political party in power and the appointing authority being the President.
It is fictional to believe that in Zambia there is separation of powers and that there are checks and balances. I am submitting that in Zambia, it is more like a pyramid of power with the Executive controlling the other two branches and the other two branches never fight back. In the US, sometimes the Legislature fights back and the Judiciary has a history of fighting back. In Zambia, the inherited colonial judiciary fought back initially and one chief justice even resigned. That was the end of judicial resistance since. In South Africa chief justice Mogoeng Mogoeng fought back by demanding to see President Zuma to reign-in his cadres who were volubly criticising the judiciary for doing its job. In Kenya, chief justice Maranga fought back when President Uhuru Kenyatta threatened the judiciary after it nullified the fraudulent election of August 2017. In Malawi the judiciary fought back by annulling another African fraudulent election. The judiciary fought back by openly stating that some politicians offered bribes to them to rule in their favour. In Old Burma a judge walked off the bench in resignation after ruling against the repressive government. In Canada chief justice Beverley MaClaghlin publicly answered back at Prime Minister Harper when he tried to blame her for the judicial crises that developed after his candidate for appointment to the Supreme Court of Canada was rejected by the Supreme Court of Canada.
These and other examples demonstrate the spirit in which de Montesquieu proposed the concepts of checks and balances and separation of powers to be operative. It is a fiction in the modern world to state that the judiciary cannot speak for itself. I have just given provable and recent examples where the judiciary has spoken for itself. In Zambia it is because of the existence not of separation of powers but the Pyramid of Power that the judiciary cannot speak for itself. President Edgar Lungu warned the judiciary at an airport in Solwezi not to be adventurous by following the example of the independence of the judiciary of Kenya that had nullified a fraudulent election in the exercise of its powers. The Zambian judiciary never answered back at this attack on the concepts of separation of powers and checks and balances.
Let’s go back to the former Zambian magistrate who called the stipulation in Article 118 of our Constitution as legal fiction. Even president Trump has come to the aid of the magistrate by pointing out when he lost a case that the decision was made “by an Obama judge” earning him the rebuke of the SCOTUS Chief Justice John Roberts who retorted that there is, “no Obama judge, or Bush judge or Trump judge but simply judges of the United States of America trying to do their best to bring about justice….”.
This is yet another example where the judiciary speaks for itself and answers back rather than through their decisions or through the equivalent of the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ). Of course the judiciary in answering back directly does not preclude LAZ or equivalent or their decisions speaking on their behalf. In the instant case of Trump, he had insisted in a crude but deeply troubling truthful projection that any court case losses he endured would be corrected by the Supreme Court of the United States where he had already placed by appointment three extreme conservative justices now making the majority of the complement of judges. Like in Zambia’s Constitutional Court where president Lungu never lost any meaningful case, other than the election related cases which were obvious, Trump has won a good number of cases including the “immunity case”.. But as I wrote in the Zambia Daily Mail years ago in 2017, there is always “Judicial Rebellion Against Trump” in the lower courts. But as I also have written severally elsewhere, there is more unpredictability in the SCOTUS than in the ConCourt of Zambia where one can predict with almost absolute certainty how the court would rule during the Lungu prsidency.
There is no justice when the judiciary becomes predictable. In the US, the Chief Justice or another justice usually steps up to the plate to uphold national values of justice rather than the political embellishments of Trump or the party in power as the case may be. The point here is that Trump has expressed the view that the judiciary is accountable to him as the appointing authority. Trump has demanded that three female justices who have issued decisions and statements against him must recuse themselves any time an issue implicating him comes before the SCOTUS. He has accused these three justices of having incurable reasonable apprehension of bias against him. He wants the judiciary to be totally beholden to him and should not exercise judicial independence and judicial autonomy. He is so different from almost all presidents that have graced that magnificent office. He is behaving like most African presidents but one. In the current judicial crises, Lungu has asked three judges to recuse themselves because he believes they are pro-President Hakainde Hichilema.
Enter Nelson Mandela. At the beginning of his presidency, he received a subpoena to attend court in a case in which he had been sued on an issue of national importance. He was urged to ignore the subpoena by his party and many people. Mandela obeyed the subpoena and he lost the case. He went on to obey the court decision. He later wrote in his book, “Dare Not Linger: The Presidential Years” why he obeyed both the subpoena and the court decision: “I have to be bossy and establish that I obeyed the subpoena out of strength and not weakness. These two examples clearly demonstrated that in the new South Africa there is nobody, not even the President, is above the law, that the rule of law generally, and in particular the independence of the judiciary should be respected”.
Could you expect then presidents Magufuli of Tanzania, president Lungu of Zambia, and President Museveni of Uganda or President Kagame of Rwanda to obey a court subpoena, let alone a court order? Despite Trump’s intransigence, he obeys court orders albeit huffing and puffing. In Zambia the ministers did not pay back the monies ordered by the Constitutional Court for years and they all pointed to the President for their position in not paying and the President did not order them to pay back. The government also ignored the order of the Tax Appeals Tribunal to hand over back The Post newspaper to the Post in 2016.
In Kenya, president Kenyatta disobeyed over ten judicial orders in favour of Kenyan politician and lawyer Miguna Miguna. In the US, there are checks and balances and separation of powers pursuant to the spiri
t of de Montesquieu. In Africa from the examples of Zambia and Kenya, there is legal fiction in these areas where leaders disobey court orders. American, Canadian, and British leaders fear being cited for contempt of court but not in Africa where no court dares cite a president or minister for contempt of court.
Zambia falls further down on the totem pole in relation to the judiciary not fighting back against political power or those accusing some branches of the judiciary of being unqualified to be judges or of being incompetent. John Sangwa, SC, has openly stated that president Lungu never answered his accusation that he appointed unqualified judges to the Constitutional Court, neither has the court refuted his claim that the judges of that court are unqualified. Sangwa has also challenged the judiciary to come forward and state that each was appointed on merit. Of course it is difficult to answer such in the abstract. With respect to the ConCourt he itemised the disqualifying factors. He stands unrefuted. His position remains unchallenged.
We have seen that it can no longer be stated that the judiciary cannot speak for itself. The judiciary does speak for itself in the US, Canada, UK, Kenya, South Africa, Old Burma and elsewhere. While LAZ can speak and defend the judiciary, the judiciary can also speak and defend itself. The unrefuted
accusation by Sangwa SC cannot be wished away by merely stating that accusing the judiciary of such will bring the reputation of the judiciary into disrepute. What kind of thinking is that? The reputation of the impugned branch of the judiciary would be in disrepute if the accusation is not refuted. Logic abhors circular thinking.
As a result of the unrefuted accusation which stands credible until credibly demolished, should our Constitutional Court judges be recalled because they were appointed in disregard of the constitutional requirements of Article 141 of the 2016 Constitution as amended? It would help the reader to actually actively read that article. At the time our judges were appointed, did they qualify? If they were, it is the end of this discussion. If they were not qualified as per constitutional requirements, why were they appointed and did the appointing authority knowingly appoint unqualified people and should a president who violates the Constitution knowingly be impeached?
In a constitutional democracy, the judiciary especially that branch tasked with constitutional interpretation carries more weight in the scales of the balance of power, separation of powers and in the scheme of checks and balances, than in a scheme where there is no Constitutional Court. Knowingly appointing unqualified judges in violation of the Constitution is a weakening of democracy and destruction of the principle of separation of powers ab initio. It is a presidential power grab from the beginning. Judges appointed in such a scenario must be recalled, especially where there is ample unrefuted and unrefutable evidence as here deployed by John Sangwa. The origins of the current crises in the ConCourt go back to this original sin.
There is no provision for recalling of judges. Sangwa alludes to the fact that the judges accepted these appointments knowing they were not qualified. Is this discreditable conduct? Can that charge be disputed? The President and the ConCourt remained mute. Instead, they indirectly criticised the messenger but not the message.
In the US, judges in states where judges are elected rather than appointed can be recalled. There are mechanisms for recalling judges. Judges in Zambia are not elected so there is no mechanism to initiate a recalling petition. In South Africa, there was wholesale reorganisation and transformation of the judiciary after the defeat of apartheid. That process was possible
SOLIDARITY WITH SWAZILAND’S PUDEMO PRESIDENT MLUNGISI MAKHANYA, FOLLOWING ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT
SOLIDARITY WITH SWAZILAND’S PUDEMO PRESIDENT MLUNGISI MAKHANYA, FOLLOWING ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT
30 September 2024
The Pan Africanism Today Secretariat strongly condemns the attempted assassination of the President of the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), Mlungisi Makhanya, on 24 September 2024 at his home in Pretoria, South Africa. Makhanya, the prominent opposition leader in Swaziland, was poisoned using a pesticide and is currently being treated in a hospital in South Africa. The attempt on Makhanya’s life comes within the context of planned protests next month, which aim to call for multi-party elections.
While we vehemently condemn this assassination attempt on the PUDEMO President, we want to make it clear that this is not an isolated attack on an individual. This latest violent onslaught follows a long string of state repression and human rights violations exercised by the regime on pro-democracy activists. In 2022, Makhanya’s home suffered a targeted arson attack that led to its total destruction. On 21 January 2023, well-known human rights defender and lawyer Thulani Maseko was assassinated at his home in Manzini.
We remember the courageous young people killed by King Mswati’s regime in the 2021 June-July uprisings. We stand with and lift up the names of those political prisoners still unjustly incarcerated to this day for their role in the struggle for freedom in Swaziland. We strongly condemn all attacks, harassment, and intimidation of the people of Swaziland as a blatant violation of fundamental human and political freedoms.
We call on all peace and freedom-loving people to stand in solidarity with PUDEMO President Mlungisi Makhanya, his comrades, and his family during this difficult time. We call on progressive organisations throughout Africa and the world to publish public messages of solidarity with Makhanya and the people of Swaziland, condemning this latest attack.
We reaffirm the resolutions we took in Winneba, Ghana, in 2018 by committing to be in solidarity with the people of Swaziland until they attain their freedom. From Swaziland to Palestine, Sudan to Haiti, Venezuela to Cuba, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Western Sahara and the Chagos Islands, the people will be victorious!
We commit to fighting alongside the pro-democracy, well-known, freedom-loving individuals, and we join all progressive and popular organisations in Swaziland, Africa, and the rest of the world in calling for an end to the repression of citizens and journalists in the country!
A Luta Continua! The struggle continues!
In solidarity,
Pan Africanism Today Secretariat
THIS FELT LIKE THE END FOR TEN HAG – IF NOT NOW, VERY SOON’
‘THIS FELT LIKE THE END FOR TEN HAG – IF NOT NOW, VERY SOON’
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag wore the haunted, hunted expression of someone reaching the end of the road after Tottenham Hotspur inflicted abject embarrassment at Old Trafford.
Since United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the club’s restructured hierarchy eventually chose to keep faith with Ten Hag in the summer, he has been placed in a position where he is only one bad defeat away from a crisis and unforgiving scrutiny.
By that measure, the 54-year-old is running out of time after a United performance that was as shambolic, incompetent and indisciplined as any he has presided over in his tenure.
Winning the EFL Cup 18 months ago and last season’s dramatic FA Cup final victory against Manchester City, which effectively kept Ten Hag in a job, have been the highs among many lows – but it does not get much lower than this.
Ten Hag’s Spurs counterpart Ange Postecoglou has been under the microscope himself after an indifferent start to the season, but Sunday’s 3-0 rout was another outstanding step on the road to rehabilitation, a fourth straight win since losing the north London derby at home to Arsenal.
United, in the sharpest of contrasts, were a shambles – a rabble.
The big question looming over Old Trafford as the rain lashed down on thousands of red seats vacated by supporters who had stuck admirably by their side was this: can Ten Hag survive? And if so for how long?
This is a manager who is looking increasingly out of his depth. He has pulled back from the precipice before, most notably in the summer, but is back there again.
If there had been small signs of improvement defensively this campaign, that felt a distance away at Old Trafford on Sunday. This felt very much like the end – if not now, then very soon.
From the first whistle, Spurs were all over United like a rash, the tone set in the third minute when the magnificent Micky van de Ven raced like a white flash from inside his own half, leaving a succession of United players in his slipstream before setting up Brennan Johnson’s simple finish.
United started dreadfully and went into a rapid decline, somehow surviving until half-time as Spurs carved them open on countless occasions but could not add a second. [BBC News]
12 US stadiums named by FIFA for 2025 Club World Cup
FIFA has announced the 12 stadiums set to host the revamped Club World Cup in the United States next year.
The tournament will take place from June 15 to July 13, 2025, marking the first staging of an expanded 32-team competition.
Matches will be held across various venues in the U.S., with the final scheduled for MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, located just five miles from New York City.
The selected venues are as follows:
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
- TQL Stadium, Cincinnati
- Hard Rock Stadium, Miami
- Geodis Park, Nashville
- Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte
- Camping World Stadium, Orlando
- Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando
- Rose Bowl Stadium, Los Angeles
- Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
- Lumen Field, Seattle
- Audi Field, Washington, DC
Chelsea, Manchester City, and Real Madrid have automatically qualified from Europe as the most recent winners of the Champions League over the last four-year cycle. Additionally, Bayern Munich, Paris St-Germain, Inter Milan, Porto, and Benfica will also participate due to their coefficient rankings.
The remainder of the tournament will consist of six South American clubs, 12 teams from Asia, Africa, and North America, along with one club from Oceania and another representing the U.S. as the host nation.
Previously, the Club World Cup was an annual mid-season tournament featuring six teams from seven worldwide confederations.
“In 2025, a new era for club football will kick off when FIFA stages the greatest, most inclusive, and merit-based global club competition right here in the United States,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
However, FIFA’s decision to expand the competition has faced criticism from clubs and players, especially after UEFA expanded the Champions League and Europa League group stages to include two additional matches.
In July, global players’ union Fifpro and the European Leagues body, which represents 39 leagues and 1,130 clubs in 33 countries, filed a joint complaint with the European Commission to protest FIFA’s “abuse of dominance” in the sport.
Two months prior, FIFA dismissed claims that Fifpro and the World Leagues Association were not consulted regarding plans to expand the Club World Cup.
Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who is set to miss the rest of the season due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, warned earlier this month that players are nearing a strike because of the congested fixture list.
Zimbabwe’s government: The biggest threat to its own currency
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s (RBZ) recent decision to devalue the Zimbabwean Gold (ZiG) by 50% has left the nation reeling.
Overnight, the currency’s value plummeted from 14 to 23.4 against the US dollar, further entrenching the widespread distrust of both the local currency and the government.
This development is only the latest chapter in Zimbabwe’s tumultuous relationship with its currency.
In the past 15 years, Zimbabwe has introduced six currencies, all of which have failed miserably and been scrapped due to alarming exchange rates against the USD.
The Zimbabwean dollar suffered a staggering inflation rate of 89.7 sextillion percent in the early 2000s, rendering it virtually worthless.
The subsequent introduction of the multi-currency system in 2009, which included the US dollar, South African Rand, and other foreign currencies, brought temporary stability but ultimately failed to address underlying economic issues.
The Zimbabwean government’s propensity for currency experimentation has created a culture of uncertainty, discouraging foreign investment and hindering economic growth.
The frequent changes have also imposed significant costs on businesses and individuals, who must adapt to new currencies and exchange rates.
Only a week ago, we heard reports of major retail chains – OK Zimbabwe, Pick n Pay, and Spar – threatening to shut down their operations in Zimbabwe due to these currency discrepancies.
They are being forced to use the government-imposed exchange rate for local currency transactions.
Yet, when the need to restock arrives – where their suppliers demand payments in the greenback – they purchase the USD on the parallel market, where it is trading at around ZiG40.
This is because the USD is not readily available on the official market.
The government’s command and control approach to the economy has been identified as a major contributor to Zimbabwe’s currency crisis.
By interfering with the exchange rate, the government creates an artificial market that benefits some at the expense of others.
This has witnessed the proliferation of arbitrage – whereby those with power can easily access foreign currency on the official market and then resell it on the black market for a handsome profit.
This manipulation erodes trust in the local currency, driving citizens to seek more stable alternatives like the US dollar.
For instance, the RBZ’s decision to maintain an overvalued exchange rate has encouraged imports, exacerbated trade deficits, and depleted foreign exchange reserves.
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Conversely, a freely floating exchange rate would allow the market to determine the currency’s value, promoting exports and attracting foreign investment.
The latest RBZ announcement has reignited fears of hyperinflation, which previously rendered Zimbabwe’s currency virtually worthless.
In 2008, Zimbabwe’s inflation rate peaked at 89.7 sextillion percent, making it the highest in the world at the time.
Basic goods became unaffordable, and citizens struggled to survive.
As Zimbabweans scramble to exchange their ZiG for USD – after the recent RBZ devaluation announcement – the local currency’s value will likely continue to plummet.
With the USD scarce in official channels, citizens will turn to the black market, fuelling illegal foreign currency trading.
This underground market not only undermines the government’s monetary policy but also perpetuates corruption and inefficiency.
Dollarization, which began in 2009, has stripped Zimbabwe’s central bank of its ability to regulate the economy through monetary policy.
Without control over interest rates or money supply, the government can not effectively respond to economic challenges.
The widespread use of foreign currencies has also limited the RBZ’s capacity to implement quantitative easing or other expansionary monetary policies.
This restriction forces the government to rely on fiscal policies, which can be less effective in stimulating economic growth.
To restore stability, Zimbabwe needs to adopt a more market-oriented approach, allowing the exchange rate to float freely.
The government should reduce government spending to 20% of GDP, increase tax revenue through efficient collection, and broaden the tax base.
This requires fiscal discipline, whereby the government must prioritize budgetary restraint, reducing deficits and promoting savings.
There is an urgent need for political will in which policymakers must commit to economic reforms, resisting the temptation to manipulate the currency for short-term gains.
Zimbabwe also needs a genuinely independent central bank where the RBZ operates autonomously, whilst setting monetary policy without government interference.
Protecting the bank from political interference will enable effective monetary policy implementation and foster credibility and confidence in the central bank.
This central bank independence can be achieved by amending the RBZ Act to guarantee independence, thereafter appointing a board of experienced, independent directors.
In so doing, there will be transparent decision-making and communication, which should establish clear, measurable monetary policy objectives
Then, there is a need for real structural reforms, where Zimbabwe addresses underlying economic issues, such as infrastructure deficits, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and regulatory barriers.
Zimbabwe should seriously explore alternative currency options, such as joining the Common Monetary Area (CMA) Rand Zone.
The CMA, comprising South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho, and Swaziland, offers a stable and well-managed currency, the South African Rand.
This will provide a stable and well-managed currency and eliminate exchange rate risks.
At the same time, this will increase trade and investment with CMA member states whilst also enhancing regional economic integration.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe’s currency crisis is a symptom of deeper issues – inconsistent policies, government control, and a lack of trust.
To break this cycle, the government must relinquish control and allow market forces to shape the economy.
Only then can Zimbabwe build a stable financial foundation, restore faith in its currency, and unlock its economic potential.
The RBZ’s decision to maintain an overvalued exchange rate may provide temporary relief but will ultimately exacerbate the crisis.
It is time for policymakers to adopt a bold, market-oriented approach to monetary policy, embracing the challenges and opportunities that come with it.
To address the deep-seated issues plaguing Zimbabwe’s currency, the following comprehensive reforms are necessary.
These measures will what will finally move our country forward.
Zimbabweans are sick and tired of poverty, which can directly be linked to a perennially unstable currency and economy.
We deserve better.
The government now needs to be seen to be sincere in its desires to see a prosperous Zimbabwe.
Mere talk on its own will never solve the myriad of challenges we face every day.
Let’s stop seeing ‘detractors’ in every corner.
The main ‘detractor’ and ‘enemy’ of the people of Zimbabwe has been the government itself.
© Tendai Ruben Mbofana is a social justice advocate and writer. Please feel free to WhatsApp or Call: +263715667700 | +263782283975, or email: mbofana.tendairuben73@gmail.com, or visit website: https://mbofanatendairuben.news.blog/
Inside one of the biggest security operations in America: Protecting thousands of world leaders
It’s one of the biggest security operations in America: Protecting thousands of world leaders and their entourages at the annual high level United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York.
As diplomats gathered for speeches and sideline gossip this week, CNN and a select group of media gained access to two high level security rooms on UN grounds, maneuvering down a long series of non-descript corridors at the heart of the organization’s modernist headquarters.
What is most impressive is seeing a huge wall of monitors in both. It was clear there are cameras everywhere – some well-hidden, scattered all over the UN grounds aimed at doors, the garage, UN hallways, and driveways. There are 1400 cameras in total, UN officials said.
High shots from cameras looking at nearby corners outside the UN are always on. The UN security officials said its impossible to monitor all 1400 cameras at the same time but there are personnel checking out the scene.
If a visitor – or more nefarious character – runs into problems using their credential to enter the complex, an alarm will sound in the security control rooms, with an automated voice warning that the individual has been “Rejected! Rejected! Rejected!”
Remind me to fix my tie when I am walking through the UN grounds.
It’s a team effort between the UN, New York Police Department, Secret Service and diplomatic security. They’ve got a lot of people to watch over – over 22,000 delegates were counted during this year’s UNGA attendees (pronounced like hunger).
Because it’s an annual event, security keeps a file. UN security says they learn a little bit each year.
“Knock on wood; we have never had a security incident related to heads of state here. We have pulled out all the stops,”, said US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield on the eve of this year’s global gathering.
New York police and diplomatic security are tasked with rushing long and short motorcades from hotels across Manhattan to the UN and back. And yes, that means traffic backups. More than ever, this year world leaders have spread across the city, from ringing in the New York Stock Exchange to meeting their constituents who live in in the US.
While the United Nations may be increasingly the target of criticism and forum for “poisonous” barbs traded between ambassadors, handling unwanted attention and security threats has always been part of the job for staffers here.
Last year on New Years Day, a woman having a “psychiatric episode” drove her vehicle up to the UN’s main entrance for cars and refused to leave. In 2002, a postal worker jumped the perimeter fence, tossed leaflets in the air, and fired shots at the soaring Secretariat building, hitting several floors. (The fence has been built higher now.)
UN security officials say their priority is providing a secure environment. So far so good.
Kanye West Announces New Album ‘Bully,’ Previews New Music At China Concert
Kanye West has revealed that he has a new album in the works, even sharing a single from the project with fans at a recent show in China.
In a clip shared to X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday (September 28), the rapper is heard making the announcement on stage, saying: “I got a new album coming out. The album is called Bully. And this song is called “Beauty and the Beast.”
While it’s unclear weather he was performing the single on stage or simply playing back a recorded version, Ye offered the audience a nearly two-minute long preview of the track, which features the line “It’s been a long time coming” as part of the chorus.
The song doesn’t seem to feature any other artists, but does include a sped-up sample over a paired-down instrumental that could signal a return to the “old Kanye” some fans have been asking for.
While a formal announcement about Bully has yet to arrive, Ye recently hinted that he will be returning to his first love of art.
The Chicago native, who has been involved in various mediums outside of music such as fashion design, video games, filmmaking and architecture, has been a lover of art since he was a child.
In a text message exchange with Digital Nas (who produced several songs on Vultures 1 including the chart-topping hit “Carnival”) which the producer posted on Instagram, Kanye wrote: “I’m going into my full art Ye art studio mode.”
The rap legend himself then provided a clue about his creative pivot by posting various clips from the 1995 satirical film The Painter which lampoons various famous artists.
West also took a trip down memory lane ahead of Saturday’s performance, which marked his second Vultures listening experience in China with Ty Dolla $ign.
Taking to Instagram early Friday (September 27), the Chicago native shared an old photo of him in the Asian country as a child, along with the caption: “BACK AGAIN.”
In the picture, a young Yeezy can be seen wearing a pair of crisp white Nike sneakers while stood next to what appears to be an elevator, with a sign above it reading: “Chungking House.”
The rap legend lived in China for a short period as a kid after he and his mother Donda West moved to the city of Nanjing where she worked as a teacher.
THE PRESENTED 2025 NATIONAL BUDGET BY HON .MUSOKOTWANE MINISTER OF FINANCE AND NATIONAL PLANNING MADE A GOOD ROMANTIC SPEECH
THE PRESENTED 2025 NATIONAL BUDGET BY HON .MUSOKOTWANE MINISTER OF FINANCE AND NATIONAL PLANNING MADE A GOOD ROMANTIC SPEECH
By Stanley Muba’sa, Socialist Party National Youth Spokesperson
The Socialist Party youth league did follow proceedings regarding the presentation of the 2025 National Budget by Hon. Musokotwane, Minister Of Finance And National Planning.
This is the fourth budget prepared by this administration and stood at K217.1 Billion. We took interest in the Education sector which received an allocation of K31.5 billion representing 14.5%, this amount is an increase compared to what was allocated to the sector in the 2024 budget, but a critical analysis reveals that this amount is not enough to reduce the Teacher-Pupil ratio which remains problematic, lack of enough class rooms, lack of teaching essentials like chokes, makers, rulers, blackboards, desks plain papers and main others, while free education is a policy traditionally advocated for by Socialists across the globe, we find the one implemented by the UPND administration to be falling short of critical components thereby affecting the quality of education. Just how can pupils learn when a class room with the capacity of accommodating about 40, ends up having 100 plus? Where pupils are packed like goats destined for Kasumbalesa! It is because of the poor and bad quality of education that President Hichilema, Hon Musokotwane and the rest in the cabinet refuse to take their sons and daughters to government schools! If the quality of education was not compromised, they would have been in the forefront taking theirs children to government schools. The Socialist Party in government will allocate 25% of the budget to address the current poorly implemented Free Education Policy.
The Health sector important as it is, has been the backbone of corruption in this administration causing serious grave consequences like the traditional lack and insufficient of drugs in hospitals,clinics and all health posts across the nation. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there should be above 70% of drugs and medical supplies in hospitals, unfortunately Zambia had below 55% as revealed by a parliamentary committee on Health. To allocate K23.2 billion representing 10.7% of the budget is suicidal, especially that the availability of drugs in hospitals remains a big issue with patients receiving prescription to buy from pharmacies. Currently our hospitals are just providing more of mortuary services, they are just storage facilities for our dead relatives who die due to lack of medicines in hospitals. The budget on health is a killing budget! The Socialist Party Youth League is of the view that once in power, 20% of the budget will be allocated to this life serving sector, to recruit more Doctors and other health experts. The “Mickey Mouse” drama set up by Hon. Masebo deserves punishment for the chaos she caused in the procurement of drugs and her alleged corruption in the process.
And finally, the Agriculture sector which plays a critical role in food security had K9.3 billion budgeted for Farmer Input Support Program – FISP. We expected a well thought plan like putting a lot of money in this sector since it is a source of livelihood for our over 1.2 million peasant farmers in rural areas,these are the farmers that feed the entire Nation, we expected deliberate policies to build and support locally owned fertilizer manufacturing induatries with incentives given by government to promote local entrepreneurs to venture into this sector. When the production of fertilizer is localized other expenditures associated with importing are done away with.
We have been proposing for massive training of Agriculture experts and research institutions to help with informed methods of farming, where government deploys many Agriculture extension officers among others in farming regions to help increase production for food security, but this administration has shown no direction towards intentional revamping of this sector.
This administration should not blame climate change when hunger and poverty hits the roof top, on several occasions we have provided solutions to current issues, but this government is one that is controlled by it’s foreign funders as seen in the policies implemented which prioritize foreigners at the expense of Zambians.
Sadly, the presented budget was a romantic speech meant to excite the masses, it was a populist document, that lacked practical means of responding to the current high cost of living, loadshedding, poor and bad education system which is ill-funded, with no hope for Zambians to own and control the means of production, no fair share of taxes from the mines.
Simply put, the minister wasted ink and plain papers to draft his budget, his document is fit for the dustbins.
2025 NATIONAL BUDGET, A MUST READ SIMPLIFIED ANALYSIS
2025 NATIONAL BUDGET, A MUST READ SIMPLIFIED ANALYSIS
by Yona Musukwa
Now that the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure aka National Budget for 2025 has been presented to parliament, let me make a few observations.
A more cogent analysis of the content of the budget will be done later.
Comrades, even if your grasp of matters public finance could be standing on wobbly legs and staggering, at the very minimum, get a few basics right as you discuss the budget.
1. The National Budget and the Budget Speech are not one and the same thing. The Budget Speech is a document in which the Minister of Finance presents the National Budget to Parliament while highlighting salient points.
You read the 2025 budget speech, you go round boasting that you have read the 2025 budget. Nix, you have just read highlights.
2. There is a common tendency to quote, even celebrate, wishful figures in the national budget as the actual reality. A budget is nothing more than a wish list. The National Budget is the government’s wish list that may happen or may not happen. Historically, only about forty to fifty percent of the budget get to be actualised.
For example, what the Minister presents in the national budget is the targeted GDP or Inflation for the year. It doesn’t mean it will happen. Don’t present these figures as actuals.
3. Economic Growth and Economic Development doesn’t mean the same thing. Economic growth deals with quantitative output while economic development is qualitative. Don’t use these terms interchangeably.
4. GDP is also different from GDP Per Capita. It is very common among commentators and analysts to confuse the two, making wrong comparisons and conclusions.
GDP measures a country’s economic output, and depends on several variables, while GDP per Capita looks at a country’s economic growth vis a vis population growth.
It is also very common to hear some sections of the commentariat say “Zambia’s low GDP is due to a small population.” That is ignorance pro max. It is a question of productivity.
Singapore has a very small population, above five million people, while Zambia has about twenty million people. Yet, according to the World Bank 2022 statistics, Singapore’s GDP was $466.8 billion while Zambia’s GDP was $29.16 billion, about sixteen times bigger than Zambia. If you calculate the GDP per Capita (Singapore is $82,807.63 Zambia is $1,456.90) a Singaporean is fifty six times more productive than a Zambian.
If the people of Singapore had the same low levels of productivity (unfettered productive forces) like Zambia, their GDP would be around $8 billion. It is productivity, not population size, that matters the most.
That is why the World Bank uses GDP per Capita Income thresholds to classify countries in 3 income levels: Low, Middle and High Income Countries. (A topic for another day)
5. Another confusion is how Inflation and the Cost of Living are used interchangeably. Even though Inflation and Cost of Living are close relatives, they are not the same.
Inflation measures the rate at which prices are increasing. In other words, the decrease in the buying power of the kwacha. It consists of food and non food items. While the Cost of Living measures the change in price, up and down, of basic necessities to make a living.
Take note also that households may interact with inflation differently, not the official inflation rate, depending on the levels of income.
For example, when we say Inflation is at 15%, food inflation may be around 22% and non food items at 8%. Ba Kabulonga, because they have a large chunk of disposable income, maybe experiencing inflation, on average, around 15%. But ba mwana shabulila with income below the cost of living, all their income is spent on food, their interaction with inflation will only be food inflation at 22%.
Class Dismissed!.
Methodical Disintegration: A Reflection on Justice and Governance- Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya
Methodical Disintegration: A Reflection on Justice and Governance
By: Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya
METHODICAL
———————-
I liked and still do madam Siyuni. That good and ethical former DPP. Keep well madam, wherever you are.
I thought she was unfairly treated. I still think so.
It was just one person.
Her unfair removal affected only her and her family.
So it looked like it did not matter to many of us – hardly did most of us realize that her removal was in the grand scheme of the overall methodically conceived idea.
Well – she is now history! Her story is fading in most of our memories. Uuh!
Justice Sunday Nkonde followed.
Would this methodical scheme end with Sunday? Of course no!
Justice Joshua Banda would follow in that row methodically. And he unfairly went – then followed Justice Alfred Kopa Muma.
I remember thinking hard and long about the removal these judges. And I prayed for them all.
If these people aren’t your relatives, you’d be tempted to just ignore their removal and move on. But if you ‘mind your fathers country’, you’d consider taking time to give your thoughts.
And you know it also followed that an almost retired judge in Justice Katanekwa would also unceremoniously but methodically follow in that same way.
I am sorry to them all.
With the same sense of sorrow, I think about them.
They say that time happens.
Well, they are all gone. Some of them probably still think about their methodical removal. Some may have well moved on.
Facts have remained though.
But most importantly truth cannot be changed. Sadly for some, even the best spinners of fact and truthfully ; those who specialize in diverting peoples attention to non issues cannot change truth.
You see, even among extremely bad people, there may still exist some with a remnant of conscience. This comes to bear at the crunch time.
Then boomp! Three Constitutional Court Judges suspended from office – on their way home. To join their friends.
It is no longer the case of those affected alone. It has now become a case for each one’s fathers country.
I hear there is a stay! similar to the one keeping seven Members of Parliament in the house. We have now become a country of STAYS. And I say seven MPs because two of them were convicted.
I am not sure whether many people know that the convictions of those two colleagues by a magistrate court were based on evidence which was assessed by the high court on their election petitions and the high court found those allegations as baseless.
While the judiciary is being ransacked, the legislature is also being torn apart.
Methodical!
Acrobatical!
Do you remember Joseph Malanji? What about Bowman Lusamba?
I hope you recall how they lost their seats in the peoples assembly.
Those were just two. So in the minds of some, it didn’t matter much.
Now add Nickson Chilangwa and Ronald Chitotela. Do you know what may happen to Munir Zulu? What about Moureen Mabonga?
You may now end up with six MPs. Maybe not a big deal, it may just be six isn’t it?
Oh! No there is still the seven who are hanging on a stay. Should that methodical scheme come to bear, then you’d have thirteen.
And it could easily become fourteen – please pray for Emmanuel Jay Banda.
I know that in the Executive wing of state, it’s countless numbers which are at that once famous but now grossly infamous holding position at cabinet office.
A transit office has become so permanent for many. More permanent than the Permanent Secretary’s office in many cases.
If you add those fired and those retired in the so called national interest. And I hope it’s not sectarian, you’d be blown away. Sadly you ain’t seen nothing yet.
Any way –
Looking back and looking ahead, I see God firmly enthroned.
And I say to you my friend – all other ground is sinking sand.
URestoring EVERYTHING PATRIOTIC.
MK28.09.2024
MINING ,A NEW ERA OF GROWTH IN ZAMBIA UNDER PRESIDENT HICHILEMA’S LEADERSHIP
MINING ,A NEW ERA OF GROWTH IN ZAMBIA UNDER PRESIDENT HICHILEMA’S LEADERSHIP
September 28, 2024
Zambia’s mining sector is experiencing a transformative resurgence, driven by strategic initiatives and bold leadership from President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration.
This new era of growth is not just revitalizing the industry but also reaffirming the government’s commitment to economic development and job creation.
With the revival of dormant mines and the launch of new projects, the nation is poised to regain its status as a global mining powerhouse.
One of the most significant achievements of President Hichilema’s government is the revival of the Luanshya Mine, which had been dormant for 23 years.
The administration’s proactive approach in facilitating dewatering efforts is set to create around 3,000 jobs, breathing new life into the local community and boosting the region’s economy.
This is a clear demonstration of the President’s commitment to ensuring that Zambians benefit from the country’s natural resources.
The resumption of operations at the Lubamba and Kalengwa Mines, with investments of $300 million and $200 million respectively, also reflects the confidence investors have in the stability and vision of the Hichilema administration.
These projects will generate significant employment and economic activity, showcasing the government’s success in creating an enabling environment for business and investment.
Under President Hichilema’s leadership, the government has not only focused on reviving existing mines but has also encouraged the development of new mining ventures.
The launch of a new mine in Mumbwa, set to create 2,500 jobs, is a testament to this forward-thinking approach.
It is this visionary leadership that is driving Zambia towards sustainable economic growth and development.
Moreover, the Mingomba Mine project, which is expected to attract over $2 billion in investment, highlights the growing international confidence in Zambia’s mining sector under the current administration.
This unprecedented investment will significantly boost the nation’s copper production and further strengthen its position in the global market.
The project is a direct result of the President’s efforts to attract foreign investment and his unwavering commitment to transforming the mining sector.
With exploration activities intensifying across the country, the government is well on track to achieve President Hichilema’s ambitious target of producing 3 million metric tonnes of copper annually.
This bold vision, coupled with decisive action and sound policies, is positioning Zambia for a prosperous future.
The President’s leadership is not only reviving the mining sector but is also laying the foundation for long-term economic stability and growth.
TF
WHY IS VICTOR MAPANI STILL ZESCO MD?
WHY IS VICTOR MAPANI STILL ZESCO MD?
By Antonio Mourinho Mwanza
1. Zambia has an installed electricity capacity of about 3,456 MW against a peak-demand of about 2,300 MW.
Practically, we have excess power supply of about 1,156 MW.
2. With these figures above, why then is Zambia experiencing crippling load shedding with people going for days without power?
Is it the Drought or it is a Leadership problem that is the real cause of the current load shedding?
HERE ARE THE FACTS
1. The meteorological department and the international weather bureau in 2022/23 repeatedly WARNED ZESCO that there will be a drought in the 2023/24 season.
Instead of rationing the water in view of the impending drought, ZESCO foolishly went ahead to sign uninterrupted power contracts to export electricity to foreign countries amidst a pending electricity shortage after being warned that there will be a drought.
2. Since ZESCO doesn’t have Pumped Hydroelectric Storage capacity to store power, what ZESCO needed to do, in view of the impending drought was to turn off some of its machines and RATION the water so that we couldn’t run out of water when the drought finally kicked in.
But since ZESCO had already foolishly signed power export agreements with foreign countries, they couldn’t ration the water because they needed to produce more electricity to meet the power export obligations even when the water we had was not enough to last us beyond August.
3. Due to pressure to produce beyond our demand in a bid to export power as per contracts that ZESCO has signed, we have depleted our share of the water at the Kariba Dam, which is our largest source of hydropower.
This is exactly how we have found ourselves in this load shedding. It is not as a result of the drought per se but as a result of incompetence and foolishness; the failure to plan ahead and put in appropriate measures to mitigate the effects of the drought.
4. ZESCO knows so well that about 83% of all our power generation is hydro, about 9% is solar and the remaining is thermal and other sources so it is clearly unwise for ZESCO to sign export contracts and deplete the water when they know that that’s our major source of energy.
5. Is it really not mind boggling that amid this crippling power crisis, ZESCO is still exporting power?
WHAT’S THE WAY FORWARD?
We need both Short-Term and Long-Term solutions:
SHORT-TERM SOLUTIONS
1. Fire Victor Mapani and his entire Management Team at ZESCO.
2. Stop all power exports with immediate effect.
3. Declare Load-shedding a national disaster and mobilise resources to import more power. We need about 780 MW to end the current load shedding.
LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS
1. Diversify our power-mix and invest more in solar, thermal and other renewable sources of energy.
2. Invest in Pumped Hydroelectric Storage Systems.
3. Resolve the structural problems at ZESCO; remove political interference, wasteful spending, inefficiencies and improve transparency and accountability to ensure good corporate governance.
It’s not surprising, we expected the State to grab our flats – Esther Lungu
It’s not surprising, we expected the State to grab our flats – Esther Lungu
Former president Edgar Lungu and wife Esther yesterday left the Supreme Court with somber faces, having lost 15 luxury flats valued at a staggering K41.5 million to the State although the former first lady said she was not surprised.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/JAPe8ceS3KfaR8Yx/?mibextid=oFDknk
Whilst lawyer Sakwiba Sikota was briefing the media about the outcome of the case, Esther walked to her husband and leaned towards his left arm in search for calm and cheer in his space.
The despondent Esther maintained her poise as she closed her eyes to avoid being vulnerable before the glaring cameras paraded in front of her.
In this case the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had requested the Economic and Financial Crimes Court to forfeit Esther’s 15 semi-luxurious houses in State lodge area worth K41.5 million on reasons that they were acquired using illegal means.
Defending her properties, Esther claimed that though the 15 double storey flats were registered in her name, they are matrimonial property which were built by her husband Edgar Lungu.
When the matter came up for judgement before Judges Pixie Yangailo, Mwanajiti Mabbolobbolo and Vincent Siloka yesterday, the Court made pronouncements on the matter in chambers amid tight security.
Despite the lawyers having requested earlier that judgement be held in open Court, plain cloth police officers were standing guard at at the entrance of the courtroom and turned the media away on the premise that the fourth estate and the public inclusive, were barred from entering the courtroom.
The judgement was still not made available by close of business, for reference by the media.
According to sources, the court forfeited Esther’s houses on grounds that she did not produce enough evidence to prove that she built the properties with clean money.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Court said the value of the flats were way beyond Esther’s legal income.
It said her charity organization, the Esther Lungu Foundation did not generate enough income which she could rely on to purchase the properties.
It was further disclosed by the source that the Court refused to buy into Esther’s explanation that the 15 double-storey flats were matrimonial properties which were built by her husband, as she did not show the movement of money from her husband to her account or to the contractor’s account to prove her claim that he built the properties and where he got the money to build the same.
The court found that Kwaleyela Mukelabai’s teammate, Emmanuel Khondowe, a senior investigations officer at the Drug Enforcement Commission under the Anti-money laundering Investigations Unit proved that the 15 flats were tainted; and ordered for their forfeiture.
It also directed that Director of Public Prosecutions Gilbert Phiri disposes of the property in a manner he deems fit within the confines of the law.
Esther’s lawyer Sakwiba Sikota said he will challenge the confiscation of the former first lady’s property in the Court of Appeal.
“So, naturally, we will be appealing to the court of appeal and I’m sure the court of appeal is going to maintain the position they have stated in the other case,” he said.
“The court stated that the onus to prove was on the interested party rather than on the applicant. And they stated that the applicant had a very low bar which they had to attain.”
Sikota said he was as convicted that the Director of Public Prosecutions did not meet the standards for the burden of proof.
“So, those are the issues that will go up to the Court of Appeal for the Court of Appeal to decide. The Court of Appeal has started what it feels is the correct position and we are going to go to the Court of Appeal telling them that we believe you were right. So, obviously our prospects are good,”said Sikota
And Charles Changano said the Court relied on the Austin Liato case which was a conviction based forfeiture, while Esther’s case is a non-conviction based forfeiture.
“So, we still want the Supreme Court to guide over these new cases. You remember the Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime Act was enacted in 2010. My question is, why is it (Court) now acting on the former president and the family?,”he questioned.
“There were no cases for 14 years? Those are some of the issues we will look at. Maybe you are also surprised? Enacted in April 2010, you will tell me that there is no reasonable suspicion in this country when it was enacted? It was enacted because there must be some suspicion somewhere. Why was it sleeping for 14 years only to touch on this family?.”
And Esther who surrendered her flats said; “it was expected it’s not surprising.”
By Mwaka Ndawa
Kalemba September 27, 2024
Kampyongo surrenders to tears as court jails wife
Kampyongo surrenders to tears as court jails wife
A MOMENT of relief for former home affairs minister Stephen Kampyongo as he was cleared of all charges related to illegally acquired properties yesterday, was eclipsed by the conviction and subsequent three-year jailing of his beloved wife, Wanziya Chirwa.
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The Economic and Financial Crimes Court cleared the Shiwang’andu PF lawmaker of all charges but his wife, a chief infrastructure planner at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Arts was not as fortunate.
Mrs Kampyongo was handed a thee-year jail stay for possessing four flats in foxdale area, land and millions of Kwacha in two different accounts, which were said to have been irregularly acquired.
The Kampyongos were jointly charged with 12 counts of possessing properties worth K28, 701, 500 dotted across Lusaka, suspected to be proceeds of crime.
As the court pronounced its verdict, the former minister, known for his composure, struggled to contain his emotions.
Kampyongo’s face crumpled as his his hands instinctively rose to cover his eyes.
In her judgment, principal resident magistrate Sylvia Munyinya said she had no reason to conclude that Kampyongo and Chirwa’s properties in Eureka, Ibex Hill, Chifwema, lilayi and meanwood were tainted.
She said the Couple gave plausible explanations in some of the counts which she found reasonable especially that she had an opportunity to view the properties.
“I find no reason to conclude that it was acquired through proceeds of crime but through legitimate funds. Doubt exists as to whether the property is tainted. I find Stephen Kampyongo not guilty and I acquit,” Magistrate Munyinya said.
She also acquitted his wife in four counts but convicted her on five counts.
In count seven, eight and nine magistrate Munyinya said the explanation by Chirwa that she sold livestock, smoking machines and that she would train people in farming, did not hold water as she did not produce sufficient evidence.
“The explanation that she acquired funds from the farm is not proved consequently I find her guilty and I convict her,”magistrate Munyinya said.
“She cannot say she sold other properties to acquire other property she has failed to satisfy me that the prosecution had no reasonable doubt to suspect that the property was acquired through crime.”
On the claims that the funds in her bank accounts were derived from the farm produce and livestock that she sold, magistrate Munyinya found the statement to be lacking in merit, as no evidence was produced apart from pictures of a fishpond with fishes.
She said the claims that the money was rentals deposited by the tenants does not reflect on her on her bank statements therefore income derived from the flats is tainted.
“She did not produce enough evidence and in the absence of such even the proceeds derived from property that is tainted is also considered tainted. I find her guilty and convict her accordingly,”said magistrate Munyinya.
“Her training of 300 people apart from her word, there’s no evidence that she trained people as she did not produce evidence. I find the explanation that she earned K4.8 million from other activities unsatisfactory. I find Stephen Kampyongo not guilty on all the counts and I acquit him forthwith. I find Wanziya guilty and convict her in count seven, eight, nine, 11 and 12.”
Despite having been acquitted, Kampyongo was frozen in the moment and could not leave the accused’s dock as he stood by his wife, wishing he could go in on her behalf instead.
Her lawyer, Leon Lemba requested that the matter be stood down for 10 minutes before mitigation.
With his eyes red-rimmed and puffy from tears, Kampyongo silently left the dock and collapsed onto a wooden bench in the gallery, surrendering to unrelenting grief.
Kampyongo’s pain became the focal point in the courtroom as friends including Given Lubinda, Emmanuel Mwamba, and Lukas Simumba, rushed to his side, offering comforting words.
Chirwa who sat on a bench in front of him removed her gold pieces of jewelry and put them in her hand bag, as her friends comforted her and whispered words of encouragement.
In mitigation Lemba asked the court to consider imposing a fine and not a custodial sentence.
“The now convict is a first offender and is entitled to the leniency of the Court. Section 71(1) of the Forfeiture of Poceeds of Crime Act paragraph (a) only provides for a maximum sentence it does not provide for a mandatory minimum,” he said.
“Subsection 1 paragraph (b) has contemplated a fine where the convict is the first offender. The court having no restrictions to a non mandatory sentence can impose a non-custodial sentence.”
Norman Siwila requested the Court to exercise leniency in imposing the sentence.
“The reason for dealing with first offenders leniently, is in the hope that a severe sentence is not necessary and that a lenient sentence would be sufficient to teach a previously honest man a lesson. In view of that decision we implore this court to exercise its utmost leniency in handing down the sentence,”he said.
In handing down her sentence, magistrate Munyinya sentenced Chirwa to three years simple imprisonment for posessing four (4) housing units which sit on property numbers F/609/E/77/A48 and F/609/E/77/A485 located in Foxale Lusaka valued at K4, 200, 000. 00, property number L/2131/M/A/2/C1/11 valued at K1, 500, 000. 00, property number L/2131/M/A/2/1/10 valued at K1,500, 000. 00 located in Ibex Hill, K791,000.00 in account number 0041060000068 held at Indo Zambia Bank and K4,936,500.00 in account number 0041030000816 held at Indo Zambia Bank.
She said the sentences in the five counts will run concurrently effective September 27, 2024.
ACC prosecutor Virginia Tembo further requested that the properties and money be forfeited to the State.
But Lemba said since there was interest in the properties by Chirwa, it was ideal that the State files a formal application.
Magistrate Munyinya reserved ruling for October 29.
As Chirwa emerged from the Lusaka Magistrates Court holding cell to head to prison aboard an ash brown Toyota Rumion, her head and face was totally covered to avoid cameras…https://kalemba.news/local/2024/09/28/kampyongo-surrenders-to-tears-as-court-jails-wife/
By Mwaka Ndawa
Kalemba September 28, 2024.
The 2025 Budget: Hopeless, Detached from Reality, and Lacking Practical Solutions to the Energy and Water Crisis- Kasonde Mwenda C-EFF President
The 2025 Budget: Hopeless, Detached from Reality, and Lacking Practical Solutions to the Energy and Water Crisis- Kasonde Mwenda C-EFF President
28 September 2024.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) categorically *reject the 2025 National Budget delivered by Honourable Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Minister of Finance and National Planning, on 27th September 2024, as utterly hopeless, detached from the pressing realities of Zambia’s economic and social crises, and woefully lacking in practical, innovative solutions to address the worsening energy and water crisis.*
This budget demonstrates a reckless disregard for the people of Zambia, offering nothing but hollow promises at a time when urgency and action are desperately needed. Instead of confronting our nation’s most immediate crises with bold leadership, the government has chosen to fish in the darkness, evading responsibility and leaving Zambians to fend for themselves.
A Failure to Acknowledge the Water Crisis It is alarming and disheartening that this government has failed to recognize the water shortage as the national disaster it truly is. While they attempt to address energy issues, the critical humanitarian crisis of water scarcity has been completely ignored. This government’s priorities are misguided; entire communities in urban high-density compounds have gone months without water, and the situation in rural areas—especially those hit hardest by drought—is dire, with rivers and wells drying up. Despite President Hakainde Hichilema declaring a national disaster, there is no mention, let alone a budgetary allocation, to address this unfolding tragedy.
*Detached from the Economic Realities*: The UPND government, led by President Hakainde Hichilema, is dangerously out of touch with Zambia’s economic challenges. While they boast of a baseless and fantastical *projected growth of 6.6% for 2025, they ignore the reality of a collapsing economy, which grew by only 2.3% in 2024, down from 5.4% in 2023.* This is not mere mismanagement; it is deliberate deception. Agriculture, the backbone of Zambia’s economy, is in shambles—farmers have yet to receive inputs, and the e-voucher system is a proven failure. Despite these facts, the government claims a magical agricultural boom is on the horizon—this is sheer insanity.
*The deceit extends to the mining sector, where the government peddles lies that the Copperbelt is on the verge of resurgence.* In reality, only *6 mines are paying taxes, while over 6,000 are on tax holidays,* siphoning profits out of the country and robbing Zambians of their rightful wealth. This is not just a failure of leadership; it is an act of betrayal.
*Runaway Inflation and a Crumbling Kwacha*: The 2024 budget deficit has ballooned to *6.4% of GDP from an initial estimate of 4.8%,* yet the government’s response has been muted and complacent. The Kwacha continues to plummet, with inflation reaching 15.6% in September 2024, up from 13.1%, and a 2.8% depreciation against the US dollar. The government’s response has been to tighten monetary policy—raising the policy rate to 13.5% and the statutory reserve ratio to 26%—but these have proven to be failed attempts at stabilizing our economy.
*Energy Crisis*: Darkness for Zambians, Prosperity for Foreigners Zambia’s energy sector is now in a historic crisis, with some areas receiving electricity for just 30 minutes a day while others have been without power for over 48 hours. Despite this national blackout, the government continues to export electricity while Zambians sit in darkness. Shockingly, there is no budgetary allocation for addressing this crisis. The government’s continued failure to address both the electricity and water crisis reflects an unpatriotic and criminal disregard for the well-being of the Zambian people.
*A Way Forward:*
1. *Empowering Zambians and Utilizing Our Mineral Wealth*
Zambia is blessed with immense natural resources, but under this government’s policies, our wealth is being siphoned off to enrich foreign investors, while Zambians remain in poverty. The EFF proposes the following practical, people-centered solutions to restore Zambia’s dignity and economic sovereignty:
2. *Productivity and Value Addition:*
The government must empower Zambians to own and control their mineral wealth. We demand a shift from exporting raw materials to local refining and value addition, especially in the copper and cobalt sectors, to create jobs and build a sustainable economy.
3. *Revenue Retention:*
The EFF demands that Zambia enforce strict revenue retention policies. Foreign investors must reinvest their profits in local communities, industries, and infrastructure, rather than exporting wealth abroad while leaving environmental destruction and poverty behind.
4. *Monetary Sovereignty*:
Zambia must regain control over its monetary policy by reducing dependence on the IMF. We must build foreign exchange reserves through smarter trade and mining policies, rather than resorting to unsustainable loans that mortgage our future.
5. *Support for Zambian Entrepreneurs*:
The EFF calls for low-interest financing and policies that reduce the cost of doing business. Local industries must be supported to thrive, not suffocated under the weight of IMF-driven austerity.
6. *Local Content Policy*:
It is time for Zambia to implement a strong local content policy that prioritizes Zambian workers, suppliers, and contractors in key sectors like mining. Zambians must be the first beneficiaries of their country’s wealth.
7. *Addressing the Water Crisis*:
The government must immediately provide relief water to high-density compounds and drought-affected areas. Water bowsers and emergency interventions should be deployed to ensure that Zambians have access to safe drinking water.
8. *Rejecting IMF Conditionalities*:
The IMF’s austerity policies are driving hunger and destitution in Zambia. It is time to reject these conditions that destroy our social fabric and economy, and instead adopt Zambian-centered policies that prioritize local interests.
*Conclusion*: Time to Put Zambia First
The EFF calls on the UPND government to wake up from its slumber. Zambia cannot afford to continue on this path of deception, incompetence, and betrayal. We demand that President Hakainde Hichilema and his government prioritize Zambian interests, implement practical solutions, and restore economic sovereignty.
The time for wishful thinking and hollow promises is over. Zambians deserve leadership that cares, listens, and acts—not a government that abandons them in their darkest hour.
Wherever we want to go our feet will take us there.
Kasonde Mwenda C President, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)
2025 NATIONAL BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS- Sean Tembo
2025 NATIONAL BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS
By Sean Tembo – PeP President
1. 2024 economic growth is projected to decline to 2.3 percent from 5.4 percent in 2021 at beginning of New Dawn administration;
2. External debt has grown to $15.17 billion from $11 billion at the beginning of the New Dawn administration in 2021;
3. Annual inflation is 15.6 percent compared to an average of 10.3 percent in 2021;
4. ZMW-USD exchange rate averages K26.30 compared to K15.80 on 24th August 2021 when New Dawn administration took over the reigns;
5. Monetary Policy Rate is now 13.5 percent compared to 8.5 percent in August 2021, meaning high interest to borrowers for MPR linked loans;
6. Statutory Reserve Ratio has been increased by BOZ to 26 percent, from 7.5 percent in August 2024, meaning less money available to commercial banks to lend to economic players;
7. 2024 National Budget is projected to have a deficit of 11.6 percent which amounts to over expenditure at a time the country does not have money;
8. The 2024 Budget Deficit as a percentage of GDP is projected at 6.4;
9. Domestic Debt is now K225.5 billion compared to K89.5 billion in August 2021, which represents a 252 percent increase in only 3 years;
10. Domestic Arrears, which is money that Govt owes to various suppliers of goods and services in the country, is now K79.8 billion compared to K18.2 billion in August 2021. This means reduced liquidity needed for the private sector to grow;
11. The private sector only accounts for 36.9 percent of all credit issued by financial institutions while the balance of 63.1 percent is attributed to GRZ. This exemplifies the extent to which Govt’s increased borrowing using Treasury Bills and Bonds has crowded out the private sector;
12. Total budget for 2025 is K217.1 billion, representing 26.6 percent of GDP. In the 10 years prior to 2021, the national budget averaged 17 percent of GDP, while between 2001 and 2011, it averaged 14 percent of GDP. This means there is a high appetite for over expenditure under the New Dawn administration;
13. A total of about K19 billion will be spent on Defense & Public Order. For a country which is not at war and which has very high levels of poverty, this appears to be misplaced expenditure;
14. The fixed charges of K5,000 and K1,500 to be paid to Govt promoters of local artists and venue hosts per event is way too exorbitant and will kill the local music industry. For the majority of local music events, the gate takings do not even amount to K1,000, so where will artists get K5,000 to pay Government every time they perform a gig?
Anyway, the Future is SET ✌️✌️✌️
SET 28.09.2024
R. Kelly Defends Diddy Against Sex Trafficking Charges: ‘I Don’t Believe None Of [It]’
R. Kelly has perhaps unsurprisingly defended Diddy following his arrest for sex trafficking and racketeering.
Kelly, who himself is currently behind bars after being convicted of sex trafficking and an assortment of other sex crimes, has claimed that Puffy’s arrest is part of a wider conspiracy against the rap mogul.
Radar Online claims to have spoken to the incarcerated singer about Diddy’s case, though the conversation could not be independently verified and no audio of the chat is available.
They claim Kelly said: “I don’t believe none of this shit. You could tell me about Puffy, you could tell me about anybody. You could tell me on the news, the weather, the sky is blue, I’m not gonna believe the shit.”
The R&B legend also allegedly said that celebrities are being “hunted” by federal authorities, with Diddy being targeted because of the way he flaunted his wealth.
He purportedly added: “The shit is crazy. Motherfuckers out there laughing and making comedian jokes and doing all the other shit on the radio and everything else, but they ass could be next.
“That’s what’s so fucked up about it. They so stupid they don’t even realize the moves that’s going on.”
Diddy is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, which previously housed R. Kelly for some time before he was moved to a prison in North Carolina.
Kelly is not the only person to suggest that Diddy’s legal problems are part of a conspiracy.
Ice Cube previously made unsubstantiated claims on the PBD Podcast that unnamed people in power were working against the Bad Boy boss.
“I believe he’s being targeted,” he said. “I believe somebody has the power to pull the trigger to make this stuff just domino effect happen.”
The rapper and actor then appeared to walk back some of his comments: “I don’t know enough to even be able to be specific on any of this stuff. It’s just all speculation.
“I just know he was cool up until a point and then this stuff started happening. So I believe somebody, like I said, said, ‘Yo, he’s our new guy. We on to this year,’ or whatever.”
Cube also denied that he ever attended any of Diddy’s parties which have been termed “freak offs.”