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woman cancels her wedding after discovering her pastor fiancé has ‘tiny manhood’

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Award winning Akwa Ibom MC, Imaan Mike Umoh, has revealed that one of his clients cancelled her wedding because her pastor fiancé’ practically has no manhood.

Umoh, who disclosed this in a Facebook post on Friday, July 19, 2024, said the couple’s wedding was slated for next week.

“SERIOUSLY I DON’T UNDERSTAND THIS GENDER AGAIN OOO. It is always my policy to check on my clients in other to know the level of preparation towards the event,” he wrote.

But that of this morning wasn’t a good one at all. The story is that their TM was set for next week Thursday and wedding on Saturday. Our conversation this Wednesday

Her: Mike, I have known this guy for 8 months now a (Pastor) and I was comfortable with his policy of NO SEX BEFORE MARRIAGE but Mike on Sunday he paid for my dowry so I decided to talk him in for sex Tuesday. My brother, my would have been hubby INIEHE MFED OOO. So I doubt if the marriage will hold ooo.

Me: What?

And she called me this morning again to intimate me kè NO MARRIAGE

Please note: I have her consent before putting it here.

“Mbọk what is your take on this, please she will be reading your comments.”

The story have elicited varying reactions with most people discouraging the woman from going ahead with the wedding.

“When I talk say if I no see mfed we are going nowhere ,person go think say everything Na vog,” one Juliet Uduak Michael wrote.

“Mbanu we must try this race to see if are matchedIf you Dey breath like say I need pour you water afterwards I no dooo no be me go kii you. This is an avoidable mistake costly one at that ….brothers and sisters in the lord knack before saying I do, see the size and feel the size before saying yes ….nobody should preach for me oo me, like this when pastor preach finished that time Na I Dey open my own Bible…yak nd.”

Suspect who ‘st@bbed British Rolls-Royce designer to death in Germany’ is arrested

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The chief suspect in the fatal st@bbing of a British Rolls-Royce designer in Germany last week has been arrested in France following an international manhunt.

Ian Cameron , 74, was found dead at his £3 million mansion in Lake Ammersee in Upper Bavaria on Friday evening, July 12.

The Serbian suspect was seen hours before Cameron’s de@th at a supermarket less than a mile from the murder scene wearing a grey T-shirt and blue trousers. He later fled to France from Germany before his arrest.

CCTV footage from the crime scene later showed an unidentifiable man wearing a dark blue hooded sweatshirt, light-coloured trousers, gloves, and a dark red backpack.


Investigators searching the surrounding area after Cameron was found dead discovered the backpack containing both sets of clothes, suggesting the assailant had changed his outfit a second time after the crime to avoid arrest.

Police now believe the killer rang the doorbell to Mr Cameron’s home in Herrsching and attacked him when he opened the door, forcing his wife Veronika Kloos, also a former designer at BMW to flee to safety.

Suspicions were raised that the designer was deliberately targeted when it emerged the cables to CCTV cameras over the garages where his high-value vehicles were kept had been cut.

Some 30 officers were deployed to hunt for the attacker after Cameron’s neighbours provided a description of the perpetrator that appeared in the security camera footage.

The suspect was said to have been shopping in the Edeka supermarket on Seestraße just 0.8 miles from the designer’s house shortly before the attack on the Rolls Royce designer unfolded.

CCTV footage also showed the attacker carrying a red rucksack and green-yellow gloves.

After police sent drones and even a police helicopter to search for the mu&derer, they found the rucksack, which is now being analysed for usable DNA traces.

The investigation team earlier this week extended the manhunt to the whole of Germany before he was located in France.

Police understand that the killer rang the doorbell of the house in Herrsching am Ammersee and launched his attack on Cameron as he opened the door.

Cameron’s wife Kloos fled over a wall to evade the attacker, finding refuge with neighbours who called the emergency services.

An officer told The Sun it is ‘extremely rare’ that a burglar who prepares enough to disable CCTV then ‘stabs and kills’ a person.

Police labelled it a ‘violent crime’ and said the attacker fled on foot from the house.

Ian Cameron was a well-known figure in the automotive industry, having left a lasting legacy at Rolls-Royce with his groundbreaking designs.

Before retiring from the company in 2013, he was credited for his work on luxury cars, including the 3 Series, Z8, Phantom, and Ghost.

US govt to have “frank and respectful conversations” with Mnangagwa

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The new United States Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Pamela Tremont, has pledged to have “frank and respectful conversations” with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his government to improve relations between the two countries.

Ambassador Tremont presented her credentials to Mnangagwa this week, officially assuming her role as the representative of the US government in Zimbabwe.

In her first public statement, she cited the importance of having open and honest discussions to address areas of agreement and disagreement.

She noted that the US government wants to see Zimbabwe become a self-reliant and self-sufficient country, able to stand on its own two feet and work together with other nations to address global problems.

“Well, when I had my conversation with President Mnangagwa yesterday, we both agreed that we wanted improved ties between the United States.

“But we also noted that we will not always agree on everything, and I hope to have frank and respectful conversations with him and his government on the things where we agree as well as the things where we don’t agree.

“That’s what diplomacy is. We talk, we share values, we share ideas, and we offer suggestions.

“That’s the essence of what we do. Look, I didn’t come here to golf. I came here to solve problems, and we can’t do that without real conversations.

“So I will take President Mnangagwa at his word that he wants to improve relations, and I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and make that happen.”,” Ambassador Tremont said.

Ambassador Tremont also highlighted the importance of addressing corruption, which is an element of the investment climate.

“I look forward to talking to the government about how we can improve the investment climate here to make it a more attractive place, not just for US investors, but for companies around the world,” she said.

On March 4, 2024, President Joseph Biden took the decision to terminate the US Zimbabwe sanctions program, thereby unblocking all individuals, entities, and property that were previously blocked under this authority.

The US government, however, designated 11 Zimbabwean individuals, including Mnangagwa, under its Global Magnitsky Program

Mnangagwa, alongside his wife Auxillia, Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, Defense Minister Oppah Muchinguri, Midlands Provincial Affairs Minister Owen Ncube, Central Intelligence Organisation Deputy Director Walter Tapfumaneyi, businessman Obey Chimuka, and tycoon Kudakwashe Tagwirei, along with his wife Sandra, were put under the new sanction regime.

Three entities, Sakunda Holdings, Fossil Agro, and Fossil Contracting, linked to Tagwirei and Chimuka, were also placed under the Global Magnitsky Program.

HAKAINDE HICHILEMA SHOULD INSTEAD RESIGN HIMSELF (Isabi ukubola litampila KUMUTWE)- NAKACINDA

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HAKAINDE HICHILEMA SHOULD INSTEAD RESIGN HIMSELF (Isabi ukubola litampila KUMUTWE).

It has been a tumultuous week of nauseating CORRUPTION scandals in a self proclaimed govt of ‘Angels and saints’ led by one Hakainde Sammy Hichilema.

It is straight forward clear case of indictment against Mr Hichilema. Mr Hichilema made Statutory Instrument No. 1123, which placed law enforcement agencies to operate directly under him at COMMUNITY HOUSE. FIC, DEC, ACC among others operate at his house under his direct supervision.

We want to ask what the definition of an accomplice or accessory to a crime is? An accomplice by definition is,” a person who helps another commit a crime.” Whereas an accessory is, ” someone who aided or contributed to the commission or concealment of a crime. There are two categories of accessories: accessory before-the-fact and accessory after-the-fact.” And Mr Hakainde cannot escape these crimes as to behave as if he never knew. Then he must resign for NEGLIGENCE.

Unless we Zambians want to pretend, the current revelations of corruption with counter allegations and resignations were committed with his knowledge for the simple reason that they operate under his direct supervision.

Mr Hakainde has no moral right worse off integrity to dissolve the ACC BOARD which operates under his direct supervision.

To save the Zambians the much needed time, he should be the one to do the moral thing he likes preaching about by dissolving himself and his cabinet by RESIGNING.

As PF we want to inform State House that more corruption scandals are right to unfold right at President Hakainde Hichilema’s door steps including within his family circle and friends.

Civil servants and the system are fed up and tired of the stinking rot while he continues to play PR with dishonest rhetorics, more whistle blowers are just warming up. Save yourself the embarrassments coming Mr President. Resign forthwith.

Fellow Zambians, civil society and international aid agencies we want to inform you that this govt will go down in history as the most skilled and sophisticated grand corrupt govt and worst robbers of state assets and resources led by Mr Hakainde Hichilema and his UPND.

We implore all Zambians to observe Black Friday tomorrow as we show the red card to this outgoing UPND govt for numerous crimes they are commiting, the break down in the rule of law, and the bastadization of state institutions.

Hon. Raphael Mangani NAKACINDA
PF SECRETARY GENERAL
LUSAKA.
18/07/24

STATE HOUSE: THE COMMAND POST OF GRAND CORRUPTION, LOOTING- Fred M’membe

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STATE HOUSE: THE COMMAND POST OF GRAND CORRUPTION, LOOTING

The Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU) has stated that corruption remains Mr Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND administration’s major public concern.

In the latest July 2024 forecast on political and economic outlook on Zambia, the EIU report highlights the doubts from key stakeholders regarding Mr Hichilema’s fight against corruption.

“Although the Hichilema administration has promised to clear up government, corruption remains a major public concern. Some media outlets and opposition groups have labelled anti-graft efforts by the current administration largely superficial,” read the report in part.

We are not surprised with the EIU report because this is what we have been saying for a while now. When it comes to fighting corruption, Mr Hichilema is paralyzed by the fact that he has no moral right to condemn or even take decisive action against his lieutenants in government because everyone is literally involved in some illegal activity in one way or another. The endless corruption scandals that have rocked this government are a reminder that the country is in corrupt hands and needs a breather. It is clear that this is a government of the thieves, for the thieves, and by the thieves.

So, how can Mr Hichilema be expected to genuinely fight corruption when there is so much grand corruption and looting surrounding him, and involving him? We have said before that any meaningful fight against corruption in this country has to start with an investigation of Mr Hichilema’s own dealings in almost every sector of our economy like mining, fuel, fertilizer, insurance, grain imports and exports, property and real estate, construction and manufacturing, among many others. There is a need to investigate Mr Hichilema. He should be able to answer questions about his dealings. Without doing so, the fight against corruption becomes hypocritical, a facade and meaningless. Any meaningful fight against corruption must start with an investigation of Mr Hichilema’s business interests.

Mr Musa Mwenye, the ex-chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the US ambassador to Zambia, Mr Michael Gonzales, have emphatically demanded that Mr Hichilema declares all his assets. But Mr Hichilema has constantly ignored these demands. Why? Mr Hichilema knows that the day he is made to fully disclose all his business interests, without being able to conceal anything, will mark the beginning of the end of his presidency and the beginning of his journey to prison. Even Mr Hichilema knows this too well no wonder the resistance.

The amount of systemic corruption and plunder that is being facilitated by State House is terrifying and confirms the sad reality that this presidency is a disaster and a failure! The truth and the reality currently, is that most of the bribery, embezzlement, illicit enrichment, trading influence and all manner of abuses and white-collar financial and economic crimes that we are witnessing are engineered by State House. The presidency is the command post of grand corruption and looting of public resources.

With the presidency organizing and perpetuating corruption, it is wishful thinking to expect this regime to wage a relentless campaign against corruption and succeed.

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

STATE HOUSE: THE COMMAND POST OF GRAND CORRUPTION, LOOTING

The Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU) has stated that corruption remains Mr Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND administration’s major public concern.

In the latest July 2024 forecast on political and economic outlook on Zambia, the EIU report highlights the doubts from key stakeholders regarding Mr Hichilema’s fight against corruption.

“Although the Hichilema administration has promised to clear up government, corruption remains a major public concern. Some media outlets and opposition groups have labelled anti-graft efforts by the current administration largely superficial,” read the report in part.

We are not surprised with the EIU report because this is what we have been saying for a while now. When it comes to fighting corruption, Mr Hichilema is paralyzed by the fact that he has no moral right to condemn or even take decisive action against his lieutenants in government because everyone is literally involved in some illegal activity in one way or another. The endless corruption scandals that have rocked this government are a reminder that the country is in corrupt hands and needs a breather. It is clear that this is a government of the thieves, for the thieves, and by the thieves.

So, how can Mr Hichilema be expected to genuinely fight corruption when there is so much grand corruption and looting surrounding him, and involving him? We have said before that any meaningful fight against corruption in this country has to start with an investigation of Mr Hichilema’s own dealings in almost every sector of our economy like mining, fuel, fertilizer, insurance, grain imports and exports, property and real estate, construction and manufacturing, among many others. There is a need to investigate Mr Hichilema. He should be able to answer questions about his dealings. Without doing so, the fight against corruption becomes hypocritical, a facade and meaningless. Any meaningful fight against corruption must start with an investigation of Mr Hichilema’s business interests.

Mr Musa Mwenye, the ex-chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the US ambassador to Zambia, Mr Michael Gonzales, have emphatically demanded that Mr Hichilema declares all his assets. But Mr Hichilema has constantly ignored these demands. Why? Mr Hichilema knows that the day he is made to fully disclose all his business interests, without being able to conceal anything, will mark the beginning of the end of his presidency and the beginning of his journey to prison. Even Mr Hichilema knows this too well no wonder the resistance.

The amount of systemic corruption and plunder that is being facilitated by State House is terrifying and confirms the sad reality that this presidency is a disaster and a failure! The truth and the reality currently, is that most of the bribery, embezzlement, illicit enrichment, trading influence and all manner of abuses and white-collar financial and economic crimes that we are witnessing are engineered by State House. The presidency is the command post of grand corruption and looting of public resources.

With the presidency organizing and perpetuating corruption, it is wishful thinking to expect this regime to wage a relentless campaign against corruption and succeed.

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

The Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU) has stated that corruption remains Mr Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND administration’s major public concern.

In the latest July 2024 forecast on political and economic outlook on Zambia, the EIU report highlights the doubts from key stakeholders regarding Mr Hichilema’s fight against corruption.

“Although the Hichilema administration has promised to clear up government, corruption remains a major public concern. Some media outlets and opposition groups have labelled anti-graft efforts by the current administration largely superficial,” read the report in part.

We are not surprised with the EIU report because this is what we have been saying for a while now. When it comes to fighting corruption, Mr Hichilema is paralyzed by the fact that he has no moral right to condemn or even take decisive action against his lieutenants in government because everyone is literally involved in some illegal activity in one way or another. The endless corruption scandals that have rocked this government are a reminder that the country is in corrupt hands and needs a breather. It is clear that this is a government of the thieves, for the thieves, and by the thieves.

So, how can Mr Hichilema be expected to genuinely fight corruption when there is so much grand corruption and looting surrounding him, and involving him? We have said before that any meaningful fight against corruption in this country has to start with an investigation of Mr Hichilema’s own dealings in almost every sector of our economy like mining, fuel, fertilizer, insurance, grain imports and exports, property and real estate, construction and manufacturing, among many others. There is a need to investigate Mr Hichilema. He should be able to answer questions about his dealings. Without doing so, the fight against corruption becomes hypocritical, a facade and meaningless. Any meaningful fight against corruption must start with an investigation of Mr Hichilema’s business interests.

Mr Musa Mwenye, the ex-chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the US ambassador to Zambia, Mr Michael Gonzales, have emphatically demanded that Mr Hichilema declares all his assets. But Mr Hichilema has constantly ignored these demands. Why? Mr Hichilema knows that the day he is made to fully disclose all his business interests, without being able to conceal anything, will mark the beginning of the end of his presidency and the beginning of his journey to prison. Even Mr Hichilema knows this too well no wonder the resistance.

The amount of systemic corruption and plunder that is being facilitated by State House is terrifying and confirms the sad reality that this presidency is a disaster and a failure! The truth and the reality currently, is that most of the bribery, embezzlement, illicit enrichment, trading influence and all manner of abuses and white-collar financial and economic crimes that we are witnessing are engineered by State House. The presidency is the command post of grand corruption and looting of public resources.

With the presidency organizing and perpetuating corruption, it is wishful thinking to expect this regime to wage a relentless campaign against corruption and succeed.

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

STATE HOUSE: THE COMMAND POST OF GRAND CORRUPTION, LOOTING

The Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU) has stated that corruption remains Mr Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND administration’s major public concern.

In the latest July 2024 forecast on political and economic outlook on Zambia, the EIU report highlights the doubts from key stakeholders regarding Mr Hichilema’s fight against corruption. 

“Although the Hichilema administration has promised to clear up government, corruption remains a major public concern. Some media outlets and opposition groups have labelled anti-graft efforts by the current administration largely superficial,” read the report in part. 

We are not surprised with the EIU report because this is what we have been saying for a while now. When it comes to fighting corruption, Mr Hichilema is paralyzed by the fact that he has no moral right to condemn or even take decisive action against his lieutenants in government because everyone is literally involved in some illegal activity in one way or another. The endless corruption scandals that have rocked this government are a reminder that the country is in corrupt hands and needs a breather. It is clear that this is a government of the thieves, for the thieves, and by the thieves.

So, how can Mr Hichilema be expected to genuinely fight corruption when there is so much grand corruption and looting surrounding him, and involving him? We have said before that any meaningful fight against corruption in this country has to start with an investigation of Mr Hichilema’s own dealings in almost every sector of our economy like mining, fuel, fertilizer, insurance, grain imports and exports, property and real estate, construction and manufacturing, among many others. There is a need to investigate Mr Hichilema. He should be able to answer questions about his dealings. Without doing so, the fight against corruption becomes hypocritical, a facade and meaningless. Any meaningful fight against corruption must start with an investigation of Mr Hichilema’s business interests.

Mr Musa Mwenye, the ex-chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the US ambassador to Zambia, Mr Michael Gonzales, have emphatically demanded that Mr Hichilema declares all his assets. But Mr Hichilema has constantly ignored these demands. Why? Mr Hichilema knows that the day he is made to fully disclose all his business interests, without being able to conceal anything, will mark the beginning of the end of his presidency and the beginning of his journey to prison. Even Mr Hichilema knows this too well no wonder the resistance.

The amount of systemic corruption and plunder that is being facilitated by State House is terrifying and confirms the sad reality that this presidency is a disaster and a failure! The truth and the reality currently, is that most of the bribery, embezzlement, illicit enrichment, trading influence and all manner of abuses and white-collar financial and economic crimes that we are witnessing are engineered by State House. The presidency is the command post of grand corruption and looting of public resources.

With the presidency organizing and perpetuating corruption, it is wishful thinking to expect this regime to wage a relentless campaign against corruption and succeed.

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

Hichilema must dissolve his Cabinet and make a new one from his back benchers- Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba

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By Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba

President Hichilema must dissolve his Cabinet and make a new one from his back benchers

As Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Health, Community Development and Social Services, Lukulu Member of Parliament, Dr. Christopher Kalila led the committee to establish the availability of medicines, medical supplies and laboratory reagents in health facilities.

The committtee also looked at the deplorable state of hospital equipment and the issues affecting the local pharmacuetical industry.

As a former deputy Minister of Health and medical doctor of vast experience, he knew what needed to be done.

The Committee penned a fantastic report with over view issues and detailed recommendations.

The Committee comprised Hon. Marjory Nakaponda (Vice Chairperson), Hon. Paul Chala, Hon. Miles Sampa, Hon. Christopher Kalila (Chairperson) Hon. Leevan Chibombwe, Hon. Masautso Tembo and Hon. Heartson Mabeta, Hon. Joseph musanje and others.

I suspect, Hon. Silvia Masebo treated the report as a direct challenge to her troubled and continued stay at the Ministry and attacked it as a piece of work from the Opposition to scandalise government, even when the Committee was headed by a veteran and loyal UPND member.

She led a spirited fight to reject the adoption of the parliamentary report and its detailed recommendations. With the arrogance of numbers, the UPND managed to torpedoe the report and it was rejected.

However, the critical issues and challnges raised continue to plagque the health sector todate.

Masebo is now highly tainted with numerous scandals trailing her.

The $100 million scandal meant for the construction of infectious diseases hospital is a case in point.

In May 2022, the Ministry of Health awarded a contract for the construction and equipping of Infectious Disease Isolation Hospitals at a total cost of US$98,817,578 to a South African company.

The contractor wrote and signed a letter to President Hakainde Hichilema informing him that his Minister solicited for a bribe, and a high value car. The contractor also disclosed that he hosted Ms. Masebo in South Africa.

The Contractor also gave similar details to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

Now we have the $65million scandal irregularly procured, and the medicines dispatched drom Egypt beginning November 2023.

The trucks could not be cleared for seven months due to small issues such as ZRA clearance, paying for transport and warehousing costs.

This week, the Ministry of Health finally paid transport costs and demurrage charges worth K9 million after details of lthe ong stranded trucks, were being discussed by the Opposition.

The goods have been stranded in 61 trucks parked at a Makeni Warehouse and have been in the elements, rain, sun, cold, dust, for seven months and this is a likely total waste of the $65 million procurement!

Masebo now wants to create a red herring and blame ZMMSA, like she did when she unfairly blamed the Permanent Secretary, George Magwende, who was later dismissed and subjected ro a humilating arrest and purported prosecution.

She is likely to put, whatever his weakness, ZMMSA Director General, Victor Nyasulu and subject him through the same mill!

It’s not Masebo to blame, its President Hakainde Hichilema who refuses to deal with Masebo,and fails to authorise her arrrest and prosecution.

Further President Hichilema continues to punish and remove Permanent Secretaries such as George Magwende and Professor Lackson Kasonka and other officials from the Ministry and its affiliated organisations at the expense and sacrificed to allow Masebo to stay in her portfolio.

Yet the UPND has able persons such as Dr. Christopher Kalila. Kalila is highly experienced and has been Minister at the Health Ministry before.

Kalila is also Chairman of the Zambian TB Caucus.

It is clear that President Hichilema has failed so far. But his Cabinet has become a danger to his own continued rule for its sheer incompetence, its failure to perform, and its silence in the face of critical sectoral challenges and crises threatening to collapse his government.

Infact Hichilema can appoint a new Cabinet from his back benchers as the Party has many capable men and women to replace the highly incompetent, negligent, inexperienced and in many cases part of a thieving bunch.

LET UKA MEMBERS CHOOSE A PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE THROUGH “UKA PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARIES” IN TEN PROVINCES

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LET UKA MEMBERS CHOOSE A PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE THROUGH  “UKA PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARIES” IN TEN PROVINCES

By Pst. Kennedy K. Mambwe

As a journalist, political analyst and independent observer, I have followed the developments in UKA with keen interest from the first day the Alliance was announced.

I have closely watched with great admiration how political party leaders have respectfully yielded to each other in a rare show of comradely and unity of purpose to find common ground and field a single candidate in the 2026 elections.

Although the Alliance has been lauded by many stakeholders, parties were never oblivious to a turbulent road ahead including a potential emotional rollercoaster among a broad membership spectrum as we have started to witness through differences in opinions as to who is best suited to lead the Alliance.

One of the major sticky issues that until now remained a mere whisper among Alliance partners, supporters and sympathizers alike, was how UKA was going to arrive at the choice of who should be the flag bearer in 2026.

If UKA has come up with the rules of engagement on how they will elect their representative, it must then be a very well guarded secret that the Council of Presidents (COP) are keeping close to their chests.

However, in the absence of a clear roadmap and timelines, the leadership vacuum is beginning to be felt and the suspense has resulted in outbursts among faithful supporters who want the COP to settle on one name.

The hope and prayers by many Zambians is that UKA should remain united as their name suggests. The COP should avoid the infamous “Mingalato” among themselves and prove to the nation that their coming together is steeped in shared values to work together in national interest.

In my view, if UKA is willing, they can give new meaning to democracy in Zambia by doing something that has never been done before. UKA can make  history by launching the UKA Presidential Primaries in all 10 Provinces by doing the following:

1. Launch the Presidential Primaries and give power to the Zambians to decide who should be the UKA Presidential nominee

2. As part of this democratic drive, conduct countrywide tours and jointly hold rallies

3. During the rallies to be held centrally in each of the 10 Provinces, COP should not debate each other, but speak to real issues affecting the nation

4. Constitute provincial electoral colleges comprising equal representation from Alliance partners

5. Conduct elections at the end of each provincial rally through the electoral college

6. A Presidential candidate who wins more Provincial electoral college votes becomes the UKA Presidential Candidate as voted by the people

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR UKA AND THE FUTURE OF DEMOCRACY IN ZAMBIA?

1. Party members across Alliance partners will work as a team to organize the provincial electoral college and rallies

2. The electoral college provincial tours will galvanize and entrech UKA countrywide

3. UKA can use this as a pre-2026 elections campaign

4. It will strengthen democracy in Zambia

5. It will unlock resources early from potential funders

6. It will make UKA more visible and attractive

7. It will be very cost effective as Alliance partners will be hosting a single political event jointly to allow the college to elect their representative

CONCLUSION
If UKA was to adopt this approach, it will make their work very easy to test the most popular candidate among themselves by allowing the UKA Presidential Primaries at provincial level in every province. By so doing, UKA will curtail emotional outbursts and conspiracy theories about who should be the touch bearer. Let UKA give power back to the people as if it’s election time! Done well,  no one and nothing will stop the will of the people for their preferred candidate to be on the ballot!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
The Author is a Political Analyst, Media and Public Relations Consultant. He is also the Founder and CEO of KBN TV

Hichilema appears to be in control, but no one knows where he is heading- Fred M’membe

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A COUNTRY IN NEED OF
VISIONARY LEADERSHIP

A sitting president must have the self-confidence to want power and to believe that his exercise of it can tilt the country in the right direction.

But he should also have the humility and maturity to recognise on any likely projection of the past that his power will come to an end, probably in about five years, maybe less, only exceptionally more. This is the reality of life and leadership.

And the test of his statesmanship in the context of history will not therefore be how many trees he pulls up by the roots but how he fits into a continuous process of adaptation in which, leadership is combined with sensitivity to national mood.

That said, we warned that you must not expect work and things to be better under his rule.

Today, things are getting worse, it’s hurting, but Mr Hichilema doesn’t want you to complain, to shout and be heard. He wants you to endure all the pain in silence. He is ready to use the police in all sorts of ways to keep you in painful silence. To him, leadership entails, bringing the country and its people under control by all means necessary, including brute force.

But we warned again that, if you don’t resist, you will be quiet. When the curfew of fear and the gibbet of unemployment, hunger and starvation make you obedient.

Today, Mr Hichilema may posture and pretend to be very strong, visionary and confident. But gigantic problems lie ahead. He doesn’t know where he is headed, and that is very dangerous. Whatever he is doing is a mere shot in the dark – he is just guessing that what he says or does is correct or will yield successful outcomes. It’s a gamble!

So far, Mr Hichilema appears to be in control, but no one knows where he is heading.

It’s time to wake up, unite, and resist the destruction of our country and our lives.

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

LOW HANGING ECONOMIC FRUITS FOR PRESIDENT HICHILEMA BETWEEN NOW AND 2026 -Silavwe Jackson

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LOW HANGING ECONOMIC FRUITS FOR PRESIDENT HICHILEMA BETWEEN NOW AND 2026

19th July, 2024

The IMF/World Bank prescribed economic interventions implemented by President Hichilema are a total disaster for the Zambian economy.

Once again like the structural adjustment programs, SAPs of the 90’s, Zambians have being subjected to very harsh economic conditions.

People and businesses are suffering, President Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND must focus on 3 economic priority areas for the next 2 years;

  1. Increase government revenue: The low hanging minerals/resources are gold, sugilite, lithium and agriculture.

For the next 2 years, Government must raise and pump directly into the local economy a minimum between US $500m to $1.5 billion per year.

Outcome: $3 billion in 2 years of ‘new money’ into the local economy will certainly translate into poverty reduction for a common Zambian.

  1. High Quality Startups: Invest $1 to $2 billion directly in 10,000 to 20,000 Zambian startups to create 50,000 to 100,000 direct jobs in the private sector for the next 3 years.

Outcome: By year 2027 and beyond, the $2 billion local investment will grow to approximately $4.5 to $5 billion added to the Zambian economy.

  1. Increase ease of doing business for the current 50,000 local small and medium businesses across all the sectors of the economy.

Outcome: The measure will increase the Country’s GDP and raise people’s income to afford the high cost of living. This measure will translate into an additional 50,000 informal jobs approximately.

To put it simply, President HH and his government must raise more government revenue from local resources and expand the local economy to create approximately 150,000 plus jobs in the private sector between 2024 and 2027.

The solutions to Zambia’s economic malaise; the high cost of living, stagnant economy, high poverty levels, unemployment are all within Zambia.

The question is “Is president Hichilema and his government capable of changing economic course?”

Silavwe Jackson
President
GPZ.

HH DEALS WITH ACC DG DIRECTLY…he’s answerable, can’t escape the chaotic hangovercoming from previous administrations – Changala

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HH DEALS WITH ACC DG DIRECTLY
…he’s answerable, can’t escape the chaotic hangover
coming from previous administrations – Changala


By Thomas Ngala ( The Mast)



GOOD governance activist Brebner Changala has wowed Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) board member O’Brien Kaaba for his bravery in addressing the perceived wrongs at the commission.

Changala urged citizens to give kudos to Dr Kaaba, a University of Zambia (UNZA) law lecturer, saying that there are very few Zambians who can break ranks.

“He is a brave man, a patriot, and he must be celebrated,” Changala told The Mast.

On Monday, Dr Kaaba charged that ACC was captured, adding that it was a mistake to expect it to be an effective tool for fighting corruption in its current form.

He lamented that the strong anti-corruption fight President Hakainde Hichilema launched when he ascended to office has ebbed off and lost traction.

Dr Kaaba said institutions charged with fighting corruption are simply massaging, bandaging and covering up corruption.

“Isn’t it strange that ACC can make headline news for arresting and prosecuting a poor clinical officer for signing off two employment contracts while the ACC has done nothing about the more cases involving millions of dollars exposed in FIC (Financial Intelligence Centre) reports? Why should the poor be prosecuted aggressively while the rich and powerful are let off the hook and given immunity (‘read rewarded’). Just what has gone wrong? Here are my three areas of vulnerability, which the President needs to urgently attend to if the fight has to be resuscitated, look credible and gain traction,” he stated.

Dr Kaaba charged that the forces that are ripping off state resources through State Chambers also have their stranglehold on ACC. 

He observed that this could be the reason the media has been reporting that the ACC management has simply cut off the board from decision making at the commission.

Dr Kaaba said if the media reports are true, “the ACC is not accountable to its board but to the same corrupt elements looting public resources”. 

In his reaction to Dr Kaaba’s observations, Changala said the fight against corruption has collapsed because it is politically driven in order to settle scores.

“It is not about the law. It is about who they name and shame so that they perpetuate their stay in power. That is why they are creating other unconstitutional courts, including attaching a timeframe to a criminal matter that must end within five months so that those we have taken to court, whether fairly or unfairly, must be convicted. It is a shame and a blackspot on the new dawn administration. The fight against corruption must continue but it must be a genuine fight without any scheming by the politicians but it must be done on evidence based and a genuine balance of the rule of law,” he said. “The issue of the Anti-Corruption Commission is a serious matter. It is a serious matter and yet gratifying that one of the board members has broken ranks and this has been triggered by a statement from State House signed by Clayson Hamasaka that the President is urging all law enforcement agencies to follow up the FIC report and act on it and prosecute whoever is in that report. This annoyed Dr Kaaba, a lecturer at the University of Zambia, but most importantly, a board member at ACC.”

Changala observed that the UPND developed a habit of blaming the PF regime, adding that they get away with it.

“In this FIC report, the transactions and suspicious movement of money is happening under the new dawn administration. But a statement from the State House wants to make it look like these are problems that they inherited. When the UPND came to power, they came to power on the backbone of change. They came to power on the backbone of change. They came to power on the backbone of the restoration of the rule of law. And they are now three years in power. They have made no structural changes to the way the law enforcement agencies are trained, the way they operate, and the way they are managed and the removal of political interference. That has not happened,” Changala noted. “But a tragedy is when they came to power on the 23rd of September, 2021, the gazette notice 1123 was signed, moving these institutions – DEC, ACC and other agencies, the Human Rights Commission to the office of the President. The President is now the man where these organisations report. So he cannot escape the chaotic hangover that is coming from the previous administrations. Having said that, the ACC board, and I challenge the State House on this one. When did the President meet the ACC board from the day it was appointed? When did the President meet the ACC board chairman, Musa Mwenye, from the day he was sworn in? Has the President ever met him? Has the President ever consulted the ACC board?”

Changala said the information that is available is that President Hakainde Hichilema deals with the director general of ACC, Tom Shamakamba, directly.

“There lies the problem. The board is supposed to be an overseer of the DG. But in this one institution, it is the DG that oversees the board. That is very dangerous, and that is deliberate from the executive and this is where Dr Kaaba comes in firing on all cylinders that are being used and abused as a rubberstamp in that they are not fighting corruption in real time,” he said. “If anything, they are meant to fight the corruption of the previous regime, without concentrating on other corruption fights. And this does not sit well. Again, the other challenge, has the President called the chairman of the ACC board to find out what is happening? I don’t think so.”

He suspected that there could be a lot of dirt being swept under the carpet.

Changala added that “it was a matter of time that this explosion at ACC, which is anchored by political persecution, other than the law, was bound to erupt as it has done.”

He said where there is no law there can be no peace.

“These suspicious transactions in the Financial Intelligence Centre report happened between 2023 and this year. So they are a problem of the new dawn administration. And the President is answerable,” said Changala.

NO TO HH, LUNGU RECONCILIATION…that involves former president getting away with corruption in the name of peace – UPND member

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NO TO HH, LUNGU RECONCILIATION
…that involves former president getting away with
corruption in the name of peace – UPND member


By Rhoda Nthara( The Mast)


WE encourage President Hakainde Hichilema to reconcile with his brother Edgar Lungu on their personal matters but national matters like fight against corruption and asset recovery is a preserve of citizens, says Mellbin Simangolwa.

He observes that the coming back of Lungu into active politics has brought a new twist.

Simangolwa, a Copperbelt businessman who is eyeing the Kabushi parliamentary seat on UPND ticket in 2026, noted that the church has called for reconciliation between the two. “During the reign of Edgar Lungu, Hakainde Hichilema was abused verbally and physically. Hichilema was called a satanist, a thief, tribalist and all kinds of names. He was arrested more than 15 times. At one point his house was broken into by the police like common criminals, his workers and children were tear gassed. These are issues we expect the two leaders to reconcile on,” he said. “We will not support any reconciliation which compromises the fight against corruption. Anything that involves former president Edgar Lungu getting away with corruption in the name of peace will not be accepted. Lungu should not hold us to ransom that unless he gets away with corruption, he will continue to cause anarchy. We should not be help to ransom that unless court cases go in favour of Lungu Zambia will not enjoy peace. Zambia is bigger than Edgar Lungu and Zambia was more peaceful without Edgar Lungu in the political scene.”

Simangolwa however noted that peace and unity is a prerequisite for development of any country.

“Ever since assuming the presidency, Hakainde Hichilema has made every effort to unite our country. President Hakainde Hichilema has been firm in preventing political violence and tribalism which the previous regime under the leadership of Edgar Lungu promoted,” he argued. “Under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, we have seen traditional leaders from all parts of the country working together as one. We have seen traditional leaders from the North gracing ceremonies in the West and vice versa. We have Southerners and Easterners celebrating traditional ceremonies together. Zambians are getting united more than ever before.”

Simangolwa said the coming back of Lungu into active politics has brought a new twist. “We have seen the crawling back of hate speech and tribal talk in our politics. We have seen politics of insults and character assassination coming back to our country. Politics of provocation has become the order of the day with Edgar Lungu openly calling President Hakainde Hichilema as a ‘thug and a criminal’,” he said. “The former president has branded the fight against corruption as ‘harassment of his family and friends’. In short Edgar Lungu is resisting the fight against corruption.”

Simangolwa noted that Lungu is also accusing President Hichilema of sponsoring confusion in PF.

“The country is fully aware that political rivalry between Miles Sampa and Edgar Lungu dates as far back as 2014 and President Hakainde Hichilema has never played a role in this rivalry,” argued Simangolwa.

WE NEED NEW CROP OF LEADERS, NOT THESE REHABILITATED OLD VEHICLES – MUSENGE

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WE NEED NEW CROP OF LEADERS, NOT THESE REHABILITATED OLD VEHICLES – MUSENGE

THERE is need for a new crop of leaders and not these rehabilitated old vehicles, says Mwenya Musenge.

The Alliance for People’s Prosperity (APP) leader said Zambians need to be wary with United Kwacha Alliance members whom he accused of only being interested in their personal welfare.

“Zambians should not look backwards. Calls for akabwelelapo (he will bounce back) will not take us anywhere. We are just going into circles. The UPND has failed us, so let’s look at coming up with a new vehicle instead of a rehabilitated one. We need a new crop of leaders. We have a lot of women and men, youths, who have never been in politics who can be able to lead and make Zambia great again,” Musenge said. “Leadership is not a preserve for a few. No one was born a politician, we need new players. Rise up. Those who mean well for Zambia should rise up and join us in APP.”

He said Zambia was in search for good political leadership and party that can give Zambians a propserous nation.

Musenge said many leaders especially those in UKA believe in themselves and just want to amass wealth out of politics.

“We have a lot of politicians jumping from one political party to another, changing shirts and jackets to seemingly make themselves look holy. I get worried to see people who called each other names, accused each other as being corrupt, but now in bed together. This is fooling Zambians. I think politicians are taking Zambians for granted and this is not helping redeem Zambians from the suffering they are going through,” he noted.

“Look at how UPND leaders have amassed wealth in just about three years when a lot of Zambians are sleeping on empty stomachs. We have leaders who throw away food even after feeding their dogs. We are toying around in the way we play politics. So that is why I say there is need for a new crop of leaders to come in. We need to come together and look at the best options for Zambia, not using these old rehabilitated vehicles. Those in UKA, what are they coming back to do in politics? They are just coming back for themselves and in Bemba we say ‘akabwelele kanuma kalalya.”

Musenge, a former Cooperbelt minister under the Michael Sata administration, said APP believes that it is still possible to reduce the cost of living and achieve a well being for Zambians.

The Mast

I’m here to assist the President in area of politics and I’ll do it effectively…ANYONE WHO STANDS IN HH’S WAY TIFYANTHA…no apologies to make, says Ngoma

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I’m here to assist the President in area of politics and I’ll do it effectively…
ANYONE WHO STANDS IN HH’S WAY TIFYANTHA
…no apologies to make, says Ngoma


By Richard Luo in Sinda


PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema’s political advisor Levy Ngoma says anyone who stands in the way of development for the Head of State will be crushed.

During party mobilisation for Eastern Province held in Sinda on Saturday at Cisichi village, Ngoma who was in the company of party secretary general Batuke Imenda and the provincial leadership said they were not in Sinda to play games but to set the pace.

“We are here in Sinda today, tilipano ku Sinda not to play games. We are here in Sinda SG to set the pace…we are here for one individual, one man, our focus here in Sinda and Eastern Province SG, it’s only one man and that man is HH,” he said.

Ngoma said as presidential advisor his role is to help the President politically and not to help the opposition to unseat the UPND.

“Someone will say a presidential political advisor is on the podium talking this and that. No apologises to make. I am here to assist the President in the area of politics and I will do it effectively and anyone who stands in the way of HH tifyantha (we will squeeze). Anyone who stands in the way of development shall be crushed. No apologies to make. Zambia is yearning for development. Zambia is not yearning for detractors. Zambia is yearning for unity, for love and anyone who is an enemy of development we shall crush,” Ngoma said.

He also told the gathering that this is the time.

Meanwhile, provincial UPND chairperson Johabie Mtonga called for love among members.

“If we have love for UPND, 2026 it will be easy for us, but if we don’t love each other it will be difficult for us in UPND to win in 2026. Let’s go and show people what UPND is doing,” he said.

Mtonga said planning evil against each other will not build the party.

“Let’s love one another, we shouldn’t be people with hidden agendas. This love should start from the top as in 2021 we got 49.3 per cent on presidential and in 2026 we want 80 per cent,” Mtonga said.

He condemned the e-government procurement system saying it has killed people in rural areas with no smart phones.

Mtonga asked the government to see how they can work it out because it hasn’t helped people.

“EGP has troubled alot here in Eastern Province for people that don’t have smart phones. EGP has killed Zambia as people in rural areas don’t know about it…” Mtonga said.

He also challenged district commissioners to help the party because once the UPND is kicked out, they will not be in those offices.

Meanwhile, Imenda encouraged members to ensure that they sell the UPND successes to their various constituencies, wards and polling stations.

“This proves enough that our party is very strong here in Eastern Province. What is important is for you ambassadors to do the same meetings in wards and polling stations. As you go back, make sure our party is strong. You need to have a message. This party is so strong. This government is so strong. It has delivered as the people have seen the works of CDF countywide,” said Mtonga. “We are lucky we have the government that has delivered and we have something to point at as development brought by this government.”

Imenda challenged members to recruit more people to UPND so that even “… the President is brought to the area the huge turnout will influence the development of the roads into tar, more secondary schools construction”.

Members flocked to Sinda from various districts of Eastern Province together with district commissioners from various districts.

CREDIT: The Mast

STATE WITNESS WHO SLEPT IN CAR TELLS COURT THE “STATE DID THE NEEDFUL”, HE SLEPT COMFORTABLY

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July 19,2024

Below is the verbatim on the continued trial in the Brebner CHANGALA SEDITIOUS PRACTICES CASE as captured by Mbili Media.

Brebner Changala, the accused before CRM

Witness
Billy Kapinda

Court

Am sure you didn’t sleep in the car(smiles)

Witness
No. The state did the needful.

Cross examination

Defence Counsel Ceazor Simukonda

Remember telling the court that you are the complainant.
Witness-Yes

Defence- lodged the complaint after watching the video on the page.
Witness-Yes

Defence-Which political party do you belong to?
Witness-I don’t belong to any political party –

I’m a UPND sympathiser…. This is because before the reign of the UPND there was total disaster.

Defence -What disaster are [you referring to]…. Witnes I’m a victim of PF brutality, I was beaten in the presence of MP and police and my teeth almost came out in the presence of a minister and police, they baptized me.

Defence-Did you repent? Laughs

Was the accused person among the people who beat you?
Witnes-No

Defence-Are you happy with the new dawn government.
Witness-Extremely

Defence-Even after watching the video you watched you are still happy?
Witness-Yes

Defence-did not form any intention….

You love the UPND in power.
Witness-Yes

Defence-As a law abiding citizen you can do anything to protect the government in power. Witness-Correct.

Defence-As a person who loves the government, how do you know Garry Nkombo? Witness-is my brother in-law.

Defence-Related in what way?

Witnes- we gave him out beautiful sister

Defence-Which other ministers do you have any relations with other Ministry?

Witness-Non

Defence-Do you have relations with Cornelius Mweetwa?

Witness-He is my friend as a political analyst

Defence: And from the time the UPND government was in power have you ever been to State House.
Witness-I have been there once, on this year African Freedom Day

Defence-Did you take any pictures?

Witness-They grabbed my phone at the door

Defence-Do you have a Facebook account. Witness-Yes

Defence-who posted them?

Witness-Myself, the one who took work at state house.

Defence-you been to the UPND Secretariat?
Witness-Yes but once and it was in May this year

Defence-When did you watch the video?
Witness-Between 25, 26 of May.

Defence-The period you watched the video is the same period you went to the secretariat?
Witness-Not correct

Defence-There in Kitwe, do you interact with the UPND?
Witness-No

Defence-The video you watched how long was it?
Witness-Approximately 5-10 mins

Defence-Who did you see in the video?
Witness-Brebner Changala

Defence-Who else?
Witness- I also did see Brain Mundubile
And I saw a journalist holding a blue mic

Defence-Have you produced the video you watched which runs 5-10?
Witness- I did not produce the video.

Defence-Before the court there is no video you watched?
Witness-Yes

Defence-In your testimony you didn’t give the court the video you watched?
Witness-Correct

Defence-And you know that the court will be able to access the fact that video when produced before court?

Witness-The video was in public domain and it is the duty of the investigations officer not me.

Defence-What did the accused say that was alarming, the alarming words?
Witness-The anarchy and terrorism.

Defence-Which state was being talked about?
Witness-The current government

Defence-Did you hear the accused saying the current government is sponsoring anarchy and terrorism?
Witness- Yes

Defence-Your honor we asking that the witness watch the video and point out the words.

Defence-Did you hear anyone saying they hate HH?
Witness-No!

Ddfence-Did you see them say they were excited to overthrow the government?
Witness- No, I was agitated and alarmed after I watched the video.

Defence-Did you hate the government of Zambia after watching the video?
Witness- No. After watching the video I was disturbed and I took a walk.

I heard the conductors/ drivers discussing the video

Defence-We are making an application that the court notice the demeanor of the witness.

Court-We can proceed .

Defence-Did you ever say that Changala should stop lying on TV?
Witness- I can’t remember

Defence-If I show on your Facebook page, could you remember, and the post was in December?
Witness-Yes

Defence-So you dislike the accused person? Witness-Why should I dislike him?

Defence-Do you want him to go to jail?
Witness-Why should I do that

Another Defence Counsel ‐Aongola (cross examination continues)

Defence-As a political analyst, you detest what the PF did when in power?
Witness- Yes

The PF say they are repented so we have forgiven them.

Defence-Could you vote for PF?
Witness-Never!

Defence -And it is true that you have authored articles pertaining Jay Banda, you remember? Witness-can’t remember!

Defence – On 22 June 2024, you wrote that you demand justice for Peter Sukwa?
Witness – Yes

Defence-Is it true that in that article you made allegations against Jay Banda… Or rather you made assertions?
Witness-Yes

Defence-You are not aware of any riots that arose from the content of the video?.
Witness-Yes

Defence-You talked of being alarmed, your being alarmed is from your personal content? Witness-yes

Defence-You felt threatened you mean?
Witness-Yes

Defence-You are not aware of any public protests that occurs as a reaction of this video?
Witness-Not yet.

Defence-You haven’t brought any content or statement that shows that other citizens where displeased?
Witness-I wouldn’t know.

Defence – Having listened to the video, you heard the accused ends by calling on the police to up their game?
Witness-Yes

Defence-By them making a call to the police to up their game, the accused was acting as a law abiding citizen?
Witness- I know of the people when sin they start praying.

Another lawyer (cross examination continues)

Defence -You are a political and social analyst?
Witness-Yes

Defence-Do you have any issues in comprehending words?
Witness-Not at all.

Defence-Would you agree with me that the video was calling upon the state and the police to call upon it’s citizens?
Witness- I wouldn’t agree!

Defence-So is there a part in the video where the accused is calling upon the state?
Witness-Yes!

Defence-Do you only analyse issues that pertain the government of the day?
Witness- No, I analyse everything.

Defence-Would you say your complaint was because you have a cordial relationship you are enjoying with the government?
Witness- Not at all!

Defence-Did you hate the government of the day and did you know that people hate?
Witness- I know a lot of people based on the utterances I heard.

Second witness

Dr. John Mwendapole,49, Kabwe , Pastor.

Somewhere around 26 May, the period when MP was abducted and by then I was in Lusaka and I checked on my Facebook and I came across an interview, it was on a PF platform where there was a report where there was an individual who was claiming that the state had criminals who were doing terrorism and something like that.

And the individual is Mr brebner Changala.

When you saw the video?

When I saw the video I was alarmed and I know the person as a human rights activist and the words were heavy and could cause anarchy and I took a step to go and report to the police.

I went at the inquiries and I explained why I was there, I met Mr Moono and reported. Since I had left my phone on the reception I wouldn’t show him but he told me that there is a similar report and he made me report whether it was the one and I confirmed. I gave the statement, and that peace and security of the country could be damaged.

I was trying to emphasize that by the time I was going there Jay Jay Banda was already found and I was sudened by the family and that the state was in change it sent bells that it could be awkward because we all go to the state, so if the trust we have with the state is carelessly undermined we end up experiencing a failed state.

The video affected me , I come in from the government of the PF and during that state there was a lot of caderism and my fear was we might go back to that and I know of other countries that are experiencing anarchy and I was disturbed.

Being a pastor I felt that this shouldn’t be in this country.

Cross examination

Counsel Simukonda

Are you a pastor?
Witness-Yes

Defence-Pastor at what church?

Witness-Manifested Presence of God ministries.

Defence-When did you watch the video?

Witness-May 28, 2024.

Defence – Do you know Bill Kapinda?
Witness-He’s a colleague, we come along way.

Defence – Which political party does he supports?
Witness-I cannot answer.

Defence And you which party do you support? Witness-I don’t support any party.

Defence-When you watched the video, did you hate the government?
Witness-No!

Defence-After watching the video, you did not hate the government?
Witness-No!

Defence-Do you know what contempt mean?
Witness——-‐—-

Defence- In your church how many people watched the video?
Witness-I don’t know.

Defence-Did you watch the video alone?
Witness-With my wife.

Defence-Did she tell you that she hated Zambia?
Witness-No!

Defence-Did the accused person made an accusation of the Republic of Zambia?
Witness-Yes !

Ddfence-The accused person did not break the law by calling the police?
Witness-No

Defence-In the video is there anything that the accused broke the law?
Witness – There was no breaking of the law it’s just about what I felt.

Defence-You saw the video on the PF Facebook page. Have you shared the link so that the court can check?
Witness-No.
⁹
Defence- Is it true that on the morning Jay Jay Banda was reported you were concerned?
Witness-Yes.

Defence-You were alarmed that at the level of MP gone missing?
Witness – Yes

Defence – Did you report?
Witness-No.

Defence – The reason you never felt concerned was because you never felt connected?
Witness- No

Defence-Between you and Kaping’a who reported the matter to the police?
Witness-Kaping’a

Defence – Are you aware of a riot broke up because of the video?.
Witness-No

Defence – Are you aware of any public protest? Witness-No

Defence – Do you understand the content of the whole video?
Witness-No

Matter adjourned to 20 August, 2024

Credit @Mbili Reports

Highlights from the media briefing held by Information and Media Minister, and Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa.

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Highlights from the media briefing held by Information and Media Minister, and Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa.

Decisions Made By Cabinet At The 14th Cabinet Meeting Held On Monday, 15th July, 2024;

Establishment of Golden Baobab Multi-Facility Economic Zone in Kafue.

✅Cabinet has approved creation of a Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ) in Kafue District in Lusaka Province.

✅The declaration of the MFEZ and subsequent development of backbone infrastructure in the newly approved Kafue MFEZ, will act as a catalyst for the attraction of up to US$ 300 million worth of investment, create more than 2,000 new jobs in the local community at full capacity, and generate tax revenue for the Government.

✅Kafue MFEZ has the potential of transforming the economic landscape of Kafue district, once an economic giant, by fostering economic diversification, skills development, job and wealth creation and revenue generation for government

The Civil Aviation (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

✅Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament, a Bill entitled “The Civil Aviation (Amendment) Bill, 2024”.

✅The objective of this Bill is to amend the Civil Aviation Act, No. 5 of 2016, so as to enhance civil aviation safety. The current Act is inadequate in dealing with certain aspects of civil aviation safety, including provision of adequate functions to enable the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to investigate civil aircraft accidents and serious aircraft incidents.

The National Health Research and Training Institute Bill, 2024.

✅Cabinet approved for publication and introduction in Parliament, a Bill entitled “The National Health Research and Training Institute Bill, 2024.”

✅The objectives of this Bill are to continue the existence of the Tropical Diseases Research Centre and rename it as the National Health Research and Training Institute and redefine its functions; provide for health research and training, provide for the establishment of the National Health Research Laboratory, and provide for research in indigenous knowledge, and traditional, complementary and alternative medicines.

The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

✅Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament a Bill entitled “The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2024.” The objective of this Bill is to amend the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency Act, 2019 so as to re-define the issue of medical supplies and provide for emergency procurement, storage and distribution of medicines and medical supplies.

✅Once enacted, the proposed Bill will enable the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency to be responsible for the procurement, storage and distribution of medical supplies, in an efficient manner. Furthermore, it will enable emergency procurement, storage and distribution of medicines across the country.

The Health Professions Bill, 2024.

✅The objectives of this Bill are to continue the existence of the Health Professions Council of Zambia and redefine its functions,  re-constitute the Board of the Health Professions Council of Zambia and redefine its functions, regulate health professionals, health facilities, health care services and internship sites, provide for the administration of licensure examinations; approve the curriculum for health learning programmes for the purposes of accreditation by the Higher Education Authority; and provide for the approval of internship sites for health practitioners.

✅Cabinet has realised that the Health Professions Act No. 24 of 2009, is inadequate in regulating health practitioners and health facilities in the country, and that there is need, therefore, that the law responds to the ever-evolving environment, be in line with international best practices, and also ensuring that the country has competent and qualified health practitioners, including the provision of quality health care services.

Implementation of Drought Response Measures

✅Government has so far distributed 40,865 Metric tonnes of maize to 84 districts in the country that have been worst hit by the drought.

✅71,252 Metric tonnes of maize has been sold to the public with preference to the underprivileged and vulnerable.

✅650 Metric tonnes of maize will be imported from Tanzania and the first consignment is expected in the country next week. On average, 200 trucks carrying maize are expected to enter the country through Nakonde Border Post daily.

Work for Cash

✅Government is introducing Work for Cash programme where members of the public will be engaged in work and paid in exchange for their labour.

Social Cash Transfer

✅Government has introduced emergency Social Cash Transfer and the amount increased from K400.00 to K800.00.

Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP)

✅Government will continue with the FISP programme and all inputs will be distributed before the first rains fall.

✅FISP has been broadened to include other aspects of agriculture like livestock and other services. Because of the added services brought on board, FISP is being transformed to Comprehensive Agriculture Support Programme (CASP).

✅Members pf the public are advised to ignore social media news reporting that Government has cancelled FISP programme.

What brought me to this chair is one thing only, education – HH

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What brought me to this chair is one thing only, education – HH



By Fanny Kalonda


WHAT brought me to this chair is one thing only, nothing else, it’s education, says President Hakainde Hichilema.

He says supporting education is the best investment stressing the importance of foundational learning in Zambia and on the African continent.

Speaking when he met the Association for the Development of Education in Africa  (ADEA) at State House yesterday, President Hichilema said without skills there is no country one can run.

He said education is the best investment, an equaliser and inheritance.

“I must indicate before I go far that education to us, supporting education to us, is the best investment. Nothing beats that. What brought me to this chair is one thing only. Nothing else, it’s education and we have a duty to expand this opportunity to many more of our children especially at a early age. Many more of our population since we introduced the free education in our country, we have seen 50-year-old mothers going back to school. That’s important. It’s important for foundational learning because that mother will make sure that the young kid goes back to school. The grandchild goes to school. That’s the connection to explain to you a little bit more things that you know already, but to put context,” he explained. “Our free education policy may not, should not, be viewed from education direct or support to education directly. We do yes that as the minister said, he acknowledged the free eduaction policy encompasses many things that you acknowledged – infrastructure, hardware, software…”

President Hichilema said efforts being implemented cannot work properly without foundational learning.

“This government is looking at the holistic offering to education and we were also clear that education … alone is not enough. I mean supporting, investing in that, so you look at other instruments we have which we call Constituency Development Fund, enhanced Constituency Development Fund. In there we also offer a good portion of that funding to education scholarships, bursaries…But all these things cannot work properly if foundational learning is not there. The facilities may be there, opportunities may be there, but the kid would have missed something at an early childhood education facility,” he explained. “As individual countries, we have to do our part in order to make this thing real. And we take this serious. A fellow like me takes this very very seriously and we want to assure you we will do our best within our challenges. We have a drought situation now which has stretched our resource envelope but we will do our best out of conviction to continue bringing more kids into educational facilities at an early age because that makes a difference. I didn’t have pre-school myself, so we are happy that we are in that space.”

President Hichilema said he is happy to champion policies to open up education to all children on the continent.

“But one ask that I want to make to all of us, just one ask, I belive that we need to begin to push the agenda that on our continent there must be basic minimums. Each of our countries must offer to its own kids, children by way of education, and early childhood should be one of those. The minimums that will require, obligate, our countries to support all the population of us especially those who are not able to because that’s where our focus is. I think that I am happy to push it through…” said President. “And I am happy to advance given that you blessed me with this opportunity, to be the champion. I am happy to push this with our PS (permanent secretary) on the continent in the various platforms so that each country has basic minimum policies to open up education to all our kids. I think this is important and I want to say from my business background, from my sins of the past, that without skills there is no business you can run. There is no economy you can run. There is no country you can run. So this I end here that this is the best investment, equaliser and to be honest, inheritance.”

CREDIT: The Mast

LAZ CLEARS GEORGE KUNDA LEGAL FIRM OVER THE KALENGA COMPLAINT

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LAZ CLEARS GEORGE KUNDA LEGAL FIRM OVER THE KALENGA COMPLAINT

Lusaka-Friday 19th July 2024

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) Legal Practioners’ Committee has dismmissed a complaint of alleged unethical behaviour brought by the Kalenga Family against George Kunda & Company and Mrs. Irene Mwezi Kunda SC in a running legal dispute over Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited.

The Committee also noted that the late Hon. Kalenga was not a shareholder in Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited, though he was a director in the Company.

The Committee also noted that he was, however, the
majority shareholder and Director in Zambia Modern Enterprises Limited, which in turn, was a shareholder in Sun Pharmaceutical Limited.

“The documents presented to the Committee by the complainants do not show where any of them are listed as Directors of the company”, read the Ruling.

“The Complainants state that they are Administrators of the Estate of the late Hon Kalenga though no appointing documents were presented to the committee, neither were any documents to show that the Complainants were ever directors of Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited”, read the Ruling.

“It is therefore difficult to see how a conflict of interest arose when the practitioner represented Mr Sadhu, who as she said, was the only official representative of the company that she dealt with.”

Below is the Law Association of Zambia, Legal Practitioners’ Committee Ruling;

LAZ DECISION

“We are thankful to the parties for their submissions both written and oral, and have taken note of what has been presented before us.”

“Although going through the written submissions, especially from the Complainants, a lot of allegations have been made against the Practitioner, the focus of the Committee is only restricted to the allegations of conflict of interest on the part of the Practitioner.”

“These allegations are that the Practitioner found herself in a conflict position because she represented Mr Sadhu and his family in a case where the complainants had sued the same Sadhu in court.”

“They argue that because the Practitioner’s firm represented Sun Pharmaceutical Limited, she should not have acted for the Sadhus, their contention lies with the fact that the Pracitioner’s prior representation of Sun Pharmaceuticals, a company in which the Sadhu family and the Late Hon. John Kalenga held significant interests and created a conflict-of-interest situation.”

“And that when the Administrators of the Estate of the late Hon Kalenga initiated legal proceedings against Mr Sadhu and his family, the Practitioner should not have represented them.”

“In determining whether there exists or existed a conflict of interest on the part of the Practitioner, it is important to ascertain what the position of the parties were in Sun Pharmaceutical Limited .”

“From the records availed to the Committee by the Complainants, and particularly the exhibit marked |K6, it is noticed that the Directors of
Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited were among others Mr Sadhu and the late Hon. Kalenga.”

“The shareholders of the same company were:-
1. Zambian Modern Enterprises Limited
2. Padley & Venables (C.A) Limited,
3. Sunvest Limited Zambia.

“From this, the Committee noted that the late Hon. Kalenga was not a shareholder in Sun
Pharmaceuticals Limited, though he was a director in the Company.”

“He was, however, the majority shareholder and Director in Zambia Modern Enterprises Limited, which in turn was a shareholder in Sun Pharmaceutical Limited.”

“The Complainants state that they are Administrators of the Estate of the late Hon Kalenga though no appointing documents
were presented to the committee, neither were any documents to show that the Complainants were ever directors of Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited.”

“The Committee noted therefore that it is difficult to establish a nexus between the Complainants and the company called Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited, It is not in dispute that the late Hon. Kalenga was a director in the said company, but the same can not be said about the complainants.”

“The documents presented to the Committee by the complainants do not show where any of them are listed as Directors of the company. It is, therefore, difficult to see how a conflict of interest arose when the practitioner represented Mr Sadhu, who, as she said, was the only official representative of the company that she dealt with.”

“It is thus the conclusion of this Committee that the complaint against the practitioner has not been proved, and it is therefore dismissed.”

Bruce Mwape banned from private contact with Zambia players at Olympics

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Bruce Mwape banned from private contact with Zambia players at Olympics

Bruce Mwape will not be allowed ­private contact with any of his ­players at the Olympic Games in Paris but the coach of Zambia’s women’s football team has eventually been granted a visa despite an ongoing investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against him.

Fifa is still investigating claims that Mwape rubbed his hands over the chest of a player after a ­training ­session at last year’s World Cup in New Zealand. The Guardian also revealed in May that he was accused of ­intentionally touching a Fifa ­contractor’s breast at the same ­tournament. It has been revealed that before the World Cup Mwape – who has previously denied the ­accusations – was the subject of an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct by a number of players in the squad that had been referred to world ­football’s ­governing body by the Zambian Football ­Association (FAZ).

The International Olympic ­Committee said at the time that it “will be following the outcome of this case closely, for ­consideration with respect to the Olympic Games”, with Mwape having led ­Zambia to ­qualification last year after ­continuing in his post despite being under investigation. It is understood he was initially denied a visa to enter France before the decision was later reversed, with strict conditions imposed on the 64-year-old. They are believed to include stipulations that he will not have private contact with any of the players and that any one-on-one meeting must be conducted in an open place.

The Fifa contractor who alleged that Mwape touched her breast said she was “bitterly disappointed” with the decision to allow him to coach at the Olympics. “He should have gone years ago,” she added.

It is understood that Mwape’s application was initially rejected under strict French laws that do not allow those accused of sexual crimes to be granted a visa. The FAZ is said to have insisted that it was too late to replace Mwape – who arrived in France last week, 48 hours after the rest of his squad – after his application was turned down a few days before he was due to travel.

The FAZ did not respond to ­questions from the Guardian but a spokesperson for the IOC said that “appropriate measures have been put in place by the international federation concerned and agreed with the NOC [National Olympic Committee]”.

Source the Guardian

Vedanta Deposits USD 245.75 Million into Designated Escrow Account

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Vedanta Deposits USD 245.75 Million into Designated Escrow Account 

• Paves the way for the imminent reinstatement of the Konkola Copper Mines Board and for Zambia’s resurgence as a global leader in Copper production.

Friday, 19th July 2024, Lusaka, Zambia- Vedanta Resources Holdings Limited (“VRHL” or “Vedanta Holdings or Vedanta”) today confirmed that it has deposited USD 245.75 million into an escrow account as designated by the Hon.

High Court of Zambia in relation to the Konkola Copper Mines.

This paves the way for the imminent reinstatement of the Board of the Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) and the return of full-management control, which will allow Vedanta to take the necessary steps required to allow KCM to start to deliver to its full potential, and to fuel Zambia’s resurgence as a major copper producing nation. 

The Konkola Copper Mines have one of the largest deposits of high-grade copper in the world, and substantial amounts of cobalt, both of which are expected to play an increasingly important role in the global energy transition in the years ahead. 

Reinforcing Vedanta’s commitment to KCM and to Zambia, Chris Griffith, Chief Executive Officer, Vedanta Base Metals said: “We are delighted to confirm the transfer of funds into a designated Escrow account as per our earlier commitment. Vedanta is committed to Zambia and the Zambian people.

We are confident that with the full support of the government and other key stakeholders, we will soon be able to help KCM reach its full potential, both as a world-class Copper and Cobalt asset that is well equipped with a smelter and a robust Tailings Leaching Plant, and a growth engine for the robust social and economic development of Zambia.” Zambia is targeting to produce 3 million metric tonnes of copper over the next 10 years.

The injection of funds will have a far-reaching and transformative impact on Zambia as it revives local economic activity, creates jobs, and supports local businesses and communities through sustainable initiatives which will create a brighter future for generations of Zambians. 

The funds in the escrow account will be used to:

• Settle creditor claims – including Class 2 creditors.

• Support local community development projects through the Community Trust.

• Provide a one-off employee bonus to KCM employees.

This payment comes within a week of Vedanta facilitating the signing of five landmark collective agreements between KCM and its workers unions in recognition of the importance of a positive and collaborative relationship at the Konkola Copper Mines.

Vedanta remains fully committed to partnering with the government, ZCCM IH, and the local community to deliver on a roadmap of shared progress and economic goals.  

About Vedanta Resources Limited:  Vedanta Resources Limited (“VRL”, parent of VRHL) is a diversified global natural resources company.

Its portfolio includes Zinc (world’s largest integrated producer), Aluminium (India’s largest producer of primary aluminium), Oil & Gas (India’s largest private producer of crude), Silver (6th largest producer globally), Copper, Iron Ore & Steel, battery metals: Nickel (India’s sole nickel producer) & Cobalt and Commercial Energy.

VRL is a former FTSE 100 company headquartered in London with operations in India, Zambia, Namibia and South Africa.

The Company uniquely covers traditional and leading-edge businesses.  

For more information on Vedanta Resources, please visit www.vedantaresources.com 

For any media queries, please contact: Sukanti Ghosh, President Global Policy and Communications, Vedanta Resources: E: sukanti.ghosh@vedantaresources.com / M: +44.7455.778.164 Or Masuzyo Ndhlovu: Director Corporate Communications  E:mndhlovu@cpb.vedantaresources.co.za/ M:+260977853580

PRESS STATEMENT BY HON CORNELIUS MWEETWA, MP, MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND MEDIA AND CHIEF GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON ON THE DECISIONS MADE BY CABINET AT THE 14TH CABINET MEETING HELD ON MONDAY, 15TH JULY, 2024

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PRESS STATEMENT BY HON CORNELIUS MWEETWA, MP, MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND MEDIA AND CHIEF GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON ON THE DECISIONS MADE BY CABINET AT THE 14TH CABINET MEETING HELD ON MONDAY, 15TH JULY, 2024

The President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, called for the 14th Cabinet Meeting on Monday, 15th July, 2024, at State House, to deliberate on policy and legislative matters aimed at facilitating national socio-economic development, in line with the general broad development Agenda for the New Dawn Government.

The following were the decisions made:

1. Declaration of Golden Baobab Multi-Facility Economic Zone in Kafue District.

Cabinet approved the creation of a Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ) in Kafue District in Lusaka Province.

The declaration of the MFEZ and subsequent development of backbone infrastructure in the newly approved Kafue MFEZ, will act as a catalyst for the attraction of up to US$ 300 million worth of investment, create more than 2,000 new jobs in the local community at full capacity, and generate tax revenue for the Government. This will further help transform an idle part of Kafue district into a manufacturing hub attracting quality enterprises in manufacturing of assortment of products with an eye to the export markets.

Cabinet has a firm belief that the development of the Kafue MFEZ has the potential of transforming the economic landscape of Kafue district, once an economic giant, by fostering economic diversification, skills development, job and wealth creation and revenue generation for government.

2. Legislation Matters:

(a) The Civil Aviation Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet approved for publication and introduction in Parliament, of a Bill entitled “The Civil Aviation Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The objective of this Bill is to amend the Civil Aviation Authority Act, 2012, so as to, enhance civil aviation safety and security; provide clarity on the manner and form of applications for certificates and licenses in aviation; and provide for the transfer of the functions of the Civil Aviation Authority over a Zambian registered aircraft engaged in international navigation to a member state of the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

It has been observed that The Civil Aviation Authority Act, 2012 is inadequate as it does not provide structures for cross-border aviation transactions, and does not provide for mandatory provisions in Zambian airports, radio services, meteorological services and other air navigation facilities that facilitate international air navigation in accordance with the standards and recommended practices established from time to time.

(b) The Civil Aviation (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament, a Bill entitled “The Civil Aviation (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The object of this Bill is to amend the Civil Aviation Act, No. 5 of 2016, so as to enhance civil aviation safety.

The current Act is inadequate in dealing with certain aspects of civil aviation safety, including provision of adequate functions to enable the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to investigate civil aircraft accidents and serious aircraft incidents.

Cabinet has also decided that it is important for the country to fully comply with the Chicago Convention and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards and recommended practices (SRPs) through the two civil aviation amendment Bills.

(c) The National Health Research and Training Institute Bill, 2024.

In the area of health, Cabinet approved for publication and introduction in Parliament, a Bill entitled “The National Health Research and Training Institute Bill, 2024.
The objectives of this Bill are to continue the existence of the Tropical Diseases Research Centre and rename it as the National Health Research and Training Institute and redefine its functions; provide for health research and training; provide for the establishment of the National Health Research Laboratory; and provide for research in indigenous knowledge, and traditional, complementary and alternative medicines.

Cabinet has realised that The Tropical Diseases Research Centre Act, Cap. 301 of the Laws of Zambia, is inadequate in supporting the Tropical Diseases Research Centre’s expanded mandate and the changing needs of the country.

(d) The Zambia National Public Health Institute (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament, a Bill entitled “The Zambia National Public Health Institute (Amendment) Bill, 2024.” The objective of this Bill is to amend the Zambia National Public Health Institute Act, 2020, so as to revise the functions of the Zambia National Public Health Institute.

The amendment to the Zambia National Public Health Institute Act, 2020, has been necessitated by the proposed National Health Research and Training Institute Bill, 2024, that seeks to repeal and replace the Tropical Diseases Research Centre Act, Cap. 301, and vest the mandate to conduct public health research in general, in the National Health Research and Training Institute.

It has been observed that the Zambia National Public Health Institute Act, 2020, in its current state, gives the Zambia National Public Health Institute the mandate to conduct public health research and, therefore, to ensure consistency on the Statute Book there is need to amend the Act.

(e) The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament a Bill entitled “The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2024.” The objective of this Bill is to amend the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency Act, 2019 so as to re-define the issue of medical supplies and provide for emergency procurement, storage and distribution of medicines and medical supplies.

Therefore, there is need to amend the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency Act, 2019, in order to enhance the efficiency in the implementation of procuring, storing and distributing of medicines and medical supplies in the country by streamlining the functions of the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency.

The proposed Bill, once enacted, will enable the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency to be responsible for the procurement, storage and distribution of medical supplies, in an efficient manner. Furthermore, the Bill, once enacted, will enable the emergency procurement, storage and distribution of medicines and medical supplies during a public health emergency.

(f) The Health Professions Bill, 2024.

Another Bill approved for publication and introduction in Parliament is “The Health Professions Bill, 2024.”

The objectives of this Bill are to, continue the existence of the Health Professions Council of Zambia and redefine its functions; re-constitute the Board of the Health Professions Council of Zambia and redefine its functions; regulate health professionals, health facilities, health care services and internship sites; provide for the administration of licensure examinations; approve the curriculum for health learning programmes for the purposes of accreditation by the Higher Education Authority; and provide for the approval of internship sites for health practitioners.

Cabinet has realised that the Health Professions Act No. 24 of 2009, is inadequate in regulating health practitioners and health facilities in the country, and that there is need, therefore, that the law responds to the ever-evolving environment, be in line with international best practices, and also ensuring that the country has competent and qualified health practitioners, including the provision of quality health care services.

(g) The Kazungula Bridge Authority Bill, 2024.

Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament of a Bill entitled “The Kazungula Bridge Authority Bill, 2024.” The objective of this Bill is to give effect to the Agreement relating to the establishment of the Kazungula Bridge Authority made between the Government of the Republic of Zambia and the Government of the Republic of Botswana.

The Kazungula Bridge Authority Bill, 2024, once enacted, will define the scope and purpose of the Authority which shall be to exercise the contracting parties’ right of ownership of the bridge infrastructure and to advise the contracting parties on the most appropriate arrangement to ensure that the bridge functions as a link between the respective transport systems.

(h) The National Forensic (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet, further approved in principle, to the introduction of a Bill in Parliament to amend the National Forensic Act No. 2 of 2020, in order to broaden the mandate of the National Forensic Authority, so as to encompass both clinical forensic medicine and forensic pathology; revise the definitions of Forensic Analyst and Forensic Pathologist, as well as the qualifications of the Forensic Analyst and Forensic Pathologist.

Cabinet has observed that currently, the National Forensic Act, does not provide powers to the National Forensic Authority to regulate forensic medicine in Zambia. In addition, the Act limits the competence to testify as an expert witness to those with academic qualifications at postgraduate level.

Therefore, amending the Act will address the issue of qualifications, provide for the establishment and management of the National Forensic Database, as well as ensure that all forensic service providers are regulated by the National Forensic Authority and all other relevant State institutions in Zambia.

(i) The Customs and Excise (General) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024.

Cabinet also approved the Customs and Excise (General) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024, a Statutory Instrument intended to domesticate the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The Government of the Republic of Zambia signed the Agreement establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area on 10th February, 2019, and submitted the instruments of ratification to the African Union Commission on 5th February, 2021.

Although Zambia ratified the Agreement, implementation of the Agreement can only commence after its domestication, hence the approval by Cabinet for domestication. It is expected that through the AfCFTA, this will facilitate the increase in trade among African countries, stimulate production through the development of regional value chains, and strengthen the capacity of African companies to access and supply goods and services to the world market.

(j) The Customs and Excise (Suspension) (Wire Rod Coils) Regulations, 2024.

Cabinet also approved the Customs and Excise (Suspension) (Wire Rod Coils) Regulations, 2024, a Statutory Instrument intended to suspend surtax on imported wire rod coils. Wire rod coils are mainly imported for use as an input in the manufacture of steel products such as game wire and reinforcement of concrete in the manufacture of concrete-based structures such as street lighting poles.

Therefore, the removal of surtax on wire rod coils is generally intended to reduce the cost of input in the manufacture of steel products in the country.

(k) The Fisheries (Fisheries Prohibition) Regulations, 2024.

Another Statutory Instrument approved by Cabinet is on the declaration of the fishing ban on Lake Tanganyika, in order to allow for the resting period of fish that will ensure the natural regeneration of fish stocks, as well as promote sustainable management of fisheries resources.

The declaration of the fishing ban on Lake Tanganyika is imperative due to the necessity of long-term conservation, protection, management and sustainable use of the fisheries resources. Lake Tanganyika is internationally recognised as a global hotspot of biodiversity, representing some of the most diverse aquatic ecosystems in the world. The lake’s valuable aquatic ecosystem and the many natural resources found in its Basin provide essential sources of livelihood and income for over 10 million riparian population around the lake, and contribute to the growing economies of surrounding countries of The Republic of Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, United Republic of Tanzania and The Republic of Zambia.

3. National Water Policy.

Cabinet also approved the National Water Policy and its Implementation Plan.

The Policy aims at ensuring national water security and universal access to sanitation. It is also designed to enhance cross-sectoral water resources planning; resource mobilisation; equitable water allocation; harness water resources; accelerate attainment of universal access to water supply and sanitation; enhance legal and institutional frameworks and coordination mechanisms; and promote gender and social inclusion in the water sector.

4. Implementation of The Drought Response Plan.

In winding deliberation for the day, Cabinet took note of the information that generally, Government has continued providing food assistance to people in the drought affected communities in line with the Drought Response Plan. So far, 40,865 Metric Tons of White maize has been distributed to the 84 most affected districts, targeting the most vulnerable. Community sales of maize are also on-going and 71,252 Metric Tons have been sold to members of the public.

Further, Government has provided K392,187,650.50 in supplementary funding for the school feeding programme. In order to enhance food security, Government through the Food Reserve Agency, has accelerated the procurement of maize and has so far procured over 270,000 Metric tonnes from the early maize and the 2023/2024 harvest. The Government will import 650,000 Metric Tons of non-GMO white maize from Tanzania and the process of transporting the maize into the country is in progress.

In an effort to improve availability of water for households and economic activities in the drought affected areas, Government has started works to maintain and rehabilitate over 770 dams. More dams will be constructed. Further, drilling of boreholes and construction of new piped water schemes equipped with solar system is being accelerated.

To complement these efforts, Cabinet approved the implementation of a more than K2 billion Cash for Work (CFW) Programme that will help people to work on community projects and get paid in form of cash to enable them to buy food.

Cabinet has realised that despite the recent Government interventions to alleviate the lives of the drought-affected communities, a number of people still continue to experience high levels of vulnerability and are generally food insecure. Further, Cabinet has observed with greater concern that people living in urban areas have also been affected by increases in the price of mealie meal and other food items, leading to significant impacts on their cost of living.

Therefore, Cabinet has decided that the Cash-For-Work Programme, be immediately implemented as a short-term measure, for a period July to December, so as to empower individuals with cash to buy food items in exchange for their labour. The public works are expected to promote public health and mitigate disease outbreaks such as cholera by clearing drainages, improving community assets such as small rural bridges, and enhancing environment conservation through restoration activities.
This programme is aimed at complementing other social assistance programmes being implemented by the Government, such as the Social Cash Transfer Programme and the Emergency Social Cash Transfer Programme, as an additional response to the drought. It is in the interest of Cabinet to provide immediate financial relief to many beneficiary households so as to stimulate economic activity at the local community level country-wide.

Original copy
Signed by

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

18th July, 2024PRESS STATEMENT BY HON CORNELIUS MWEETWA, MP, MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND MEDIA AND CHIEF GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON ON THE DECISIONS MADE BY CABINET AT THE 14TH CABINET MEETING HELD ON MONDAY, 15TH JULY, 2024

The President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, called for the 14th Cabinet Meeting on Monday, 15th July, 2024, at State House, to deliberate on policy and legislative matters aimed at facilitating national socio-economic development, in line with the general broad development Agenda for the New Dawn Government.

The following were the decisions made:

1. Declaration of Golden Baobab Multi-Facility Economic Zone in Kafue District.

Cabinet approved the creation of a Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ) in Kafue District in Lusaka Province.

The declaration of the MFEZ and subsequent development of backbone infrastructure in the newly approved Kafue MFEZ, will act as a catalyst for the attraction of up to US$ 300 million worth of investment, create more than 2,000 new jobs in the local community at full capacity, and generate tax revenue for the Government. This will further help transform an idle part of Kafue district into a manufacturing hub attracting quality enterprises in manufacturing of assortment of products with an eye to the export markets.

Cabinet has a firm belief that the development of the Kafue MFEZ has the potential of transforming the economic landscape of Kafue district, once an economic giant, by fostering economic diversification, skills development, job and wealth creation and revenue generation for government.

2. Legislation Matters:

(a) The Civil Aviation Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet approved for publication and introduction in Parliament, of a Bill entitled “The Civil Aviation Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The objective of this Bill is to amend the Civil Aviation Authority Act, 2012, so as to, enhance civil aviation safety and security; provide clarity on the manner and form of applications for certificates and licenses in aviation; and provide for the transfer of the functions of the Civil Aviation Authority over a Zambian registered aircraft engaged in international navigation to a member state of the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

It has been observed that The Civil Aviation Authority Act, 2012 is inadequate as it does not provide structures for cross-border aviation transactions, and does not provide for mandatory provisions in Zambian airports, radio services, meteorological services and other air navigation facilities that facilitate international air navigation in accordance with the standards and recommended practices established from time to time.

(b) The Civil Aviation (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament, a Bill entitled “The Civil Aviation (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The object of this Bill is to amend the Civil Aviation Act, No. 5 of 2016, so as to enhance civil aviation safety.

The current Act is inadequate in dealing with certain aspects of civil aviation safety, including provision of adequate functions to enable the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to investigate civil aircraft accidents and serious aircraft incidents.

Cabinet has also decided that it is important for the country to fully comply with the Chicago Convention and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards and recommended practices (SRPs) through the two civil aviation amendment Bills.

(c) The National Health Research and Training Institute Bill, 2024.

In the area of health, Cabinet approved for publication and introduction in Parliament, a Bill entitled “The National Health Research and Training Institute Bill, 2024.
The objectives of this Bill are to continue the existence of the Tropical Diseases Research Centre and rename it as the National Health Research and Training Institute and redefine its functions; provide for health research and training; provide for the establishment of the National Health Research Laboratory; and provide for research in indigenous knowledge, and traditional, complementary and alternative medicines.

Cabinet has realised that The Tropical Diseases Research Centre Act, Cap. 301 of the Laws of Zambia, is inadequate in supporting the Tropical Diseases Research Centre’s expanded mandate and the changing needs of the country.

(d) The Zambia National Public Health Institute (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament, a Bill entitled “The Zambia National Public Health Institute (Amendment) Bill, 2024.” The objective of this Bill is to amend the Zambia National Public Health Institute Act, 2020, so as to revise the functions of the Zambia National Public Health Institute.

The amendment to the Zambia National Public Health Institute Act, 2020, has been necessitated by the proposed National Health Research and Training Institute Bill, 2024, that seeks to repeal and replace the Tropical Diseases Research Centre Act, Cap. 301, and vest the mandate to conduct public health research in general, in the National Health Research and Training Institute.

It has been observed that the Zambia National Public Health Institute Act, 2020, in its current state, gives the Zambia National Public Health Institute the mandate to conduct public health research and, therefore, to ensure consistency on the Statute Book there is need to amend the Act.

(e) The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament a Bill entitled “The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2024.” The objective of this Bill is to amend the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency Act, 2019 so as to re-define the issue of medical supplies and provide for emergency procurement, storage and distribution of medicines and medical supplies.

Therefore, there is need to amend the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency Act, 2019, in order to enhance the efficiency in the implementation of procuring, storing and distributing of medicines and medical supplies in the country by streamlining the functions of the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency.

The proposed Bill, once enacted, will enable the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency to be responsible for the procurement, storage and distribution of medical supplies, in an efficient manner. Furthermore, the Bill, once enacted, will enable the emergency procurement, storage and distribution of medicines and medical supplies during a public health emergency.

(f) The Health Professions Bill, 2024.

Another Bill approved for publication and introduction in Parliament is “The Health Professions Bill, 2024.”

The objectives of this Bill are to, continue the existence of the Health Professions Council of Zambia and redefine its functions; re-constitute the Board of the Health Professions Council of Zambia and redefine its functions; regulate health professionals, health facilities, health care services and internship sites; provide for the administration of licensure examinations; approve the curriculum for health learning programmes for the purposes of accreditation by the Higher Education Authority; and provide for the approval of internship sites for health practitioners.

Cabinet has realised that the Health Professions Act No. 24 of 2009, is inadequate in regulating health practitioners and health facilities in the country, and that there is need, therefore, that the law responds to the ever-evolving environment, be in line with international best practices, and also ensuring that the country has competent and qualified health practitioners, including the provision of quality health care services.

(g) The Kazungula Bridge Authority Bill, 2024.

Cabinet also approved for publication and introduction in Parliament of a Bill entitled “The Kazungula Bridge Authority Bill, 2024.” The objective of this Bill is to give effect to the Agreement relating to the establishment of the Kazungula Bridge Authority made between the Government of the Republic of Zambia and the Government of the Republic of Botswana.

The Kazungula Bridge Authority Bill, 2024, once enacted, will define the scope and purpose of the Authority which shall be to exercise the contracting parties’ right of ownership of the bridge infrastructure and to advise the contracting parties on the most appropriate arrangement to ensure that the bridge functions as a link between the respective transport systems.

(h) The National Forensic (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Cabinet, further approved in principle, to the introduction of a Bill in Parliament to amend the National Forensic Act No. 2 of 2020, in order to broaden the mandate of the National Forensic Authority, so as to encompass both clinical forensic medicine and forensic pathology; revise the definitions of Forensic Analyst and Forensic Pathologist, as well as the qualifications of the Forensic Analyst and Forensic Pathologist.

Cabinet has observed that currently, the National Forensic Act, does not provide powers to the National Forensic Authority to regulate forensic medicine in Zambia. In addition, the Act limits the competence to testify as an expert witness to those with academic qualifications at postgraduate level.

Therefore, amending the Act will address the issue of qualifications, provide for the establishment and management of the National Forensic Database, as well as ensure that all forensic service providers are regulated by the National Forensic Authority and all other relevant State institutions in Zambia.

(i) The Customs and Excise (General) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024.

Cabinet also approved the Customs and Excise (General) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024, a Statutory Instrument intended to domesticate the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The Government of the Republic of Zambia signed the Agreement establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area on 10th February, 2019, and submitted the instruments of ratification to the African Union Commission on 5th February, 2021.

Although Zambia ratified the Agreement, implementation of the Agreement can only commence after its domestication, hence the approval by Cabinet for domestication. It is expected that through the AfCFTA, this will facilitate the increase in trade among African countries, stimulate production through the development of regional value chains, and strengthen the capacity of African companies to access and supply goods and services to the world market.

(j) The Customs and Excise (Suspension) (Wire Rod Coils) Regulations, 2024.

Cabinet also approved the Customs and Excise (Suspension) (Wire Rod Coils) Regulations, 2024, a Statutory Instrument intended to suspend surtax on imported wire rod coils. Wire rod coils are mainly imported for use as an input in the manufacture of steel products such as game wire and reinforcement of concrete in the manufacture of concrete-based structures such as street lighting poles.

Therefore, the removal of surtax on wire rod coils is generally intended to reduce the cost of input in the manufacture of steel products in the country.

(k) The Fisheries (Fisheries Prohibition) Regulations, 2024.

Another Statutory Instrument approved by Cabinet is on the declaration of the fishing ban on Lake Tanganyika, in order to allow for the resting period of fish that will ensure the natural regeneration of fish stocks, as well as promote sustainable management of fisheries resources.

The declaration of the fishing ban on Lake Tanganyika is imperative due to the necessity of long-term conservation, protection, management and sustainable use of the fisheries resources. Lake Tanganyika is internationally recognised as a global hotspot of biodiversity, representing some of the most diverse aquatic ecosystems in the world. The lake’s valuable aquatic ecosystem and the many natural resources found in its Basin provide essential sources of livelihood and income for over 10 million riparian population around the lake, and contribute to the growing economies of surrounding countries of The Republic of Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, United Republic of Tanzania and The Republic of Zambia.

3. National Water Policy.

Cabinet also approved the National Water Policy and its Implementation Plan.

The Policy aims at ensuring national water security and universal access to sanitation. It is also designed to enhance cross-sectoral water resources planning; resource mobilisation; equitable water allocation; harness water resources; accelerate attainment of universal access to water supply and sanitation; enhance legal and institutional frameworks and coordination mechanisms; and promote gender and social inclusion in the water sector.

4. Implementation of The Drought Response Plan.

In winding deliberation for the day, Cabinet took note of the information that generally, Government has continued providing food assistance to people in the drought affected communities in line with the Drought Response Plan. So far, 40,865 Metric Tons of White maize has been distributed to the 84 most affected districts, targeting the most vulnerable. Community sales of maize are also on-going and 71,252 Metric Tons have been sold to members of the public.

Further, Government has provided K392,187,650.50 in supplementary funding for the school feeding programme. In order to enhance food security, Government through the Food Reserve Agency, has accelerated the procurement of maize and has so far procured over 270,000 Metric tonnes from the early maize and the 2023/2024 harvest. The Government will import 650,000 Metric Tons of non-GMO white maize from Tanzania and the process of transporting the maize into the country is in progress.

In an effort to improve availability of water for households and economic activities in the drought affected areas, Government has started works to maintain and rehabilitate over 770 dams. More dams will be constructed. Further, drilling of boreholes and construction of new piped water schemes equipped with solar system is being accelerated.

To complement these efforts, Cabinet approved the implementation of a more than K2 billion Cash for Work (CFW) Programme that will help people to work on community projects and get paid in form of cash to enable them to buy food.

Cabinet has realised that despite the recent Government interventions to alleviate the lives of the drought-affected communities, a number of people still continue to experience high levels of vulnerability and are generally food insecure. Further, Cabinet has observed with greater concern that people living in urban areas have also been affected by increases in the price of mealie meal and other food items, leading to significant impacts on their cost of living.

Therefore, Cabinet has decided that the Cash-For-Work Programme, be immediately implemented as a short-term measure, for a period July to December, so as to empower individuals with cash to buy food items in exchange for their labour. The public works are expected to promote public health and mitigate disease outbreaks such as cholera by clearing drainages, improving community assets such as small rural bridges, and enhancing environment conservation through restoration activities.
This programme is aimed at complementing other social assistance programmes being implemented by the Government, such as the Social Cash Transfer Programme and the Emergency Social Cash Transfer Programme, as an additional response to the drought. It is in the interest of Cabinet to provide immediate financial relief to many beneficiary households so as to stimulate economic activity at the local community level country-wide.

Original copy
Signed by

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

18th July, 2024

Namibia refuses to extend visa for Ugandan monarch

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Namibia refuses to extend visa for Ugandan monarch

The Namibian government has refused a request to extend the visa for a Ugandan king who has been getting medical treatment in the country since April.

King Mutebi II of the Buganda has been receiving treatment for an undisclosed condition. The centre where he has been staying requested his visa extension earlier this month.

But in response, the international relations ministry said Namibian immigration law provided for a maximum stay of only 90 days in a year to foreign citizens.
This comes weeks after authorities reportedly expressed displeasure over protests by Ugandan activists at Namibian diplomatic missions.

“Having checked the records, I wish to inform you that the request for an extension is declined,” the state broadcaster NBC quoted a ministry official as saying.

The Ugandan envoy in South Africa said recently that Namibian authorities were unhappy over the harassment of their diplomatic officials regarding the king’s stay.
In May there were protests at the Namibian High Commission in the UK, with Ugandan demonstrators demanding transparency over the king’s extended stay.

They wanted Namibia to disclose information about the king’s whereabouts to put to rest suspicions that he had been kidnapped.

The Namibian government then referred the matter to the Buganda traditional authorities.
Two weeks ago, Buganda traditional chiefs travelled to Namibia to seek the truth about the king’s health, sparking diplomatic concerns and a rebuke from Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni.

“I request all the Ugandans to stop embarrassing Uganda by opportunistically trying to show how much they are for the Kabaka [king],” Mr Museveni said.

The delegation, which was said to have travelled without the knowledge of either the Buganda kingdom or the Ugandan authorities, was briefly detained and questioned by Namibian officials, who reportedly asked if they had authorisation to see the monarch.
They had gone even though the Buganda king had addressed his subjects through a pre-recorded video, where he spoke about his improving health, and expressing hope that he would return soon.

On Wednesday, the Namibian newspaper quoted a state official saying that it was “normal practice” for a foreign national who had stayed for 90 days to return to their country.

“There is nothing controversial about that,” foreign relations officer Erastus Hailwa said.
Uganda has said it will respect Namibia’s decision.

“Namibia has decided that they are not interested in this kind of bad publicity, and we should respect [their] position,” Uganda’s Monitor newspaper quoted the country’s Foreign Minister Henry Oryem Okello as saying.


“We have to respect their rules and ways of life. Since Kabaka went to Namibia, many people have turned the country into… a market where they enter as they wish,” he said.


Buganda is the largest of Uganda’s four ancient kingdoms, none of which have any political power but remain influential.

Donald Trump’s sho0ter researched member of Royal Family online as he planned targets for assassination

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The gunman who tried to kill Donald Trump searched online for a member of the Royal family days before his attempt on the former president’s life, FBI investigators have said.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, was killed seconds after opening fire on the former president at his rally in Pennsylvania over the weekend.

FBI investigators told members of Congress that Crooks had gone online to ‘scope out’ a number of potential high-profile assassination targets – which included an unnamed member of the Royal Family.

The revelation came after federal agents downloaded the contents of two of Crooks’ mobile phones.

The wannabe hitman also looked up Christopher Wray, the FBI’s director, and Merrick Garland, the US attorney general.

Investigators also disclosed that Crooks’ devices contained images of President Joe Biden and Trump, as well as the dates of both Trump rallies and the Democratic National Convention, which are due to take place in Chicago next month.

News of the FBI’s discovery came as it was revealed Crooks had written an ominous warning on a gaming platform before he tried to murder Trump.

US Senators were told the 20-year-old killer posted on Steam: ‘July 13 will be my premiere, watch as it unfolds.’

On July 13 he opened fire on Republican nominee Mr Trump from a roof just 130 yards away from the rally stage in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Following the assassination attempt, the US Secret Service was accused of incompetence over its failure to protect Trump.

The agency was alerted to a ‘suspicious person’ close to the stage an hour before the attack took place, and Crooks was booted out of the venue after setting off a metal detector.

Senators also learned that Crooks was spotted by Secret Service agents 10 minutes before Mr Trump walked out onstage, a full 20 minutes before he was shot.

Mike Lee, the Republican Senator for Utah, confirmed this in a tweet Wednesday afternoon.

‘They had identified the shooter as “suspicious” a full 19 minutes before the shooting,’ he posted.

Crooks was shot seconds after attempting to murder the former President, with his dead body found on a roof just 130 yards from the stage where Trump was speaking.

The FBI also found he had two cell phones, the second of which was found at home with only 27 contacts.

Secret Service chief Kimberly Cheatle has since been slammed for the botched protection operation.

She has been under growing pressure since it emerged that her agents were repeatedly warned about would-be assassin Thomas Crooks as he prepared to shoot the president at Saturday’s campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

 Marcus Rashford is banned from driving and fined £1,600 after he was caught speeding

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Manchester United striker, Marcus Rashford has been hit with a six-month driving ban and fined £1,600 after he was caught speeding at 104mph on the M60 in his £560,000 Rolls-Royce.

The incident, which happened on December 12, came less than two months after the star wrecked another luxury Rolls-Royce in a car crash.

The England star claimed he was driving so fast on the motorway as he feared he was being chased by a white car and he gets followed ‘all the time’.

Manchester Magistrates’ Court heard how Rashford was travelling on the M60 near Stockport in the early hours of December 12 , 2023, when he sped past an undercover cop in an unmarked BMW that was fitted with calibrated speeding equipment.

The officer, DC Maskrey told how he ‘increased his speed’ in an effort to catch Rashford’s Rolls Royce Cullinan Blue Shadow.

His BMW travelled at speeds no less than 104mph, he said, but at ‘no point’ was he able to close the distance between the two vehicles.

Instead, the distance had actually increased as Rashford’s car negotiated a ‘sweeping’ bend.

Rashford eventually pulled off the motorway on to the A34 but the officer continued to follow his Rolls Royce before activating his emergency lights.

After stopping in the road, Rashford told DC Maskrey he was speeding because he’d been followed by a white vehicle at a set of traffic lights.

He also said he thought the officer’s white BMW was the vehicle following him.

The officer said he advised the player to call 999 if he felt he is being followed.

But Rashford had replied that ‘it happens all the time and he would be calling us every day’.

DC Maskrey said he had not seen any white car himself and after reviewing video footage from his BMW he’d found no evidence of one.

Rashford, who attended court via a CVP link, previously admitted the speeding through a single justice procedure.

District Judge Lucy Hogarth handed him six penalty points which meant he was banned for six-months under the totting up procedure. He was also given a £1666 fine, a surcharge of £666 and told to pay £120 costs.

Man Utd beat Real Madrid and Liverpool to sign teenage sensation Leny Yoro

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18 year old Lille defender, Leny Yoro has completed his move to Manchester United in a deal worth over £59.1m after the Old Trafford club beat Real Madrid and Liverpool to his signature.

Real Madrid were reportedly the Frenchman’s preference, but United worked hard to convince the 18-year-old to join after agreeing a deal worth an initial £52.2m, with potential add-ons worth £7m.

Man Utd beat Real Madrid and Liverpool to sign teenage sensation Leny Yoro for �59.1m

Yoro, seen as the biggest teenage prospect when it comes to defending, has signed a five-year contract at Old Trafford with the option of a further 12 months.

Yoro said: “Signing for a club with the stature and ambition of Manchester United so early in my career is an incredible honour.

Since my first conversations with the club, they set out a clear plan for how I can develop in Manchester as part of this exciting project, and showed a lot of care for me and my family.

Man Utd beat Real Madrid and Liverpool to sign teenage sensation Leny Yoro for �59.1m
“

I know about the history of young players at Manchester United and feel it can be the perfect place to reach my potential and achieve my ambitions, together with my new team-mates. I cannot wait to get started.”

Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth said: “Leny is one of the most exciting young defenders in world football; he possesses every attribute needed to develop into a top-class centre-back.

“Having had such an excellent start to his career, we are excited to support him in reaching his immense potential here at Manchester United.

“This club has a fantastic record of developing young players, whether homegrown or brought in from elsewhere, and giving them the required guidance, time and patience to grow and flourish.

“Under Erik ten Hag and our excellent staff we will ensure that Leny has the perfect platform to achieve the success that everyone across the club is aiming for.”

Yoro made 41 appearances in all competitions for the Ligue 1 side last season and scored three goals.

‘HH dissolution of ACC board a ruse´…time for the President to declare assets— Harry Kalaba

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‘HH dissolution of ACC board a ruse´— Harry Kalaba

…time for the President to declare assets

18.07.24

President Hichilema´s action to dissolve the ACC board is a ruse aimed at covering up a bigger crime, not fighting corruption says Citizens First president Harry Kalaba.

Kalaba said if the ACC is as ´ rotten ´ as President Hichilema believes to the extent that it warrants total dissolution, it must say a lot about the character of the President himself since it falls under his office.

“When Mr Hichilema assumed the presidency, he acted with haste to place the ACC and DEC among other crucial offices under his direct supervision,” Kalaba said, “the reason he did so was to ensure total clean oversight so if the institutions are corrupt, it means the President is either corrupt himself or complicit to the corruption.”

Kalaba said he is certain, “nothing happens, goes in and out of ACC or DEC, without President Hichilema knowing. Therefore, forcing the DG Thom Shamakamba to quit and dissolving the Musa Mwenye led board is cosmetic and grandstanding perhaps he is hiding something.”

The former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Zambia said, “If President Hichilema wants to prove to Zambians that he is serious about fighting corruption he must do the following in three simple words—declare his assets.”

Kalaba said short of ´declaring his assets´ as called for by the citizens and the US embassy at an ACC event last December in Livingstone, the head of state is paying lip service to the corruption fight. Mr Hichilema is playing to the gallery.

“There is NO way Mr Hichilema will fight corruption without declaring his assets and opening himself up to greater checks and balances…it’s a total mockery to tell Zambians and the western donor community that you are fighting graft when you are hiding your assets.

” Man up and declare your assets,” Kalaba urges HH.

The CF President expressed suspicion that Mr Hichilema decided to sack the only ´whistleblowing´ board which sends fears to other oversight bodies such as DEC that they will be dissolved if they blow the whistle.

He said constituting a new board is like, “covering bandage on a festering wound, it doesn’t treat the wound and in this case without declaring his assets, Mr. Hichilema is like the wound himself.”

Kalaba said the graft that has been exposed in ACC is but a tip of the ice berg that reflects the leadership of the office of the president because the commission falls under him.

He added that in terms of diversion and saving face, the cosmetic dissolution of the board is effective but does not fool many astute and intelligent Zambians. Why dissolve a ´whistle blowing board?´.

Why throw Dr. O´Brien Kaaba under the bus instead of giving him a medal? What message is the President sending to whistle-blowers?

Signed: Harry Kalaba
President.
Citizens First

Stealing Exhibits- When enforcement agencies become looters- Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba

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By Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba
Stealing Exhibits- When enforcement agencies become looters

Both the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) officers have recently been accused of stealing exhibits-money seized during operations and to be secured and kept as exhibits during prosecution.

In the Gold Scandal that occurred at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, the owner stated that he had $7.7million (earlier reports indicated a sum of $11million) cash but DEC declared $5.7million only to the public.

Below are some of the cases were the exhibits have disappeared.

In September 2022, the ACC arrested two Turkish businessmen who attempted to Smuggle $400,000 out of Zambia through Kenneth Kaunda International Airport.

Details were that on unknown dates but between 1st January 2022 and 2nd September 2022 in Lusaka District, Hakki Sahutoglu, 38, being a Director of Denniz Company Limited and Sezer Sahutoglu 23, being a manager at the same company whilst acting together with persons unknown did possess and conceal an amount of USD 399,500.00 reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime contrary to section 71 (i) of the Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime Act No. 19 of 2010.

The duo has were released on Bond and will appear in Court on 28th September, 2022.

The case has never been prosecuted and the confiscated money has never been deposited in the forfeiture account or Control 99.

Further in 2022, ACC recovered K1 million at Stay Easy Levy Shopping Mall in an operation of a foiled bribery attempt involving ZRA and Opmin, a Peruvian owned company based on the Copperbelt.

Their consultant was a Zambian, Peter Samboko was arrested and detained but later released on agreement that he forfeits the said money.

That money was never remitted to the national treasury but was alleged shared amongst the directors after firing and in some cases transferring the case officers.

Dr. O’Brien Kaaba wrote an expose letter that detailed the looting of public funds taking place at the Anti-Corruption Commission, Drug Enforcement Commission, State Chambers (Attorney General and Director of Public Prosecutions with selected judges).

Stakeholders reject dedollarisation policy by Bank of Zambia- Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba

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Stakeholders reject dedollarisation policy by Bank of Zambia

The Bank of Zambia (BoZ) is considering reintroducing Statutory Instrument (SI) number 33, which prohibits quoting goods and services in foreign currency.

However, this policy has raised significant concerns about its potential impact on Zambia’s economy.

Bank of Zambia held a stakeholders’ engagement that attracted mainly foreign and foreign owned business entities operating in Zambia.

Bank of Zambia says that dedollarisation is required to facilitate the transmission of monetary policy into a real economy.

The Business Coalition Taskforce has rejected the policy and proposed for yhe policy to be implemented after the 2026 elections and has provided the following arguements.

Concerns with SI 33

1. Current Economic Volatility
2. Mandatory conversion of contracts
3. Ambiguity in definitions
4. Impact on FDI and Local Investments
5. Compliance challenges

Recommendations

• Continuation of Existing Contracts: Existing contracts should remain unaffected, amending them will destabilize sectors such as agriculture (equipment
and inputs), financial markets (re-insurance and dollar liquidity),real estate markets etc;

• Delay Decision Until Post-2026 Presidential Elections: Postpone reintroduction of SI 33 until after the 2026 presidential elections to ensure that the economy attains stability;
• Assessment of Economic Performance:

Delay will provide time to retain economic growth, lower inflation, stabilise the foreign exchange rate, reduce government borrowing, increase export earnings, reduce GRZ borrowing;

• Debt Restructuring and Access to Capital Market: debt service is commencing and will impact reserve accumulation and FX stability.

The SI will worsen FX volatility;

• Impact on Various Industries: Consider impact of SI 33 on industries, manufacturing . Providing e exemptions for tourism, agriculture, and property sectors would be alternative but negates the main aim of the SI if implemented hurriedly;

• Reduction of Capital Costs: BoZ should reduce the cost of capital to enable borrowing in ZMW and decrease USD demand as part of the preps for the SI; and

• Phased Implementation of Legislation: Enact legislation in phases, including a grace period for adaptation and stakeholder guidance, followed by enforcement with feedback adjustments.

The premise of dedollarisation is misplaced and should be rejected for making people poorer

1. Monetary policy is ineffectual because our inflationary shocks are not demand driven
nor credit driven rather structural and systemic. Demand is already depressed and the economy is weak and where government has crowded out ordinary borrowers

2. The use of USD is a stabilising factor providing safe haven from Kwacha volatility for payments and asset values. It is our reserve currency for this reason and the same holds true for wealth creators when faced with ZMW depreciation of 98% from its value in 2019

3. USD dominates our trade and productive sectors of our GDP. Replacing it as a store of
asset value and payments is hyper inflationary, will cause capital flight, and
disincentivise future investments.

4. A threat of criminal penalties is unheard of in dedollarising countries and disincentives
travel and investment. It is not a civilising policy
5. The economic rationale for dedollarisation policy is not supported by precedents in Africa or elsewhere.

There are instead examples of dollarisation or adoption of a third country’s currency. If it is being done for ideological reasons, then BoZ will be deliberately making people poorer.

KAGEM DELIVERS K38 MILLION (USD 1.5 MILLION) DIVIDEND TO THE IDC

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KAGEM DELIVERS K38 MILLION (USD 1.5 MILLION) DIVIDEND TO THE IDC

Lusaka, Zambia – Kagem Mining Limited (Kagem) has handed over ZMW 38 million (USD 1.5 million) to the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). The funds represent dividends from 2023 to the government’s investment arm, which owns 25% of the shares in what is believed to be the world’s largest producing emerald mine, and underscore Kagem’s ongoing commitment to contribute to Zambia’s economic development.

The handover highlights Kagem’s continued dedication to striving towards responsible mining practices and transparent financial management and reinforces the company’s commitment to adhering to the ‘G-Factor for Natural Resources’ model championed by its parent company Gemfields.

IDC chief executive officer, Mr Cornwell Muleya, commended Kagem’s consistency in delivering value in the gemstone sector saying, “The record of Kagem has been impressive and it has been consistent. You have been one of those key investments which has always produced a return, not only for the IDC but also for the people of Zambia. You have a been a pioneer in the mining sector here in Zambia, not only in terms of your contribution in relation to the ‘G-Factor for Natural Resources’ but also in developing the gemstones industry in Zambia. You have built your position as number one in this field, making Zambia proud and by extension making the IDC proud because we are your partner and the shareholder on behalf of the Zambian people.”

Kagem has been at the forefront of adopting the ‘G-Factor for Natural Resources’, a pioneering measure that reveals the percentage of a mining company’s revenue paid to the Zambian government in primary and direct taxes and dividends, clearly showing how the country has benefited from its natural resources.

For 2023, a total of ZMW 732 million (USD 28.3 million) was received by the Zambian government from Kagem’s revenue, which amounts to a ‘G-Factor for Natural Resources’ figure of 31%.

Dr Sixtus Mulenga, Chairman of Kagem Mining Limited, highlighted the significance of this initiative, “The implementation of the ‘G-Factor for Natural Resources’ has made the investment environment in Zambia more conducive and attractive to both local and international investors. By openly sharing the amount of wealth generated from our natural resources, we create an environment of trust and accountability, essential for long-term investment and sustainable growth.”

Dr Mulenga commended the Zambian government’s ongoing efforts to foster an investor-friendly climate through the implementation of transparent and accountable policies.

“We applaud the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, Ministry of Finance and National Planning and other relevant bodies for their steadfast commitment to creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. As these policies continue to evolve, the future of investment in Zambia looks bright and promising.”

Kagem’s Chair also implored other investors in the country to embrace the ‘G-Factor for Natural Resources’, enhancing the transparency and accountability of their operations. “Adopting the ‘G-Factor for Natural Resources’ is not just a good business practice; it is a commitment to the people of Zambia, ensuring that our natural wealth translates into tangible improvements in their lives.”

The ZMW 38 million (USD1.5 million) contribution from Kagem will support the IDC and the Government of Zambia in funding projects critical to national development. These funds will likely be allocated to sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare, driving progress and improving the quality of life for Zambians.

“At Kagem we believe that responsible management of our natural resources is key to sustainable development,” Dr Mulenga emphasised. “This contribution is testament to our unwavering commitment to good natural resources stewardship and our dedication to contributing to Zambia’s economic and social fabric.”

Kagem Mining Limited remains committed to striving towards transparency, legitimacy and integrity, coupled with responsible practices, and looks forward to continuing its contributions to Zambia’s prosperity.

©Langmead & Baker Ltd

WE DID NOT COME TO THE UKA WITH ANY KIND OF PRETENSE  …without ECL on the ballot there would be no election in 2026- NAKACINDA

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WE DID NOT COME TO THE UKA WITH ANY KIND OF PRETENSE – NAKACINDA
…without ECL on the ballot there would be no election in 2026

By Correspondent
PF Secretary General Raphael Nakacinda says there is absolutely nothing wrong for it’s members debating the United Kwacha Alliance (UKA) presidential flag bearer for 2026 elections.

Nakacinda says the ongoing debate about who should be the alliance’s presidential candidate in 2026 is timely and healthy.

He says nobody should be curtailed as the debate was within the UKA parameter.

“We never went into the United Kwacha Alliance (UKA) with pretense of what we were presenting to the alliance in terms of Human Resources and we shall not start now by shying away from suggesting ECL as our choice flag bearer for UKA in 2026, our intentions have always been pure,” Nakacinda said.

He said there was nothing wrong for any PF member to propose former president Edgar Chagwa Lungu to lead as he had vast experience.

“There is absolutely no harm in PF members suggesting that President Edgar Lungu with his vast experience should be the flag bearer of UKA in 2026 just as there would be no harm in members of the Citizens First, NDC, Golden Party, New Herritage Party or any other political party under the alliance suggesting their party leaders to fly the opposition flag.

We have been on a honeymoon as UKA getting to know each other as member parties and that honeymoon period has since ended and it is now time for us to begin having honest and healthy conversations such as the ongoing debate on who should fly our alliance flag in 2026,” he said.

Nakacinda has since reiterated that former president Lungu is eligible to contest any Presidential election in Zambia presently and the ruling UPND should desist from making maneuvers that seek to bar him from being on the ballot.

He said Zambians were resolved in their quest to ensure that President Edgar Chagwa Lungu is on the ballot in 2026 as is his democratic right as empowered by the republican constitution to contest elections as a presidential candidate.

“ I have said before and I will say it again, without Edgar C Lungu on the Ballot there will be NO ELECTION in 2026 and we are prepared to use all means at our disposal to fight any kind of illegality that the UPND may be cooking up to try and stop him from contesting the elections through the courts,” Nakacinda says.

He says if the UPND insist that former President Lungu was not illegible to contest the 2021 presidential elections then President Hakainde Hichilema should vacate State House and hand power back.

“ We will fight with everything we have, not just because President Lungu is our party leader but because Justice demands that he be allowed to contest any presidential election since he was allowed to contest the 2021 election that produced Hakainde and as President and should the UPND insist on this planned injustice by blackmailing judges to rule against the decision of the ECZ to allow ECL contest the 2021 elections then Hakainde Hichilema should immediately vacate the office of president, let President Edgar Lungu take back power and be able to arrange fresh elections were those that are illegible can contest since the 2021 elections would be deemed illegal,” Nakacinda concluded.

File picture

PF’s BID FOR DOMINATION IN UKA WILL BREAK THE ALLIANCE

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PF’s BID FOR DOMINATION IN UKA WILL BREAK THE ALLIANCE

I Write What I Like – 17.07.2024

By Daimone Siulapwa

The United Kwacha Alliance (UKA), once a beacon of hope for many Zambians seeking a unified opposition front, is now mired in turmoil.

Recent statements by Chinoda Ngwira, a member of the Patriotic Front (PF), have sparked controversy and unveiled deep-seated tensions within the alliance.

Ngwira’s claims that smaller party leaders bring nothing to the table and that the PF must lead the alliance underscore a blatant attempt by PF members to assert dominance and potentially hijack UKA for their own agenda.

Ngwira’s remarks reveal a desire within certain PF circles to take over the alliance completely. His assertion that there is no alliance without PF and his dismissive attitude towards the contributions of smaller party leaders raise critical questions.

Does he speak with the blessings of the PF leadership? Is this part of a broader strategy to position Edgar Lungu as the alliance leader for the 2026 elections?

In a forceful rebuttal, Saboi Imboela, leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), provided a historical perspective on the formation of the alliance.

She clarified that the alliance was initially conceived without any involvement from the PF. The founding members, including Imboela, Madam Kateka, and President Silavwe, explicitly intended to distance themselves from the PF due to its tarnished reputation.

It was only later, and reluctantly, that the PF was invited to join the alliance. Imboela’s passionate recounting of the alliance’s origins and her criticism of the PF’s current stance highlight the deep mistrust and the ideological rift that threatens to tear the UKA apart.

Imboela’s comments serve as a stark reminder of the challenges the PF faced after losing power.

She pointed out that before the alliance was formed, the PF was hemorrhaging support, with members defecting to other parties. The formation of the alliance, she argues, was a lifeline for the PF, reversing its fortunes and providing a semblance of hope.

Yet, the current behavior of some PF members suggests they have forgotten this context. Instead of gratitude and cooperation, there is a push for control, driven by personal ambitions rather than a genuine commitment to serving the people of Zambia.

This turmoil is a classic illustration of the PF’s modus operandi—aggressively pursuing power, often at the expense of unity and common purpose.

The party’s history of internal strife and political maneuvering is well-documented. Now, as the UKA faces its greatest internal challenge, the smaller parties within the alliance must act decisively.

They need to address the PF’s attempts at domination head-on to preserve the integrity and original vision of the alliance.

The UKA’s founders and leaders must unite and reaffirm their commitment to a collaborative and equal partnership.

They should reject any attempts by the PF to assert unilateral control and remind their members and the public of the alliance’s true purpose: to offer an alternative to the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) and to restore democratic values and governance in Zambia.

The path forward requires clear communication and strategic action.

Alliance leaders must hold firm against the PF’s overreach and reiterate that the UKA was formed to serve the Zambian people, not to be a vehicle for the PF’s return to power.

They must also engage their grassroots supporters, explaining the current challenges and mobilizing them to defend the alliance’s founding principles.

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Daimone Siulapwa is a political analyst, an advocate for tribal unity, and Citizen Economic Empowerment.

For all comments and inquiries regarding content creation, research, speeches, proposals, book writing, creative marketing, investigations, and more, please feel free to contact us at dsiulapwa@gmail.com

NINE PF MPs HAVE NOT EXHAUSTED PROCEDURE CHALLENGING EXPULSION – NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

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NINE PF MPs HAVE NOT EXHAUSTED PROCEDURE CHALLENGING EXPULSION – NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

THE National Assembly has come to the defense of its second Deputy Speaker Moses Moyo for declaring nine parliamentary seats vacant, arguing that he followed procedure stipulated in the constitution.

It said Moyo pronounced that, the nine had ceased holding their elective positions after they were expelled from the political party which sponsored them  for election to the National Assembly, as there is currently no challenge of the expulsion before Court.

In an affidavit in support of summons for an order to set aside ex-parte order for leave to apply for judicial review, deputy clerk of the National Assembly Cecilia Sikatele asked the Court to discharge the order for judicial review challenging Moyo’s decision as he followed laid down procedure.

In this case, Brian Mundubile, Stephen Kapyongo, Christopher Kang’ombe, Ronald Chitotela, Remember Mutale, Mulenga Fube, Mutotwe Kafwaya, Nixon Chilangwa, and Emmanuel Musonda instituted judicial review proceedings challenging the second deputy speaker’s decision to declare them jobless.

The nonet is seeking a declaration that the decision of the Second Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, dated July 3, 2024, to declare their nine parliamentary seats vacant is illegal as the PF has not expelled the from the party.

Mundubile and others are seeking a declaration that the decision of the Second Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly to declare their seats vacant on reasons that the action in the Constitutional Court has been dismissed without consideration that there was an active matter under cause number 2024/CCZ/009 is irrational, unreasonable and unjustified.

But in her skeleton arguments, Sikatele said the court should consider whether it is necessary for the MPs to be granted leave to commence judicial review proceedings when they have not exhausted other alternative remedies.

“In establishing whether the applicants exhausted all alternative remedies available to them before commencing these proceedings,we refer this court to the fact that the applicants currently have an active matter before the Constitutional Court ,” Sikatele said.

“The applicants ought to sek a determination by the Constitutional Court on whether the second deputy speaker acted in accordance with the provisions of article 72(5) and (8) of the constitution.”

She indicated that a determination of the matter by the Concourt will effectively grant the same reliefs the nine are seek from the High Court .

“We submit that the applicants have not exhausted all avenues or remedies available to them,” Sikatele said.

“We submit that the applicants substantive judicial review proceeding is bound to fail  firstly, because this(High) court does not have jurisdiction to determine whether the procedure adopted by the deputy speaker was in accordance with the provisions of the constitution.”

She asked Judge Susan Wsnjelani to dismiss the ex-parte order for judicial review she granted to the nonet stopping the nine by-elections.

Meanwhile the Constitutional Court has dismissed the case in which the nine were challenging their expulsion by Matero member of parliament after they discontinued the case.

By Mwaka Ndawa
Kalemba

NAVIGATING ZAMBIA’S MINING QUAGMIRE. A CALL FOR REFORM AMID ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY – Edwin Lifwekelo

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NAVIGATING ZAMBIA’S MINING QUAGMIRE. A CALL FOR REFORM AMID ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY

Lusaka… Thursday July 18, 2024

Zambia’s mining industry is grappling with a range of challenges, and the absence of clear policies is transforming mining into a hazardous activity.

The resurgence of Vedanta Mining as a major player, coupled with mining houses wielding significant influence after financially backing the ruling UPND, prompts us to question the true state of affairs concerning Zambia’s mines and its policies.

We wish to state over and over that vandeta has no capacity to revive our mining industry.

The riots witnessed in Chingola yesterday by jerabos is a wake-up call on the part of government to put in place sound mining policies that should have sound policies that impact automatically the lives of many marginalized Zambians.

Global Lessons: The Democratic Republic of Congo Our counterparts in the Democratic Republic of Congo have faced substantial challenges in mining due to questionable policies. This has resulted in severe consequences such as environmental degradation, human rights abuses, and community unrest.

It underscores the importance of robust policies and ensuring their adherence for a responsible mining sector.

A Matter of Urgency

In addition to these global examples, Zambia confronts its own set of challenges. Insufficient oversight and the disproportionate influence of major players like Vedanta raise concerns about the fairness of Zambia’s mining policies by government and until we start believing in our own indigenous zambians to run our mines,we shall continue doing a desevice to our mining industry by entrusting foreigners instead of zambians to run our mines.

The involvement of these influential mining entities in supporting the UPND adds complexity to the situation.This circumstance demands immediate attention. Zambia’s mining sector, pivotal for our nation’s economic health, requires substantial reforms to avert further financial instability. Understanding the nuances of global examples and recognizing the challenges posed by Vedanta’s resurgence and mining house influence is the initial step toward securing a more prosperous future for Zambia.

The Economic Toll

A $2 Billion Drain and a Struggling Kwacha

Watchdogs like Transparency International and Global Witness have shed light on the detrimental impact of Zambia’s mining policies. These policies, laden with tax holidays and evasions, result in an annual loss of up to $2 billion for the nation.

This staggering economic hemorrhage, combined with the lack of revenue, has catapulted the Zambian Kwacha to the unfortunate position of being the world’s worst-performing currency in 2023.

This stark reality further emphasizes the urgent need for reforms in Zambia’s mining sector. The current trajectory, marked by financial losses and economic instability, is unsustainable. Revisiting and reshaping mining policies is not just a choice; it’s a necessity for the economic well-being of Zambia and the prosperity of its citizens. Government has lost an opportunity to seriously revamp our mining industry through robust policies that can bring back confidence on the Copper belt.

ZAMBIA, DESERVES BETTER

Edwin Lifwekelo

PF Media Director
Lusaka, Zambia

SCANDAL; $65million worth of medicines imported from Egypt go to waste …Government has released K9 billion to pay transport and demurrage charges for the rotten medicines

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By Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba

SCANDAL; $65million worth of medicines imported from Egypt go to waste

…medicines and equipment stranded in Beira and Lusaka since February 2023…

…Government has rekeased K9billion to pay transport and demurrage charges for the rotten medicines…

● In April 2023, the Ministry of Health and The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) imported drugs and surgical equipment worth $65 million from Egypt

● the contract was marred in scandal as Government lied that this was a government-to-government arrangement.

● the goods were procured without proper laid down tender procedures to an agency that doesnt manufacture medicines.

●The procurement was faulty as the agency is not manufacturer of medicines but was expected to contract other Egyptian companies to source medicines to supply to Zambia.

● The Zambia Public and Procurement (ZPPA) was forced to approve a single-sourcing procurement where ZMMSA and Ministry of Health would pay the Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement Medical Agency(UPA) $70million for the medicines and the 7% commission.

● Anyway the supplier contracted a transporter and sent the medicine containers to Zambia through Beira, Mozambique in November/December 2023.

● However both ZMMSA and the Ministry of Health failed to provide funds for border clearance of the goods.

● the medicines, IV Fluids and surgical equipment have been marooned since February 2024.

● When the trucks finally arrived in bonded warehousing and came to offload, ZMMSA said it cpuld only pay and clear for the nine of the 25 trucks.

● the other trucks have been marooned at a warehouse since February, 2024.

● This week when the matter came to public attention, ZMMSA hadtily arranged to pay K9million demurrage and other transport affiliated charges.

● However, the medicines are now unsafe for human consumption as they have been marooned in harsh weather conditions since November 2023.

As is typical in corrupt deals, when the deal was consummated and completed, the corrupt troupe focused on the next deal and left the medicines from Egypt rotting in Beira and Lusaka.

Another scandal is brewing at Ministry of Health and ZMMSA where the recent USAID Audit Report has revealed that only 10-15% of its multi-million dollar supported medicine and medical supply procurement reaches health centres, clinics abd hospitals.

I’m PF president until 2028 – Miles Sampa

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I’m PF president until 2028 – Miles

PATRIOTIC Front (PF) faction president Miles Sampa has reiterated that he is the party’s president until 2028.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka yesterday, Sampa stated that according to the PF constitution, whoever is elected as president of the party through a general conference gets a five year term.

He however said if the party decides that it wants him out through another general conference then he may have no choice but to do what the people demand.

“An extraordinary general conference was held on 24th October 2023 and that’s the only way a president is elected through a general conference in the PF constitution and whoever wins has five years term,” shared Sampa.

“Therefore, Miles Sampa is president of the PF until 2028 but if the party wants another conference, I will do what it wants.”

He added that his focus is now on uniting the party by bringing back the lost sheep.

“PF is disunited, PF is bigger than an individual, we are bound together by the love of the party. I will do everything possible to unite the country. We must put our party first in whatever we do to build the PF party, we love the party so we have to build it,” he said.

When asked to disclose what he discussed with former president Edgar Lungu when they met a few weeks ago, Sampa stated that the two did not have any other discussion apart from sharing a light moment.

“I feel lighter after meeting ECL. We chatted for three hours, we had a lot to catch up, we had not spoken in three years, he was my president and I was his mayor. The visit was just a brother visiting a brother. We were just talking, joking and laughing, I feel lighter because there’s nothing heavy between us. The gate is open, if he needs me, he can call me, if I need him, I can him,” explained Sampa.

By Catherine Pule

Kalemba, July 18, 2024

Hichilema didn’t pick best personal advisors, says Laura Miti

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Hichilema didn’t pick best personal advisors, says Laura


By Fanny Kalonda


LAURA Miti has observed that President Hakainde Hichilema did not pick the best personal advisors he could have.

Miti, who is Alliance for Community Action executive director, says some in President Hichilema’s team are too junior in terms of experience “to be of any use to him”.

“Others are known to be plain dodgy,” Miti, who is also a Human Rights commissioner noted yesterday. “Since President Hichilema came to office, my biggest unhappiness with him has been some of his appointments. I just cannot wrap my head around some of the choices he makes. This is someone who, himself, comes across as extremely astute, self-disciplined, respectful of principles (except time keeping) and commanding respect.”

Writing on her Facebook wall, Miti said “despite all our issues, none of his current rivals can compete with him for clear, directional thinking and just being a leader”.

“Then, you look at some of the people he has given critical offices. You wonder – just how, Sir, do you expect to get anything done, if this who should do it? There is no other way of putting it, except for a paltry few, President Hichilema did not pick the best personal advisors he could have. Some in his team are too junior, in terms of experience, to be of any use to him. Others are known to be plain dodgy. As for his communication function, everything that can has been said about it. Monga nidala (as if it’s deliberate),” wrote Miti. “There are Ministers whose disappearance, for a few years, we would not notice. Others we know only for bungling their portfolios. Many Permanent Secretaries have no business being controlling officers. So one asks – why can’t this President do with all his appointments what he did with the excellent Finance sector? Is it a case of someone placing loyalty above all else? Anyway, for now, can our money be protected from the new set of scavangers that are ravaging it? Find us a person with the skills, respect and ability Minister Musokotwane brings to his office to, first, PREVENT and then punish theft of public money. If our money does not stop flowing out of the Treasury like from a burst pipe, this, for me, will be a failed presidency.”

ROYAL RIP-OFF: ‘Mwata Kazembe’ dupes Masebo, BoZ governor and ZAF commander

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ROYAL RIP-OFF: ‘Mwata Kazembe’ dupes Masebo, BoZ governor and ZAF commander

AUTHORITIES in Lusaka have dismantled a one-man scam operation in which a 41-year old man posing as Chief Mwata Kazembe of the Lunda people swindled health minister Sylvia Masebo, Bank of Zambia governor Dr Denny Kalyalya and Zambia Air Force commander Lt Gen Oscar Nyoni as well as his immediate past predecessor, Lt Gen Collin Barry.



Using a fake royal identity, Dyllan Byemba of Lusaka came up with a daring idea to fill his pockets with thousands of kwachas.

Far away, from the real deal – the majestic palace of Mwata Kazembe in Mwansabombwe district, Byemba set up shop in a humble bar in Lusaka’s Mandevu Compound and from his unlikely “throne,” concocted a list of high-profile targets to swindle.

Byemba’s modus operandi was as smooth as it was shameless – a simple phone call, introducing himself as Chief Mwata Kazembe, and then playing the sympathy card, claiming he needed assistance with food, medication, or funeral expenses for a “deceased member of the chiefdom”.

And while the real Chief Mwata Kazembe was experiencing endless headache trying to resolve the hunger situation occasioned by the historic drought that has struck Zambia, Byemba, the counterfeit traditional leader was raking in thousands of kwachas.

However, Byemba’s reign of deception came to an end when he duped the astute BoZ governor.

After sending a K7,000, Dr Kalyalya noticed something suspicious about the chief. Something didn’t add up. The “chief” didn’t quite sound like real royalty.

Dr. Kalyalya’s suspicions led him to report the incident to the Zambia Information Technology Authority (ZICTA), and that’s when Byemba’s theifdom began to crumble.

A quick investigation led to Byemba’s house in Mandevu Compound where he was arrested yesterday and discovered to have amassed over a staggering K80,000 from his criminal enterprise in July alone.

Charged with impersonation, Byemba is now enjoying police hospitality at Lusaka Central Police Station, awaiting his day in court.

Instead of a royal coronation, a court ceremony is most likely to confirm Byemba as Chief Chimbokaila.

Officers close to the matter say they are currently working to find more of Byemba’s victims.

CAPTION: Dyllan Byemba, the counterfeit traditional leader.
Credit @ Kalemba July 18, 2024

Kenya Lesson Important for African Leaders—Amb. Mukwita

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Kenya Lesson Important for African Leaders—Amb. Mukwita

17th July 2024

African leaders must learn from the Gen Z uprising in Kenya that has claimed about 50 lives that a citizenry can revolt when poverty and graft in officialdom increases says international relations analyst Amb. Anthony Mukwita.

Amb. Mukwita also warned that the uprising is ´not´ isolated nor ´unique´ to Kenya, it could happen anywhere in Africa including Zambia once citizens feel disenchanted by the lack or poor performance of their leadership.

“This is a time for sober and strategic minds in the Zambian leadership and governance to do a post mortem of how the livelihoods of Zambians are being addressed by the current government since they assumed office almost three years ago,” Ambassador Mukwita.

He said the UPND government should seriously address a myriad of concerns from citizens regarding the prolonged loss of electricity that has inconvenienced households and crippled business as he country goes dark.

“Zambians running barbershops, poultry business and others have shut down forcing many to sleep hungry thereby escalating already chronic poverty which is bad and needs urgent address,” said Ambassador Mukwita.

The demonstrations in Kenya were triggered by President William Ruto´s decision to table a law that would raise taxes and make life harder and expensive for the majority ordinary citizens.

Led by the Gen Z, a population of people aged between eleven and 22 and joined by the general citizenry, Kenya went up in flames resulting into about 50 people dying.

President Ruto sacked his entire cabinet of 24 in a show of penance to the Gen Z but the youth are back on the streets, now calling for Ruto to resign too because they believe he is part of the problem as demonstrations escalate.

In Zambia recently, youths demonstrated against the lack of provision of power by the beleaguered ZESCO utility company, diminishing democratic space and high cost of living like the events that occurred in Kenya, they were arrested and released.

“My humble advice as an ordinary citizen is that government should arrest the high cost of living and prolonged power outages the youth are complaining about and not the victims just to avoid the volatile Kenya situation, the lessons from Kenya are for the rest of Africa,” said Ambassador Mukwita.

Zambia is experiencing the worst power blackouts lasting beyond 48 hours in some cases while the cost of living continues to rise according to the Jesuit Centre of Theological Reflection.

“President Ruto has been in office for only two years,” said Ambassador Mukwita, “no African President wants to find themselves in such a hot stop hence the reason to act to serve the people and not ignore or arrest them in a democratic society that allows free expression and association.”

He said it is deeply regrettable that about 50 people mostly young had to die for the leadership of Kenya to start acting.

Source: Amb. Anthony Mukwita

Vehicles I got from ZRA were branded PF – driver

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Vehicles I got from ZRA were branded PF – driver

A FORMER driver at Wanish lodge yesterday told the Economic and Financial Crimes Court that the vehicles he was asked to pick from ZRA by his boss were later branded PF.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/7eT1zcd1UXN7a78W/?mibextid=oFDknk

Allen Simpokolwe said between 2017 and 2018, he was working for a Mr Derick Mpundu and was assigned to work at Wanisha lodge which is owned by his wife.

“I was sent to go and collect vehicles from the ZRA yard. He (Mpundu) told me when I reach ZRA I should see the police officer at the gate and show him the gate pass,”he said.

Simpokolwe told the Court that when he was allowed to enter he was shown the vehicles and made to sign a book for their release.

“I was shown that all the vehicles in the documents. Derick Mpundu sent a toll truck  I had a vehicle I was using from the lodge. The vehicles were tolled to his farm,” the witness said.

“There were four vehicles, three Mitsubishi Pajero, and a Toyota Hilux and they were taken to Mpundu’s farm and I went back to the lodge.”

He said when he was assigned to work at the farm two months after collecting the vehicles from ZRA he discovered that the vehicles were branded PF and were given to cadres.

“I was able to identify the branded vehicles as the ones I got from ZRA because of the plate numbers,” Simpokolwe said.

“I was dismissed in 2018 over a bus that couldn’t start because it had a damaged starter motor and Mr Mpundu slapped me and dismissed me from employment.”

The prosecution made an application to move the court for scene visit in Lilayi at the police training college.

Magistrate Sylvia Munyinya asked the State to move the vehicles to court.

“I can’t be moving any how there should be a reason. For these one I will move but next time make arrangements and give me a reason,”she said.

In this matter, former ZRA director general Kingsley Chanda and Calitus Kaoma are charged with abuse of authority of office for disposing of 22 vehicles belonging to ZRA without following guidelines and prejudicing government.

Among the vehicles are 13 Mitsubishi pajeros, a Nissan hardbody, a Nissan Tida, Nissan microbus, a Toyota Corolla, four Toyota Hilux, and a Toyota prado.

She adjourned the case to August 9, 2024.

By Mwaka Ndawa

Kalemba July 17, 2024.

NKOMBO LAUNCHES COMMUNICATION STRATEGY

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NKOMBO LAUNCHES COMMUNICATION STRATEGY

MINISTER of Local Government and Rural Development Garry Nkombo says creating and sustaining a clean, green and healthy environment is a mutually shared responsibility between citizens, non-state actors and government.

Mr Nkombo says government has developed the entire necessary legal and regulatory framework to create a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.

ZANIS reports that the Minister was speaking today during the launch of the Keep Zambia Clean, Green and Healthy Communication Strategy (2024-2028).

He noted that while the development and launch of the communication strategy is a significant milestone, its success in influencing behavioural change requires unwavering support from all stakeholders.

“Government having done its part, citizens in respective communities also have the responsibility of adhering to best practices and regulations for solid waste management including disposing waste in designated places,” he added.

Mr Nkombo appealed to the media to make a deliberate policy to air some of the ministry’s adverts and programmes for Keep Zambia Clean, Green and Healthy campaigns either for free or at discounted rates.

He also implored local authorities to ensure that citizens adhere to the laid down laws and regulations related to solid waste management as well as ensure citizens appreciate the communication strategy.

“I wish to make a clarion call for all of us to embrace this communication strategy and create more public awareness to foster better public health attitudes and practices,” he added.

And speaking at the same event, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Representative Yuki Chika said the communication strategy is crucial to the health of people living in Zambia.

Ms Yuki disclosed that JICA is working with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development as well as the Lusaka City Council to create Green Spaces.

Meanwhile, Projects Manager at Bremen Overseas Research Development Association (BORDA) Zambia Eddy Chikuta said the communication strategy provides a structured communication framework that will promote positive behavior change.

Mr Chikuta said the successful implementation of the communication strategy is largely dependent on the wider circulation of the document as well as capacity building of the officers entrusted with the circulation of the document.

“The sustainability of the strategy will depend on an effective coordination mechanism that brings all key players together to ensure that we are on course with the objectives of the strategy,” added Mr Chikuta.

Maya Jama and Stormzy have split up just a year after rekindling their romance

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Maya Jama and Stormzy have split up just a year after rekindling their romance.

The British television presenter, 29, and the rapper, 30, got back together officially in August 2023 when they confirmed their relationship status during a loved-up holiday in Greece.

On Wednesday, the couple revealed in a statement that they have once again called it quits, admitting they had been trying for a year ‘to make it work’.

‘We’ve been laughing whilst drafting this because we never, ever, in a million years thought we’d be the couple announcing a breakup, but for the sake of clarity and, more importantly, to allow us the space and grace that’s needed for us both to be able to navigate this next bit of our lives with peace, we thought it might be best to,’ Maya and Stormzy told fans in the joint statement.

‘We fell madly in love in 2014, broke up in 2019, and then spent five years manoeuvring life apart.

‘We decided to try for the final time in August 2023, and we’ve spent this past year trying our best to make it work; however, we recently decided to call it quits.

‘We were 21 and 20 when we first met at the beginning of our careers and spent five years growing together and then five years growing separately, so this final attempt required a whole lot of figuring out, relearning and unlearning.’

‘We tried and it didn’t work and that’s okay’.

‘We still think the absolute world of each other, we still care and respect each other, we are still grateful for the time we’ve had together, and we are still friends and will always be friends (so if you see us having a lil catch-up at The Brits or something, don’t cause a fuss, we are dawgs!)’

‘We’re kindly asking for the grace to let both of us keep it moving and not be bothered about it (we highly doubt this’ll work, but we’re still kindly asking anyway.’

”Love you guys and thank you for all the love you’ve showered us with, it’s been beautiful,’ they ended the post which was signed ‘Mike and MJ’.

Maya Jama and rapper Stormzy split up a year after rekindling their romance

The couple were previously together for four years before they split in 2019 – with Maya going on to get engaged to basketball star Ben Simmons before the pair broke up.

Their split comes just a week after their loved-up appearance together at The British Grand Prix where Maya supported him while he performed at the event.

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