July 10, 2024

Several Patriotic Front (PF) Members of Parliament joined the Gen Zed Youth Protest, primarily organized by young Zambians to address a range of pressing issues affecting the country. Led by the leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Hon. Brian Mundubile, the MPs showed solidarity with the youth, highlighting their shared demands for better living conditions and government accountability.

The protest has focused on the following key issues:

• High cost of living
• Exorbitant fuel prices
• Historic load shedding
• Police brutality
• Expulsion of 9 members of Parliament
• Rampant unemployment
• Corruption
• Tax holidays for mines
• K13.3 billion externalized
• 10 million people facing hunger
• Skyrocketing bus fares
• Record-high bread prices
• Mealie meal costing K400

The MPs emphasized the importance of addressing the concerns of Zambia’s youth population and demonstrated their commitment to advocating for change.

Protests play a crucial role in a democratic dispensation, serving as a vital mechanism for citizens to express their grievances, demand accountability, and advocate for their rights. In a democracy, the ability to protest is a fundamental right that allows for the free expression of opinions and the mobilization of public support for various causes.

The youth of Gen Zed deserve commendation for their courage, determination, and active participation in the democratic process. By organizing and participating in this protest, they have ensured that their voices are heard on critical issues affecting their lives and futures. Their efforts have brought attention to pressing problems and demonstrated the power of collective action.

Despite being arrested for unlawful assembly two days ago, the youth have shown that they are not just the leaders of tomorrow but also significant influencers and change-makers of today. Their passion and commitment to advocating for better living conditions, transparency, and accountability inspire hope for a brighter future for Zambia. This protest is a testament to their resilience and dedication to making a positive impact on their country.

By Fox Correspondent
THE Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has been meeting this week and it is understood that the Conference has prepared a strong and stinging Pastoral Letter.

The pastoral letter has included issues affecting the people such as load-sheding, impending by-elections, cost of living crisis, hunger affecting over 6.8 million people and other pertinent issues.

However, State House has quickly maneuvered to undermine the Pastoral Letter by seeking to meet Bishops in a pre-emptive manner in order to moderate the concerns raised by the Conference and in attempt to force them to issue a lukewarm pastoral letter.

Further, President Hakainde Hichilema wrote an apology for incidences where the Police stormed a meeting where former President Edgar Lungu was paying a courtesy call on Bishop Clement Mulenga of Kabwe Diocese.

The Police also stormed a church meeting in Ndola where United Kwacha Alliance (UKA) leaders were scheduled to attend. The police also roughed up and arrested an old parishioner who was taking pictures.

The police have also denied political parties and citizens from holding public meetings, processions, demonstrations, and rallies.

Further, there has been an out-standing issue where UPND Secretary General, Batuke Imenda labeled Archbishop Alick Banda as Lucifer of Zambia.

All the Bishops have felt strongly that these are public and public interest matters and can not be dealt with in in private and confidential letters as done by President Hichilema.

Today, all the Bishops have gone to Hichilema’s pre-emptive meeting at State House except for Archbishop Banda.

Hichilema insisted that the meeting with the Bishops at State House will be off-camera and the details will be held under a secret and confidential banner and the outcome will not be published.

It is understood that Archbishop Banda has stayed away from the meeting at State House.

The Bishops are also headed to Malawi to a sub-regional meeting to discuss the matters affecting the peoole of the region.

The subregional consultative meeting of the Catholic Bishops of Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe will take place in Salima, Malawi, from 15 July to 19 July 2024.

This significant gathering aims to address various pressing challenges within the three countries, including inequality and environmental concerns.

that keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive workshops would be integral parts of the meeting, designed to address the theme “Building Bridges: Strengthening Faith, Unity, and Service.”

President Hakainde Hichilema says there is a partial breakthrough to the energy and drought crisis that the country is grappling with.

President Hichilema says he is confident that with the measures the government is implementing to curb the drought and energy crisis in the country, the problems will soon be arrested.

He notes that the government has been working tirelessly to ensure that the drought which has instigated food and energy security is dealt with, adding that people will soon see the solutions that the government has been working on behind the scenes.

President Hichilema states that the government has been spending sleepless nights in order to find permanent solutions to the two crises adding that stakeholders should come on board and help fight the scourge.

ZANIS reports that the Head of State said this today at State House when he met the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) members.

“ As government we have been working very hard to ensure that the problems such as the energy and the drought crisis are addressed. And when I say partial solutions, I don’t mean one bullet but a million of measures that we are putting together to arrest the two problems, and communities will soon start seeing the solutions ”, President Hichilema said.

President Hichilema says there is need for the church to dialogue with the government and join in addressing the drought and energy crisis.

The Head of State has since called on the church to continue working with the government in order to address the challenges.

“I must also take this opportunity to ask the church to continue working with the government to address these challenges”, President Hichilema said.

President Hichilema observed that drought and energy crisis are a risk to economic shutdown adding that stakeholders like the church should willingly work with the government.

And the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops President, Ignatius Chama says the church will continue working with the government to address the economic challenges.

Bishop Chama said it is for this reason that the ZCCB members have decided to meet the Head of State in order to share knowledge with the government on a number of issues patterning the country’s welfare.

“ We are equally happy to be here so that we can share knowledge on these issues that are affecting the country,’’ he said.

ZANIS

MUSOKOTWANE ON ROPOSED PROHIBITION OF FOREIGN CURRENCIES USAGE FOR LOCAL FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS & PHASING OUT OF CHEQUES

(Excerpts Statement Delivered To The National Assembly By Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, MP, Minister of Finance & National Planning)

Madam Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity to address the issue raised by Hon. Anthony Mumba, Member of Parliament for Kantanshi Constituency, on the proposed ban on the use of foreign currencies for local financial transactions and the phasing out of cheques.

Both matters pertaining to the proposed foreign currency regulations and the phasing out of cheques are draft proposals that are being presented by the Bank of Zambia to stakeholders, for consultation.

Draft Foreign Currency Regulations

On 20th June 2024, the Bank of Zambia began a consultation process regarding the draft foreign currency regulations through the Public Private Dialogue Forum. Once feedback is received from stakeholders, the Bank of Zambia will then circulate the finalised draft regulations. Therefore, it is important to first allow this consultative process to conclude.

Broad goals of the proposed currency regulations:

a) To enforce existing laws and strengthen the implementation of monetary policy, which works better by influencing the quoting and pricing of domestic transactions in Zambian Kwacha; and,

b) Dollarisation could be detrimental to financial stability as it gives rise to mismatches in the foreign currency assets and liabilities of financial institutions when there is a steep movement in the exchange rate. The draft foreign currency regulations are therefore also aimed at enhancing financial sector stability.

The proposed regulations are not stand alone but are part of the broader policy measures that the Government has implemented to reform the economy. These measures have included financial sector reforms such as the electronic balance of payments and the export tracking framework.

Phasing Out of Cheques:

Regarding the phasing out of Cheques, let me begin by indicating that the fake notice currently circulating on social media platforms titled “Public Notice on Phasing out of cheques” WAS NOT issued by the Bank of Zambia. The Bank of Zambia is currently discussing the possibility of phasing out Cheques and consultations are underway. The Bank will accordingly issue a public statement once these engagements are concluded, and a decision made.

Broadly, phasing out cheques is one of the key initiatives being pursued under the National Payment System Vision and Strategy for 2023-2027. This is mainly on account of the significant decline in the usage of cheques over the past decade.

I reiterate that the Bank of Zambia has commenced stakeholder consultations to allow for wider discussion and feedback. This will help in creating the necessary awareness on the intention of this regulation and to ensure that these regulations work for all.

The public and stakeholders are assured that discontinuation of the usage of cheques as payment instruments will be done in a consultative, coordinated, and phased manner. The plan is for a more gradual approach with a timeframe of at least eighteen (18) months.

Madam Speaker, I Thank You.

A WAITER at Protea Hotel narrated how he reported Forum for Democracy and Development president Edith Nawakwi to police for seditious practices after he watched her in a clip accusing government of being behind Petauke lawmaker Emmanuel Jay Banda.

Given Mayumbelo, 41, said after watching the Facebook clip of Ms Nawakwi and hearing what she uttered, he felt bad that she was accusing Government of abducting citizens.

Mr Mayumbelo said he was saddened that “mother [Ms Nawakwi] said the government is abducting people,” he said.

This is in case Nawakwi is accused of seditious practises and appearing before senior magistrate Irene Wishimanga.

Mr Mayumbelo testified that on May 25 this year around 12:00, he was at work and got his phone before checking what was on social media where he saw a video which disturbed his mind.

“I saw the video on Jay cool page and there was a picture of madam Nawakwi and I head what she was talking about she was saying she woke up in the morning with a lot of sadness because Jay Banda was being abducted by the state of Zambia.

“She went on to say that Hakainde has thrown us back way in the dark ages where people used to wake up in the morning and found archbishop has been murdered and a lawyer going to the Copperbelt to defend the case has gone missing,” he said.

Mr Mayumbelo said Ms Nawakwi further said that “HH has taken them back to those days in his regime”.

“She also said that nothing should happen to Jay may you take him back to the nation and parliament. She said let not anything happen to young jay and what will happen it’s the state of the republic of Zambia”.

He said people made bad comments about the clip viewed by 4,000 people.

“From there, it didn’t take time I said let me seek help at the police station, I went at force headquarters. I saw that the post was disturbing and the people may rise against the government.

“I told the police that I wanted to report a certain video”.

Mwebantu

Amb Emmanuel Mwamba writes:

IRH mining dealmaker met with Congo gold smugglers, UN says

A businessman who has been leading a push into mining by Abu Dhabi’s largest listed company has been cited for having dealings with smugglers of gold from central Africa, according to a United Nations report.

Sibtein Alibhai has been chief global strategist of International Resources Holding since April 2023, according to the company. He helped the firm acquire a major Zambian copper mine, according to people familiar with the matter, and has played a key role in discussions with foreign governments on at least two other occasions.

But UN investigators this week said that Alibhai discussed business with gold traffickers in his role at another venture established to clean up the mineral trade in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Their report on Congo didn’t mention IRH or Alibhai’s work for the Emirati company, but described him as having had meetings with gold smugglers as recently as March this year.

IRH is a unit of International Holding Company, a conglomerate controlled by United Arab Emirates’ National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The company was relatively unknown in the global mining world before late last year, when it made the winning bid to buy control of Zambia’s Mopani copper-cobalt complex from the government with a commitment to inject more than $1 billion into the asset. Alibhai led the negotiations for the deal for IRH, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing private information.

Since then, the company has been on an aggressive hunt for mining deals in Africa and elsewhere, which could turn it into a key player in metals that will be crucial for the energy transition — including copper, which many observers expect is heading for a large shortfall in the coming years as demand outstrips supply. Critical minerals are also a growing focus for western governments seeking to counter China’s dominance of global supply chains.

Potential deals
IRH has struck agreements to mine iron ore in Angola and is exploring potential deals around the globe for metals including cobalt, nickel, lithium and graphite, according to a company spokesman. Alibhai led an IRH delegation in April to No. 3 copper producer Peru for talks with the country’s government, according to a post on X by the Peruvian mining ministry.

Around the same time, however, Alibhai also “approached several gold smugglers” on behalf of a company he founded named Primera Group and “offered them business opportunities,” experts appointed by the UN Security Council said in a new report. Those meetings took place in February and March, the report said.

IRH and Alibhai declined to comment on the allegations about meetings with smugglers. Via a representative for IRH, Alibhai said that he “resigned from Primera Group in April 2023 to accept the position as chief global strategist at IRH. Mr Alibhai has not represented Primera Group since 2023.”

Representatives for IHC, Primera and Congo’s government didn’t respond to requests for comment.

Abu Dhabi-registered Primera is the majority shareholder in a project launched in December 2022 to formalize the gold trade which was supposed to combat the rampant smuggling that fuels deadly violence in the African nation’s eastern provinces. The partnership – which was granted a 25-year contract to export hand-mined gold – sold 5 tons of the metal, worth about $300 million, in its first year of operation, but sales have since plummeted.

Congo’s government told Bloomberg last month that it was finalizing a deal to buy out Primera’s 55% interest in the gold-buying business, without providing further details.

For nearly three decades, smuggling minerals from eastern Congo has helped fund local and regional conflicts. Congo’s government says much of the trafficked gold reaches the UAE after transiting neighboring Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi, which have exported billions of dollars worth of gold in recent years despite having few mines of their own. The countries deny they’re shipping stolen gold.

(By William Clowes and Michael J. Kavanagh)

Leading people isn’t easy, I know it – HH

By Thomas Ngala( The Mast)

LEADING people is not easy, I know it, admits President Hakainde Hichilema.

Officiating at the Bene Mukuni traditional ceremony in Kazungula on Saturday, President Hichilema said “bantu balakatazya,” a tonga phrase which translates to people are difficult.

“So we wish our host royal highness good health, continued strength to lead our people. Leading people is not easy. I know it, we know it. It is not easy,” he said. “Bantu balakatazya but we must continue doing what is right in order to make our communities better.”

President Hichilema stressed the need for Zambians to unite.

“We know countries that are going through instability and we know the cost and price of instability. This country should not even think an inch about causing instability within itself. That is a no go area. This is a special year for us. 60 years of independence, truly, it is a special year,” he said.

He lamented that the country is celebrating its 60th independence amid the effects of drought.

President Hichilema said the government is committed to ensuring Zambians are fed during the drought period.

He added that politics should not take precedence “as we work to feed our people.”

He emphasised the need for leaders to collaborate adding that “working together we will make it, no matter how difficult, we will succeed.”

“One of the things that we will and have to do, I think God has opened our eyes, is that we must have energy diversity. We must have irrigation based agriculture and then we will be able to look after our people going forward. Development is something that we must promote at all times, even at ceremonies like these,” he said.

President Hichilema stressed the need to promote tourism.

“This country was loved by God. God gave us so much. Let us be conscious of what God gave us and didn’t give other countries. Let us utilise these resource endowments to benefit the people of Zambia and the region, and Africa, and the globe as a whole,” said President Hichilema. “Just to underscore the importance of unity in our country, and that your government is committed to doing everything possible to every citizen of this great land. I think it is up to the community members to also do their part.”

YouIt is sad to note that former Justice Minister Given Lubinda is exhibiting symptoms of memory loss let alone fooling Zambians by alleging that republican president His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema and his government have failed to create employment for the youths in the country. Mr. Lubinda also alleged that the UPND government has contracted a $6 Billion debt which is not known how it has been spent.

Mr. Lubinda’s rhetoric during his presser was confirmation that he has developed some mental sickness for which he needs mental test by medical experts.

How, in all sanity could Mr. Lubinda pretend that he has forgotten it was the Patriotic Front that announced employment freeze and wage freeze in parliament through Dr. Bwalya Ng’andu? To the contrary, the UPND has recruited 39,428 teachers in two years, 14,276 health workers, 4,500 in Defence, over 2500 under Local government, over 250 under ZRA, over 150 under Immigration, over 100 under Zesco.

Private sector jobs stand at 13,632 in the manufacturing industry, 9,432 in the mining sector, 8,396 in the Agriculture sector, 7,252 in the transport sector, 1,062 in the construction sector, 8,382 under services, 1,802 in the energy sector, 475 in the Tourism sector, 159 in ICT, 106 in Real Estate, and these are opportunities Mr. Lubinda who was making retiree spend nights in the cold at his office and Edgar Lungu failed to create under PF government.

Additionally, over 2,800 cooperatives have been given grants creating over 50,000 jobs for the SMEs.

The of over 13,632 jobs in the manufacturing sector alone is clear testimony of stability in the economic indicators, the political stability, and the improved fight against corruption under the UPND government in which our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) improved from negative two under the PF to over two percent under the UPND leadership in two years.

Mr. Lubinda and Edgar Lungu through the PF subjected over 34000 council workers to hunger by not paying them their salaries of seven to 15 months, including 258,000 farmers who were owed money by Food Reserve Agency.

The much praised Edgar Lungu and the failed to pay TAZARA workers and former TAZAMA workers their dues which money has been paid off by UPND government.

How can Mr. Lubinda forget that the PF government was failing to pay UNZA, CBU and other PUBLIC Universities salaries which is no longer the case under the UPND leadership?

I wish to remind Mr. Lubinda and his minions that the PF failed to sustain students’ meal allowances and scrapped them off which allowances have been reinstated by the UPND government.

Under the PF many companies were closing due to economic instability a situation which led to youths working in these private sector companies lose jobs.

Indeni Oil Refinery was closed indefinitely, Mopani Copper Mines collapsed and Konkola Copper Mines went through liquidation resulting in over 7000 citizens on the Copperbelt sent into joblessness.

I wish to advise Mr. Lubinda Given to sober up and stop fooling the Zambians over things they failed to do during the PF 10 years mandate the PF was given to rule Zambia.

Issued by:

Godfrey Kamangu
DUPUTY PROVINCIAL INFORMATION AND PUBLICITY SECRETARY
UPND – COPPERBELT.

By Kholiwe Miti(The Mast)

WE reject this concept of wamuyayaya, says Muhabi Lungu.

Lungu has charged that the UPND government is bent on creating a one party state that was rejected by Zambians years ago.

During the Zambia We Want (ZWW) briefing on Wednesday, Lungu said the creation of a political messiah or a saviour, within the institutions of governance is undesirable and abhorrent to a democratic system of governance.

“[There’s] a general dissatisfaction with the current political, social and economic situation as being managed by the current administration. An economic situation appearing hopeless, misunderstood and dangerously undermanaged. Instead of boldly confronting the issues at hand, government continues to play the blame game even after more than two years in office. It will be three just in a few weeks, next month in August,” he said.

Lungu noted a clear propensity by the government to attack, weaken and obliterate all opposition political parties with a view towards the creation of a de facto one party state.

“This is in an apparent attempt at killing the dream of a functional multiparty state as envisioned in 1990 by the people of our republic,” he said.

Lungu said there was insufficient checks and balances between the three arms of government.

“… and consequent elevation of the presidency above and beyond other institutions of governance. Too powerful a presidency. The creation of a political messiah or a saviour within the institutions of governance is undesirable and abhorrent to a democratic system of governance. Only one Messiah, up in the heaves, sited at the right hand of the father, and deeply embedded through all our hearts through the Holy Spirit but certainly not an ordinary man. We reject this concept of ‘wamuyayaya’,” he said.

Lungu said the dream of 1990 of a free and democratic country has been demoted to the back of the classroom.

“In evaluating these and many other problems that were discussed in the first gathering of concerned citizens and in subsequent meetings that were to follow it was unanimously agreed that we as a people were living in a Zambia that none of us wanted. That this was not the Zambia we wanted. That the aspirations of our forefathers at independence 60 years ago for effective self-governance, towards a proud self-reliance, equitable ownership of our natural resources and the means to produce and add value to our collective inheritance had all but dissipated and that in its place there was nothing but disillusionment. That the dream of 1990, just a little bit more than 30 years ago, of a functional democratic state, promoting free expressing of freedoms; freedom of speech, freedom assembly, freedom of uninterrupted worship and freedom from social, economic deprivation has all been relegated to the very back of the classroom,” he said. “And instead at the front of the line has been placed personal ambitions of politicians and their friends as well as their domestic and international business partners. This cannot be the Zambia we want. Definitely not the Zambia we want. Every youth in our republic, each one of us, should seriously and honestly probe and understand how we have gotten here? Because it has not been by accident. How have we gotten here, to this undesirable and sad situation, to this desolate place?”

He lamented the growing incidence of promoted ethnicity, tribalism and government behaviour with tendencies of creating exclusion on the basis of political affiliation, family ties and or regionalism.

“Under no circumstance can this be deemed right or acceptable. A noticeable luck of transparency in government procurement, offloading of national assets and affirmations to questionable international agreements, raising legitimate fears and concerns at the possible explosion of white collar corruption; a more dangerous vice than petty theft that we previously have been used to,” said Lungu. “The dangerous and therefore undesirable habit that has developed in our country by the people of Zambia and its opposition political parties to allow a discontented situation to degenerate to a point where the voter is only concerned with the removal of the current administration without carefully probing and making a careful assessment and consideration as to who the possible replacement will be; a possible replacement in terms of quality of leadership and a workable policy framework…”

The undersigned Civil Society Organisations strongly condemn the arrest of peaceful protesters by the Zambia Police. The protesters wished to show displeasure with ZESCO’s management of the power situation resulting in unprecedented levels of load shedding and the publishing of schedules for load shedding that are not followed.

The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are fundamental human rights that must be protected and upheld. These rights are not only enshrined in Zambia’s constitution but also in numerous international human rights treaties to which Zambia is a party.

The detention of people peacefully exercising their right to protest is a blatant violation of these rights and a step backward for democracy and civic participation in Zambia. Peaceful protests are
a vital form of citizen participation and should only be curtailed when there is a clear and present danger of harm or a violation of the law.

Suppressing peaceful dissent undermines the principles of a democratic society and erodes public trust in the government.
We further strongly condemn the Police for failing to respect the freedom of conscience as provided in the Constitution. One of the arrested protesters is Muslim and during the process of detention and arrest, officers from the Zambia Police removed the Hijab she was wearing.

A violation of her religious beliefs and a violation of the freedom of conscience under the constitution. Law enforcement must be alive to the various religious beliefs and accommodate them in the criminal process.

We call on the government of Zambia to adhere to its human rights obligations and to take immediate steps to ensure that all citizens can fully enjoy their rights without fear of detention or intimidation.

This includes a thorough and speedy review and amendment of laws such as the Public Order Act and the Penal Code. Provisions within these laws that exceed international best practices for the restriction of rights must be revised to align with Zambia’s commitment to
uphold the highest standards of human rights.

The Zambian government must demonstrate its dedication to democratic principles by protecting the rights of all people to freely express their views and assemble peacefully. We urge the
authorities to release all individuals who have been unjustly detained.
A just and equitable Zambia is built on respecting and promoting human rights, not stifling them.

We stand with the peaceful protesters and reaffirm our commitment to advocating for their rights and freedoms. Free speech and the right to assemble are fundamental to democracy. The law and its enforcers must ensure that everyone’s rights are respected, allowing all citizens to fully enjoy their freedoms.

Signed

Josiah Kalala
Acting Executive Director
Chapter One Foundation
For and Behalf of:
Alliance for Community Action
Transparency International – Zambia
Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC)
PANOS Institute for Southern Africa
Council of Churches in Zambia
Peoples Action for Accountability and Good Governance in Zambia (PAAGGZ)
Centre for Trade and Policy Development
Alliance for Accountability Advocates Zambia

LUNGU DID NOT ONLY DISREGARD THE JUDICIARY, HE ALSO THREATENED THE JUDGES

By Diggers Editor,

11th July 2024

OPINION

BY virtue of my upbringing and as a former president, I am not a person of empty rhetoric, open lies and hot false stories, I always try to be politically honest and factually respectful in my engagements. As you all may remember, in 2016 after the dissolution of Parliament, all cabinet and deputy ministers remained in office as the new law was ambiguous. We were heavily criticised and after a legal battle, the Courts of Law made a ruling that the stay was illegal, and all allowances and salaries accrued during the stay were to be paid back. The December 2016 judgment is testimony to the effect that, during my time, the judiciary was fully independent and operated freely even by making decisions against my own government. We never interfered with them but simply respected them as a separate wing of government in a functional democracy”.

This a claim from former president Edgar Lungu. As we stated in yesterday’s editorial opinion in which we pointed out the deception of this current government, politicians are liars. In the case of Mr Lungu, apart from being a self-acclaimed top-notch lawyer, he is also a well renowned top-notch liar. Everything in the statement that Mr Lungu makes above is false and we can’t imagine that he expects citizens to forget so soon what he did in government. This particular president did not only interfere in the Judiciary, he actually threatened judges and breached the Constitution on several occasions.

From the onset, Mr Lungu’s presidency was shrouded in dishonesty. Zambians will remember that he used the Judiciary to hoodwink his political opponent, conniving with some lawyers to circumvent justice through a bogus consent order that imposed him as a presidential candidate for the Patriotic Front. His disregard for the Constitution became more clear after he ascended to power. Following the outcome of the 2016 general elections, the UPND filed a petition in the Constitutional Court against the election of President Lungu. According to the law, once a petition is filed in court challenging the results, a sitting Head of State must step aside during the time of hearing the presidential petition, while the Speaker of the National Assembly presides over the Executive arm of government. Another law had also been passed stating that upon the dissolution of Parliament, ministers must vacate office. Mr Lungu defied both of these laws. He ordered ministers to stay in office, saying he knew the law better. This position was against the advice of the Attorney General Likando Kalaluka SC who made it clear on ZNBC TV that no minister would be expected to stay in office. It was surprising that Mr Lungu refused to obey the laws which he approved himself in the amended Constitution.

To this day, the Judiciary has not offered an explanation for why Mr Lungu was not legally sworn-in by the Chief Justice in 2016. But we can speculate that because of his disrespect for the Judiciary and his desperate desire to cut corners, the Chief Justice did not want to entangle herself in illegalities.

Leading up to the 2021 elections, an issue arose around whether Mr Lungu, having been twice sworn in as President, was still eligible to contest the next elections. This man could not wait for his eligibility matter to be heard and determined. While addressing the nation through the press in Solwezi, Mr Lungu issued threats to the Constitutional Court judges, warning that if they ruled against him, the country would be plunged into chaos. With the Coat of Arms flying beside him, reminding him of his mandate to defend the Constitution, Mr Lungu said he would not allow regime change in Zambia because according to him, it was being instigated by foreigners. He ordered the judges not to act according to the People’s will but in the interest of peace.

This is what he said: “To my colleagues in the Judiciary, my message is just do your work. Don’t become a copycat and think that you are a hero if you plunge this country into chaos. I am just warning you because I have received information that some of you want to be adventurous, your adventure should not plunge us into chaos, please! I want to make it very clear. People are saying Zambian courts should be brave and make decisions which are in the interest of the people but look at what’s happening in Kenya now. I am saying the courts of law in Zambia should also see what’s happening, they should not behave like they are not part of our African continent. The most important thing I can say now is, 2021, I am going to stand if my party chooses me. I am saying this in front of you people because there are cameras in front of me, I have heard some judges say ‘why don’t we emulate the Kenyan courts? They are very brave’, I don’t think that is right.”

How did Mr Lungu hear what the judges were saying? Where did he get the information that Zambian judges were plotting to emulate the decision made in Kenya? This happened because Mr Lungu controlled the Judiciary. He did not observe any separation of powers. In fact, State House under Mr Lungu revealed to the public that judgements of the court were passed on to them before they were announced. When we asked Mr Lungu’s spokesperson why the Head of State took up the role of the Finance Minister to personally sign a sovereign guarantee for STAG African Renewable Energy to raise US$500 million on behalf of Zesco, we were told that the President was aware that the Constitutional Court would rule against the ministers’ stay in office the next day.

When we look at all this, we find it baffling that a man in Mr Lungu’s position could be saying, without shame, that under his reign he did not interfere in the decisions of the Judiciary. We recall that when Mr Lungu threatened judges, many organisations, including LAZ, TIZ, NGOCC and other prominent citizens condemned him and called on the court to hold him in contempt. When he comes back to the political arena to fool Zambians that he was a respecter of the rule of law, these organisations should remind him that he is a liar.

The truth is that Mr Lungu threatened the Constitutional Court and forced judges to declare him eligible to contest future elections. What he did is equivalent to Mr Hakainde Hichilema telling judges today that if they rule in favour of Mr Lungu, there would be chaos in the country. So it is good that the Constitutional Court has decided to hear the former President’s eligibility case.

PRESS STATEMENT

11/07 2024

SPEAKER DON’T DESTORY OUR DEMOCRACTIC SYSTEM.

We express serious concerns regarding the integrity of parliamentary processes and the potential manipulation of democratic principles for political gain. The current situation poses a significant threat to the fundamental function of Parliament, which is to provide oversight and uphold the sanctity of democratic processes.

Certain actions, attributed to individuals such as Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly risk undermining the integrity of our esteemed institution. These actions jeopardize Parliament’s ability to serve as a check on governmental power and cast doubts on its effectiveness in upholding democratic values and principles.

Furthermore, the expulsion of the 9 Members of Parliament by Deputy Speaker of Parliament sends indispicable negative vibes to our cherished democracy in the country,Madam Speaker,the behavior of your deputy speaker underscores the importance of upholding these values and principles, Any deviation from these standards not only erodes public trust but also undermines the very essence of democratic governance in the country.

It appears that there may be a concerted effort to diminish opposition representation in Parliament, potentially aimed at facilitating the passage of controversial constitutional amendments and legislation. This manipulation of parliamentary dynamics for political gain is deeply troubling and contradicts the core principles of democracy.

We call upon all stakeholders to make Parliament accountable to the people of zambia, Parliament must take a firm stance in upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and fairness within it’s precips ,It is imperative that Parliament remains a bastion of democracy, ensuring that the voices of all citizens are heard and respected through the elected Members of Parliament.

We therefore Comend and salute the high court decision to stay the expulsion of the nine Members of Parliament at this critical juncture,this will undoubtedly shape the legacy of our Parliamentary system and have far-reaching implications for the future of our democracy. We urge all Presiding officers to examine consequences of their actions and prioritize the interests of the nation above all else.

The Patriotic Front Party is therefore extremely disturbed by the expulsion of the 9 MPs from Parliament. Their expulsion is a clear violation of both parliamentary standing orders and privilege rights, as well as the provisions of the Republican Constitution. We call for an immediate reversal of this decision.

We remain committed to upholding the values of democracy and will continue to monitor the situation closely,let us preserve and harness our hard fought democracy.

Edwin Lifwekelo
Media Director
Patriotic Front Party

Zambia’s Domestic and Foreign Debt Levels Clarified by Financial Expert Noel Nkhoma

Regarding domestic and foreign debt, Nkhoma clarified that at the end of December 2023, domestic debt stood at K232.6 billion, compared to K193 billion at the end of December 2021. This increase in domestic debt has been used to finance the national budget, as Zambia currently has no access to international capital markets. As for foreign debt, it stood at US$14.57 billion at the end of December 2023, compared to US$13.04 billion at the end of December 2021.

In an effort to dispel various political narratives and false reports being peddled ‘by the opposition,’ Infinity Media Hub sat down with renowned economist and financial expert Noel Nkhoma, to provide clarity on the status of grants and loans received by the UPND government between 2022 and 2024.

First, let’s talk about the big numbers. According to Nkhoma, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has so far disbursed a total of US$1.136 billion under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) since August 2022. This includes an initial disbursement of US$187 million in August 2022, followed by subsequent tranches of US$187 million in April 2023, November 2023, and June 2024.

These funds have been utilized for Balance of Payments support and budget support, with 50% allocated to the Bank of Zambia to strengthen the country’s external position and the other 50% used to finance key budgetary expenditures such as the Constituency Development Fund, school grants, social cash transfers, and the procurement of drugs and medical supplies.

In 2023, the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) provided Zambia with US$391 million to support the country’s national HIV response, primarily through the purchase of HIV/AIDS drugs and the implementation of various HIV/AIDS programs and initiatives.

The European Union, on the other hand, has allocated €360 million under a seven-year Multi-annual Indicative Programme (MIP) for Zambia, covering the period from 2021 to 2027. These funds will be used for budget support in the health and education sectors, as well as to finance project preparation activities, such as feasibility studies and detailed designs in the health, education, and transport sectors. The EU has earmarked €30 million for disbursement this year as budget support.

Regarding the World Bank’s disbursements, Nkhoma clarified that contrary to assertions, the total disbursement in 2022 was not US$750 million. Instead, the World Bank approved and disbursed US$275 million for the First Macroeconomic Stability, Growth and Competitiveness Development Policy Financing (DPF), which was used to meet planned budget expenditures. Additionally, the World Bank approved US$210 million and US$300 million for the Zambia Devolution Support Programme and the Zambia Growth Opportunities Programme, respectively, with US$50 million and US$73.8 million released so far under these programs. In 2023, the World Bank released a US$125 million grant for the Second Macroeconomic Stability, Growth and Competitiveness Development Policy Financing (DPF-2), which was also used to finance planned budget expenditures.

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has also provided support to Zambia. In 2022, the AfDB’s African Development Fund disbursed US$14.7 million, while the AfDB itself disbursed US$68.6 million, primarily for the implementation of ongoing projects in the road, agriculture, energy, and water and sanitation sectors. In 2023, the AfDB’s African Development Fund disbursed US$21.5 million, and the AfDB disbursed US$42.7 million for similar projects.

So easily according to Nkhoma we can say these monies are being used to stabilize the economy, invest in public services, and lay ground work for future growth.

Of course, we will be watching and the public will be watching closely to make sure these funds are used effectively. But the facts show that Zambia is making progress, with the support of its international partners. The key is separating political rhetoric from economic reality.

Nkhoma’s detailed explanations aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of how the government has utilized the grants and loans received during this period, dispelling the various political narratives and false reports circulating in the public domain.

InfinityMediaHub

10th July, 2024

ENERGY Minister Peter Kapala has disclosed that Indeni Energy Company is now importing and selling diesel.

And the Parliamentary Committee on Energy, Water Development and Tourism on the Implementation of Monthly Fuel Price Reviews in Zambia has urged government to immediately put in place measures to expand storage capacity for fuel, which will act as a buffer to stabilise prices for longer periods.

Meanwhile, Nkana Independent Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu says although he is not an energy expert, he does not agree with UPND’s policies in the fuel sub-sector.

Presenting a report from the Committee, which was adopted by the National Assembly, Tuesday, Mansa PF MP Chitalu Chilufya said government should transform Indeni into a national oil company.

“The committee strongly recommends that Indeni Energy Company participate in the procurement and supply of petroleum products on behalf of the government in order to diversify Zambia’s sources of fuel procurement and reduce the risks associated with complete reliance on the private sector. The committee further recommends that the government considers transforming Indeni Energy Company into a national oil company to enable it to participate in the procurement of fuel in a similar manner to Namco of Namibia.

The committee recommends that the government should reassess the utilisation of the strategic reserve fund and transfer some of its functions such as road works around fuel storage depots and rehabilitation of infrastructure to the Ministry of Infrastructure Housing and Urban Development,” he said.

“Madam Speaker, let me now move to the issue of the monthly price reviews of fuel. The committee notes that the government’s decision to move to a 30-day fuel price cycle has been met with outcry by the business community and the public at large. Even His Excellency the President during the swearing in ceremony of the newly appointed permanent secretary in the Ministry of Energy acknowledged the adverse impact of monthly fuel pump price revisions on business operations and directed that the ministry investigates the issue. In view of this, the committee strongly recommends that the government should immediately put measures in place to expand storage capacity for petroleum products which will act as a buffer to stabilise fuel prices for longer periods and ensure a steady supply”.

He said the committee recommended that government enters into government-to-government fuel procurement arrangements, through Indeni.

“The committee further recommends the government considers entering into government to government fuel procurement arrangements through Indeni Energy Company as a national oil company which can help reduce fuel prices by eliminating middlemen, securing bulk pricing and negotiating favourable terms. Madam Speaker, the House may further wish to note that there have been complaints by industry players regarding the lack of transparency in the awarding of contracts for the use of the Tazama Pipeline. In this regard, the committee recommends that government take measures to enhance transparency in procurement within this sector,” said Dr Chilufya.

Debating the report, Mpundu said the country was frequently changing fuel prices because it was operating as a “hand to mouth country in as far as fuel was concerned”.

“For me, I am not an energy expert but I do totally disagree with the policy direction that the UPND government has taken in managing the fuel sub sector. In the wisdom of those that managed this country before us, Madam Speaker, two very important institutions were established: Indeni for the processing of the commingled fuel government used and also Tazama which used to transport that commingled fuel. I think for the record’s sake, it must be understood that at any given time when government used to procure the commingled fuel, a ship would be procured, docks in Dar-es-Salaam, Tazama transports that into Indeni; when that commingled fuel is separated, we used to have at least three months of our fuel needs in the country. The reason why we have to keep changing the prices of fuel every month is because we are now a hand to mouth country in as far as fuel is concerned. And I can challenge anyone – we do not even have sufficient stocks to last a month in Zambia anymore because we have left this sector to the private sector,” said Mpundu.

But adding his voice to the debate, Luena UPND MP Mubita Anakoka said the decision to move the fuel adjustment exercise to a monthly review cycle was based on sound logic.

“Madam Speaker, it is not in dispute that the cost of fuel is a major input to our economic reality and the decision to move the fuel adjustment to a monthly review regime is certainly based on sound logic and the people of Luena agree with it. But in so doing, Madam Speaker, we will appreciate in a few minutes the challenges that come with frequent reviews of the price of fuel…What are the intervening measures that we should put in place if physical storage is an issue? We must be innovative and think about financial storage,” said Anakoka.

“How can we create storage in order to minimise the impact of fuel price adjustments on a monthly basis? One of the options, Madam Speaker, the people of Luena would like to submit is let’s consider a self-subsidising mechanism where the price of fuel is set at a price higher than the formula it gives you so that you can accumulate a buffer that gives you an opportunity to only trigger the adjustments only when a certain threshold is breached. That way, we could get to the 60 days or even 90 days price adjustment mechanism. It is something we would like to submit to the Minister of Energy to consider seriously. Let’s look at the numbers and see if that is achievable while we are working on making use of the storage facilities that were constructed around the country”.

In his response to the report and various debates, Kapala said his ministry was in receipt of various proposals from stakeholders on the need to shift to quarterly fuel price review cycles.

“Madam Speaker, before I go to my prepared response, I wish to inform the House that we find ourselves in this unfortunate situation because we inherited a bankrupt treasury. We inherited a legacy debt which has now accumulated to over $800 million, so that is why we have got this problem. We appreciate the fact that yes, government has to play a role and I can inform the House that Indeni has started participating in the importation and selling [of] diesel,” said Kapala.

“Madam Speaker, allow me to also mention that the current monthly review of fuel prices creates an opportunity for government to earn its taxes from the fuel prices and there is no accumulation of arrears. In addition, the review of prices monthly is in line with international best practices in fuel pricing. The ministry is cognizant of the challenges associated with the monthly pricing reviews and has continued to explore other price adjustment mechanisms that could result in less disruptive effects on economic and business planning but also result in prices that are cost reflective to ensure security of supply. In line with the presidential directive, the ministry has received proposals from stakeholders on the need to change to quarterly review mechanisms. A report will soon be submitted to this August House as soon as the review process is

News Diggers

Zambia Industrial Commercial Bank Limited (ZICB) has entered into a Purchase and Assumption (P&A) Transaction with the Bank of Zambia (BOZ) as part of the resolution of Investrust Bank Plc.

And customers who had outstanding deposit balances at Investrust Bank Plc will have new accounts opened and be able to access banking services as new customers of ZICB.

Speaking after the announcement of the P&A Transaction in Lusaka, ZICB Acting Chief Executive Officer, Louis Kabula said the Bank is pleased to have concluded the transaction with the Central Bank in record time.

Dr Kabula said this will reduce the challenges especially on the part of customers who are able to continue their lives under ZICB, with as little disturbance in banking needs as possible.

Dr Kabula advised that, while the new customers are free to start engaging with ZICB, they allow the bank to put in place operational processes in readiness for the opening of the branch locations on 15th July 2024.

He indicated that before that date, the bank will share as much information as possible with the customers to ensure a smooth transition process.

“We are thrilled that we have been able to create a new home for them at ZICB and we want to assure them of our dedication to a high standard of service delivery”, Dr Kabula said.

Further, Dr Kabula commended the government, through the Bank of Zambia, for providing funding support to primarily safeguard financial system stability and protect banking sector depositors.

ZICB is now in possession of 16 branch locations of Investrust Bank Plc, which include seven branches and agencies in Lusaka, an agency in Lumwana, as well as branches in Livingstone, Choma, Luangwa, Chipata, Kabwe, Ndola, Kitwe, and Chililabombwe.

With its existing six locations, plus a new branch to be opened in Solwezi before the end of July 2024, ZICB will now be operating a total of 23 branch and agency locations across the country after this transaction.

This is contained in a statement issued to ZANIS by ZICB Corporate Affairs Manager, Luke Njovu.

TWENTY-SEVEN freezing orders were last year issued on 27 commercial bank accounts with a cumulative balance of USD 2.8 million and K126.5 million.

According to the Financial Intelligence Centre(FIC), the basis for the freezing orders was suspected money laundering.

Additionally, the FIC issued three freezing orders for three commercial bank accounts with a cumulative balance of K31.1 million in 2022.

In its latest report, the Centre said the freezing orders are issued to facilitate investigations by law enforcement agencies.

“Section 10(3) of the FIC Act grants the Director General the authority to order a reporting entity to freeze an account or suspend a transaction if there is reasonable suspicion of money laundering, financing of terrorism, proliferation, or other serious offenses. The freezing of an account or suspension of a transaction can last for a maximum of 15 days,” the report stated.

The Centre said upon receipt of a freezing or suspension order, a reporting entity must, for the period specified in the order, stop all activities or suspend the specified transaction on the concerned account, with the exception of credits being received into that account.

“However, it must be noted that the minimum requisite conditions for the FIC to exercise this power to either freeze an account or suspend a transaction is that the Director General must reasonably suspect that a transaction relates to money laundering, financing of terrorism, or proliferation. It is noteworthy that the freezing of an account or suspension of a transaction is not absolute. Section 10(4) outlines the process for challenging the Director General’s decision to freeze an account or suspend a transaction.

It allows an aggrieved party, after 72 hours of the Director General placing an order to freeze an account or suspend a transaction, to apply to a Judge in Chambers to have it discharged and at the same time serve a notice on the Director General to join the proceedings. Notwithstanding the legal recourse being sought by an aggrieved party through the already explained application to a Judge in Chambers, the freezing or suspension order remains in effect until the Judge determines otherwise,” the report reads in part.

(Mwebantu, Wednesday, July 10th, 2024)

MANSA PROTESTS

The protests in Mansa today responded to a growing UPND leaders’ and cadres’ intolerance and the taking of the law into their own hands. They think they are an extension of the police and can apprehend and detain anyone at will.

There’s no good reason for the UPND market chairman to attack someone for simply playing Alebwelelapo music. We may likely see more of this if the UPND and the police do not change their ways.

What happened in Mansa today is an expected reaction to the rise of UPND supremacy and anti-opposition in policing, which has resulted in egregious violations of opposition members’ human and civil rights.

This stifling of protest paves the road for authoritarian rule, unchecked abuses of power and democratic backsliding, and setting us on a collision course with the democratic ideals and ethical principles enshrined in our Constitution and embraced by the international community. It also forecloses the possibility of peaceful resolution of the policing crisis by shutting down an effective tool to agitate change. Whether they like it or not, change will come, Mr Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND will go – baleya.

Without condoning or encouraging violence and destruction, we salute the people of Mansa for standing up to injustice and violations of fundamental freedoms.

We should celebrate and honour the actions of all who courageously stand up against injustice instead of targeting and terrorising those who continue to speak out for the individuals who are not able to do so for themselves.

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

BREAKING NEWS

High Court stays Speaker Moyo’s Expulsion of 9 Members of Parliament

Lusaka, Zambia – July 10, 2024

The High Court of Zambia has granted leave to apply for judicial review to nine Members of Parliament who challenged the decision declaring their seats vacant. The ruling, issued by the Honourable Judge of the High Court, came after an application and supporting affidavit were presented by the lead applicant, Hon. Brian Mundubile, on behalf of the other eight parliamentarians.

The applicants, who include Hon. Stephen Kampyongo, Hon. Christopher Kang’ombe, Hon. Ronald Kaoma Chitotela, Hon. Remember Chanda Mutale, Hon. Mulenga Francis Fube, Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya, Hon. Nickson Chilangwa, and Hon. Emmanuel Mpakata Musonda, contested the decision made on July 3, 2024, by the second speaker of the National Assembly. The decision declared their parliamentary seats vacant, triggering immediate legal action.

During the hearing, counsel for the applicants argued that the decision was unlawful and sought the court’s intervention to stay its effects until a thorough judicial review could be conducted. The High Court, upon reviewing the affidavit and considering the submissions, issued an order granting leave for judicial review and staying the implementation of the decision to vacate the seats.

In the ruling, the Honourable Judge stated, “The applicants are hereby granted leave to apply for judicial review forthwith. The decision dated 3rd July 2024, made by the second speaker of the National Assembly declaring the nine parliamentary seats vacant, is hereby stayed pending the determination of these proceedings.”

This stay means that the nine MPs will retain their seats until the court makes a final ruling on the matter. The decision is a temporary reprieve for the parliamentarians and a crucial step in ensuring their voices are heard in a judicial setting.

The legal battle now shifts focus to the substantive judicial review, where the court will delve deeper into the merits of the case. The outcome will have significant implications for parliamentary procedures and the broader political landscape in Zambia.

This case underscores the importance of judicial oversight in the governance process and the critical role of the judiciary in upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of elected officials.

Further developments in this case will be closely monitored, as they hold the potential to shape the future of parliamentary democracy in Zambia.