Former diplomat, Muhabi Lungu says it’s extremely dangerous to lie to the nation that some regions like Southern Province were excluded in the governance of the nation in previous regimes.

“This is a very dangerous lie to suggest that a certain group was excluded in governance, in leadership or in parastatal companies for 26 years,” a daily tabloid quotes Lungu as saying.

To think that an individual with absolute cognitive abilities is able to churn-out such untruths is mind-numbing! If we set the record straight, President Hichilema wasn’t just talking about Southern province when he made those remarks; he was actually referring to the entire Zambezi provinces – Western, North western and Southern provinces! And the previous regimes he was definitely alluding to weren’t the United Nation Independence Party (UNIP) or Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), but the Patriotic Front (PF)!

Stop insulting or mocking our intelligence Mr. Lungu, Sir; evidence of how your colleagues in PF sidelined people from the said regions in government appointments abounds. In my upcoming book, One Zambia One Nation; how various presidents have navigated around the issue since independence, I seek to demonstrate to which extent the recent regime desecrated the sanctity of our motto, “One Zambia One Nation” by completely ignoring certain ethnic groupings in government appointments. For the purpose of this rebuttal though, we’ll restrict ourselves to the issue of nominated MPs right from the Kaunda days to date.

There are basically two reasons why our forefathers inserted provision of nominated MPs into our Republican Constitution:
(1) To give room to a President to ‘head-hunt’ individuals with exceptional abilities and capabilities outside parliament in the event of the same being absent in the August House. That’s how Ng’andu Magande, a man who would demonstrate to be arguably the best Finance Minister, found himself at Manda hill from the diaspora!

(2) In case a particular political party fails to secure parliamentary seats in certain parts of the country; for the sake of fostering inclusivity in line with our motto, “One Zambia One Nation” a President may create space for individuals from such regions to promote national unity. A perfect example was when President Levy Mwanawasa nominated ex-service man, Lupando Mwape as MP and subsequently appointed him as his vice president. Readers may be keen to learn that his party, MMD was rejected in the northern parts of the country.

May we set the tone by considering the example our founding President Kenneth Kaunda set for us. KK, as he was fondly referred to, always ensured that his appointments to public offices reflected the ethnic diversity of our country – Lundas, Tongas, Bembas, Chewas, Kaondes and Luvales always found space in his administration. He never abused this privilege by roping-in every Jim and Jack as long as they traced their roots with him back to Chinsali! For instance, he would bring on board the likes of Professor Lameck Goma, a prolific scholar and excellent researcher and also Frederick Chomba, a brilliant legal mind. Others who cut theb list of nominees between 1988-1991 include distinguished military officers such as Malimba Masheke and Benjamin Mibenge and illustrious sons of the soil such as Fwanga Mulikita, Alex Shapi and Lazarus Tembo, a differently abled person.

Following the 1991 revolutionary elections that ushered MMD into power, the party failed to secure any seats in Kumawa – Eastern province! As it were, the region had overwhelmingly voted for UNIP. Did Frederick Chiluba give them a cold-shoulder, henceforth? Of course, not! Of his 8 nominees, 4 were from Eastern province. The list somehow looked like this – William Harrington, Katele Kalumba, Kabunda Kayongo, Mwami Maunga, Godfrey Miyanda, Zilole Mumba and Hosea Soko.

As respected scholar and historian, Sishuwa Sishuwa, put it in his article, “Leadership matters; Remembering Mwanawasa,” the former lawyer turned politician didn’t only ensure that every tribe was catered for, but also went after the finest brains! When the northern provinces denied him parliamentary seats, he co-opted in Lupando Mwape and also brought in brilliant fellows such as Ng’andu Magande, Mundia Sikatana, George Kunda, Kalombo Mwansa, Patricia Mulasikwanda, Ben Kapita and Daniel Munkombwe – ignore his politics of benefits rhetoric!

At a time when some of us ‘suspected’ akulu mpuno, Rupiah Banda would disappoint us by reinforcing the “Umodzi Kumawa” syndrome by giving them jobs, he surprised many of us by casting the net wider! While still maintaining some of his predecessor’s nominees, his choice of candidates wasn’t disappointing. The following were his nominated MPs: Vernon Mwanga, Kalombo Mwansa, Situmbeko Musokotwane, Chileshe Kapwepwe, Boniface Kawimbe, Daniel Munkombwe and George Kunda.

Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy! The Michael Sata led PF takes over power and everything goes haywire! Sata would literally throw caution and dignity to the wind by arrogantly or ignorantly neglecting to enhance national unity by exclusively nominating his Kith and Kin as MPs just as he would do with his cabinet! This was indeed a national scandal. Here was his choice of nominated MPs: Alexander Chikwanda, Panji Kaunda, Joseph Kasonde, Solomon Mbuzi, John Phiri, Robert Sichinga, Ngosa Simbyakula and Sebastian Zulu. Not a single representation from the Zambezi provinces! Nangula tapaswosa, sure?

After a barrage of criticism and scrutiny from some of us, Sata’s successor, Edgar Lungu would break with the ranks and try to normalise things although he’d still fail in other places. He came up with the following team: Davies Chama, Edify Hamukale, Richard Kapita, Nathaniel Mubukwanu, Felix Mutati, Joyce Nonde, Godfridah Sumaili and Catherine Namugala.

We now come to the man that his many opponents and detractors want to smear with a tag of tribalism no matter how hard he tries to balance his appointments in government. When touring the northern circuit recently for instance, he reiterated that if he didn’t believe in KKs philosophy of national unity, he wouldn’t have appointed cabinet ministers from the same region. Here’s a complete picture of his nominated MPs: Doreen Mwamba, Peter Kapala, Felix Mutati, Elias Mubanga, Likando Mufalali, Elisha Matambo, Mrs Mazoka and Elisha Matambo. The northern regions have claimed a Lion’s share of 5O%! What more should a man do?

Please, let’s give credit where it’s due! Mulekutika?

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

By Mwansa Chalwe Snr

The Energy Regulations Board ( ERB ) recently increased petrol to K35.56 per litre, K29.60 for diesel, and Zesco increased tariffs on 1 May,2024 by 10%, while the Kwacha went north to almost K27.These combined escalations are expected to filter through the economy in the coming months, and possibly have negative impact on ordinary Zambians and businesses. These changes are part of the implementation of IMF austerity conditions for Zambia’s 38Month $1.3billion Extended Credit Facility ( ECF). According to the IMF, its supervised program aims to create a more stable economic foundation for long-term growth.

“The authorities’ program, supported by the ECF-arrangement, will advance the authorities’ home-grown reform plan to restore debt sustainability, create fiscal space for much-needed social spending, and strengthen economic governance,” The IMF claimed in a statement announcing the bailout approval.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has long been criticized for its one-size-fits-all approach to economic policies, which in most instances makes things worse rather than alleviating economic hardships. Zambia’s current experience under an IMF program is a clear example of how IMF policies can worsen economic conditions instead of improving them, at least based on the evidence of the last 20 months of the program.

Monetary Policies slowing down economic growth and killing jobs
One of the key IMF policies that they have imposed on Zambia – the claim that the Program is based on grown economic recovery plan is hollow and a mirage – is inflation targeting. And one of the measures is the squeezing of liquidity from the economy.The Bank of Zambia has increased the Statutory Reserve Ratio to 26.5% and mopped up almost all government funds from Commercial banks.This policy is aimed at controlling inflation and to stabilize the kwacha exchange rate by reducing the amount of money circulating in the economy.

This policy might control inflation in a formal economy, but in Zambia, where over 90% of businesses and households operate informally, and where access to credit is already limited, squeezing liquidity can have devastating consequences for households and businesses, like they are currently doing now. The failure of this policy was indirectly confirmed by Bank of Zambia Governor Denny Kalyalya during the launch of the Bank’s Strategic Plan 2024-27.

“We will undertake, for this purpose, a household and business survey to better assess the impact of monetary policy on the economy for more informed policy decision making. So, we will be doing all these surveys to really get a sense of what is going on. And that will give us pointers as to what we need to adjust. When money is under the pillow, it doesn’t come back into the banking system and monetary policy has no effect on that. This informal sector that we have. So, this is what we want to address,” he said.
The tight liquidity environment is restricting businesses’ ability to expand and grow. With reduced liquidity, businesses struggle to access the capital needed to operate and expand, leading to stagnation and closures, ultimately exacerbating unemployment and poverty. And this negative impact of the IMF policies has been empirically proven by the Stanbic monthly Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) survey, which has shown poor performance of the Private Sector through the reduction in output.Business activity has been falling in most months throughout 2023, and has continued to do so in the first quarter of 2024 with PMI readings all below the 50.0.0 threshhold, ranging from 47.3 to 48.8. This serious reduction in production.

” The private sector health in Zambia declined. Business conditions continued to see a deterioration as a result of reduction in money supply and the depreciation of the kwacha, which have negatively impacted demand. Money shortages crippled new orders and forced cutbacks in output, employment and purchasing activity.” The Head of Sales at Stanbic Bank, Musenge Komeki said
Another detrimental IMF policy in Zambia is the accelerated removal of subsidies on essential commodities such as energy and agriculture. While subsidy removal is often advocated as a means to reduce government expenditure and promote efficiency, in Zambia’s case, it has resulted in a significant increase in the cost of living and doing business. The cost of living in particular has risen sharply, making it increasingly difficult for ordinary Zambians to make ends meet.
The removal of energy subsidies, for example,translates to higher prices for basic necessities, squeezing household budgets and dampening consumer spending. Increased fuel costs have raised transportation expenses, impacting the entire supply chain.This, in turn, discourages investment and slows economic growth – the very outcome the IMF seeks to prevent.

The IMF and World Bank Subsidy hypocrisy
While the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank have often pushed developing countries like Zambia to reduce or eliminate subsidies, many Western countries, including the US, EU, and UK, do provide subsidies to various sectors.

Critics also argue that all Western countries provided all sorts of subsidies when they were at the same level of development that Zambia is at the moment. It is subsidies that facilitated their industries to flourish and facilitate development. And to support their arguments, they point to the empirical evidence of Western countries’ current subsidies to the agriculture, energy, industry sectors while the insist Zambian government should remove subsidies completely.

In the Agriculture sector, the US Department of Agriculture provides subsidies to farmers through programs like the Farm Bill, which includes crop insurance, price supports, and direct payments. The EU, on the other hand has the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) which provides significant subsidies to European farmers, accounting for around 40% of the EU’s budget, while the UK’s Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board provides funding for farmers and the agricultural industry.

When one looks at the energy sector, Western countries do provide immense subsidies.
The US provides tax credits and grants for renewable energy production, such as wind and solar power while the EU has set a target of at least 32% of its energy coming from renewable sources by 2030, and provides funding for renewable energy projects and the UK offers subsidies for offshore wind farms and other renewable energy projects.

As far as industry is concerned, the US provides subsidies for various industries, such as: the Defense Production Act, which provides funding for the production of defense-related materials.The USA also have the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program, which provides loans for the development of fuel-efficient vehicles. The EU, on the other hand, provides funding for research and development through programs like Horizon Europe. The UK offers funding for various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, and life sciences, through organizations like the Aerospace Technology Institute and the Automotive Council.

What is the Way forward for the IMF Program
It is generally agreed that the IMF is highly effective during a financial crisis like Zambia has been in.The Institution has built its global reputation of providing sound policy advice and technical assistance thus helping member countries to overcome financial crises, but it has failed to meet its goals of fostering higher, more resilient, and more inclusive growth and promoting jobs.This is because of its one size fits all approach to turning around around economies.

The writer does not deny that the Zambian economy needed reforms after ten years of gross mismanagement by the previous administration, which he openly criticised and was banished for. There is, therefore,certainly merit in some of the IMF reforms. Zambia’s excessive debt levels were unsustainable, and needed to be fixed. The unchecked government spending also resulted in unsustainable government deficits which exacerbated inflation, required attention.

The IMF’s program, therefore, has been a necessary evil, meant to create a more stable macro economic foundation for long-term growth, but it is the approach, the rate and scale at which the reforms are being conducted that has created the problems. The sages have always adviced against extremism and recommended moderation.

And some of the measures that they are implementing are purely from text books, and transplanted from advanced economies. There are totally inapparopriate for our economy and therefore ineffective, and producing opposite results.

The key to solving Zambia’s economic problem lies in the Bretton Woods Institution – IMF and World Bank – acknowledging the unique challenges of Zambia’s economy and recognizing local experts who understand it better.There is a need for a more nuanced approach to designing solutions for Zambia,which combines common sense fiscal consolidation, while at the same time targeting the elephant in the Zambia’s economic room, which the IMF and World Bank experts have not yet identified. Zambian thinkers know what it is.

There is a need for the IMF and World Bank to cast their consultative net wider than to restrict themselves with the traditional formal stakeholders who they consult routinely, in their bi- annual review of the ECF program, the recent being last month in April,2024. Local independent and credible economic and political analysts /commentators are totally ignored in these consultations.

CONCLUSION
While the IMF’s intentions may be noble, its policies in Zambia in the short term since 2022,have had a detrimental impact on ordinary Zambians and businesses. And when one looks at the current metrics of the Zambian economy, since the IMF Programme was implemented, it seems some of the tools they insisted on government and Bank of Zambia to use, are not entirely effective, and are not achieving the desired outcomes and therefore, need revisiting. This is common sense.

Inflation is going up, interest rates are going up, kwacha is continuously depreciating, private sector activity is going down, cost of doing business is going up, economic growth is sluggish and low, and unemployment is going up. There is nobody who can buy the story of long term stability, as it has never happened in the past with same policies.

It is essential for the IMF to reconsider its approach and work more closely with the Zambian authorities to revisit, recalibrate strategies and policies that promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth by taking into account the practical variables that drive favourable outcomes in the Zambian economic ecosystem. Preconceived and predetermined prescriptions from Washington, ought to be consigned to the dustin, in place of practical realities.

There is need to find a balance between austerity measures and measures that facilitate growth of Micro and Small enterprises(MSEs), who are the source of economic growth and jobs. The long ignored local experts and thinkers ought to be engaged now, given that most of the IMF Program is not on the right trajectory, and is slowly losing credibility with Zambians, and bringing the nightmarish and horror memories of the late 1980s, 90s and an early 2000s of the Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAP).

The New Dawn Government should not make the same mistake that their precedessors made of ignoring Patriotic Zambian experts, who are outside the government bureaucracy in the Private sector, and who know how economic activities can be accelerated, and how jobs are created, and understand the economy from the practical perspective.

Zambia needs to immeditely craft real home grown initiatives. While the IMF program can continue,albeit in a moderated fashion, it should be complemented by real home grown solutions, which are not interfered with in order to mitigate the current political risk. The two – IMF program and Practical independent home grown initiatives and solutions – are not mutually exclusive.

Zambia has an economic monkey on its back. And unless it is identified and removed or substantially disabled, we can forget about development. All successful developed countries, including the Asian Tigers, ensured that the economic monkey was dealt with. Otherwise, all these IMF reforms will amount to nothing,if it is not addreassed. I can provide empirical evidence to prove this assertion, if challenged.

The writer is a Chartered Accountant, Author and Economic commentator.He is the Founder of a research based virtual Knowledge and Strategy firm, Prosper Knowledge Solutions Limited. Contact : pmchalwe@gmail.com

TAYALI EXPECTED IN KINSHASA FOR HIGH LEVEL INTER – MINISTERIAL MEETING ON KASUMBALESA & SATELITE BORDER POSTS

KINSHASA, DRC, Wednesday, May 7TH 2024

MINISTER of Transport and Logistics, Hon. Frank Tayali is expected to arrive in Kinshasa, the Capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for the Inter-Ministerial Task Force Meeting of SADC Ministers of Trade, Transport and Security matters on the Resolution of the Challenges at the Kasumbalesa Border Post.

The High-Level Meeting which has started today, May 7th and end on May 9th 2024 is being held as a result of the 43rd SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, held on the 17th August 2023 in Luanda, Angola, where a directive was made to resolve the border challenges.

The Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Hon. Jack Mwiimbu will also attend the meeting.

According to SADC, the move is meant to find a lasting solution to the perennial problems encountered by traders, both commercial and small-scale cross border traders, transporters, drivers and border control agencies on both sides at the Kasumbalesa border post, between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Zambia.

The SADC has observed that the Kasumbalesa Border Post on both sides of the DRC and Zambian border is a transit point as far as trade is concerned, handling goods from the two countries as well as goods from other countries within the region.

Goods from beyond the region, including from the East African Community, West Africa, China, India, Europe, and the United States of America also transit through this border for final consumption not only in the Haut-Katanga Province of the DRC, but in other provinces as well.

The Kasumbalesa Border Post is characterised by perennial challenges that are reported in the news media from time to time which includes congestion at the border post, trade facilitation – related challenges, infrastructure challenges and increasing insecurity, especially for truck drivers and the entire trading community.

It is against this background that the Inter-Ministerial Task Force Meeting is called to find a lasting solution to the perennial problems encountered by traders-both commercial and small-scale cross border traders, transporters, drivers, and Border Control Agencies (BCAs) on both sides of the Kasumbalesa border, among many other stakeholders.

The SADC Secretariat has been directed to report back with concrete recommendations at the next SADC Summit to be held in Harare, Zimbabwe.

The meeting will consider the draft Framework of Cooperation and the Action Plan developed, containing a comprehensive list of critical activities and initiatives that will address the problems occurring at the border of Kasumbalesa and satellite border posts of Sakania, Mokambo, and Kipushi among several others.

The meeting was preceded by the meetings of Technical officers and Permanent Secretaries from the two countries.

Issued by:
Original Copy Signed.
NDUBI R. MVULA
PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER.

HOW EDGAR LUNGU SAVED THE LIFE OF SICK ROBERT CHAWINGA

CHOMBA KAOMA WRITES:

PEACE OF ADVICE

Dear Robert Chabinga MP

My good brother I want to start by appreciating the person you have been to me, I cherish the brotherly love we have shared between us and all the times you have come to my aid. But kindly allow me to register my displeasure with the way you have continued to disrespect Former President Edgar Lungu and his family. It’s not fair!!

Allow me to remind you of a certain time in 2019 when you invited me to Kenya for a multi million dollar deal, remember how you shared a touching story with me in that apartment we shared on how President Lungu sent you money to clear your hospital bills when you fail sick in the DRC.. My brother a man who cares about your health is more important than a person who cares more about your power and money!!

My brother, there is a lot you can do to impress your newly found friends apart from insulting President Lungu. Personally if I have to join UPND I will join because my principles align with Their beliefs not because I want to impress Gilbert Liswaniso and Uncle Charlie by disrespecting people that have helped me before!! Posterity will judge you harshly my brother, am saying this basically out of love and care for a brother.

In life let’s learn to be grateful, it’s bad to disrespect a finger that once fed you. Let’s teach the younger generation politics of gratitude. You and Kawana are the ones making politics look toxic and dirty because you seem to have quickly forgotten were you came from so easily. Personally i have my own issues with so many people but if at some point I benefited from them you will never hear me disrespect them.

Am really Sorry if I have disrespected you my brother but I thought of registering my displeasure with you in the open since you chose to address ECL in the open I also thought of doing the same as well. Anyway I wish you well my brother, hope you pick one or two things from my humble submission.

Mule tasha bane!!

STATEMENT DELIVERED BY THE SECRETARY GENERAL, HON RAPHAEL NAKACINDA ON MONDAY, 6TH MAY 2024

MEMBERS OF THE CENTRAL COMMITTEE
SENIOR MEMBERS OF THE PARTY
MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT
MEMBERS OF THE PRESS
FELLOW ZAMBIANS

WE HAVE CALLED THIS PRESS BRIEFING TO COMMENT ON VARIOUS ISSUES AFFECTING BOTH THE STATE OF OUR PARTY, AND OUR COUNTRY.

CENTRAL COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON SATURDAY, SATURDAY, 4TH MAY 2025
THE CENTRAL COMMITTEE MEETING WAS CHAIRED BY OUR PARTY PRESIDENT, DR. EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU. WE RELEASED A COMMUNIQUE FOR THE DETAILS OF THE MEETING.

THE LEADERSHIP WELCOMED THE FORMATION OF THE UNITED KWACHA ALLIANCE. THE CENTRAL COMMITTEE AFFIRMED ITS EARLEIR STANCE THAT COLLABORATION WITH OTHER POLITICAL PARTIES AND SOCIAL FORMATIONS ON MATTERS OF COMMON INTERESTS, WAS INEVITABLE, TO ESTABLISH A CRITICAL MASS AND FRONT, TO HELP DEFEAT THE UPND IN 2026.

THE MEETING ALSO DISSOLVED THE EASTERN PROVINCE COMMITTEE. A NEW COMMITTEE WAS SET UP LED BY PROVINCIAL CHAIRPERSON, MR. JOSEPH MAKUNKULA, WITH LUNDAZI MP, HON. BRENDA NYIRENDA-CHISOPA AS VICE CHAIRPERSON. THE PROVINCIAL SECRETARY IS MR, PETER PHIRI AND MR RIZWANI PATEL WAS APPOINTED AS VICE PROVINCIAL SECREATRY.
THE MEETING ALSO APPOINTED MR OMAR MUNSANJE TO SUCCEED A GALLANT SON, THE LATE MR. LEONARD SIACHONA (MHSRIEP).
YOU WILL FIND THE REST OF THE DETAILS IN THE COMMUNIQUE.

STATE OF THE NATION

THE COUNTRY IS IN DEEP CRISES FACING ECONOMIC CRISIS, RISING INFLATION RATE, VOLATILE EXCHANGE RATE, THE HIGHEST COST OF LIVING IN RECENT MEMEORY, HEALTH OUTBREAKS SUCH AS CHOLERA, ANTHRAX, TYPHOID, DYSENTERY, MALARIA AND SYPHILIS OUTBREAKS.

SADLY, DESPITE THESE DEEP CRISES FACING THE COUNTRY, HICHILEMA’S POSTURE IS OF INDIFFERENCE AND HIS PRIORITIES ARE ELSWHERE, HE IS PREOCUPIED TO DESTROY THE OPPOSITION AND CRITICS.

WE ARE CONCERNED AT THE IMPUNITY IN WHICH CORRUPTION IS FLOURISHING AND THE RATE OF CORRUPTION DEALS UNDER THE GOVERNMENT OF PRESIDENT HAKAINDE HICHILEMA.
ALL MAJOR DECISIONS OF THE COUNTRY, IN EVERY SECTOR, ARE DRIVEN BY AN EVIL SENSE OF CORRUPTION AND DRIVEN BY A DESPERATE QUEST BY PRESIDENT HICHILEMA TO HOLD ON TO POWER BEYOND 2026.

WE HAVE NOTED THAT THE RETURN OF KCM TO VEDANTA WAS DRIVEN BY CORRUPTION, WE HAVE DEMANDED FOR GOVERNMENT TO PUBLISH THIS FRAUDLENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN ZCCM-IH AND VEDANTA. AT ONE TIME, GOVERNMENT ENGAGED IN LIES BY STATING THAT THE MINE WAS RETURNED ON THE WORD OF MOUTH AND A GENTLEMAN’S AGREEMENT. WE KNOW A WICKED AGREEMENT WAS SIGNED AND WE DEMAND ITS PUBLICATION.

SIMILARLY, THE DEAL BETWEEN ZCCM-IH AND AN INVESTOR PURPORTING TO BE FROM THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, IS SHROUDED IN SECRECY. AN OPEN TENDER PROCESS TO GET AN EQUITY PARTNER FROM THE SHORTLISTED THAT INCLUDENCHINA’S ZIJIN MINING, NORINCHO GROUP AND SOUTH AFRICA’S SIBANYA STILL WATER, WAS ABANDONED AT THE LAST MINUTE, AND IN STRANGE CIRCUMSTANCES, ZCCM-IH WAS MADE TO ACCEPT, A COMPANY WITH NO KNOWN MINING EXPERIENCE, CALLED INTERNATIONAL RESOURCES HOLDINGS (IRH).

THIS TRANSACTION INVOLVING THE SALE OF 51% SHAREHOLDING OF ZCCM-IH SHARES IN MOPANI COPPER MINES REQUIRED APPROVAL FROM PARLIAMENT AS STIPULATED IN ARTICLE 210 (2).
PRESIDENT HICHILEMA IGNORED THIS PROCESS WITH IMPUNITY. WHAT HE HAS DONE IS AN OFFENCE AGAINST THE CONSTITUTION AND HE LIABLE TO IMPEACHMENT.

WE ARE ALSO CONCERNED AT THE HUGE TRANSACTION FEES AMOUNTING $15.7MILLION PAID TO THE ADVISORS; ROTHSCHILD COMPANY AND BAKER McKenzie. THIS IS A TRANSACTION THAT COULD HAVE BEEN DONE BY LOCAL LAWYERS AND FINANCIAL FIRMS.
SIMILAR DEALS HAVE BEEN CHARACTERISED BY CORRUPTION WHETHER IT’S THE PURCHASE OF FERTILISER, OIL, MEDICINES AND EQUIPMENT. SINGLE-SOURCING AND DIRECT BIDDING HAS BEEN ABUSED AND HAS BECOME THE NORMAL WAY OF PROCUREMENT UNDER PRESIDENT HICHILEMA.

DECLARATION OF STATE OF DISASTER AND THE BEGGING OF $900MILLION
THE DECLARATION OF THE STATE OF DISASTER IS PART OF THE LEADERSHIP DISASTER THAT THIS COUNTRY IS FACING. PRESIDENT HICHILEMA LEADERSHIP FAILURES HAS MADE HIM THE CENTRAL FIGURE OF THE SIGNIFICANT FAILURES THAT THE COUNTRY IS SUFFERING FROM.
HE EXPORTED THE ENTIRE NATIONAL STRATEGIC MAIZE RESERVE. THE PATRIOTIC FRONT LEFT 1.5MILLION METRIC TONNES OF MAIZE IN NATIONAL RESERVES.
CORRUPTION AND INNEFICIENCIES HAVE PLAGUED THE FARMER IN PUT SUPOORT PROGRAMME(FISP) WITH FERTILSER ARRIVING LATE OR NOT AT ALL.

FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE HISTORY OF OUR COUNTRY, OUR FARMERS HAVE BEEN SHARING MEDDAS OF FERTILISER.
THE PREVALENT OF DROUGHT SHOULD NOT TRANSLATE TO FAMINE FOR OUR PEOPLE. SO FAR, OVER 6 MILLION PEOPLE FACE STARVATION BECAUSE OF HICHILEMA’S DISASTROUS POLICY ACTIONS.

EVEN JOSEPH IN THE BIBLE, USED THE YEARS OF PLENTY TO PREPARE FOR THE SEVEN-YEAR-DROUGHT AHEAD OF EGYPT.
HICHILEMA HAS GIVEN AWAY DOMESTIC RESOURCES BY GRANTING UNFAIR INCENTIVES TO THE MINING SECTOR, RVENUES THAT SHOULD SHORE UP OUR TREASURY.

SHRINKING DEMOCRATIC SPACE
ITS ALMOST 3 YEARS, AND THE OPPOSITION CANNOT BE ALLOWED TO HOLD PUBLIC RALLIES, PROTESTS OR DEMONSTRATION OR ANY FORM OF PUBLIC PROCESSION.
THE PATRIOTIC FRONT HAS BEEN BANNED FROM PARTICIPATING IN BY-ELECTIONS.

THE CONTINUED ARRESTS AND HARRASMENT OF SENIOR MEMBERS OF THE OPPOSITION TO INSTIL FEAR AND INTIMIDATION AND SILENCE CRITICAL VOICES.

THE HARRASMENT AND ARRESTS OF PERSONS DEEMED TO BE CLOSE TO ZAMBIA’S SIXTH PRESIDENT, DR. EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU TO ATTEMPT TO ISOLATE THE FORMER PRESIDENT.

THE BEATING AND TORTURE OF CRITICS AS IN THE CASE OF RIZWAN PATEL AND AMB. EMMANUEL MWAMBA.

THE ATTACKS AND THREATS AGAINST THE MEDIA.

PRESIDENT HICHILEMA HAS ALSO CONCENTRATED HIS SCHEMES TO ERODE DEMOCRATIC INSTUTIONS USING THREATS AND TRIBAL APPOINTMENTS. HE NOW CONTROLS PARLIAMENT, THE JUDICIARY AND ASSOCIATED INSTITUTIONS.
JUDGES CAN NOW BE FIRED AT HIS WHIMS.
PARLIAMENT IS NOW A JOKE WITH FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION HEAVILY CURTAILED AND THE PEOPLE’S HOUSE IS NOW NELLIE MUTTI’S HOUSE.
INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS HAVE CONFIRMED THESE AND OTHER HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES BEING PEPERTRATED BY HICHILEMA’S GOVERNMENT INCLUDING THE LATEST REPORT BY HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH

SCHEMES TO RIG THE 2026 ELECTIONS
WE ARE AWARE OF DIRTY SCHEMES BEING PEPETRATED TO RIG THE 2026 ELECTIONS USING STATE INSTUTIONS SUCH AS: ZAMBIA INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AUTHORITY (ZICTA), NATIONAL REGISTRATION DEPARTMENT, ELECTORAL COMMISSION OF ZAMBIA (ECZ) AND THE ZAMBIA POLICE.

WE ARE AWARE OF THE PURGE BEING DONE TO POSITIONS OF COUNCIL SECRETARIES AND TOWN CLERKS BY LOCAL GOVERNMENT SERVICE COMMISSION CHAIRPERSON, ACKSON SEJANI.

SEJANI’S COUNTERPART, CHOOLWE BEYANI AT PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION, HAVE CONTINUED TO PURGE THE CIVIL SERVICE. THEY HAVE PARKED OVER 400 QUALIFIED PERSONS AT PUBLIC SERVICE MANAGEMENT DIVISION (PSMD).

THE APPOINTMENT OF WELL-KNOWN CADRES AS ECZ CHAIRPERSON (MWANGALA ZALOUMIS), MacDonald CHIPENZI AS COMMISSIONER AND CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER, BROWN KASARO, REMAINS OF SERIOUS CONCERNS
THE RECENT TENDER TO PRINT BALLOTS THAT WAS ABRUPTLY CANCELLED AT ECZ.
IT IS CLEAR THAT PRESIDENT HICHILEMA KNOWS THAT HE HAS LOST MASS POPULARITY AND IS DETERMINED TO STAY IN POWER USING UNDERHAND AND ILLEGAL METHODS.

WE CALL UPON ZAMBIANS TO REJECT THESE MACHINATIONS AND TO HELP RESTORE DEMOCRACY IN ZAMBIA.

CONCLUSION

IT IS CLEAR THAT ZAMBIANS HAVE TO RESOLVE TO RESCUE THEMESLEVES FROM THIS DISASTROUS LEADERSHIP AND GANG OF CRIMINALS AND LIARS.
IF PRESIDENT HICHILEMA HAD ANY SENSE OF DECENCY, HE WOULD HAVE RESIGNED

UPND MEMBERS ON THE COPPERBELT ADVISED AGAINST INTRA-PARTY DISPUTES

Copperbelt Province Minister Elisha Matambo has called on the United Party for National Development (UPND) members on the Copperbelt Province to desist from Intra-Party disputes.

Mr Matambo who is also UPND Copperbelt Provincial Chairperson said it’s only through unity that the party in government can develop at the provincial and nation levels.

“We formed a government on the premises and tenets of Democracy and we need to live and govern with this principle, “Mr Matambo said.

The Provincial Minister said in Chingola during the burial of the late UPND Chingola District Vice Chairperson Richard Maluba, who died in a road traffic accident last on Monday 29th April,2024.

Speaking at the same occasion UPND National Management Committee (NMC) Executive member Frank Tayali who is also Transport and logistics Minister said people should not wait for someone to die without making peace with them and only to appreciate them in death.

Meanwhile, Chingola Mayor Johnson Kang’ombe, has described the late Richard Maluba as a selfless and humble Man who heavily contributed to successes in his political career which saw him get elected as Mayor for Chingola District.

Mr Kang’ombe said the late Maluba was a visionary leader who contributed and devoted his time and personal resources to the UPND until the party finally formed government on August 12 in 2021.

The Civic leader has since implored the deceased family to carry on with the good legacy left by Mr Maluba and that his Office will always remain open for them anytime they needed his support.

“This Man we are burying today was a selfless and highly visionary Man who nurtured me into Politics,” Mr Kang’ombe said.

Nchanga Constituency Member of Parliament Derrick Chiludika, described the late Maluba as a friendly and a cheerful Man who had no grudge with anyone, but focused on taking the party forward.

And Chingola Member of Parliament Chipoka Mulenga, who is also Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister said the party and government has lost a valuable Man,noting that Mr Maluba’s Professional expertise and experience as an engineer in the Mining Sector compelled President Hakainde Hichilema to recommend him to serve on the Zambia Compulsory Standard Agency (ZCSA) Board as a Board Member.

Mr Maluba 66 died in a road traffic accident along the Chingola-Solwezi road on April 29, 2024,he was survived by a wife, six Children, and three Grandchildren.

HAAAA: DR MUSOKOTWANE SAYS FUEL WAS CHEAP UNDER PF BECAUSE THEY WERE NOT PAYING SUPPLIERS

The reasoning within UPND leadership baffles me to the extent where I start wondering what they were really studying or went to do at the universities.

I say this because if for instance, you get a bus on loan and bus fares are fixed between RTSA and the Public Passenger Transport Drivers Association of Zambia, how does that affect bus fares? Does it mean if you default on paying back the loan, then bus fares will drop? I am struggling to understand the Minister of Finance’s explanation that fuel was cheap under PF because they did not pay suppliers!

I think the opposite should have been the case. You default on your credit terms, penalties kick in, and you have to price higher to take account of penalties on the loan you obtained.

That is the problem when you are not honest and performing, and want to pass the blame on someone else to divert attention from your failure to deliver on your promises. Is this not illogical economics? May be I am missing something?

Another example is if you get a mortgage, build a house, and rent it out, will the rentals become cheaper when you stop servicing the mortgage? “What has breaching credit terms got to do with the price of fish”? In other words, what has the rental market prices got to do with breaching your mortgage terms?

Another dimension is why the suppliers of fuel continued supplying when they were not being paid. Logic dictates that some form of agreement must have been reached on how the arrears were going to be liquidated. Otherwise, the suppliers would have cut off supply.

In conclusion, just admit your failures and ask for help or at the very least, take heed of the advice of your opponents, no matter how much you may not like or agree with them.

I have six months arrears on my ZESCO bill, but the tarrif has remained the same until the recent increment. Can Dr Musokotwane explain, please, because using his logic, then the tarrif should have dropped.

We know you’re stuck so listen when we advise because we mean well.

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

REVIEW OF PF JUST CONCLUDED PRESS CONFERENCE.
Greetings Countrymen. The PF has concluded the Press Conference. Congrats to the PF Party and SG Hon NAKACHINDA for articulating issues very well. Firstly I wish to commend the PF Youths for holding Peace & for being Steadfast & Tolerant – Under Very Difficult violent Conditions inposed by the UPND. Zambians have realized the Mistake they did. To vote in UPND & Sammy HH in 2021. Whilst time has been lost. We can make amends in 2026 by removing them from POWER. This must be non negotiable. We have seen how the Civil Service with all its extensions have had UPND Die Hard Functionaries appointed to run them.

To purge all qualified deemed undesirable and replace them with dunderheads. No wonder Service delivery is very POOR and u coordinated. All Sectors of Public Life has been AFFECTED. Napsa & NHIMA have been compromised with daily contradictions.

This Govt has failed to run Zambia. Its too big for them to see beyond their REGIONAL Politics. The KCM fiasco is a case also in point. PF left a running Mine. UPND deals with VEDANTA – that supplied them with Mahindra Vehicles in 2021 Elections has backfired. Thousands of KCM Workers are not working since September 2023.

Only those employees dealing with Critical Services like pumping out water working TO PREVENT MINE SHAFTS FLOODING. More than 2000 contract Labour dismissed .

The illegal Miners the UPND encouraged to continue Mining as their officials get bribes from them – Our Poor Miners – these Miners have continued dying Week in week Out. Those Buried At Sensele Mine in Chingola are still not excavated ( shocking even the President went & held a Rally at the Very Death Site in Chingola last Year instead of doubling efforts to recover the bodies). Its Quite now, buried Miners Forgotten – How Sad. MOPANI Mine Saga is crowded in mystery and illegalities.. We under One Zambia Two Nations . Even UPND ministers complaining that HH makes personal secretive decisions on National critical Emergency issues, minus consulting them. The Kwacha is running away – depressed against the Dollar. Given a knockout punch. This is due to this Govt being Clueless.

They exported all the strategic Maize stock for Kickbacks and damaged Our Food Secure Situation. Now they have to import the same Maize at a huge cost ( What do u expect having Mtolo as a Minister ). UPND has blown the local dept to huge figures and borrowed heavily without nothing to show for apart from those incomplete Federation Era Toilets in Kwacha – Kitwe which even Colonial Welensky could have fainted after seeing them in this Era. Zambians the Special Purpose Vehicle is UKA to help Liberate Zambia and Rebuild Zambia. Go to shops and see the prices of Goods and SERVICES. Its a scandal unless u cant reason. Nothing Global here . Its Failed Leadership. UPND of Mazoka Vision is no longer that Vision UPND under HH. Now I accept what Father Bwalya Classified or Deemed HH…. U know what Father Bwalya said. The POWER to change Govt lies with us Zambians. Dont expect Fuel and the ECONOMY to come down under this regime! Its like expecting a Dog to grow Horns. All they champion is arrest Opposition Leaders on trumped up charges and making them be found at court Week In Week Out. The UPND Puting up screaming Headlines Attacking Opposition. Coming up with Stupid Rogue Media . Zambians can see thru this uselessness and wont buy it. Instead of finding solution to Energy Crisis , they busy interfering with PF & UKA.

Zambians Wake Up. UKAni. KWACHA!. Thomas Zulu. Former Mayor. Former VP – LGAZ. Former Diplomat. Civil & Human Rights Activist

IBA APPOINTS NEW DIRECTOR GENERAL

Lusaka… Monday May 6, 2024

The Board of Directors of the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) is pleased to appoint Mr. Guntila Muleya, a former General Manager at Multichoice Zambia, as its new Director General with effect from May 6, 2024.

He takes over from Ms. Josephine Mapoma who served in that capacity from the inception of the Authority in 2013 until 2023.

Mr. Muleya holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing from the Copperbelt University (CBU) and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA) in Management Strategy from the University of Zambia (UNZA).

Mr. Muleya brings to the IBA a wealth of senior management experience and a proven track record of success in leadership positions of major organisations such as National Breweries, Multichoice Zambia and SEEDCO Zambia.

At Multichoice, the South African company that operates DStv, a major satellite television service in Sub-Saharan Africa, he served for seven (7) years in various positions as Country Manager for GOtv, Head of Sales and Marketing and finally as General Manager Commercial.

During his time at Multichoice, he was extensively exposed to broadcasting regulations.

He successfully managed the Digital Migration of GOtv service from analogue to digital, innovated and lobbied for the creation of Zambezi Magic – a local Zambian channel, and was awarded Africa GOtv Manager of the Year in 2012, among
other achievements.

Mr. Muleya also served as Chief Executive Officer of SEEDCO Zambia where he managed operations in Zambia, Angola and the Democratic Republic of
Congo (DRC).

At SEEDCO, Mr Muleya led business transformation that has led to business growth, ensuring that more farmers can have access to the right inputs in order to be more productive at household level.

Mr. Muleya is passionate about technology and has automated a number of business processes to create more operational efficiency and convenience for end users.

These performance milestones resonate extremely well with the IBA’s strategy to digitalise its licencing and monitoring procedures in line with the government’s upward momentum in digital transformation.

Mr. Muleya comes to the IBA in the early stages of the implementation of its new strategic plan which emphasises on the creation of a more enabling regulatory environment through digitalisation and enhanced stakeholder management.

His experience will start the Authority on a new transformational journey towards a better and more citizen-centric broadcasting landscape.

Mr. Chikosola P. Chuula
CHAIRPERSON OF THE BOARD
INDEPENDENT BROADCASTING AUTHORITY

ZAMBIA AT 60: THE CASE FOR NATIONALISING ZAMBIA’S MINES

By Mpika Constituency Member of Parliament Hon Francis Robert Kapyanga

Thousands of youths are unemployed and millions of Zambians wallowing in abject poverty today. Therefore, as Zambia celebrates its 60th anniversary of independence, it is time to revisit a crucial issue that has been a subject of debate for decades – the ownership and control of the country’s mining industry, the economic backbone of the nation.

When the UNIP government nationalized the mines in 1969, it was a bold move that allowed Zambians to directly benefit from their country’s mineral wealth. Under government ownership, the mining industry provided employment opportunities, skills development, social services, and significant revenue that was reinvested into the country’s development. This period was marked by a sense of national pride and sovereignty, as Zambia asserted control over its natural resources.

However, the privatization of the mines in 1997 has failed to deliver the promised benefits to the Zambian people. Over the past 25 years, there is little tangible evidence that the country has reaped the rewards of its mineral wealth. Instead, we have witnessed limited job opportunities for Zambians, environmental degradation, allegations of tax evasion and corruption, and an over-reliance on a single industry that leaves the economy vulnerable to global commodity price fluctuations.

As a major copper producer, Zambia should be reaping the benefits of its mineral resources. Yet, the majority of Zambians have seen little to no improvement in their standard of living, while the mining companies, often foreign-owned, continue to amass wealth at the expense of the nation.

It is time for Zambia to reclaim its economic sovereignty and nationalize the mines. This would allow the government to exercise greater control over the industry, ensuring that the benefits are more equitably distributed among the Zambian people. Nationalization would enable the government to invest in training and developing a local talent pool, strengthen environmental regulations and enforcement, and diversify the economy to reduce the over-reliance on mining.

Furthermore, the revenue generated from the nationalized mines could be used to fund critical social services, infrastructure development, and other initiatives that would improve the lives of all Zambians, not just the privileged few.

The precedent set by the UNIP government’s nationalization of the mines in 1969 demonstrates the potential for this strategy to drive Zambia’s economic and social progress. As we celebrate 60 years of independence, let us reclaim our rightful control over our nation’s mineral wealth and build a more prosperous and equitable future for all Zambians.

The Fraudulent Sale of 51% ZCCM-IH Shareholding in Mopani Copper Mines PLC to Delta Mining Limited Should be Cancelled

Presented by Dr. Mbita Chitala and Mr. Mwape Mwelwa

The more than 300 Convenors of the People’s Political Consultative Conference (PPCC) from across the country held a virtual meeting at which they analysed the scandalous sale of 51% of shares in Mopani Copper Mines Plc held by ZCCM-IH on behalf of the Zambian Government to Delta Mining Limited.

We the convenors of PPCC are in agreement with many citizens including Hon Edith Nawakwi, Dr. Fred Mmembe, Sean Tembo and others that the purported sale of Mopani Copper Mines PLC to Delta Mining Limited, a purported subsidiary of International Resource Holdings (IRH) that is headquartered in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates was an act to defraud Zambia. The explanation raised by Hon. Kabuswe the Minister of Mines in his defence of this transaction on behalf of the UPND administration is either based on his humble defective education attainments or is simply an expression of a conflicted person trying to defend a fraud against Zambia.

Our analysis of the publically available documents show that the UPND government headed by President Hakainde Hichilema are guilty of utilizing creative accounting to commit fraud on Zambia. In other words, the UPND administration have have colluded with Glencore and used accounting practices to misrepresent Mopani’s position. These practices are not only unethical but are also illegal as they simply advanced this scandalous and fraudulent deal.

The UPND administration colluded with Glencore to admit a fake Glencore debt in Mopani of US$1.5 billion that was an investment that Glencore allegedly put in Mopani in 2000-2021 and for which Glencore received billions of dollars from its investment. They lied that the purported debt would be assigned to Delta and other remaining un assigned from the 1.5billion debt would continue being a debt on Mopani books.

It should be noted that neither Carlisa nor Mopani could lend as they were not registered money lenders in Zambia. Any money they advanced to Mopani could only be equity investment.
No cash money has or will come into Mopani except the US$130 million Bank Guaranteed loan from our own Zambia National Commercial Bank which loan has been guaranteed by Mopani assets and which they have used to put butter on some local creditors such as the councils and conflicted UPND politicians. The whole transaction is a hoax which must be stopped.

Creative Accounting is fraudulent Accounting:
In the context of the Mopani deal, the UPND administration forced ZCCM-IH to accept the unethical and illegal practices to purportedly sale 51% of the shares in Mopani Copper Mines PLC to Delta Mining Limited.

Firstly, in collusion with Glencore, they structured the deal where they kept the major portions of financing or liabilities off Mopani’s Balance Sheet. That is the US$1.5 billion liability. Secondly, they failed to disclose liabilities such as environmental costs. Thirdly, they used complex financial instruments like derivatives and special purpose entities like Jubilee to take over Kankoyo black mountain and Delta Mining Limited to take over 51% shares in Mopani to obscure the true nature of the deal. And fourthly, they used performance metrics where even the President of the Republic was invited to create a favourable impression at the time of the deal when the deal was not in the interest of Zambia.

Privatization and Ownership of Mopani:
Mopani Copper Mines PLC (also known as Mopani) is a Zambian company that produces and sells copper and cobalt to the international market, and is one of the biggest mines and exporters in the world. Mopani Copper Mines Plc was originally part of Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Limited (ZCCM), and was state-owned until its privatisation in 2000 when it was sold to Glencore
Following privatisation in 2000, the Zambian Government retained a 10% stake in the mining industry through ZCCM Investments Holdings Plc (ZCCM-IH) which continued to hold a minority 10% shares in Mopani.

ZCCM-IH is an investments holdings company owned by the government controlled Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) chaired by President Hakainde Hichilema. It is quoted on the Lusaka, London, and Euronext stock exchanges.

According to the data from the Paradise Papers – Barbados Corporate Registry, Mopani Copper Mines was owned by Carlisa Investments Corporation (a joint venture company comprising Glencore International AG (73.1%) and First Quantum Minerals Ltd (16.9%)) and ZCCM-IH (10%). Minority shareholders were spread throughout the world, in various locations. The point here is that Carlisa owned 90% of the Mopani Copper Mines shares and had controlling interest in Mopani.

The company has mine sites at Mufulira and Nkana, which are located on the Copperbelt in central Zambia. The head office is located in Kitwe near Nkana assets. Nkana has been in operation since 1931 and Mufulira, which has been in operation since 1933 lies 50 kilometres (31 mi) north of Kitwe.

The company operates the Mufulira mine, smelter, concentrator and copper refinery and the Nkana mine, concentrator and cobalt plant.

Mopani or MCM produced 134,800 tonnes (148,600 short tons) of copper and 2,040 tonnes (2,250 short tons) of cobalt in 2003. Copper production from internal sources was supplemented by the purchase of some 18,000 tonnes (20,000 short tons) of copper in high-grade oxide concentrate bought from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and 185,325 tonnes of copper concentrate toll treated from Copper-miner Equinox in 2007.

Between 2000-2021, Mopani or MCM invested in a number of oxide copper projects at several of its properties, including an in-situ leaching project at Mufulira and leaching at Nkana, and has achieved significant production increases at its underground mining operations in Kitwe and Mufulira. The company installed ISA smelt furnace, Matte Settling Electric Furnace, oxygen plant, at the Mufulira smelter during 2004 and 2005, at a total cost of US$213 million.

All in all, the company’s assets were more than US$9 billion according to some estimates.

The Plunder of Zambia’s Minerals:
Since 2000, Mopani has produced and sold an average of 134,800 tonnes of copper and 2,040 tonnes per year of cobalt between 2000 and 2021 and made billions of dollars which it sent to its foreign owners. These windfall gains included other minerals. As is well known, during the electrolysis, several precious metals were produced. These included gold, silver, platinum, selenium, palladum and others. These would settle along other impurities at the bottom of the cells and the Glencore management would remove and collect them at the end of the anode circle, this product known as anode slime would then be washed, dried, packed and exported by Glencore management at Mopani for recovering these precious metals. The Glencore management of Mopani would then export these slimes at great benefit to Glencore at the expense of Zambia.

It is not known with exactitude what Glencore benefited from its Zambian operations between 2000-2021. What is known is that MOPANI never declared any dividends to its shareholders and always reported losses in its final accounts. This was despite the high prices of base metals on the international market. Zambian authorities foolishly allowed this to continue happening as they removed all exchange controls and allowed Glencore to loot Zambian minerals.

There is one report of fraudulent trading which appeared in the documentary entitled “Zambie: A Qui Profite le cuive” online alleging fraudulent dissimulation of thousands of million dollars by MCM. The company was put under investigation and the President of the European Investment Bank (EIB) instructed the banking services in Europe to decline any further financing request from this company or its subsidiaries. It is this together with some report that Glencore was at that time facing operational challenges which may have compelled the foreign shareholders to decide to exit MOPANI Copper Mines PLC and surrender it to Zambian authorities for a $1.

Mopani resolved to put the company on care and maintenance and declare more than 6,000 of its employees redundant. This was not acceptable to Zambian authorities, as they approached the 2021 general elections. The foreign owners Glencore decided to surrender the Mopani asset to Zambia for a dollar (US1$) and exited the ownership in the company.
In 2021, Carlisa surrendered its shares in Mopani to ZCCM-IH for US$1. This meant that Carlisa/Gencore relinguished their 90% ownership stake in Mopani as they no longer saw value in holding shares in Mopani. By Carlisa/Glencore surrendering their shares for US$1 to ZCCM-IH, they gave up their ownership in Mopani together with any potential future value or dividend related to those shares.

All Zambians were happy at witnessing the end of that Glencore-Zambia exploitative relationship and hoped ZCCM-IH would now play its developmental role of owning a large mine for the benefit of Zambia. Regrettably, this did not materialize.

Glencore in collusion with Zambian administrators entered into some fake agreement that Mopani still owed Glencore US$1.5 billion it had allegedly invested in Mopani between 2000-2021 and US$100 million Glencore alleged had provided security for Mopani’s Letters of Credit from 2021-2024 together with interest. This was a fake transactional agreement which should have been repudiated by Zambian authorities ab initio.

The Fake 1.5 Billion US$ Debt:
Glencore was able to collude with Zambian authorities and agreed that the US$1.5 billion it had invested in Mopani between 2000 and 2021 should be considered a Glencore debt in Mopani and not part of its equity. The collusion meant that this so called transaction debt of US$1.5 billion would be restructured and be repaid to Glencore through a scheme of very devilish ways which culminated in identifying Delta Mining Limited as a nominee to the scheme.
It was claimed by Glencore that the US$1.5 billion debt was independent of the Glencore investments in Mopani. Glencore argued that the US$1.5 billion was money borrowed from Carlisa which was a subsidiary of Glencore. It was therefore a stand alone debt to Mopani. It will be interesting to see the terms of this purported debt which was sourced from a sister company and this raised the unacceptable conduct by multi national corporations of insider trading and cheating possibility.

The above claim was of course not correct. Carlisa/Glenore invested in the business of Mopani as equity shareholders that owned 90% of Mopani. Any investment in Mopani from its shareholders could only go towards the advancement of the shareholders equity and could not be defined as debt. In the Mopani case, Mopani had residual interests in Mopani’s assets and profits and its investment in Mopani could only be part of its equity and not debt.

Furthermore, Carlisa/Glencore were estopped by law to lend to anybody as they were not financial institutions regulated by Bank of Zambia or a Zambian entity authorized to conduct money lending
It is evident that Mopani did not borrow the US$1.5 billion from Carlisa/Glencore partnership and that any advances from these partners could only be converted into equity (shares) in Mopani. This is consistent with the laws of Zambia.

However, utilizing creative accounting tricks, Glencore also forced or colluded with UPND authorities in January, 2021 to recognize this Glencore investment in Mopani as a debt liability of US$1.5 billion to be repaid to Glencore. This was pure criminality as Glencore invested this money in Mopani between 2000-2021 and in return received billions of dollars as profits which it externalized to its foreign jurisdictions.

It was a fraudulent act that Zambian authorities forced ZCCM-IH to take over this US$1.5 billion in debt even as they knew or ought to have known that this debt was outside the Glencore exit terms and was an odious debt.

The initial acceptance by the Zambian government in 2021 of the purported Glencore debt of US$1.5 billion to be a debt on Mopani and the subsequent acceptance of this fake debt by the UPND administration in 2024 was unlawful. This acceptance was induced by either corrupt conduct or ignorance as the purported debt was illegitimate.

Furthermore, this illegimate debt was odious and could not be enforced or transferred to subsequent governments or generations as it was fake. Such a debt in international law cannot be enforced and should have been repudiated by Zambian authorities.

Because of its fake status, the minority shareholders of ZCCM-IH called for investigations into the purchase of the 90% shares of Mopani Copper Mines (MCM) by ZCCM – Investments Holding and the fake debt from Carlisa Investment valued at $1.5 billion. The minority shareholders of ZCCM-IH wrote to Chairperson of the Anti-Corruption Commission Board Musa Mwenye and Director General Gilbert Phiri over their proposed investigations into the transaction. The group further wrote to Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha asking his office to review the detailed sale agreement. Spokesperson of minority shareholders of ZCCM-IH Thierry Charles said buying Mopani and accepting a debt of $1.5 billion in 2021 was too exorbitant. “The Mopani $1.5 billion deal must be investigated in the light of the above-mentioned elements which we question, we ask Chairperson of the Anti Corruption Commission Board Musa Mwenye, Director General Gilbert Phiri and Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha to launch investigations regarding the conditions under which the contract for the purchase of shares in MCM was negotiated and drafted: to look for any undisclosed adverse clauses that explain the inconsistencies in the figures and to question all those who negotiated the exorbitant $1.5 billion deal,” Charles wrote.

The origin of this Glencore debt is also very questionable as it was as a result of insider lending between sister companies Carlisa Investment Corporation lending to Glencore who allegedly passed the investment to Mopani as equity. It is not known how the loan or series of loans or investments were contracted or passed to Mopani and on what terms. The purported US$1.5 billion debt in Mopani should have been contested by both UPND administrators and the ZCCM-IH as it was not possible for Mopani to contract such debt on grounds of statutory provisions as well as on Mopani’s capacity.

The UPND Single Sourced Delta Mining Limited was illegimate:
President Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND administration single sourced Delta Mining to purchase the 51% shares originally assigned to ZCCM-IH in Mopani claiming that Delta Mining Limited was a subsidiary of IRH. It is not known who the shareholders of Delta are as it has no website. It is not known whether Delta Mining Limited is a registered Zambian company or whether there was any consideration for these share transfers.
To actualize the sale, Carlisa/Glencore purportedly assigned US$400 million of its US$1.5 billion purported debt to Delta Mining Limited on terms not disclosed by Glencore.

In a normal transaction, Delta should have paid the US$400 million to Glencore to liquidate the US$1.5 billion purported debt in Mopani pursuant to discount conditions. This was not done and Glencore continued to hold a lien on this Us$400 million.
However, the purported assignment was used as evidence to enable ZCCM-IH transfer its shares in Mopani to Delta Mining Limited without paying any money as the US$400 million was deferred. In February 2024, Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines-Investment Holdings (ZCCM-IH) on behalf of the UPND administration approved the acquisition of a 51 percent stake worth 25.5 bn kwacha (US$ 1.1 bn) in Mopani Copper Mines Plc by Delta Mining Limited, a purported subsidiary of International Resource Holdings (IRH) that is headquartered in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The transaction was completed the following month.

This acquisition was a fraudulent transfer of shares by law. However the transfer of shares was assisted by the collusion of some UPND big wigs who prevailed on PACRA to make the unlawful share transfer. The transfer of shares was unlawful as no shares were paid for by Delta Mining Limited to Glencore. On the contrary, all payment for the shares was deferred which rendered the PACRA transfer of shares untenable and evidently fraudulent.

In this matter, Glencore in collusion with Zambian authorities simply used Delta Mining Limited as an arms length nominee or agent to hold shares in Mopani on behalf of Glencore which had a lien on the assets of Mopani.

This whole transaction contradicted President Hakainde Hichilema’s earlier announcement where he had announced that the US$1.5 billion debt had been redeemed. Thomas Biesheuvel and Taonga Mitimingi quoted President Hakainde Hichilema in Bloomberg of December, 22 2023 that the UPND administration had negotiated the US$1.5 billion debt to Glencore down to US$400 million. In other words, the debt was to be discounted to US$400 million payment to Glencore and this action would result in cancelling or expunging the purported US$1.5 billion debt from Mopani’s balance sheet. This however was not to be as the US$1.5 billion debt was not expunged.

It should be noted that the US$ 400 million with share premium has been deferred until certain milestones are met under the PDP. The US$400 million is considered as Delta Shareholder loan to Mopani but is still owned by Glencore and this amount is required to be paid by Mopani from its future cash flows. In other words, the Arabs in Delta who have not paid anything to Glencore will only pay later from the earnings of Mopani to redeem this discounted debt.

Furthermore, it should be noted that the US$1.5 billion had been discounted to US$400 million. Therefore the US$400 million debt to the shareholders of MOPANI by IRH should expunge the US$1.5 billion Glencore debt obligation. This debt had been written down to US$400 million before IRH came into the picture and therefore , it is shocking or an act of fraud that what is being quoted as the Glencore debt is still US$1.5 billion. That is why Hon. Nawakwi claimed that the UPND big wigs may have sold all this to themselves.

The UPND Compelled ZCCM-IH to Sale 51% of Shares in Mopani to Delta/IRH:
With a new UPND government installed in August 2021, indications of a policy shift on ownership were floated with the leadership advising they intend to create an enabling environment that will attract both local and international investments.
Contrary to expectations, the UPND administration tragically followed in the PF administration’s footsteps and recognized the validity of the fake US$1.5 billion debt purportedly invested in Mopani by Glencore between 2000 and 2021.

In the sales agreement between Glencore and Delta Mining Limited or its representative, it was agreed that an amount of US$400 million debt in Mopani would be assigned to Delta to acquire shares in Mopani and that Delta Mining Limited would pay Glencore to redeem the part of the purported US$1.5 billion debt to Glencore. It was assumed that this situation would enable Delta Mining Limited to acquire 51% of shares in Mopani.

It was further agreed that, the payments for the shares in Mopani by Delta Mining would be deferred and would only be paid in instalments when certain milestones under the PDP were met.

It is also noted that this US$400 million would continue to be Glenore’s debt in Mopani and which would later be part paid off by Delta Mining Limited and acquire the 51% shareholder’s equity in Mopani. It was agreed that Delta Mining Limited as majority shareholder in Mopani would use Mopani’s mineral sales to generate money to purchase these shares.
This arrangement was outright fraud. What kind of equity investment is done through a shareholder loan (US$400m)? Why did the UPND not ask Zambians to purchase these shares if they were patriotic? Unless they sold to themselves, this is a grey area of the transaction worth investigating.

It was claimed that the IRH, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Delta Mining Limited, will, subject to certain conditions precedent, provide an equity investment of US$620 million through the subscription of new shares in Mopani or MCM. Delta would thus subscribe for 7,181,633 shares (“Investor Shares”), issued at $86.33 a share of which $85.33 per share is share premium (the “Subscription Price”).

This was fake as Mopani had never been valued. The Zambian negotiators were guilty of repeating the same mistakes they did to KCM when they sold the KCM assets for US$25 million to some Indian investor when the copper alone in transit was valued at more than US$100 million. In the matter for Mopani, some analysts value Mopani’s assets at motre than US$9 billion.
The US$100 Million Purported Debt is fake:
Additionally, Glencore claimed that Mopani Copper Mines had a debt exceeding US$100 million owed to associated members which had accrued over six months. These were purported Letters of Credit guaranteed by Glencore for Mopani between 2021 and 2024. Glencore treated them as debts owing to which Mopani was liable. This was a pure attempt at fraud as the so called letters of credit were redeemed by Mopani in its normal business when they crystalized.

Glencore was enabled by UPND TO Still have a Lien on Mopani Assets was illegitimate:
In addition to the above, in support of the transfer and write down of the purported Glencore debt to Delta Mining Limited, Glencore and the UPND administration compelled Mopani to enter into a royalty agreement with Glencore where Mopani would provide Glencore with upside participation in the profitability of Mopani in the event the copper price exceeded US$12,000. Furthermore, Mopani was required to make an additional payment to Glencore of US$150 million as detailed in the Glencore Payment Covenant which has never been disclosed.
All these actions in the so called sale of shares in Mopani shows that Glencore never exited Mopani for US$1. It still has lien on the on the assets of Mopani and will for many years be in control over the affairs of Mopani Copper Mines PLC. This is a very poor deal, nay a fraudulent deal against the interests of Zambia which must be re-visited and cancelled out rightly as it continued the plunder of Zambia’s resources by Glencore.
Mopani’s Odious Debt of US$1.1 Billion Investment 2000-2021 is fake:
According to the ZCCM-IH Transaction Announcement Regarding Mopani Copper Mines published on 1st February, 2024, the IRH were to invest up to US$1.1 billion into MCM to fund MCM’s project development plan (“PDP”), provide working capital and as part of the restructure of certain existing Glencore liabilities. However, there was and will never be any no money transfer as this purported US$1.1 billion was still part of the old purported US$1.5 billion investment in Mopani allegedly invested between 2000 -2021. This is simply fraudulent reporting that new money would be introduced when in fact there was no new money.
Of the purported US$1.1 billion which money had been invested in Mopani’s PDP by Glencore they want to claim it as a debt and that of this US$620 million will be assigned as new equity capital in return for a 51% stake in MCM in the form of the Investor Shares. These shares will be for all purposes and intents be for Glencore or assigned to their nominee Delta Mining Limited.

ZANACO Loan of US$130 Million facilitated by UPND is illegimate:
It is also planned up to US$130 million shall be advanced to Mopani prior to closing of the Transaction via an interim financing loan to assist with Mopani’s immediate short term capital commitments. This interim financing loan is guaranteed via a bank guarantee provided by Zambia National Commercial Bank Plc. Obviously since Delta Mining Limited has no assets to use as guarantee for the Bank Guarantee, it follows that as controlling shareholders in Mopani, they will use Mopani’s assets to guarantee the collateral for the bank guarantee.

It is also intended that Delta would provide another amount to Mopani up to US$90 million making altogether US$220 million at the closing of the transaction. This will be seen but it is doubtful as Delta is simply a desk company with no assets.
In fact the US$130 million interim financing loan from ZANACO is structured as a short term debt instrument to allow Delta to provide funding to Mopani prior to closing of the Transaction, and will be converted into equity upon closing of the Transaction (comprising partial payment of the US$620 million equity subscription); and US$19 million of the US$220 million will be applied as partial repayment of the bridge facility agreement dated 20 January 2023, presently between ZCCM-IH as lender and Mopani as borrower .
It should be noted that the interim financing loan will be guaranteed by Mopani assets. It is shameful that a Bank Guarantee will be provided by ZANACO PLC which is a local bank and not from the land of the so called new Arab investors. In other words, there is no money coming from the Arabs. They will use this debt from ZANACO to further pay for their shares as well as pay some local suppliers whose accounts according to Hon. Mpundu of Nkana Constituency have been garnished by the ZRA and have failed to get their money. As a result, there is little happening at Mopani.

Another fake US$400 million from the Odious debt of US$1.1 billion is illegimate:
Mopani will also still have on its books purported debt belonging to Glencore from the US$1.5 billion purported debt. This will be another amount of US$400 million of the share premium which shall be deferred and paid in instalments when certain milestones under the PDP are met. This US$400 million is part of the odious debt which should have been expunged but has been resurrected by the UPND big wigs to be a Glencore debt on Mopani which shall be redeemed from future earnings of Mopani.

Another US$80 Million as Sweetener that will never come:
There was also an undertaking that the new shareholders would advance MOPANI up to US$80 million which may be made available to Mopani through additional shareholder loans if required, based on the future working capital requirement of Mopani. This is a baseless sweetener as Delta Mining Limited has no money but is simply a desk company.

The Purported Sale of 51% of shares by ZCCM-IH to Delta Mining Limited is very Bad and should be reversed.
The total consideration which the UPND administration accepted is the fake odious debt which Glencore had Glencore had been demanding following the sale of Mopani to Zambia for US$1.00. The UPND administration colluded with Glencore to resurrect the fake US$1.5 billion and assigned part of it to Delta Mining Limited to hold as a nominee 51% of shares in Mopani. It will be interesting to know who owns Delta Mining Limited by conducting a forensic audit. It will not be surprising to discover that Delta Mining was owned by the UPND bigwigs.

This UPND administration collusion to sale shares in Mopani to Delta Mining Limied was also not in the national interest.
Firstly, the transaction was unconstitutional as the Zambian Constitution provided that any asset sold must be approved by Parliament of Zambia by two thirds majority voting. It is the Zambian Public Enterprise ZCCM-IH which had 100% shares in Mopani which purportedly sold 51% of its shares in Mopani. It is not Mopani selling shares as was wrongly and intentioned lied consistently by Hon Kabuswe the Minster of Mines.

Secondly, the purported identification of a buyer for the shares was not transparent and violated the procurement laws of Zambia as the purported bid that finally won the tender is known to be not amongst the ten that bid through ZPPA.

Thirdly, the Assets of Mopani were not valued. Presently, the Mufulira Mine employs about 5,000 people directly. Assets include: a concentrator, a refinery and a smelter; and produces 35,000 tonnes of contained copper in ore each year through the process of open stopping. The copper is then taken to the concentrator. The value of the assets exceed US$9 billion according to some estimates.

Fourthly, the Sale of Mopani violated Procurement Laws: There were several companies that tendered to buy controlling interest in Mopani. In March 2022, the Canadian High Commissioner to Zambia Pamela O’Donnell, indicated that Canada, through Barrick Gold and First Quantum Minerals expressed interest to invest in the Mine. There were other bidders from China and Australia who was to invest in Mopani.

The search for a local investor appeared to be going well in earnest and patriots like Prof. Clive Chirwa showed interest in organizing Zambians to acquire Mopani.
Four other bidders were short listed and these did not include the Delta or IRH. For sure, those short listed must have tales to tell. The UPND administration decided to single source IRH at great disappointment of the short listed companies.

However, in February 2024, Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines-Investment Holdings (ZCCM-IH) on behalf of the UPND administration approved the acquisition of a 51 percent stake worth 25.5 bn kwacha (US$ 1.1 bn) in Mopani Copper Mines Plc by Delta Mining Limited, a subsidiary of International Resource Holdings (IRH) that is headquartered in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The transaction that was completed the following month violated procurement laws of Zambia.

This MOPANI sale is not in the interest of Zambia as it smacks of fraud. It must be investigated and the culprits be brought to book as provided for by our statutes. Zambia must reclaim its
given assets to eradicate poverty and underdevelopment.

We would further submit that until a judicial commission is appointed to enquire on how our disastrous privatization of our Public Enterprises was done, our country will never learn to respect public property and the same people who cheated on Zambia will continue cheating on our country.

Issued On Behalf of the Convenors of the People’s Political Consultative Conference (PPCC)

THOSE GLORIFYING HER ACTIONS YOU ARE LEADING HER IN A DESTRUCTIVE PATH

The level of critical thinking in Zambia’s social landscape is cause for concern, particularly evident in the recent controversy surrounding ZNBC staff member Margaret Chisulo. While some defend her actions, it’s essential to delve deeper into the social and cultural contexts that shape behavior in human beings. In social sciences we study human behaviour.

In any investigation, understanding the individual’s background and motivations is crucial. Advanced countries employ this approach to analyze various factors contributing to crimes, such as media consumption habits and social interaction. Margaret’s lapse in professionalism demands serious disciplinary action, coupled with constructive advice for personal and cultural growth than those praises you are showering her.

As a journalist, Margaret must embrace cultural diversity and avoid projecting personal biases onto public platforms like ZNBC. Those justifying her behavior should recognize the dangers of misinformation and its consequences, as seen in past incidents like the Kalaba accident.

To Margaret, genuine improvement requires a shift in mindset and a commitment to professionalism. Being a journalist is akin to being a social worker, carrying a responsibility to truthfully and ethically inform the public. Let this incident serve as a catalyst for positive change and a reminder of the importance of critical thinking in journalism.

The recent incident on TV wasn’t just about the presenter or the panelists; it was an opportunity to engage with a diverse audience, including Lozi speakers. When the caller expressed frustration at the preference given to Bemba and Nyanja callers, highlighting her ability to communicate in English as well, the presenter could have seized the moment by allowing her to express herself and providing interpretation if necessary. Limiting languages to those understood only by the presenter was a misstep, considering the program’s aim to reach all Zambians.

Today, Black people across Africa rightfully voice their concerns about racism, often perpetuated by various mediums, including the media. It’s crucial to recognize that similar divisive traits manifest within our own societies through tribal segregation, which we sometimes overlook. Public institutions play a pivotal role in shaping societal norms and perceptions; therefore, they should be led by individuals with a national character, fostering unity and inclusivity rather than tribal divisions.

Truth be told, even the callers who contributed in Bemba or Nyanja likely had proficiency in English, evident in their ability to formulate questions for an English-language program. This oversight underscores the importance of inclusivity and language accessibility in ensuring effective communication with the entire Zambian populace.

Respecting her privacy prevents me from delving deeper into certain issues that might shed light on her attitude towards the Lozi caller. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that there may be underlying factors influencing her behavior, and addressing these is crucial for her personal growth.

While advocating against Margaret’s dismissal, it’s imperative to convey a sincere message urging her to undergo a mindset transformation, particularly in her approach to national matters. She should recognize the importance of embracing inclusivity and sensitivity in her role, prioritizing unity and understanding in her interactions with diverse audiences.

As a nation, we are still in a healing process, and speaking the truth is integral to that process. Adopting an open mindset and embracing our diversity while recognizing our unity under the banner of “One Zambia, One Nation” is vital for fostering understanding and reconciliation.

SIKAILE C.SIKAILE
CONCERNED CITIZEN

ALEBWELELAPO, WILL HE SURVIVE IMINGALATO?

Our view:

The PF seem set to flout or run with Edgar Lungu for 2026 elections. But the big question is, how will he survive IMINGALATO. It looks Hakainde Hichilema has vowed never to allow Alebwelelapo back to government. His name is mostly likely not even be allowed to be on the ballot.

A scheme has been put in place to ensure most of the opponents who are in court are knocked out of the race. The competition for 2026 election is already open and unfortunately the opposition seem to see it.

As of today most if not all the notable political figures are facing different charges in court. The main opposition PF has been taken over to ensure it doesn’t ever rise to power again. While this has never happened before but those with authority has exercised restrance.

Levy Mwanawasa talked his political rival when they met face to face after 15 years, “you will never be president of Zambia over my body.” This was when the two met at Electoral Commission of Zambia presidential candidates meeting just before the 2006 tripartite elections. Sata lost those election he claimed had won.

In 2011 efforts to block SATA from contesting using the degree clause failed as he beat the system. He had a degree. This was too late for MMD to do anything.

When President Rupiah Banda was told Sata had won the election. He couldn’t believe it because we understand he relied so much on the party intelligence that the state.

Sata had posited himself both locally and international. He made the west believe he was anti-China which Banda had gone to bed with allowing 2 billion in investment. US and UK didn’t like this and to back Sata although they didn’t believe in him.

The support at home and in Washington could not make Rupiah to Sata that night of 2011. He talked to the Chair at ECZ and the top Intelligence and was advised nothing could be done as the country would burn. Rupiah restrained despite the small difference vote that separated him and Sata.

Fast-forward to 2021, the PF under Lungu tried to block Hakainde using among issues the Kalomo farm case involving the Hatembo. There was a strong view in the PF that there was no need to block Hakainde because he had already lost the election.

Lungu and his team thought the sontapo wabomba slogan used in 2016 basing their campaigns on the mass infrastructure development was enough to beat Hakainde. They were also blinded with ethenic voting. They relied so much on past voting pattern and played tribal campaign which they thought would make them sweep through 2021.

How can he win elections with three provinces? One of the PF Election strategist asked. But when reminded that Lusaka and Copperbelt provinces would be influenced by the cost of living. He compared the situation to the woman in marriage who is going through problems but still hangs on. He undermined the situation. Lungu only had one virtual rally on the eve of the election. They took the election so light.

The voting day was a shocker. The huge turn up in the UPND stronghold, Lusaka and Copperbelt was the message enough that people wanted to speak through the ballot.

By the time results starting coming out with UPND putting up a vigilant monitoring with propaganda of vote-rigging which saw the PF Chair for North Western province being killed in cold blood. It was clear that nothing would be done to stop Hakainde. It was either let him win or have the country burn. The state system had shifted.

It was too late to do anything. The PF had to swallow their words to allow the man they had said would never rule take the state mantle. The transition was made smooth by Rupiah who brought the two political rivals together.

Hakainde is aware of this history and it looks the game would not be allowed to be played to the finals. The opponents will be knocked out before the game. Who surrounds Hakainde, we mean who is in his inner cycle? Are they people who would put the national interest above personal and allow Alebwelelapo? Unfortunate there is no Statesman we see today who would face and convince Hakainde at home.

What about in Washington DC? Washington DC has or is about to move it’s office in Lusaka. It is key in power transfer. How are the opposition relating with Washington DC? Beijing can push in money but has not reached the level of ensuring change of power

Is this a repeat of 1996 which saw Kenneth Kaunda barred from contesting election and his party protested by not fielding any candidate. That was the beginning of the end of UNIP.

The beginning of the end of PF has begun early and it is all clear for one to see. Currently they are not taking part in all these by-election that are all being won by UPND. The dressing rehearsal for 2026 is on course.

The UKA grouping has been denied registration and we don’t see this change unless there is a court intervention. Then all the potential Leaders of UKA are all facing charges in court.

A narrative is being built that there is no opposition or alternative to Hakainde and that he is still being loved by Zambians.

Zambian Eye,

By The Candidates

IS HH REALLY READY FOR GULAM PATEL?

Part1

FOR decades now, huge multi-million supply contracts in this country have largely benefited one Zambian family of Asian origin. Access to opportunities, luxuries and resources has largely been a preserve of this clan. This lopsided equilibrium has often times been expedited by power holders in different layers of authority and in return, officials get kickbacks.

Let us take for example the case of one family of Mr. Gulam Patel who owns over 57,000 hectares of land in Northwestern province.

How did such a huge part of land which is similar to the size of a country in Europe can end up in the hands of one family? This land is in Kasempa and Chavuma districts of Zambia. It is used by the Gulam Patel family as a game ranch. The benefits to the communities around are so trivial compared to the wealth amassed. In documents logged with Kasempa government authorities, Patel says while owning this ranch and collecting millions, he will help community schools by buying for them school books, chalk, rubbers and pens. He proposes further that, he will employ 30 local people as general workers in different areas while engage about 5 people in managerial and supervisory roles, based in Lusaka. Contrast this with how much revenue Gulam Patel and his family has amassed in this particular 57,000 hectares of land. This ranch, according to documents obtained has reedbucks, hartebeest, common duiker, oribi, zebra, impala, warthog bushbuck, kudu, blue wildebeest, waterbuck and sable whereas nearby there are big cuts, buffalos. Clearly, very little goes into the communities.

TOOTHLESS LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES

This cruel cycle conveys stunted development for the people with majority living on less than a $1 a day. Different audits by government have shown how corruption has continued to worsen in Zambia. And mostly, huge corruption is always only told to citizens when government changes hands. Oversight institutions and law enforcement agencies like the Anti- Corruption Commission (ACC) Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) are mostly toothless when corruption involves those serving in government.

CORRUPT FERTILIZER CONTRACTS

Another example is how the very Gulam Patel under the previous regime was given a multi-million supply contract under Nyimba Investment to supply fertilizer in the farmers input support program. The company was paid by did not deliver. Sources in government have said that Nyimba Investment has so far been made to pay back the money, amounting to $39 million for undelivered fertilizer. But while this is so, poor people have no opportunity and option of paying back a chicken they steal. The only available option is sentence and time in prison. How is it that rich people can get away with crimes?

When Zambians voted in the UPND administration, it was hoped that while stolen monies will be recovered, culprits will be sent to prison. So far, there is no case in which Gulam Patel and any of his family members are before court. There is a school of thought that suggests, President Hakainde Hichilema may be too small to deal with Gulam Patel whose roots in government tendering dates as far back as in the third republic of Zambia.

GULAM PATEL & REGIMES IN ZAMBIA

Gulam is traced to the Mwanawasa time, until the previous administration of Edgar Lungu. In fact, Lungu was a usual guest at one of Gulam’s ranches, Nyamvu located in Mwape Chiefdom in Nyimba District. Sources close to Lungu have said that many a time the former head of state spent his private time at this ranch with his associates while implementing policies. Those close to Lungu confirm his relationship with Gulam is very concrete such that the Nyimba Investment tycoon is currently massively ploughing money into the United Kwacha Alliance (UKA) project which seek to dislodge HH from power come 2026.There are some reports that Lungu allegedly used this tycoon to hide some properties he dubiously acquired while being President of Zambia. Lately there has been reports that Gulam Patel through his son Zaeed Patel own properties in Eswatini on behalf of Lungu and his family. There has been no official confirmation from government over this. However, Lungu has denied owning any properties in Eswatini and has challenged these allegations.

HH VS GULAM

Beyond this, it appears President Hichilema is tasting waters over Gulam. Does the President really has what it takes to fight Gulam Patel? Recently in Kasempa, he indicated that he was going to cancel the 57,000 hectares of land tittles given illegally. Will Hichilema manage to fight with a heavyweight Gulam Patel? Is the President merely doing public relations and not telling the truth? Only time will tell.

SOURCE: The Candidates

RESOLUTIONS OF THE PATRIOTIC FRONT CENTRAL COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON SATURDAY, 4TH MAY 2024

The Patriotic Front Central Committee held its scheduled meeting on Saturday, 4th May 2024.
The meeting was chaired by the Party President, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

In attendance were Vice President, Hon. Given Lubinda, Secretary General, Hon. Rachael Nakacinda and Members of the Central Committee.

RESOLUTIONS;
1. The Central Committee welcomed the formation and programs of the United Kwacha Alliance (UKA) to which the PF was a member. The Central Committee called for close collaboration with UKA, Opposition parties and other progressive social formations such as civil society and trade union grouping to foster checks and balances and to help provide for change and a credible alternative to the UPND and its alliance. The Central Committee recognises that the Zambia people had placed trust and faith in the Patriotic Front and other Opposition parties to rescue them from the current economic crisis and suffering occasioned by neo-liberal and harmful policies of the UPND in Government.

2. The Central Committee dissolved the Andrew Lubusha led Eastern Province Committee, and appointed an interim committee pursuant to article 61, sub section (i) of the party constitution

The Committee is as follows :

Main body ;
Chairman, Joseph Makunkula
Vice Chairperson, Hon. Brenda Nyirenda
Secretary, Hon. Peter Phiri
Vice Secretary Rizwaan Patel
Treasurer,Hon. Philemon Twasa
Vice Treasurer, Velenes Moyo
IPS, William Phiri
Vice IPS, Chembe Daka

Women’s league
Chairlady, Sarah Kalaluka
Vice Chairlady Cathrine Tembo
Secretary ,Vitalina C. Banda
V. Secretary Zelipa Banda
Treasurer, Hon. Olipa Phiri Mwansa
V. Treasurer, Yocco F. Phiri
IPS, Julian Banda
Vice IPS, Merina Mtonga

Youth League
Youth chairperson Chinganyama Kasalika
Vice Youth Chairperson, Gadson Tembo
Secretary, Chimwemwe Daka
V. Secretary, Patrick Nyirenda
Treasurer, Hon. Masautso Tembo Kazungula
V. Treasurer Mkanda Phiri
IPS Maison Phiri
Vice IPS, Gondwe Andrew

3. The meeting paid glowing tribute to the late Southern Province Chairperson, Leonard Siachona. The Party recognised his leadership and sacrifices. The Central Committee has since appointed Mr Omar Munsanje as acting chairperson for Southern Province. The Central Committee urged the new Chairperson to emulate the work ethic and bravery of the late Mr. Siachona.

4. The Central Committee also appointed Mr Justin Mutale as acting Provincial Chairperson for Muchinga Province

5. The Central Committee also received briefings about the current court cases and was appraised about the status. The Central Committee directed the Secretary General to follow up on the cases and give regular updates to the members who were deeply anxious about the status of the Party.

6. The Central Committee also received updates on the continued harrasment from the UPND Government that the Party continues to face, including the refusal by the Electoral Commission of Zambia to accept PF members from participating in by-elections.

7. The Central Committee urged the general membership of the Party to remain steadfast and to continue mobilizing at the grassroots level.

Issued by;

Ms. Nakiwe Simpungwe
Deputy Chairperson of Information and Publicity
Member of the Central Committee
PATRIOTIC FRONT

Clergyman advises Lungu to ‘retire and rest’

By Oliver Chisenga

THOSE advising former president Edgar Lungu to return to politics are not patriotic and don’t love Zambia and its heritage, says a Chingola based clergyman.

Bishop Ellison Bwalya, overseer of Giving Word Christian Ministries, says Lungu has played his part and must now rest and give room for others to also play theirs.

“There is need to bring order in our nation and ensure Mr Lungu preserves the office of the former president in Zambia. He has been there (in the presidency) so on this one he is right when he says we give them a chance. Governance needs a chance for sure. That’s the heart of a father. With this I can say you can now retire sir and rest … for the sake of the presidency of our nation,” Bishop Bwalya said.

He said Lungu should consider quitting politics and not undermine his influence or spoil his legacy.

Bishop Bwalya said a good leader is one who raises a successor.

Quoting the Bible, Bishop Bwalya noted that king Solomon took over leadership from his father David who was still alive and in God’s plan.

“We need to build the office of the former president so that a legacy is set and a tone of peace is sung. Quit politics and remain the father, please. We need the office of the former president in existence; you are the only one alive, sir. Consider it and be our lives’ testimony. It’s never too late, sir. You can do it for the sake of our former presidents…,” said Bishop Bwalya. “We mean it when we say that he needs to rest and give a chance to others and remain a counsellor and an advisor. His advice may not be appreciated, but soon people will see sense, especially when he takes everyone as children and not be one sided the way he has been. [Prophet Nathan] wanted Saul to hand over leadership to David smoothly. Leadership is about assignment and it shouldn’t take death for someone to give others a chance when God sees it fit. God raises some and drops some. It doesn’t mean He hates them, no. It means you have played your part and now it’s time for others. That’s what God fearing leaders do.”

2024 LABOUR DAY Celebration

POLITICAL AND HIGH COST OF LIVING

Like many Companies and Political parties, today UNITED LIBERAL PARTY which is a proud alliance member of UKA matched from Lusaka civic Center to Freedom statue to join the rest of Zambians to celebrate this year’s Labour day, though we in ULP have nothing to celebrate about because our Brothers and Sisters have been subjected to a harsh Economy.

One cannot separate Politics from Economy because the falling of our economy has been created by President Hakainde Hichilema and UPND Government.

Further to this ,rights to assemble are on a downward slope by not allowing opposition Political players to hold physical public rallies, that alone is sending negative indication to the outside world especially to the international community that the ruling party is authoritarian hence it will scare away potential investors because they are watching how this Government is denying the opposition Political parties.

A country like Zambia should not even need to frame its foreign policy to attract investments NO Good governance itself will attract it.

President Hakainde Hichilema prior to 2021 General elections he promised Zambians that he will lower the cost of living and the fuel pump price was among the list of items he promised but the opposite is what is happening,we in the UNITED LIBERAL PARTY and a proud alliance member of UKA we want to tell the President to UKA (rise) because he is still sleeping and the prices of our households items are being increased everyday. This has never happened before where the cost of living has become unbearable.

Let me now outline what we will do as ULP

EDUCATION
We in ULP through UKA will bring free and quality Education where Teacher and pupil ratio will be manageable through the Ministry responsible not what we are witnessing Under this Government of President Hakainde Hichilema.

CDF

We in UNITED LIBERAL PARTY believe that this programme of Community Development Fund should be distributed to all the Zambian People in all the Districts of this Republic not in a family or close associates of a Minister, like in the case of Information Minister Mweetwa where Village headmen in Southern Province rose against Him over the distribution of CDF.

This year’s Labour day celebration is a myth to all of us including the civil servants because the cost of living is unbearable.

Issued by

CHISALA KASAKULA
UNITED LIBERAL PARTY
VICE PRESIDENT.