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Harry Kalaba dismayed at the continued use of tribal language by President Hakainde Hichilema

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The Citizens First is dismayed at the continued use of tribal language by President Hakainde Hichilema.
We are concerned that every opportunity the President has to address the nation he chooses to be divisive rather than helping to heal the divide.


As if the tribal tirade at his last press briefing was not enough, he went on to do the same during his visit at Masuku in Southern Province during his New Years visit. Where, rather than just thanking the people for voting for him, he went on to incite the people of Southern Province by telling them that they were being beaten when they came to Intercity in Lusaka for speaking Tonga. He further spoke about the use of panga’s against Tonga speaking people during the previous government. What we are at a loss with is why the President is keen on propagating hatred rather than expending his energy to heal and unite the nation? I am personally challenging Mr. Hichilema to name just two(2) people that his government has compensated after being hacked with a Panga in the previous government. If he fails to share the two names, he must shut up and focus on reconciling the nation rather than seeking to divide us at any given opportunity.

Just in case he lives in another nation, the people of Zambia are sick and tired of tribal talk, they are tired of politics of hatred and certainly they do not want a tribalist who uses divide and rule and scaremongering as a means of holding on to power. The same way they abhorred tribalism during the previous regime is the same way they detest it today. I am calling upon Mr Hichilema to try and emulate real sons of the Tonga tribe who believed and lived the One Zambia One motto such as Mainza Chona, Vernon Mwaanga, Daniel Munkombwe, Edward Mungoni Liso, Elijah Mudenda, Mudala Harry Mwanga Nkumbula and many more who helmed from Southern Province but chose not to see themselves by a tribe but as Zambians.

The CF is calling out the president to cease and desist from using divisive language and if it was not for the immunity he enjoys, we would have sued him for propagating hate speech. We would also like to call upon all Tonga speaking people to refuse to be drawn into Mr. Hichilema’s hateful and vengeful character that is only serving to accelerate his loss of popularity and making people to see him for the tribalist he is.

The Citizens of this country want to see a united Zambia and those who walk in the corridors of power must be at the forefront of advocating for unity and Mr. Hichilema must lead in this rather than seeking to pour out anger and tribal banter every time he finds a mic.

The Citizens are watching, we are watching and waiting as we look forward to a United and more prosperous Zambia.

Harry Kalaba
President
Citizens First

#zambiaisourcountry
#zambiachisichesu

HUBBY’S REFUSAL TO BE SHAVED THROWS MARRIAGE INTO JEOPARDY

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HUBBY’S REFUSAL TO BE SHAVED THROWS MARRIAGE INTO JEOPARDY

A FORTY-nine year old woman of Lusaka is up in arms against her husband for denying her the chance to utilise her barbing skills in his groin area.

Luty Nowa Mwape of Kabanana Compund cried before the Lusaka Boma Local Court that from day one of their marriage in 2019, her 72-year old husband, Happy Philip Kachusha had never allowed her to landscape the region below the belly button.

The woman was hoping that the court would order her husband to grant her full and unrestricted access to the area where his biological tools are located for her to mow the overgrown lawns like any other responsible and loving wife does.

Besides that, Luty also complained that her husband also neglected to perform his bedroom duties and that he had hidden his HIV positive status from her.

She said after discovering that her husband was HIV positive, he had been resisting the use of condoms during love-making.

“I asked him that we should go for an HIV testing but he would always refuse, until one day, I caught him with ARVs. I became worried of my status, so I went to the hospital and I was given condoms but he refused that there was no way that he could be having sex with me using condoms. He barely touches me. Even two months pass without him touching me. The last time we had sex was on December 5, 2022 and when I asked him why, he told me that he also doesn’t know,” testified Luty.

But in responding to the accusations, Kachusha said the biggest problem in their marriage was that his wife had been refusing to pray with him as a Jehovah’s Witness.

Kachusha told the court that he informed Luty of his HIV status six months before their marriage and that the reason why he refused to be using condoms with her during sex was because health practitioners told him that his virus was inactive, therefore, he could not infect someone if he had unprotected sex.

And when asked for submissions, both parties were uncertain on whether they needed a reconciliation or divorce.

“It’s like both of you are not ready to be reconciled, the court will request that both of you to be counseled. So this matter has been adjourned to January 4, 2024 for counseling and judgment,” said Magistrate Sylvia Kabunda.

CAPTION: File photo for illustration

Kalemba

ZCCM-IH, KINDLY RESPOND TO ANDYFORD MAYELE BANDA’S QUERIES- CHISHALA KATEKA

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ZCCM-IH, KINDLY RESPOND TO ANDYFORD MAYELE BANDA’S QUERIES.

2 January 2024

When the announcement that KCM was to be sold to Vedanta, a friend of mine, Joe Chilaizya, and I tried to check out the companies profile to assure ourselves that the deal was worth it for Zambia.

We were surprised at the lack of information on Vedanta at the time. We tried to raise concern as Heritage Party then but no attention was made to our caution and the deal went through. The rest, as they say, is history.

Andyford Muyele Banda, President of the People’ Alliance for Change, has done a similar search with regard to the announced proposed buyers of Mopani Copper Mines – International Resources Holdings of Abu Dabhi.

He raises some very concerning observations as well as pertinent questions, that need to be responded to by those in Government.

Zambians need these questions answered.

As New Heritage Party, we join ourselves to Andyford Banda’s quest for answers to the questions that he raises.

For ease of reference, we reproduce Andyford Banda’s letter to ZCCM-IH in its entirety.

CHISHALA KATEKA
President – New Heritage Party

“MOPANI HAS BEEN BOUGHT BY AN UNKOWN COMPANY-ANDYFORD BANDA

…the company has no known shareholders, website and no known subsidiaries and the digital footprint is almost non-existent…

The Chief Executive Officer
ZCCM-IH Office Park Stand No, 16806, Alick Nkhata Road D 25 DEC 2023 h
Mass Media Complex Area
Po Box 30048 Lusaka, 10101.

Dear Sir,

REF: REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON INTERNATIONAL RESOURCES HOLDINGs (IRH)

The above refers.

Firstly, congratulations on finally finding a strategic equity partner in Mopani Copper Mines, this is indeed great news for Zambia and for the people of Mufulira.

We hope that this deal is completed and that the new partner moves on site as soon as possible to inject the much needed capital and human resource.

In as much as this maybe exciting, it is also concerning as we have noticed some gaps in the them new deal profile of the International Resources Holdings (IRH) of Abu Dhabi.

For starters when was first announced to the nation, I the undersigned personally tried to look the internet and couldn’t find them anywhere.

The closest I could find was International Holding Company (IHC) which from our preliminary checks has nothing to do with IRH and they don’t have any business in the mining sector.

After the deal was announced on Friday by the President, I rechecked again and found the website with so many gaps and just generic information.

It is for this reason that we have been compelled to write to your office to request for more information which you definitely must have within your custody looking at the fact that you just completed your due diligence.

As a publicly listed company with the government owning over 75% of the shares and the recent passage of the Access to Information Law, we would appreciate if you can furnish us with more information on your preferred strategic equity partner in the interest of the public and other private shareholders.

Below is the information that we request your organization to furnish us with:

1. Shareholders-Who are the shareholders of IRH to the minute detail. What l mean to the minute detail, I mean if its a corporate body, we want to know all the shareholders of the corporate bodies to the minute detail., This must be accompanied by documentation.

2. We noticed that the company has no traceable operations of any sort including mining. value addition, commodity trading, refinery and other areas as claimed by their website. From your due diligence, kindly provide information they provided to you with as regards to experience and their areas of operations. When was the company incorporated in Abu Dhabi?

3. The announcement indicates that IRH will leverage on the experience of its subsidiaries. Who are its subsidiaries? How come they are not named on the website? Which mines are they running? And a question for you ZCCM-IH especially the team that was conducting due diligence, did you physically visit any of these subsidiaries they claim to have?

4. Who are the top management/key people and what experience do they possess in running and resuscitating operations?

5. We would like to have dig into their five year financial statements which I must assume you have as an investor of this magnitude you need to do at least 5 years’ assessment on their financials.

6. The announcement indicates that IRH has over 120 professionals. What does this mean? Are they consultants or who do they work for? Who owns the mines where the 120 professionals operate from?

I am sure you do understand that Mopani Copper Mines is a critical asset for the country with proven mineral deposits. It is for this reason that those the President entrusts with such a task they care to find the right strategic equity partner with proven track record and capital.

We look forward to receiving this information and we look forward to support you conclude this transaction.

Yours Sincerely
Andyford Mayele Banda

President
Peoples Alliance for Change”

Zambia must target mines for cash in 2024…to reduce poverty says Amb. Anthony Mukwita

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Zambia must target mines for cash in 2024

…to reduce poverty says Amb. Anthony Mukwita on Millenium TV

03.01.24

Zambia must take steps to earn more money from foreign mining companies digging copper and other minerals in the country to grow the economy and reduce poverty says Ambassador Anthony Mukwita.

Ambassador Mukwita, in an interview aired live on Millenium TV on New Year’s day said the amount of money the foreign mining companies are externalising through alleged tax evasion and avoidance could easily reduce poverty in Zambia if only the government took bold steps to tax the mines fairly.

The figure of the money Zambia loses annually from scrupulous mining companies has been pegged at about $3billion by international trackers.

“We have a company like Vedanta that has failed to pay huge electricity bills to ZESCO, some banks and local suppliers billions of kwachas that could stimulate the economy, but they go scott- free…it boggles the mind why the government jumped back in bed with Vedanta given their bad record in Zambia,” said Ambassador Mukwita.

If the ´poisoned chalice´ Zambia-Vedanta deal goes through, ordinary poverty stricken Zambian tax-payers will pay the Vedanta debt on behalf of Vedanta but that remains to be seen.

Mukwita added that in 2024, the government of Zambia could also take deliberate steps and provide long term cheap financing for Zambians especially youth to create employment to feed neighbouring countries that are not as endowed as Zambians with water and fertile land so that they buy food from the southern African nation instead of countries such as Argentina and Brazil.

“It still shocks many pundits that we keep seeking and begging for $3billion from the IMF as debt when we can collect that money from the mines and expansion in agriculture through farming blocks,” said Mukwita.

Ambassador Mukwita also described as sad the fact that Zambians today are still dying in huge numbers from eradicable diseases such as cholera in Africa´s second largest producer of copper.
The full interview is available on the Millenium TV site and Facebook page.

Ambassador Anthony Mukwita is a published author, former diplomat, and international relations pundit.

An average Zambian survives in abject poverty according to the United Nations on about $1 per day for all basic needs while the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection or JCTR states that a family of six in Zambia needs about K10,000 per month to survive on basics alone such as salt, cooking oil and mealie without rent, a monthly pay of K4000.

WILL YOU STILL NEED ME WHEN I’M 64?- Sakwiba Sikota

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WILL YOU STILL NEED ME WHEN I’M 64?

By: Sakwiba Sikota

A new year comes with reflection and reminiscing. My reminiscing took me back to my infant days.

I remember the gramophone which was the center piece in our home. Dad and mum were very much into news, books and music. First thing in the morning and and early evening dad would tune the radiogram to the BBC world service news. I have therefore been listening to the BBC news since age five and still do today.

The encyclopedia that dad had was full of fascinating facts and illustrations for even a young lad just learning to read.

The record collection of vinyl records spun at 78 revolutions per minute (RPM), with most at either 45 RPM or 33 1/3 RPM. I remember dad in 1967 bringing back the latest Beatle’s album, ‘Sgt Peppers Lonely Hearts Club’.

One song on the album absolutely amazed me. I listened to the lyrics and tried to put them into context. The song was their hit song, “When I’m 64”.

Mum and dad were only in their mid to late thirties at the time. My grand parents were also at the time less than sixty four. The opening lyrics of the Beatles hit song are,

“When I get older losing my hair

Many years from now

Will you still be sending me a Valentine

Birthday greetings bottle of wine

If I’d been out till quarter to three

Would you lock the door

Will you still need me, will you still feed me

When I’m sixty-four”

So as I, a seven year old, listened to the lyrics I looked at my parents thinking they were old and as for my grandparents, they were super old but not even sixty four. I could therefore not imagine anyone getting to the age of sixty four.

Today, many years from then, the song has kept on going through my mind and I have even played it on YouTube several times. This is because tomorrow I will turn that age I did not believe fifty seven years ago anyone could reach.

Tomorrow I turn sixty four and I wonder if you will send me a birthday greetings bottle of wine. More importantly will you still feed me, will you still need me when I’m sixty four?

HH EMBRACING LIVESTOCK AND CHAMPIONING AGRICULTURE FOR NATIONAL PROSPERITY

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Contact: UPND Media Director, Ruth.D Heaton +260 97 6503165/+260 97 5704808

Email: info@upndzambia.org

PRESS RELEASE

HH EMBRACING LIVESTOCK AND CHAMPIONING AGRICULTURE FOR NATIONAL PROSPERITY

Lusaka (3.01.2024 )The video and photos portraying President Hakainde Hichilema at his homestead with his siblings immunizing and herding his cattle plainly shows how deeply rooted he is to his family roots in farming and livestock.

The President and his family during festival period withdrew to their village in Bweengwa and invested all his energy tending his cattle and working at the farm. This shows us his solid hard working attitudes, love for his home town and country.

It also demonstrates his strong work ethics, and the value of hard work and humility in governing this country.

President Hichilema’s rural foundation and experience causes him to recognize and acknowledge the difficulties the nation is facing regarding food security and need for families to cultivate for self-reliance.

His experience in farming and livestock which unfortunately the PF uses to mock him is what makes his government appreciate how important farmers are in terms of achieving food security in the country.

President Hichilema a known Kachema has today contributed to his government putting up measures to empower farmers in-order to increase productivity and instill resilience in the face of climate change and economic challenges.

It is his understanding of agriculture, that President Hichilema is able to participate effectively in shaping a positive approach to food security and create a secure food supply chain for his country and its neighbourhood.

President Hichilema attaches great importance to food security, access to markets for farmers and equal distribution of resources to all constituencies across the country.

Today we have a government that has knowledge to develop strategies to enhance food security and take care of the needs of farmers.

President Hichilema and his government has joined the rest of the world in paying attention to effects of climate change on the environment and the people.

@ UPND MEDIA TEAM

President Hichilema Urges Zambian Youths to Seize Opportunities in Beef Production

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President Hichilema Urges Zambian Youths to Seize Opportunities in Beef Production

By Lucky Munakampe
02/01/2024

Republican President Hakainde Hichilema has urged Zambian Youths to Seize Opportunities in Beef Production. In a resounding call for economic empowerment, President Hichilema champions the untapped potential of beef production in agriculture. His recent statement not only underscores the strategic importance of this sector in national development but also serves as a rallying cry for Zambian citizens, particularly the youth, to embrace the wealth-creating opportunities embedded within cattle ranching. This article delves into the multifaceted impact of the president’s directive during his ongoing tour of his cattle ranches, exploring why adherence to his advice holds the key to transformative change, job creation, and the economic resurgence of the country.

Unlocking Opportunities for Youth:

President Hichilema’s call resonates with the youth, highlighting the potential for economic growth in beef production. By venturing into this sector, young entrepreneurs can not only contribute to national development but also secure their own financial futures. The president’s personal success in cattle ranching serves as an inspiring example for aspiring individuals to follow suit.

Agriculture’s Integral Role in National Development:

The president underscores the pivotal role of agriculture in national development. Beyond being a source of sustenance, agriculture stands as a cornerstone for economic progress. The sector provides employment, supports local economies, and fosters self-sufficiency. The president’s commitment to cattle ranching on a personal level for over two decades exemplifies the enduring impact agriculture can have on a nation’s growth.

Cattle Ranching as a Catalyst for Wealth and Employment:

The president highlights the dual impact of cattle ranching – wealth creation and job generation. With an emphasis on overseeing cattle at his personal ranches, the president has not only maintained a thriving industry but has also been a consistent source of employment for the community. Cattle ranching emerges as a sector that not only contributes to the national GDP but also directly enhances the livelihoods of many citizens.

Transformative Power of Agriculture on the Economy:

The president’s vision extends beyond governmental initiatives, emphasizing the collective responsibility to create opportunities for all citizens. Agriculture, particularly cattle ranching, emerges as a transformative force in the economic fortunes of the country. By diversifying the economy through agriculture, Zambia can reduce dependence on singular revenue streams, fostering resilience and sustainability.

In conclusion, President Hichilema’s call for embracing beef production echoes a broader vision of a self-reliant, prosperous Zambia, where the youth play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s agricultural landscape and, consequently, its economic future.

South Korean opposition leader conscious after being stabbed in the neck

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South Korea’s main opposition party leader Lee Jae-myung was stabbed in the neck during a visit to the southern city of Busan on Tuesday in an assault that left him bloodied but conscious, party officials said.

Lee was touring the construction site of the Gadeokdo New Airport and talking to reporters when he was attacked, leaving the politician with a 1-centimeter laceration on the left side of his neck, Democratic Party spokesperson Kwon Chil-seung said.

Lee suffered “suspected damage to his jugular vein” and doctors were concerned he may have additional bleeding, Kwon said, citing doctors.

“He will quickly undergo a surgery” at the Seoul National University Hospital, after having been transferred there from Busan, the spokesperson said, describing the attempt on Lee’s life an act of “terrorism” and “a serious threat to democracy.”

Earlier in the day Democratic Party’s floor leader Hong Ik-pyo said Lee was “in a conscious state” in hospital.

The assailant, who was arrested at the scene, is a man in his sixties, according to Busan police. He approached Lee for an autograph before carrying out the attack with an 18 cm (7 inch) long knife purchased online, the police said in a briefing.

Footage of the brazen attack, captured on live television at the press conference, showed an unidentified man at the front of the crowd suddenly lunging at Lee and striking him in the neck, sending Lee collapsing backwards.

The attacker was then wrestled to the ground and restrained by several people.

Photos showed Lee lying on the floor with his eyes shut and a handkerchief pressed against his neck. Small amounts of blood were visible in some of the photos.

South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol expressed “deep concern” for Lee’s safety after the attack, according to the presidential office.

Yoon emphasized such violence “should not be tolerated under any circumstances” and ordered the police to swiftly investigate, the office said.

Democratic Party floor leader Hong called for party members to remain calm and refrain from making political interpretations of the incident.

‘Be strong!’
Outside the Seoul National University Hospital, a small crowd gathered amid heavy police presence on Tuesday afternoon as the ambulance carrying Lee arrived. One supporter shouted: “Lee Jae-myung, be strong!”

In a statement, South Korea’s national police agency pledged to strengthen personal protection for “key personnel” to prevent similar cases from happening.

South Korea’s politics have been riven by deep polarization between conservative and liberal sides, particularly in recent years which saw former President Park Geun-hye jailed on abuse of power and bribery charges before being pardoned and released in 2021.

Lee, 59, a liberal former provincial governor, narrowly lost to Yoon of the conservative People Power Party in the presidential election in March 2022.

Lee became the leader of the Democratic Party five months later and has been gearing up his party for the parliamentary elections in April.

South Korea has witnessed high-profile incidents of political violence in the past.

Lee’s predecessor in the Democratic Party, Song Young-gil, was attacked in the head with a hammer by a man during a campaign event for Lee’s presidential bid in 2022.

Park, the former President, was attacked with a knife at a party rally in Seoul in 2006 when she served as the chairwoman of the country’s main opposition party at the time, the Grand National Party. She suffered a four-inch cut on her face that required 60 stitches and prevented her from talking normally for weeks.

And in 2015, Mark Lippert, then US ambassador to South Korea, was stabbed in the face by an assailant at a political event he was set to speak at. The ambassador suffered a 4-inch gash from his right cheekbone to his lower jaw that required 80 stitches. His assailant was later sentenced to 12-years in jail.

Ukraine issues missile warning to Russia after drone attacks

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Ukraine’s capital Kyiv has become the target of new Russian drone attacks, with authorities also warning of missile attacks from Moscow.

Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko said explosions were heard in the city on Tuesday morning and that drone debris caused a fire in the Desnianskyi district near the center. Aerial warnings also took place in other cities, including Kherson and Mykolaiv.

Recent days have been marked by significant air strikes from both sides. Klitschko said drone debris caused a fire in the Desnianskyi district and emergency services were at the scene.

The mayor of Mykolaiv in southern Ukraine said air defense forces shot down a drone in the town, its debris causing a fire.

The Ukrainian Air Force said on Telegram that it shot down all 35 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) launched by Russia on Monday night.

However, after these attacks, many missiles were fired from Russia towards areas such as Kyiv, Cherkasy and Kirovohrad.

He asked people to listen for air raid sirens and go to shelters.

This follows multiple attacks from both sides in recent days, with Russia responding to a Ukrainian attack on the Russian border town of Belgorod on Saturday that left at least 25 people dead and more than 100 injured person.

According to officials installed by Moscow, Ukraine bombed the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk on New Year’s Eve (Sunday), killing four people and wounding 13 others, while Ukraine said the attacks by a Russian drone killed one person and injured nine in Odessa.

On New Year’s Day (Monday), six civilians were killed by Russian attacks in various Ukrainian cities.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said his forces will increase attacks on military targets in Ukraine in response to the attack in Belgorod.

Putin also said Western rhetoric about the war is starting to change as they begin to realize that it cannot “destroy” Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed these claims in an interview with The Economist, saying that Putin’s suggestion that Russia was winning the war was just a “feeling”.

He highlighted the number of Russian casualties in Ukraine and said opposition forces had not captured a single major city in 2023.

Mr Zelensky also expressed frustration with Kiev’s Western allies, saying they had lost a sense of urgency.

China and Thailand will no longer require visa by March

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Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said Thailand and China will permanently waive visa requirements for each country’s citizens from March.

Thailand eliminated visas for Chinese citizens in September in a bid to increase tourist arrivals.

The show attracted strong reaction at a time when Thailand was starting to lose its appeal to Chinese tourists.

Authorities said more than 22,000 Chinese people entered the Southeast Asian country in the first two days of the exemption. “Currently, we are ready to open the country and take care of tourists from both countries together.

This is good news,” Srettha said at a press conference on Tuesday. “This is an improvement in relations [between Thailand and China and strengthens the importance of the Thai passport,” he said.

Chinese are the second largest group of foreign tourists to Thailand, after Malaysians.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand said in November that it expected to welcome up to 3. 5 million Chinese visitors in all of 2023, still short of its target of 4 million.

The number is less than half of the roughly 11 million Chinese tourists who visited in 2019, but still represents a marked improvement over 2022, when just 270,000 of them were welcomed pick up.

The lack of cheap flights in the post-pandemic era and the slowdown in the Chinese economy are among the reasons why tourists are hesitant to visit Thailand.

But some have also raised security concerns after rumors emerged that tourists were being kidnapped and taken across the border to work at scam centers in Myanmar or Cambodia.

Tourists are also worried after a shooting at Bangkok’s most famous shopping mall left a Chinese mother of two dead last October.

The tourism agency has set a target of welcoming 8. 2 million Chinese tourists by 2024.

China has also waived visa requirements to attract tourists.

Last November, it announced a trial visa exemption for visitors from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia.

The program starts in December and will last until the end of November this year.

HICHILEMA: A ONE-STRING GUITAR- Fred M’membe

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HICHILEMA: A ONE-STRING GUITAR

It’s very difficult to conceive of a multiparty political dispensation where only one political party and its leaders are allowed to have rallies, meetings, press briefings, and visits of its structures at will and without hindrance.

Mr Hakainde Hichilema and his party, the UPND, are today enjoying unfettered exercise of their freedoms of assembly, association, expression, and speech at the exclusion of the opposition and all others.

The public order Act and other related laws don’t seem to apply to them at all.

And on everything else, Mr Hichilema is a shameless blame shifter.

Seeking to exercise our constitutionally guaranteed fundamental human rights is not the pursuit of politics of confrontation or insolence.

We know very well that when they were in opposition, they were partially denied these rights. But it shouldn’t be a matter of revenge. An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth will leave them blind and snaggletoothed.

If they’re mature politicians, they’ve got to break the cycle of abuses and mistreatment of political opponents.

Without a doubt, Mr Hichilema and the UPND endured a lot of injustice, and the nation aligned in sympathy for them, but they have squandered that goodwill. They have messed this up!

Mr Hichilema seems to be a one-string guitar. The only tool he has is a hammer, and he doesn’t seem to understand the need for tolerance, self- limitation, and modesty. Anything he sees in front of him, no matter how small or insignificant, he has to pound it down with full force.

But this approach is very destructive and dangerous. This he must be mindful of and not be excited with power recklessly.

We have repeatedly warned that this country will not be a good place for any of us to live in if it’s not a good place for all of us to live in.

When fundamental rights and freedoms are denied, they are always fought for. This is the reality Mr Hichilema and his corrupt puppet regime must be ready for!

We shall fearlessly defend our liberties, human dignity, and rights.

We will not allow Mr Hichilema to use power and privilege to constrain our efforts and existence in this country to maintain the status quo.

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

HH doesn’t sleep, he fears Lungu – Mwape

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By Kholiwe Miti(The Mast)

THE PF says President Hakainde Hichilema is so scared of his predecessor Edgar Lungu, hence the ruling party’s manoeuvres to destroy the main opposition party.

Livingstone Central Constituency PF youth secretary James Mwape says President Hichilema has failed to address the cost of living, hence shifting people’s attention from economic problems.

“HH is protecting illegalities caused by Miles Sampa for fear of ECL. President HH doesn’t sleep, even before ECL announced his return to active politics. Preventing ECL from standing in 2026, it’s not going to work because it’s his democratic right to stand [as] provided [for] by the Constitution of Zambia,” he said in a statement. “HH has failed to provide solutions to the high cost of living affecting the Zambian people that’s why he’s trying to kill political parties by persecuting political leaders and hijacking opposition parties in favour of his stooges like they did to Democratic Party. Records are there. By doing so HH has shifted his mind from working and delivering for the Zambians to PF wrangles in wanting PF [to] die so that UPND can be passing bills in parliament without any difficulties.”

Mwape warned that President Hichilema risked losing the next general election due to his unfulfilled promises.

“Therefore, I want to remind President HH that the Constitution allows ECL to stand again in 2026 general election. No doubt about it. If ECL files his nomination in 2026, then, it means deal sealed. Zambians are silent and ECL is silent too, like he’s in agreement with the Zambian people to keep silent and their secret will be revealed by the ballot in 2026,” Mwape said. “The door for HH is wide open, because if ECL files his nomination then he will scoop 2026 general election and HH fears that. I am urging President HH to get into action and work for the Zambian people who voted for you before it’s too late for you. Humble yourself and consult ECL. After all the Zambian people want President HH to develop this country, but he has failed to read between the lines that he’s too much of himself. All these imingalato President HH is playing hiding in the name of Miles Sampa to block ECL, the Zambian people know every detailed truth about this scam and they know their preferred candidate for 2026. That is no other than ECL.”

He said because President Hichilema controls the intelligence in the country, they have told the Head of State that Zambians are fed up of him.

“HH is the President of Zambia, he has all the intelligence and the internal security. These people they give him information on daily basis. He knows the truth that Zambians they no longer believe in his lies because they sleep with hunger. They have no food which he promised them – three meals per day. They fail to provide for their children,” said Mwape. “Now they’ve remembered where they are coming from saying mwa ECL mwalipo bwino, twaleikuta (things were better under ECL. We used to be full). And that information doesn’t sit well with President HH. President HH fears ECL, no doubt about it. But let him accept that he has failed to deliver for the citizens. Zambians have no choice but to vote him out of office in replacement of ECL. This is not a joking matter. As youths of PF we will not allow UPND government to persecute ECL in order for them to remain in power forever.”

2023 CDF Resource Allocation, Management, Disbursement & Utilization – Kanchibiya Constituency

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By Hon Sunday Chanda – Kanchibiya MP


[END OF YEAR CDF REPORTS – KANCHIBIYA]

2023 CDF RESOURCE ALLOCATION, MANAGEMENT, DISBURSEMENT & UTILIZATION – KANCHIBIYA CONSTITUENCY.

“It’s Time To Work….”

Time Check 20:15hrs Kanchibiya Time

An Update On The Allocation and Utilization of CDF in Kanchibiya – 2023 [Q4 Status Report – December, 2023]

  1. Status Report on the of Allocation, Management, Disbursement and Utilization of 2023 CDF in Kanchibiya Constituency.

Funding Type : CDF 2023
Awarding Institution : Ministry of Local Govt.
Approved Amount : K26,887,641.55
CDF Project Window : 2023-24

Pursuant to Section 6.1 of Part Six (6) of the CDF Guidelines (2023) [ ACCOUNTABILITY OF THE FUND – CDF] as read together with the Public Finance Management Act No. 1 of 2018 and based on the principles of fiscal discipline, prudence, equity and transparency, the office of the Area Member of Parliament – Kanchibiya seeks to report as such:

FINANCIAL NOTES

WE UNDERSCORE OUR COMMITMENT TO ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY AND DO IN THAT STEAD IMPLORE OUR COLLEAGUES COUNTRYWIDE TO EMULATE US IN THIS ENDEAVOUR IN THE INTEREST OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, ADVANCEMENT AND PRUDENT USE OF PUBLIC FUNDS.

-Do note, that only two districts are ahead of Kanchibiya in the utilization of Bursaries and Skills Development as they have boarding school facilities and skills training centres.

-Kanchibiya has no boarding schools neither does it have a skills training Centre and this affects the burn rate under this component. However steps have been taken to correct this anomaly by constructing dormitories using CDF such as the one at Kopa Day Secondary School (with more coming in 2024).

-Notably under our 2023 CDF resource envelope, Kanchibiya only had 23 beneficiaries under the bursaries component which translates to around K81,000 out of K2million plus allocation. The holds true for the Skills Development Bursaries.

-Following from the foregoing, here is a faithful representation and detailed component by component report (on community projects, loans and grants, disaster component, bursaries and skills development) to show CDF burn rate for Kanchibiya which can be verified with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.

Component Expenditure

Community Projects K11,406,979.80
Loans K3,227,785.00
Grants. K2,151,856.55
Bursaries – Skills & Boarding K669,790.00

ADDITIONAL NOTES

-Of the 117 bursaries granted to Kanchibiya district, a total of twenty-five (25) were awarded to successful female applicants while ninety-two (92) were awarded to successful male applicants after a rigorous appraisal process.

-CDF Skills Development Bursaries do not cater for courses like Nursing, Midwifery and Teaching which are preferred by the Girl Child in most rural areas including Kanchibiya. This has unfortunately led to a low uptake of Bursaries.

-However, savings made thereof were varied and allocated as such:

-Cumulatively, a total saving of K3,979,228.00 was realised from the Bursaries appropriation for 2023. These savings were varied and allocated to the following community projects as tabulated below.

Project Name Amount Allocated

  1. Completion of 1×3 CRB : K460,000.00
    at Kabinga Sec. School
  2. Procurement of Morgue : K530,000.00
    Equipment (Kopa Mini Hosp)
  3. Washeni Bridge Additional: K370,000.00
    Funds
  4. Water & Sanitation Project: K100,228.00
    at Mpepo Primary School
  5. Bicycle Purchase – WDCs : K64,700.00
  6. Purchase of 1,613 Desks : K1,774,300
  7. Chikakala Bridge Funds : K500,000.00
  8. Purchase Of Fuel Bowser : K180,000.00

ADDENDUM

  • Under CDF 2022, Kanchibiya exhausted it’s entire CDF resource allocation serve for the construction of classrooms at Macheleta Primary School which contract was cancelled following the contractor’s failure to execute within the agreed timeframe.
  • Under 2023, Kanchibiya also had to cancel and re-advertise some contracts where contractors failed to deliver on time and these have since been awarded.
  • Following the release of K4,715,218,531.00, which includes K298, 249, 817.44, Supplementary Budget, for the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to all 156 Constituencies (including Kanchibiya) by The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD), it entails that we will able to EFFECTIVELY IMPLEMENT ALL APPROVED PROJECTS under 2023.

-The latest tranche of funds translates to EACH Constituency (including Kanchibiya) across the Country, RECEIVING 100% CDF FUNDING amounting to K28,313,902.01 allocated in this years National Budget.

-Development is a continuous process , therefore projects are bound to overlap and transcend yearly development windows.

CONCLUSION

Gratitude is extended to the Government, through the Ministry of Local Government & Rural Development for its strong commitment in ensuring the successful implementation of all CDF components especially for rural districts like Kanchibiya.

Further gratitude is extended to the office of the Attorney General for the expeditious manner in which CDF projects and variations thereof are approved and given a legal nod.

By the same token as reported we implore our counterparts countrywide to publish their component by component detailed reports too as rendered here.

KANCHIBIYA CDF AT WORK ©2023

ANALYSIS OF CDF EXPENDITURE & BURNING RATE

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ANALYSIS OF CDF EXPENDITURE & BURNING RATE

I wish congratulate the council that have done extremely well in spending funds on CDF from January 2022 to November 2023 .And I would like to add a voice on the subject and share my thoughts on what is affecting burning rate in project implementation in the case of Constituency Development Funds . (Note that this is a personal opinion and it may apply to all constituencies )

1. Projects of Construction nature awarded to new local contractors drag in their implementation due to inexperience by local contractors . We have heard of contractors who have abandoned sites & projects re-advertised,this is affecting the burning rate . Others struggle to kick off or implement project within the timeframe because they lack sufficient upfront capital for mobilization . Another reason is that there are constituencies that dedicated their entire CDF for 2022 towards the procurement of machinery- that would entail a one day payment and it moves the burning rate automatically to above 50% while it’s understandable that others that would have invested in construction of schools and clinics would still be dragging depending on context and needs of the district .
2. Low absorption in Skills & Secondary Bursaries – districts without skills centers & secondary schools have low absorption levels – most youths are not willing to go and access school outside their district because they are bread winners or have families to look after . For secondary schools it’s the same – There is need for all districts to have skills centers and secondary school to achieve the intention of provide access education especially to rural children.
3. Poor Project implementation skills by Councils ( Accounts / Social planners / Engineers – a well trained project management team will effectively coordinate will undertake burn rate review on a monthly basis and propose possible movements of funds to other needy areas (We are happy that the ministry has been flexible in approving such variation and without delay ) Part of this variation is as a result of balances from engineer estimated costs vs awarded costs because most local contractor they underestimate their bids to win contracts ultimately affecting their profit margin. Leaving councils with funds .
4. Geographical Position of some constituencies- Some constituencies such as itezhi tezhi , Nalikwanda , Nalolo ,Chiyengi etc get cut off for over 6 months due to floods and projects stall. This delays implementation and funds sit in the account for over 7 months .
5. Constituencies with more than one constituency with a lean structure of members of staff in councils would not move processes faster .And most councils have lost key staffs ( maybe that is why the Commision has advertised for jobs ) Most councils operate under stress – So it means 22 councils had no building inspectors ,12 Councils no deputy Director of works , 44 council no quality surveyors , 14 council no land surveyors , 19 councils no procurement officers and 35 council without social planners . These are key positions in projects implementation .
6. Burning rate is not measured by actual spend / it includes committed funds . So projects that are running with already signed contracts and payments partially made are regarded as spent . The sum total should be regarded as committed spent money .

GENERAL OBSERVATION –

1.It is now clear that the UPND government is equitably distributing resources to all constituencies across the country – this is recommendable as it demonstrates that the entire country is now a construction site for different essential services .

2.Even some MPs who on the floor of the house claim that that CDF is a hoax have received the funds in full and goverment is delivering development in their constituencies – so they should stop contradicting themselves and focus on achieving 100% burning rate

3. In order for MPs , Mayors , Chairperson & DCs to effectively provide oversight in project implementation, there is need to enhance capacities & skills in project management (project planning , project circle , effective project monitoring with clear indicators , effective evaluation )

3.The Ministry of Local Government should CONTINUE sharing this analysis and it should be part of the performance appraisal for the Council Management teams who are the implementing managers of the day to day implementation of CDF. This will also ensure that Members of Parliament take centre stage in providing their oversight role to councils and a more clearer and elaborate accountability performance metric should also be devised .

Hon Twaambo Mutinta
MP Itezhi Tezhi

MALEMBE CAUSES COMMOTION AT BREAD OF LIFE CROSSOVER CONCERT

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MALEMBE CAUSES COMMOTION AT BREAD OF LIFE CROSSOVER CONCERT

THE BISHOP Joe Imakando-led Bread of Life Church in Lusaka was last evening filled to the brim as a colourful line up of gospel musicians led congregants to pray sing and dance their way into 2024 and all was going well until husky-voiced singer Kings Malembe Malembe spoiled the fun when he took stage.

Apparently, Malembe Malembe had been banished from the massive Worship Centre and blacklisted from ever performing there after he ignored Bishop Imakando’s guidance of only singing for One in Heaven.

Against Bishop Imakando’s advice, at the height of the PF government power, Malembe Malembe and a gang of several other pentecostal leaders opted to ignore the violence of PF thugs and breakdown of the rule of law, and instead appointed themselves PF Regime Insiders lending their vocal chords to singing for ‘chipani’.

The singer and group claimed that God had informed them that former president Edgar Lungu’ was the divine appointed ruler of Zambia and should be given a third term.

However, after Lungu’s loss, Malembe Malembe came back to his senses and apologised saying he had learnt a lesson and vowed that this time around, he shall belch his rhumba-influenced tunes for the one above only.

And so it was yesterday that Malembe Malembe joined the rich list of musicians to lead Bread of Life members into the new year.

But commotion broke out as soon as Malembe stepped at the stage with members abandoning their sing-along and tongues to discuss what what the outcast was doing at such a holy event.

Noticing the disapproval on the faces of the thousands of congregants, Bishop Imakando stepped in to intervene and explain.

“Am sure some of you are wondering why we invited Malembe Kings…Malembe came home this time not for the suit but he came and told me he was very sorry,” Bishop Imakando explained.

“He said he had done things he was not proud of, he should have listened to me and he lay on the floor and he cried like a baby.”

He said just as the congregation was shocked with Malembe’s appearance he was equally speechless when the ‘Niwelesa singer’ almost drenched his sofas and carpet in his living room when he threw tantrums and cried like a baby requesting to be pardoned.

“I couldn’t believe it for the whole time he was in my house he was on the floor crying asking for forgiveness and so, I told him I have forgiven you and I will pray for your restoration. That is why you see him here,”the preacher explained.

Bishop Imakando said Malembe asked him to welcome him home in his church as life had already humbled him after the PF was oust from power leaving his spiritual life cluttered,

“He acknowledged that he did some things with politicians which he was not proud of and he saw that it had affected his spiritual life and that is how he came to apologize,” Bishop Imakando said.

He advised the congregants to welcome Malembe and not to be condemnatory but instead urged the to challenge him if he goes amiss again with sarcasm.

“As singers they are very explosive they would sing anywhere so sometimes you need to be able to say to them no no no not this one,” said Bishop Imakando.

“But genuinely he loves the lord he wants to follow Jesus so welcome back and God bless you.”

As the Bishop gave a welcome speech the crestfallen Malembe clasped his arms to his forearms.

Immediately he was taken in Malembe entertained the congregants with his trouse ripping rhumba dances as he jived to his songs Twapalwafye and Fyawa.

CREDIT: Kalemba

Bishop Imakando backs Hichilema calls for Zambians to take up farming

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Bishop Imakando backs Hichilema calls for Zambians to take up farming

BISHOP Joseph Imakando has echoed President Hakainde Hichilema’s call for Zambians to take up farming and other business ventures for personal and national development.

The Bread of Life Church international general overseer has encouraged Zambians to start farming and mining in 2024, predicting a year of divine overflow and a transfer of wealth.

During a New Year’s Eve sermon, Bishop Imakando said there will a wealth transfer this year, with many Zambians owning businesses.

The Bishop declared a changing season and encouraged his congregation to move with the times and align themselves with the discerned prophecy for prosperity through their hands.

“We must get engaged in mining. The minerals in Zambia are for the Zambians. God gave us these minerals, we can not allow (other) people to come and plunder these resources,” he said.

“In the past we were ignorant but now we are educated, let us pray for ways in which we can participate, (and) ways in which we can own mines as well.”

Bishop Imakando said he would support those entering mining or farming, expressing readiness to pray for them more than those opting for Bible school.

“If you want to go into mining you have my blessing. I am ready to pray for you if you want to get into farming, I am ready to pray for you. I stand ready, more ready to pray for you than if you want to go to Bible school.

“Because you will go to Bible school and end up (to be) a poor pastor troubling people for little offerings,” added Bishop Imakando.

“I know when I speak some of you question, “how is it going to happen ?” When I said change was coming in (2021), some of you were questioning because what was on the ground did not suggest change but change came.”

He emphasised for citizens to get land, grow things there and watch God bless those things to see an abundant harvest.

“God will bless the works of your hands, if you are not working, God has nothing to bless. This year it is time to go farming, it is time to get dirty.”

Prior to the message of Bishop Imakando, President Hakainde Hichilema said 2024 will dedicated to unlocking the economy, envisioning it to be a year of new opportunities.

The Head of State during his last press conference also urged people to get land and farm as Government works towards enhancing farming from seasonal planting and harvesting to monthly.

By Moses Makwaya

Kalemba

POSSIBLE WAYS IN WHICH “DIRTY” MONEY IS BEING CLEANED IN ZAMBIA

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POSSIBLE WAYS IN WHICH “DIRTY” MONEY IS BEING CLEANED IN ZAMBIA

Authored By Mupishi Jones

Let’s begin by being on the same page,we all agree that there was a lot of cash money in the hands of ‘PEPS’ (Politically Exposed Persons) during the fallen regime,I hope it’s a no contest preposition!
Another fact,soon before and just after the 2021 general elections and subsequent change of government,many PEPs further withdrew a lot of cash from the banks because of it’s unexplainable and questionable source.
Today the corruption environment has completely changed, one has to account for whatever wealth and cash deposits made.Therefore,our PEPs have very little option to spend those huge cash stacks in their possession,worse still, they can’t deposit it into any bank accounts.A few took this cash for “safe” keeping to their cousins’ houses,we all know this story.
Today many of these PEPs have come up with ways of cleaning up that cash so that they can start spending without being suspected.
How are they doing this?
That’s the subject of my article today.

MUSICIANS, FILLING STATIONS, NIGHT CLUBS,SLAY QUEENS .
PEPs with stacks of hidden cash money are using renowned musicians, fuel filling stations, Night Clubs, Saloons and Barbershops especially owned by Slay queens because of their cash business transactions.They are publicly and openly cutting performance show deals with musicians, filling stations, Night Clubs, Saloons and Barbershop owners.No one pays entry fees through bank transfers or cheques during live performances, refueling at gas stations, Night Clubs or saloons..Its cash which is expected to be banked the following morning.Now during those morning bankings, instead of depositing what was collected during last evening’s performance and transactions,they deposit the hidden “stacked cash”. During the normal business transactions,they don’t care whether they’ve made loses or not.After several such live shows, the musician openly and publicly declares dividends to the PEP.The PEP gets a fraction of the hidden stacks and start spending.
These are the slay queens, musicians and other partners in crime that are making a lot of noise against the current government.They think because they were not in the previous government,then they cannot be suspected of corruption!
However, one day they’ll be exposed
I submit

Mupishi Jones
0977480386

Lusaka wife hides n@ked boyfriend in matrimonial bedroom

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Lusaka wife hides naked boyfriend in matrimonial bedroom

A WOMAN of Lusaka’s Chipata Compound has taken it upon herself to ensure that the capital city maintains its rotten reputation of being the headquarters of marital infidelity and perplexing sexual scandals.

Just as 2023 was coming to an end, Prisca Zulu, 30 treated her husband Diglicks Mpanga and neighbours in Chipata Compound to some shocking and unscripted drama after being caught with a naked man in her own matrimonial bedroom.

The details of the tale are that Mpanga, a metal fabricator who had been away on duty in Chongwe for six weeks decided to surprise his wife by arriving back home unannounced.

But on arriving home, the 38-year old husband ended up with a shock of his life.

In Mpanga’s own words, his wife reacted rather strangely to his “honey, I am home” announcement.

“She just peeped on the window and closed the curtain”.

After allowing himself in the house through the kitchen door, Mpanga noticed that his wife’s chassis had been massively realigned and her step distorted with worry and panic written all over her face.

Suspicious, Mpanga headed to the bedroom where he found a strange fake lebel boxer on the bed along with other male clothes scattered on the floor.

When he picked the boxer to examine it, his wife attempted to grab it from him and in the process triggered a scuffle.

In the ensuing fight for the strange boxer between wife and husband, Mpanga fell on a heap of clothes that hid a naked man beneath it.

Mpanga quickly extracted the man from the heap of clothes and seeing the massive weapon he carried in his groin area, he immediately understood wht his wife of 13 years had suddenly developed a limp in her walk.

With the help of neighbours, the naked man who was identified as David Mbewe was marched to Kabanana Police Station while Mpanga kept the clothes as evidence of his wife’s infidelity.

Mpanga then went to the Matero Local Court seeking K30,000 compensation from Mbewe for adultery.

In court Mbewe said he had only slept with Prisca on two occasions while the cheating wife admitted to her infidelity but begged for forgiveness from her husband saying she treasured her marriage.

In ruling on the matter, Magistrate Harriet Mulenga ordered Mbewe to compensate Mpanga with K35,000 while admonishing Prisca.

CAPTION: The clothes and shoes left behind by Mbewe, Prisca’s boyfriend.

By Buumba Mwitumwa

Kalemba

Mnangagwa congratulates DRC’s Tshisekedi on re-election

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President Mnangagwa has congratulated DRC President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo on his re-election after garnering over 70 percent of the vote, according to results announced by the electoral commission yesterday afternoon.

Over 18 million Congolese turned up to cast their votes on December 20 last year.

In a statement this afternoon, President Mnangagwa said: “I am pleased to warmly congratulate you on your re-election as the President of Democratic Republic of Congo. Your re-election to the highest office is a re-affirmation of the confidence and trust that the people of the Congo have in your leadership to a more prosperous Congo.

“As you assume the onerous responsibilities of the office, I look forward to resuming our cooperation and close personal interaction to enhance the cordial relations that happily subsist between our two fraternal countries for the mutual benefit of our peoples.

“I also wish to assure you of my continued readiness to work with you at the regional, continental and international levels to advance common aspirations.”

President Mnangagwa also took the opportunity to wish President Tshisekedi good health and success in leading his country to prosperity, as well as peace for the people of the DRC.

President Tshisekedi beat businessman Mr Moise Katumbi who came second with 18 percent of the vote.

Mr Martin Fayulu, a former oil company executive, received 5 percent of the vote while a physician and Nobel Peace Prize winner, Dr Denis Mukwege, got less than 1 percent.

The election had over 40 percent turnout.

DRC election chief Mr Denis Kadima said the results would be sent to the constitutional court for confirmation and candidates opposing the results have two days to file their claims, and the constitutional court has seven days to decide.

Final results are expected on January 10, and if there is no challenger, President Tshisekedi is expected to be sworn in at the end of the month.

As happened in Zimbabwe, DRC opposition parties rejected the results before their announcement saying the polls were not free and fair, without substantiation.

Last week, there were confrontations between supporters of Mr Fayulu and police officers, who fired tear smoke at protesters who were throwing stones from the opposition party’s headquarters in Kinshasa.

Source – The Herald

Check out the confirmed squads for the 2023 AFCON

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Ahead of the January 3 deadline for the submission of squads for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, most countries have announced their teams for the tournament.

Countries like Cameroon, Egypt Senegal and a host of others have announced their teams for the tournament.

For the Black Stars, it is expected that coach Chris Hughton will name his squad for the tournament which will be held in Ivory Coast.

The 2023 AFCON will commence on January 13 and end on February 11, 2024.

Below are the countries which have announced their squads for the AFCON

Algeria

Goalkeepers: Anthony Mandrea (Caen, France), Rais Mbolhi (CR Belouizdad, Algeria), Oussama Benbot (USM Alger, Algeria)

Defenders: Youcef Atal (Nice, France), Kevin van den Kerkhof (Metz, France), Rayan Ait Nouri (Wolverhampton Wanderers, England), Yasser Larouci (Sheffield United, England), Aissa Mandi (Villarreal, Spain), Mohamed Amine Tougai (Esperance Tunis, Tunisia), Ramy Bensebaini (Borussia Dortmund, Germany), Ahmed Touba (Lecce, Italy), Zineddine Belaid (USM Alger, Algeria).

Midfielders: Nabil Bentaleb (Lille, France), Sofiane Feghouli (Fatih Karagumruk, Turkey), Houssem Aouar (Roma, Italy), Fares Chaibi (Eintracht Frankfurt, Germany), Ramiz Zerrouki (Feyenoord, Netherlands), Hicham Boudaoui (Nice, France), Ismael Bennacer (AC Milan, Italy).

Forwards: Riyad Mahrez (Al Ahli, Saudi Arabia), Adam Ounas (Lille, France), Mohamed Amoura (Union Saint-Gilloise, Belgium), Amine Gouiri (Rennes, France), Youcef Belaili (MC Alger, Algeria), Baghdad Bounedjah (Al Sadd, Qatar), Islam Slimani (Coritiba, Brazil).

Angola

Goalkeepers: Antonio Dominique (Etoile Carouge, Switzerland), Kadu (Oliveira Hospital, Portugal), Neblu (Premeiro Agosto, Angola)

Defenders: Eddie Afonso, To Carneiro, Kinito (all Petro Atletico, Angola), Loide Augusto (Alanyaspor, Turkey), Jonathan Buatu (Valenciennes, France), Nurio Fortuna (Gent, Belgium), Kialonda Gaspar (Estrela Amadora, Portugal).

Midfielders: Beni (Casa Pia, Portugal), Estrela (Erzurumspor, Turkey), Fredy (Eyupspor, Turkey), Keliano Manuel (Estrela Amadora, Portugal), Bruno Paz (Konyaspor, Turkey) Show (Maccabi Haifa, Israel).

Forwards: Jeremie Bela (Clermont, France), Gelson Dala (Al Wakrah, Qatar), Zito Luvumbo (Cagliari, Italy), Mabululu (Al Ittihad, Egypt), Felicio Milson (Maccabi Tel Aviv, Israel), Zine (AEK Athens, Greece), M’bala Nzola (Fiorentina, Italy).

Burkina Faso

Goalkeepers: Herve Koffi (Charleroi, Belgium), Hillel Konate (Chateauroux, France), Kilian Nikiema (ADO Den Haag, Netherlands), Sebastien Tou (Sabadell, Spain).

Defenders: Issa Kabore (Luton Town, England), Steeve Yago (Aris Limassol, Cyprus), Issoufou Dayo (RS Berkane, Morocco), Nasser Djiga (Red Star Belgrade, Serbia), Edmond Tapsoba (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany), Adamo Nagalo (Nordsjaelland, Denmark), Abdoul Guiebre (Modena, Italy), Valentin Nouma (Saint Eloi Lupopo, DR Congo).

Midfielders: Blati Toure (Pyramids, Egypt), Adama Guira (Racing Rioja, Spain), Dramane Salou (Urartu, Armenia), Ismahila Ouedraogo (Panserraikos, Greece), Sacha Banse (Valenciennes, France), Gustavo Sangare (Quevilly-Rouen, France), Stephane Aziz Ki (Young Africans, Tanzania).

Forwards: Bertrand Traore (Aston Villa, England), Dango Ouattara (Bournemouth, England), Mamady Alex Bangre (Toulouse, France), Djibril Ouattara (RS Berkane, Morocco), Hassane Bande (HJK Helsinki, Finland), Mohamed Konate (Akhmat Grozny, Russia), Abdoul Tapsoba (Amiens, France), Cedric Badolo (Sheriff Tiraspol, Moldova).

Cameroun

Goalkeepers: Andre Onana (Manchester United, England), Fabrice Ondoa (Nimes, France), Devis Epassy (Abha, Saudi Arabia) Simon Ngapandouetnbu (Marseille, France).

Defenders: Christopher Wooh (Rennes, France), Junior Tchamadeu (Stoke, England), Nouhou Tolo (Seattle Sounders, USA), Darlin Yongwa (Lorient, France), Oumar Gonzalez (Al Raed, Saudi Arabia), Harold Moukoudi (AEK Athens, Greece), Jean Charles Castelletto (Nantes, France), Malcom Bokele (Bordeaux, France), Enzo Tchato (Montpellier, France).

Midfielders: Olivier Ntcham (Samsunspor, Turkey), Yvan Neyou (Leganes, Spain), Doualla Wilfried Nathan (Victoria United, Cameroun), Ben Njongoue Elliott (Reading, England), Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa (Napoli, Italy), Olivier Kemen (Kayserispor, Turkey), Leonel Ateba (Dynamo Douala, Cameroun).

Forwards: Vincent Aboubakar (Besiktas, Turkey), Francois Regis Mughe (Marseille, France), Georges-Kevin Nkoudou (Damac, Saudi Arabia), Clinton Njie (Sivasspor, Turkey), Karl Toko Ekambi (Abha, Saudi Arabia), Faris Moumbagna (Bodo/Glimt, Norway), Frank Magri (Toulouse, France).

Cape Verde

Goalkeepers: Vozinha (AS Trencin, Slovakia), Marcio Rosa (Anadia, Portugal), Dylan Silva (Sintrense, Portugal).

Defenders: Stopira (Boavista da Praia, Cape Verde), Roberto ‘Pico’ Lopes (Shamrock Rovers, Ireland), Diney (Al Bataeh, UAE), Dylan Tavares (Bastia, France), Logan Costa (Toulouse, France), Joao Correia (GD Chaves, Portugal), Steven Moreira (Columbus Crew, USA).

Midfielders: Jamiro Monteiro (San Jose Earthquakes, USA), Kenny Rocha (AEZ Zakakiou, Cyprus), Patrick Andrade (Qarabag, Azerbaijan), Joao Paulo Fernandes (Sheriff Tiraspol, Moldova), Deroy Duarte (Fortuna Sittard, Netherlands), Cuca (Uniao de Leiria, Portugal), Kevin Pina (Krasnodar, Russia), Laros Duarte (Groningen, Netherlands).

Forwards: Ryan Mendes (Fatih Karagumruk, Turkey), Garry Rodrigues (Anakaragucu, Turkey), Djaniny (Al Fateh, Saudi Arabia), Willy Semedo (Omonia, Cyprus), Bebe (Rayo Vallecano, Spain), Jovane Cabral (Salernitana, Italy), Helio Varela (Portimonense, Portugal), Bryan Teixeira (Sturm Graz, Austria).

DR Congo

Goalkeepers: Dimitry Bertaud (Montpellier, France), Lionel Mpasi (Rodez, France), Baggio Siadi (TP Mazembe, DR Congo).

Defenders: Dylan Batubinsika (Saint Etienne, France), Brian Bayeye (Ascoli, Italy), Rocky Bushiri (Hibernian, Scotland), Henock Inonga (Simba, Tanzania), Gedeon Kalulu (Lorient, France), Joris Kayembe (Genk, Belgium), Arthur Masuaku (Besiktas, Turkey), Chancel Mbemba (Marseille, France).

Midfielders: Theo Bongonda (Spartak Moscow, Russia), Grady Diangana (West Bromwich Albion, England), Gael Kakuta (Amiens, France), Edo Kayembe (Watford, England), Samuel Moutoussamy (Nantes, France), Charles Pickel (Cremonese, Italy), Aaron Tshibola (Al Hatta, UAE).

Forwards: Simon Banza (Braga, Portugal), Cedric Bakambu (Galatasaray, Turkey), Meschack Elia (Young Boys, Switzerland), Silas (Stuttgart, Germany), Fiston Mayele (Pyramids, Egypt), Yoane Wissa (Brentford, England).

Egypt

Goalkeepers: Mohamed El Shenawy (Al Ahly, Egypt), Ahmed El Shenawy (Pyramids, Egypt), Gabaski (National Bank of Egypt, Egypt), Mohamed Sobhi (Zamalek, Egypt).

Defenders: Ahmed Hegazy (Al Ittihad, Saudi Arabia), Mohamed Abdelmonem, Mohamed Hany (both Al Ahly, Egypt), Ali Gabr, Osama Galal, Ahmed Samy, Mohamed Hamdy (all Pyramids, Egypt), Omar Kamal (Future, Egypt), Ahmed Fatouh (Zamalek, Egypt).

Midfielders: Hamdi Fathi (Al Wakrah,Qatar), Mohamed Elneny (Arsenal, England), Marwan Attia, Emam Ashour, Ahmed Nabil Koka (all Al Ahly, Egypt), Zizo (Zamalek, Egypt), Mahmoud Hamada (Al Masry, Egypt).

Forwards: Mohamed Salah (Liverpool, England), Mostafa Fathi (Pyramids, Egypt), Trezeguet (Trabzonspor, Turkey), Omar Marmoush (Eintracht Frankfurt, Egypt), Mostafa Mohamed (Nantes, France), Kahraba (Al Ahly, Egypt), Ahmed Hassan (Pendikspor, Turkey).

Equatorial Guinea
To be announced.

The Gambia
To be announced.

Ghana
To be announced.

Guinea

Goalkeepers: Aly Keita (Ostersunds, Sweden), Moussa Camara (Horoya, Guinea), Ibrahim Kone (Hibernians, Malta).

Defenders: Antoine Conte (Botev Plovdiv, Bulgaria), Ibrahima Diakite (Reims, France), Issiaga Sylla (Montpellier, France), Sekou Sylla (SC Cambuur, Netherlands), Mouctar Diakhaby (Valencia, Spain), Julien Janvier (Kayserispor, Turkey), Saidou Sow (Strasbourg, France), Mohamed Ali Camara (Young Boys, Switzerland).

Midfielders: Amadou Diawara (Anderlecht, Belgium), Seydouba Cisse (Leganes, Spain), Aguibou Camara (Atromitos, Greece), Naby Keita (Werder Bremen, Germany), Abdoulaye Toure (Le Havre, France), Mory Konate (Mechelen, Belgium), Ilaix Moriba (RB Leipzig, Germany), Karim Cisse (Saint Etienne, France).

Forwards: Francois Kamano (Abha, Saudi Arabia), Morgan Guilavogui (Lens, France), Serhou Guirassy (Stuttgart, Germany), Mohamed Bayo (Le Havre, France), Jose Kante (Urawa Red Diamonds, Japan), Facinet Conte (Bastia, France).

Guinea-Bissau

Goalkeepers: Ouparine Djoco (Francs Borains, Belgium), Fernando Embadje (Alcanenense, Portugal), Jonas Mendes (Kalamata, Greece).

Defenders: Fali Cande (Metz, France), Marcelo Djalo (Palencia, Spain), Jefferson Encada (Pharco, Egput), Edgar Ie (Istanbul Basaksehir, Turkey), Houboulang Mendes (Almeria, Portugal), Nanu (Samsunspor, Turkey), Nito (Maritimo, Portugal), Opa Sangante (Dunkerque, France).

Midfielders: Janio Bikel (Gaziantep, Turkey), Moreto Cassama (Omonia, Cyprus), Dalcio (APOEL, Cyprus), Carlos Mane (Kayserispor, Turkey), Sori Mane (Academico Viseu, Portugal), Carlos Mendes (Bolton Wanderers, England), Mauro Rodrigues (Yverdon, Switzerland), Alfa Semedo (Al Tai, Saudi Arabia).

Forwards: Mama Balde (Lyon, France), Franculino (Midtjylland, Denmark), Zinho Gano (Zulte Waregem, Belgium), Famana Quizera (Academico Viseu, Portugal), Marciano Sanca (Almeria, Spain), Ze Turbo (Nizhny Novgorod, Russia).

Cote d’Ivoire

Goalkeepers: Yahia Fofana (Angers, France), Charles Folly (ASEC Mimosas, Cote d’Ivoire), Badra Ali Sangare (Sekhukhune United, South Africa).

Defenders: Serge Aurier, Willy Boly (both Nottingham Forest, England), Ismael Diallo (Hajduk Split, Croatia), Ousmane Diomande (Sporting Lisbon, Portugal), Ghislain Konan (Al Fayha, Saudi Arabia), Evans Ndicka (Roma, Italy), Odilon Kossounou (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany), Wilfried Singo (Monaco, France).

Midfielders: Jean-Thierry Lazare Amani (Union Saint-Gilloise, Belgium), Idrissa Doumbia (Alanyaspor, Turkey), Seko Fofana (Al Nassr, Saudi Arabia), Ibrahim Sangare (Nottingham Forest, England), Franck Kessie (Al-Ahli, Saudi Arabia), Jean-Michael Seri (Hull City, England).

Forwards: Simon Adingra (Brighton & Hove Albion, England), Jonathan Bamba (Celta Vigo, Spain), Jeremie Boga (Nice, France), Sebastien Haller (Borussia Dortmund, Germany), Karim Konate (RB Salzburg, Austria), Christian Kouame (Fiorentina, Italy), Jean-Philippe Krasso (Red Star Belgrade, Serbia), Max-Alain Gradel (Gaziantep, Turkey), Oumar Diakite (Reims, France), Nicolas Pepe (Trabzonspor, Turkey).

Mali

To be announced.

Mauritania
Goalkeepers: Babacar Niasse (Guingamp, France), Namori Diaw (ASC Tevragh-Zeine, Mauritania), Mbacke N’Diaye (Nouakchott Kings, Mauritania).

Defenders: Lamine Ba (Varazdin, Croatia), Dellah Yali (Al Hedod, Iraq), El Hassen Houeibib (Al Zawraa, Iraq), Nouh Mohamed El Abd (FC Nouadhibou, Mauritania), Bakary N’Diaye (Al Quwa Al Jawiya, Iraq), Khadim Diaw (Al Hilal, Sudan), Aly Abeid (UTA Arad, Romania), Ibrahima Keita (TP Mazembe, DR Congo).

Midfielders: Guessouma Fofana (Daxo Katokopias FC, Cyprus), Bodda Mouhsine (FC Nouadhibou, Mauritania), Oumar Ngom (Pau, France), Omare Gassama (Chateauroux, France), Bakari Camara (Villefranche, France), Sidi Ahmed Mohamed El Abd (FC Nouadhibou, Mauritania), El Hadji Ba (FC Nouadhibou, Mauritania), Abdallahi Mahmoud (AC Bellinzona, Switzerland).

Forwards: Hemeya Tanjy (Al Ittihad, Libya), Aboubakar Kamara (Al Jazira, UAE), Souleymane Anne (Deinze, Belgium), Aboubakary Koita (Sint-Truiden, Belgium), Pape Ibnou Ba (Concarneau, France), Souleymane Doukara (Magusa Turk Gucu, Cyprus), Idrissa Thiam (Mesaimeer, Qatar), Sidi Bouna Amar (FC Nouadhibou, Mauritania).

Morocco

Goalkeepers: Yassine Bounou (Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia), Munir Mohamedi (Al Wehda, Saudi Arabia), Mehdi Benabid (AS FAR, Morocco).

Defenders: Achraf Hakimi (Paris St-Germain, France), Noussair Mazraoui (Bayern Munich, Germany), Yahya Attiat Allah (Wydad Casablanca, Morocco), Nayef Aguerd (West Ham, England), Romain Saiss (Al Shabab, Saudi Arabia), Yunis Abdelhamid (Reims, France), Chadi Riad (Real Betis, Spain), Abdel Abqar (Alaves, Spain), Mohamed Chibi (Pyramids, Egypt).

Midfielders: Amir Richardson (Reims, France), Sofyan Amrabat (Manchester United, England), Oussama El Azzouzi (Bologna, Italy), Selim Amallah (Valencia, Spain), Bilal El Khannouss (Genk, Belgium), Azzedine Ounahi (Marseille, France), Ismael Saibari (PSV, Netherlands), Amine Harit (Marseille, France).

Forwards: Hakim Ziyech (Galatasaray, Turkey), Amine Adli (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany), Abde Ezzalzouli (Real Betis, Spain), Sofiane Boufal (Al Rayyan, Qatar), Tarik Tissoudali (Gent, Belgium), Youssef En-Nesyri (Seville, Spain), Ayoub El Kaabi (Olympiacos, Greece).

Mozambique

Goalkeepers: Ernan (UD Songo, Mozambique), Fazito (Ferroviario Nampula, Mozambique), Ivane Urrbal (Associacao Black Bulls, Mozambique).

Defenders: Domingos (Costa do Sol, Mozambique), Nanani (UD Songo, Mozambique), Edmilson Dove (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa), Bruno Langa (GD Chaves, Portugal), Reinildo Mandava (Atletico Madrid, Spain), Mexer (Bandirmaspor, Turkey), David Malembana (FC Noah, Armenia), Nene (Associacao Black Bulls, Mozambique).

Midfielders: Amadu (UD Songo, Mozambique), Joao Bonde (Ferroviario Beira, Mozambique), Clesio (Honka, Finland), Guima (GD Chaves, Portugal), Shaquille (Ferroviario Maputo, Mozambique), Alfons Amade (KV Oostende, Belgium).

Forwards: Domingues (UD Songo, Mozambique), Geny Catamo (Sporting CP, Portugal), Witi (CD Nacional, Portugal), Gildo (Sporting Covilha, Portugal), Stanley Ratifo (CfR Pforzheim, Germany), Lau King (Sagrada Esperanca, Mozambique).

Namibia

Goalkeepers: Lloyd Kazapua (Chippa United, South Africa), Edward Maova (Pretoria Callies, South Africa), Kamaijanda Ndisiro (African Stars, Namibia).

Defenders: Lubeni Haukongo (Cape Town Spurs, South Africa), Ryan Nyambe (Derby County, England), Ivan Kamberipa (Orapa United, Botswana), Erasmus Ikeinge (Khomas Nampol, Namibia), Kennedy Amutenya (Gaborone United, Botswana), Ananias Gebhardt (Baroka, South Africa), Riaan Hanamub (AmaZulu, South Africa), Aprocius Petrus (Liria Prizren, Serbia), Denzil Haoseb (Khomas Nampol, Namibia), Charles Hambira (African Stars, Namibia).

Midfielders: Marcel Papama (Jwaneng Galaxy, Botswana), Ngero Katua (Unam, Namibia), Romeo Kasume (Matabele, Botswana), Prins Tjiueza (Liria Prizren, Serbia), Petrus Shitembi (Kuching City, Malaysia), Uetuuru Kambato (African Stars, Namibia), Edmar Kamatuka (Unam, Namibia).

Forwards: Peter Shalulile (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Deon Hotto (Orlando Pirates, South Africa), Wendell Rudath (Jwaneng Galaxy, Botswana), Erastus Kulula (Blue Waters, Namibia), Bethuel Muzeu (Black Leopards, South Africa), Junior Petrus (Liria Prizren, Serbia), Joslin Kamatuka (Maritzburg United, South Africa), Absalom Iimbondi (Khomas Nampol, Namibia).

(One player to be left of out final squad)

Nigeria

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabili (Chippa United, South Africa), Francis Uzoho (Omonia, Cyprus), Leke Ojo (Enyimba, Nigeria).

Defenders: William Troost-Ekong (PAOK, Greece), Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce, Turkey), Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest, England), Zaidu Sanusi (Porto, Portugal), Bruno Onyemaechi (Boavista, Portugal), Semi Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England), Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England), Chidozie Awaziem (Boavista, Portugal), Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa, Turkey).

Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England), Raphael Onyedika (Club Bruges, Belgium), Joe Aribo (Southampton, England), Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England), Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England).

Forwards: Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England), Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy), Moses Simon (Nantes, France), Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy), Victor Osimhen (Napoli, Italy), Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany), Ahmed Musa (Sivasspor, Turkey), Sadiq Umar (Real Sociedad, Spain).

Senegal

Goalkeepers: Edouard Mendy (Al Ahli, Saudi Arabia), Mory Diaw (Clermont, France), Seny Dieng (Middlesbrough, England).

Defenders: Youssouf Sabaly (Real Betis, Spain), Kalidou Koulibaly (Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia), Moussa Niakhate (Nottingham Forest, England), Abdou Diallo (Al Arabi, Qatar), Formose Mendy (Lorient, France), Abdoulaye Ndiaye (Troyes, France), Abdoulaye Seck (Maccabi Haifa, Israel), Fode Ballo-Toure (Fulham, England), Ismail Jakobs (Monaco, France).

Midfielders: Lamine Camara (Metz, France), Pape Matar Sarr (Tottenham, England), Krepin Diatta (Monaco, France), Cheikhou Kouyate (Nottingham Forest, England), Pape Gueye (Marseille, France), Nampalys Mendy (Lens, France), Pathe Ciss (Rayo Vallecano, Spain) Idrissa Gana Gueye (Everton, England).

Forwards: Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea, England), Abdallah Sima (Rangers, Scotland), Boulaye Dia (Salernitana, Italy), Sadio Mane (Al Nassr, Saudi Arabia), Habib Diallo (Al Shabab, Saudi Arabia), Iliman Ndiaye, Ismaila Sarr (both Marseille, France).

South Africa

Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Veli Mothwa (AmaZulu, South Africa), Ricardo Goss (SuperSport United, South Africa).

Defenders: Nyiko Mobbie (Sekhukhune United, South Africa), Nkosinathi Sibisi (Orlando Pirates, South Africa), Siyanda Xulu (SuperSport United, South Africa), Grant Kekana, Terrence Mashego, Aubrey Modiba, Mothobi Mvala, Khuliso Mudau (all Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa)

Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Thapelo Maseko, Thapelo Morena (all Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Sphephelo Sithole (Tondela, Portugal), Jayden Adams (Stellenbosch, South Africa), Thabang Monare (Orlando Pirates, South Africa).

Forwards: Zakhele Lepasa, Evidence Makgopa (both Orlando Pirates, South Africa), Themba Zwane (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Oswin Appollis (Polokwane City, South Africa), Mihlali Mayambela (Aris Limassol, Cyprus), Percy Tau (Al Ahly, Egypt).

Tanzania

To be announced.

Tunisia

Goalkeepers: Mouez Hassen (Club Africain, Tunisia), Aymen Dahmen (Al Hazem, Saudi Arabia), Bechir Ben Said (US Monastir, Tunisia).

Defenders: Hamza Jelassi (Etoile du Sahel, Tunisia), Yassine Meriah (Esperance, Tunisia), Alaa Ghram (Sfaxien, Tunisia), Ali Maaloul (Al Ahly, Egypt), Yan Valery (Angers, France), Ali Abdi (Caen, France), Montassar Talbi (Lorient, France), Wajdi Kechrida (Atromitos, Greece), Oussama Haddadi (Greuther Furth, Germany).

Midfielders: Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane (Ferencvaros, Hungary), Anis Ben Slimane (????????Sheffield United, England), Ellyes Skhiri (Eintracht Frankfurt, Germany), Aissa Laidouni (Union Berlin, Germany), Houssem Tka (Esperance, Tunisia), Hadj Mahmoud (Lugano, Switzerland), Hamza Rafia (Leece, Italy).

Forwards: Youssef Msakni (Al Arabi, Qatar), Haythem Jouini (Stade Tunisien, Tunisia), Taha Yassine Khenissi (Kuwait SC, Kuwait), Sayfallah Ltaief (Winterthur, Switzerland), Bassem Srarfi (Club Africain, Tunisia), Naim Sliti (Al Ahli, Qatar), Mortadha Ben Ouanes (Kasimpasa, Turkey), Elias Achouri (FC Copenhagen, Denmark).

Zambia

Goalkeepers: Lawrence Mulenga (Power Dynamos, Zambia), Francis Mwansa (Green Buffaloes, Zambia), Toaster Nsabata (Zesco United, Zambia).

Defenders: Dominic Chanda (Power Dynamos, Zambia), Benedict Chepeshi (Red Arrows, Zambia), Rodrick Kabwe (Zakho, Iraq), Gift Mphande (Hapoel Rishon LeZion, Israel), Frankie Musonda (Ayr United, Scotland), Tandi Mwape (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Zephaniah Phiri (Prison Leopards, Zambia), Stoppila Sunzu (Jinan Xingzhou, China).

Midfielders: Emmanuel Banda (HNK Rijeka, Croatia), Rally Bwalya (Sekhukhune United, South Africa), Miguel Chaiwa (Young Boys, Switzerland), Clatous Chama (Simba, Tanzania), Edward Chilufya (Hacken, Sweden), Kings Kangwa (Red Star Belgrade, Serbia), Kelvin Kapumbu (Zesco United, Zambia), Golden Mafwenta (MFK Vyskov, Czech Republic), Kelvin Kampamba (Zesco United, Zambia), Fredrick Mulambia (Power Dynamos, Zambia), Lubambo Musonda (Silkeborg, Denmark), Benson Sakala (Mlada Boleslav, Czech Republic).

Forwards: Lameck Banda (Lecce, Italy), Patson Daka (Leicester City, England), Kennedy Musonda (Young Africans, Tanzania), Fashion Sakala (Al Fayha, Saudi Arabia).

Zanu PF distances itself from land barons wreaking havoc in Zimbabwe

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The ruling ZANU PF party has distanced itself from land barons illegally parceling out land in different parts of the country using its name, and demanded that law enforcement agencies ensure that the law takes its course.

In a statement, the party’s treasurer general, Patrick Chinamasa said Zanu PF did not condone the unlawful land occupations and illegal activities of land barons, and demanded that all irregular land occupations, sale or parceling out of land or stands and developments be stopped, and perpetrators brought to book.

“ZANU (PF) is alarmed at the mushrooming and proliferation of illegal occupations and settlement on communal, local authority and State land in and around major towns and cities, rural service centres and growth points and perpetrated by land barons some of who are masquerading as ZANU (PF) supporters and through use of name dropping falsely suggest that their illegal activities have the authority and blessings of ZANU (PF),” he said.

“Yet other land barons are using doctored and falsified documents as one of their strategies to mislead innocent stand buyers to part with their hard earned cash. These illegal activities of land barons are currently very prevalent in Mashonaland West, Mashonaland East and Manicaland provinces.”

He said the party leadership in Manicaland had taken action against its Mutare district coordinating committee (DCC) members comprising chairperson, Binali Yard, Brian Marange, Tawanda Ndawe, Webster Mudzimwa and Trust Matima who were arrested for the illegal distribution and occupation of land in the Gimboki area of Mutare.

The law enforcement agencies also intervened and stopped the springing up of illegal settlements and parceling out of land by unknown land barons along Rusape River which supplies water to the town.

In Mashonaland West, illegal land barons’ activities were observed on Somerby Farm fronting the Harare-Bulawayo highway formerly owned by West Stone Hurst (PVT) Ltd and measuring 102ha and Lot 4 Somerby Farm where violence resulted in the injury of six people recently.

These illegal occupations and settlements were also observed on Penrose Farm (143ha), Lilfordia Farm (600ha), Haydon Farm (744.57h, Rainham Farm (1 200ha) and Spitzkop farm (477ha) with 4.1ha of open spaces earmarked for a school and a hotel on Haydon Farm illegally occupied.

In Mashonaland East, illegal activities were mostly observed in Seke district under the Manyame Rural District Council on Longlands Farm, Kimcote Farm and Mnandi Farm which belong to the late Amos Midzi and Ealing Farm belonging to the late Colonel Katuka.

Villages outside Chitungwiza have been affected by a wave of illegal settlements as is the case with rural service centres in Seke district where Dema area is also affected.

Under the Goromonzi Rural District Council, illegal settlements are taking place at Proton Farm, Caledonia Farm and villages in the Domboshava and Chishawasha where land barons are randomly selling out land and occupying spaces reserved for schools and clinics with individual villagers and village heads joining in the fray in Chinhamhora and Chishawasha areas.

Chinamasa said the ruling party has never granted authority to any of its general membership, including persons who hold leadership positions at any level in the structures of the party, to participate in illegal occupations and land distributions whether as buyers or land barons.

ZANU (PF), he said, wanted it to be known that there is no land which should be considered to have no administering authority.

“Communal land is administered under the communal Lands Act and is vested in the President of the Republic.

“State land is also vested in the President and administered variously under the Ministries of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries and Water and Local government and Public works,” he said, adding that other lands fall under local authority councils and private individuals and entities and requires authorization of the relevant planning authority for any occupation, settlement or development.

He said unplanned settlements are a recipe for future disasters and a town planner’s nightmare as they come without the necessary infrastructure such as water, sewerage, road and electricity and without land set aside for social amenities such as schools, hospitals, clinics, sporting facilities and business centres, thus often end up costing more in terms of resources to take corrective measures. New Ziana

Museveni angry over blocked Ugandan exports

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President Museveni has expressed his frustration with members of the East African Community (EAC) imposing non-tariff barriers on others, describing them as blind policies.

In his end-of-year message yesterday, President Museveni said people who are subjecting non-tariff barriers to member states are doing it to milk popularity but if mobilisation is done to show how their policies hurt all people of their countries, they would be exposed.

“We shall continue discussing with our East African Community partners and I am sure we shall end up with a real common market free of non-tariff barriers. Because those barriers hurt the wanaichi of all our countries. I have given you the simple example of banning rice. You hurt the Ugandan consumers, you hurt the Tanzania producers. So if there is mobilisation, actually some people think they will get popularity out of that, but if you get good mobilisation, those doing that can really be exposed,” President Museveni said.

Although President Museveni didn’t name the countries that have imposed non-tariff barriers, Kenya blocked Uganda’s milk products in their market.

President Museveni rejected his trade minister’s statement to retaliate and block Kenyan products saying it was against regional integration.

Uganda and Kenya are also fighting in court over access to the sea, especially on the importation of oil products.

President Museveni described blocking of goods from the region as a sin he personally can’t commit.

“The NRM [National Resistance Movement] will not be part of those blind policies. Some of the Uganda business people cite the non-tariff barriers practices by other countries because they tell me other countries are doing it. If they are doing it, that is their mistake… I will not be part of that. Of that letting down of the African people. Because like now, you see the issue of rice. You want to hurt two people. The Ugandan consumer who is lucky to buy with the same money three kilos of rice instead of buying one from Uganda,” he said.

He said in the 1990s when Kenya’s former President Arap Moi blocked the border to Ugandan goods, he rejected retaliatory action and kept the Ugandan borders open to Kenyan goods.

“I said I can’t retaliate. We shall not. If he has closed…I will not. Today, Uganda’s exports to Kenya are either equal to our imports or sometimes they are higher. So I refuse to be in that mistake. The issue of the Kenya and Uganda border was resolved. Rationality can’t be ignored indefinitely. We shall continue discussing with our East African Community partners… Because those barriers hurt the Wanaichi of all our countries,” he said.

While having an interview with major media houses in Kenya last month, Mr William Ruto, the president of Kenya, said in 2025 they would not import any maize because they have had bumper harvests in 2023.

Uganda is one of the major exporters of maize to the Kenyan market.

Chamisa’s survival depends on his rivals

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As the New Year inches closer, it has become apparent that opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa’s political survival will depend on his ability to work with a team of rivals and win them over.

The situation, although in a different context, has similarities with what happened in 1860 in the United States when prairie lawyer and former one-term congressman Abraham Lincoln stunned the country by prevailing over three prominent rivals—William H. Seward, Salmon P. Chase, and Edward Bates— to win the Republican nomination for President.

Although Chamisa will not be contesting any election next year, Lincoln after being elected President appointed all three rivals to his cabinet—Seward as secretary of state, Chase as secretary of the treasury, and Bates as attorney-general.

In a book titled “Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln,” author Doris Kearns Goodwin showed that the extraordinary array of personal qualities allowed Lincoln first to appoint, then to win over, men who had previously opposed him.

The author revealed how Lincoln’s bold and brilliant actions helped him steer the country through its darkest days.

Lincoln’s explanation at the time was that these were the strongest men in the country and declared that at a time of peril, the country needed to have the strongest men, and that he could not deprive it of those talents.

A set of emotional strengths was the foundation of Lincoln’s political genius and he understood that human relations are at the core of politics and that if you deal with people in the right manner, you are going to be able to work effectively with them.

At present, Chamisa is leading the CCC at a time when he has perceived rivals such as former Finance minister Tendai Biti and Professor Welshman Ncube who has already publicly complained about being sidelined in the opposition party.

Ncube held the position of vice-president when the MDC-Alliance transformed into the CCC.

Political analysts told The NewsHawks this week that it is of paramount importance for Chamisa to bring close his perceived rivals and work with them in the face of an ongoing onslaught from Zanu-PF through the use of an imposter Sengezo Tshabangu who is decimating the opposition via recalls of CCC MPs, councillors and senators.

Stephen Chan, a professor of world politics the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies, said Chamisa needs his rivals and unity at this stage.

“I have always stated that the only effective opposition is a united opposition, and the only successful leader is one who unites those around him. There is no successful opposition led by a lone ranger. Chamisa, Ncube and Biti all have faults. Together there is considerable strength,” he said.

Political analyst Vivid Gwede said by strengthening the collective political leadership, Chamisa will emerge stronger.

“While the recent problems facing CCC have raised the issue of strengthening collective leadership, there are also issues of loyalty. What is needed is not a rapprochement of a few cadres, but a broader reconnection and engagement with the larger array of actors, including civil society, churches, and labour to renew commitments to democracy, inclusive economy, human rights, and constitutionalism in the country. This will probably match the magnitude of the CCC’s internal and external problems as well as Zimbabwe’s backsliding reform agenda,” he said.

Political analyst Rashweat Mukundu said, in addition, Chamisa must initiate dialogue to hear the grievances of his perceived rivals and stitch a way forward.

“Apart from what I am reading in the media, I think CCC should insulate itself from rumour-mongers and create platforms for dialogue handling, and concerns from its senior leadership. The opposition will obviously benefit from a more united cohesive leadership. And, you need a mixture of both the experienced and long-term political actors who have seen it all and young political actors who are also getting into the space.

“Any resemblance of divisions within the CCC are not only fermented by Zanu-PF but are also fully taken advantage of by Zanu-PF. So, for me, 2024 is certainly a year of re-organisation for the CCC to confront challenges that they faced post 2023 elections,” he said.

Chamisa therefore has an obligation to regroup with his allies and re-strategise. He needs everyone at the moment.

He must put aside his differences with colleagues, and rise to leadership. They need to rebuild the opposition together; start from the foundation to fix the fundamentals and go upwards.

Even though Tshabangu might have had a legitimate grievance and good intention at the beginning, his strategy has been a disaster and overtaken by the state apparatus.

There are qualities which have for long been associated with human greatness that Chamisa can embrace—sensitivity, empathy, compassion, kindness, honesty—are also keys to political success.

On a lighter note, Lincoln actually had a remarkable sense of humour and was a terrific storyteller. He relaxed his colleagues and cheered them up.

Source – newshawks

Mnangagwa hopeful Zimbabwe economy will turn around in 2024

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President Emmerson Mnangagwa has predicted Zimbabwe’s moribund economy will turn around this year following the recent discovery of oil and gas near the country’s border with Mozambique and Zambia and improvement in the country’s mining and tourism sectors. Economists are not as optimistic, as Zimbabweans continue to leave the country.

In a new year message broadcast to Zimbabweans at home and in the diaspora on national television and on social media, President Emmerson Mnangagwa said all was shaping for a prosperous Zimbabwe.

He said the mining sector had surpassed the target of $12 billion in 2023, while the country was now food sufficient. That’s not all, said the 81-year-old politician.

“I am encouraged by the increased number of both local and international tourists visiting our country. Equally, investments in new tourism products and facilities which bolstered the sector are a welcome development.

“As we drive towards energy self-sufficiency, the discovery of oil and gas in Muzarabani confirms Zimbabwe’s potential as a future producer of gas. This should translate into meeting our energy demands commensurate with the ever growing economy,” he said.

Gift Mugano, an economics professor at Durban University of Technology, responded to Mnangagwa’s speech.

“We are in agro-based economy. We sneeze when the agriculture sector catches a cold. We know that this year there is a drought. That will have a devastating impact on the economy. With drought, we will be importing food.

“Because of the Russia-Ukraine war, which has seen prices of food, globally, going up around 50%,” said Mugano.

“We will be forking [out] something in the region of close to $1 billion. Which is almost 20% or so of our total foreign currency receipt. So this will weigh down on the economy in terms of the economy performance.

“So, to be quite frank and quite honest, the economy will underperform in this year. Yes, we are talking about the discovery of gas and oil but it’s too early to talk about that development as the driver of the economy.”

Prosper Chitambara, senior economist with the Labor and Economic Development Research Institute of Zimbabwe, says the country’s agro-based economy will only improve this year if there is no drought as most farmers depend on rains.

“In terms of the discovery of oil and gas, I think it’s going to take a bit of time probably for the country to begin to benefit from this important discovery. I think they should be some gestation period, which obviously also then allows for the investor to fully set up and to start commercial activities.

“But overall, this year the economy is expected to grow by 3.5% which is lower than the 5.5% estimated growth there for last year,” said Chitambara.

Ranga Chivi is an electrical engineer who recently left Zimbabwe with his family for greener pastures in Australia who listened to Mnangagwa’s speech.

“It would be interesting to see how the gas and oil discoveries will turn around the economy. We did not leave Zimbabwe because we are unemployed, but we left Zimbabwe because of search of greener pastures and a much more stable economic environment you can raise a family in.

“So the discovery of gas and oil, it’s positive for the country and we are more than eager to help where we can, but what remains is the issue to do with stability that I am hoping that this project will bring,” said Chivi.

According to World Bank, the primary reason Zimbabweans migrate is to search for economic opportunities.

It says of the approximately 908,000 emigrants counted in Zimbabwe’s 2022 census, a large majority (84%) had left the country in search of employment, while another 5% had migrated for education or training.

Xi promises “reunification” before votes in Taiwan

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Chinese President Xi Jinping, in his annual New Year’s address, reiterated his assertion that Taiwan “will definitely be reunited” with China.

His message comes ahead of Taiwan’s crucial Jan. 13 election, which will determine the island’s cross-strait policies for the next four years.

He also took a stronger tone than last year, in which he talked about Taiwan being part of “the same family.

” China has stepped up military pressure on Taiwan as the election approaches. They consider the self-governing island of 23 million people a breakaway province that will eventually come under Beijing’s control.

Taiwan considers itself distinct from mainland China, with its own constitution and democratically elected leaders. Separately, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said in her New Year’s speech that the island’s relationship with China should be decided by “the will of the Taiwanese people.

” His government has repeatedly warned that Beijing is trying to interfere in the election, in which a new president and government will be elected.

Taiwan’s Kuomintang (KMT) party has traditionally favored warmer relations with Beijing – although it denies being pro-China.

The KMT’s main rival, Tsai’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has ruled Taiwan for eight years and has taken a tougher line on China, asserting that the country is sovereign and not belongs to China.

Mr Xi’s latest comments are in line with China’s long-standing policy of unification, but the message is harsher in tone than Mr. Xi gave last year, when he called “people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait Loan… is a member of one and the same family.

The Taiwan issue also strained relations between the United States and China, with China subsequently condemning any support from Washington for Taipei.

Beijing said it “reserves the ability to take all necessary measures” against external forces that hinder peaceful unification.

However, the two countries marked the new year with a positive message, with Xi and US President Joe Biden exchanging congratulatory messages on Monday.

Xi noted that “adhering to mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation is the correct way for China and the US to interact,” according to Reuters, citing state media CCTV China.

Chamisa’s party rocked by double candidate chaos

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Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) candidates are set to battle each other in several local authority by-elections February next year in yet another caricature of the country’s electoral system.

For example, in the Chegutu Ward 5 municipal election, CCC candidates Gloria Kawadza and Alice Kundhlande are both set to contest each other in the poll with Zanu-PF’s Alice Mavetera being their other opponent.

In Ward 9 Chegutu Municipal poll, CCC candidates Pamela Ngaru and Loice Tigirigi with both contest the poll together with a Zanu-PF candidate and an independent.

In Ward 9 Chinhoyi, CCC candidates Nicholas Phiri and Ninion Varandeni will battle it out together with Zanu-PF’s Edward Besu as their other opponent.

Fielding of double candidates continues in Chinhoyi Ward 12, Chitungwiza Ward 7, Chitungwiza Ward 21, Gweru Ward 11, Kwekwe Ward 9, Marondera Ward 8, Marondera Ward 10, Mutare Ward 5, Mutare Ward 8 and Mutare Ward 12.

Fielding of double candidates follows recent recalls ordered on both parliamentary and local authority elected opposition representatives by self-styled CCC interim secretary general Sengezo Tshabangu in what has triggered by-elections.

Tshabangu has fielded his own candidates to take part in the polls while the Nelson Chamisa led CCC has also defiantly deployed the ousted representatives to try and recover their seats through the by-elections.

Both CCC sides are using Chamisa’s face as their logo with ballot papers set to bear the opposition leader’s image when they are printed.

The parliamentary and municipal by-elections are set for February 3 next year.

CCC has accused Zanu-PF of sponsoring a plot to destroy the party through Tshabangu who has initiated several recalls threatening to decimate the opposition’s decent representation in parliament and also weaken their control on several major urban councils.

Tshabangu stands adamant he is acting on his own accord in an attempt to correct what he says was the imposition of party candidates ahead of the August 2023 elections by Chamisa.

Zanu-PF also denies hiring Tshabangu to destroy the opposition.

Source – zimlive

Russia bombs three Ukrainian cities with deadly drones to start new year

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New Year’s Day in Ukraine was marked by drone attacks as Putin’s relentless war continued.

Brutal drone attacks hit the cities of Odessa, Lviv and Kharviv overnight, while Kyiova’s forces targeted the Donbass Palace hotel in Donetsk shortly after the Russian president gave a speech at midnight before his people.

Ukraine said it shot down 87 out of 90 Iranian-made Shahed suicide drones launched by Russia – a record number.

In Odessa, one person was killed and nine others were injured after debris from a drone hit a high-rise building, causing burning debris to fall to the ground.

Nataliya Humenyuk, a spokesperson for southern Ukraine’s defense forces, said port infrastructure was damaged after explosions caused a fire. Odessa Mayor Gennady Trukhanov criticized Russia for staging an attack on Ukraine before the new year.

“They say that how you celebrate the new year depends on how you spend it,” he said.

“Well, this year Ukraine will break that rule. We will stand and we will prevail because we have justice and God is on our side.

In the village of Belogorscha near Lviv, the Shukhevych Roman Memorial Museum was damaged by Shahed drones following the Russian attack, and university dormitories were also attacked and destroyed in Dublyany.

Andriy Sadovyi, the mayor of Lviv, said: “Tonight the enemy attacked two places of national memory in Lviv: Dublyany University, where [Ukrainian nationalist] Stepan Bandera studied 100 years ago and Shukhevych Roman Museum. “Symbolism and cynicism.

A fight for our history Ukrainian sources said that in the Kharkiv area, Russia attacked four S-300 air defense missiles, three Kh-31P anti-radar missiles and one Kh-59.

In Donetsk – a city currently held by Russia – pro-Moscow leader Denis Pushilin announcedthat4peopledied and 13 were injured. As the new year began, explosions rangout again in the Kiev-controlled city of Kherson.

An air warning was issued in the Volyn, Rivne, Lviv and Ternopil regions of Ukraine. According to the capital’s military authorities,the number of victims of the missile attack on Kiev on December 29 has increased to 27people.

Rescue operations continue and today the city has declared a day of mourning.

Putin’s attack against Ukraine came as he delivered a New Year’s speech declaring his troops “heroes”.

In his shortest New Year’s speech in four years, he said: “I want to speak to our soldiers-all those who serve,those on the front lines fighting for truth and justice.

“You are our heroes. Our beliefs you. We are proud of you and we admire your courage.

“I know well that now you feel the love of yourselves,the strong and sincere support of millions of Russian citizens, the support of the entire people.

“The main thing that unites us is the destiny of the Fatherland.

“We are united in thought,in duty and in struggle, whether at work or on holiday,embodying the main features of the Russian people: solidarity, kindness and steadfastness. ”

Israel claims Gaza War is projected to last until 2024

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The Israeli military said it expected the conflict in Gaza to continue until 2024.

In his New Year’s message, Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari said troop deployments were being adjusted to prepare for “protracted fighting. ”

He said some soldiers, including reservists, would be withdrawn to regroup.

“These adjustments are intended to ensure planning and preparation for the continuation of the war into 2024,” he said.

“The Israeli army must plan ahead, knowing that there will be additional missions and fighting will continue for the rest of the year.

” He said some reservists will leave Gaza “as early as this week” so they can “recharge their batteries in preparation for future operations.”

According to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, more than 21,800 people have been killed in Gaza – mostly children and women – in 11 weeks of fighting.

The latest war was sparked by an unprecedented cross-border attack by Hamas gunmen into southern Israel on October 7, in which 1,200 people were killed – mostly civilians – and about 240 others. taken hostage Israel continued to bomb Gaza until the end of a dark year for the region.

At least 48 Palestinians were killed in overnight bombings in Gaza City on Sunday, with many still buried under rubble, the Gaza Health Ministry said.

Another attack killed 20 people taking shelter at Al-Aqsa University, west of Gaza City, witnesses told AFP news agency. The BBC cannot verify the latest information.

The United Nations says 85% of Gaza’s 2. 4 million residents – nearly 2 million people – are now displaced. “Tonight, the skies of countries around the world will be lit up with fireworks and joyful laughter will fill the air.

Zainab Khalil, 57, a northern Gaza resident currently in Rafah, told Reuters: “In Gaza, our skies are now filled with Israeli rockets and tank shells targeting innocent and homeless civilians residence”

Netanyahu declared on Saturday that “the war is reaching its climax. ” “We are fighting on all fronts,” he said.

“We have had great successes but also painful situations. It will take time to achieve victory. “As the (Israeli army) chief of staff said, the war will continue for many more months.

” Earlier on Sunday, further Israeli attacks were reported in central Gaza, with reports of airstrikes in al-Maghazi and al-Bureij.

On Sunday morning, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said 150 people had died in the past day. Far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called on Palestinians to leave Gaza and make way for Israelis who can “make the desert bloom”.

The Israeli government’s official statement is that Gaza residents will eventually be able to return home, although it remains unclear how and when this might be possible.

AFP reported that air raid sirens sounded in Tel Aviv and southern Israel, similar to what happened in the new year, when Israel’s missile defense systems intercepted rockets fired from Gaza.

A man in Tel Aviv celebrating the New Year with friends said: “I was very scared, like the first time I saw a rocket, it was terrifying. » Hamas’s military wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, claimed responsibility for both attacks in a video posted on social media.

They said they used M90 missiles to “respond to the massacres of civilians” carried out by Israel.

Putin retaliates by launching additional drone strikes against Ukraine

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Vladimir Putin shelled Ukraine’s largest cities in the hours before New Year’s Eve, after Russia accused Volodymyr Zelensky of bombing the Belgorod border region.

Dozens of people have been killed in both countries in the past 24 hours and more than 100 people have been injured. Most attacks in Ukraine have been focused on the south and east, but explosions were also reported in Kiev.

Russia said it was retaliation for Saturday’s attack on Belgorod, a town about 35 miles from the border, that killed at least 24 people.

Three children were among those killed in one of the deadliest attacks on Russia since Putin launched the invasion, the region’s governor said.

Hours later, air strike warnings sounded across Ukraine, urging people to take shelter. Regional Governor Oleh Syniehubov said today that at least six rockets hit Kharkov, injuring at least 28 people and striking residential buildings, hotels and medical facilities.

Earlier, Ukrainian officials said two boys aged 14 and 16 and a security adviser for a group of German journalists were among those injured in the city.

Around midnight, as part of a broader bombardment of Ukraine that also targeted Kiev, several waves of drones struck residential buildings in the center.

Mayor Ihor Terekhov said: “On New Year’s Eve, the Russians wanted to threaten our city, but we are not afraid, we are invincible. ” Images from Kharkiv showed several damaged buildings, including a hotel whose entire floor was destroyed.

The Ukrainian Air Force said the military shot down 21 of 49 drones launched by Russia overnight. In another attack, three people were killed when Russian forces shelled a village in the Kharkiv region, near the front line.

Ruslan Stefanchuk, Speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament, reacted to the scenes of destruction in Kharkov: “Crazy Russian terrorists attacked a peaceful city.

“Apartments and private houses, hospitals, hotels, kindergartens – these are the buildings damaged after the attack. None of these buildings are military installations.

“Nor did the civilians affected by the attack. Meanwhile, Russia called Ukraine’s airstrikes on Belgorod “indiscriminate”, but a Ukrainian security source told the BBC that only military infrastructure was targeted.

But images from the city showed destroyed residential buildings and burned-out cars in the middle of the street.

Russia’s Kommersant newspaper cited a source close to the Russian Investigative Committee as saying that Ukraine conducted an attack with a multiple rocket launcher in the Kharkov area.

Both sides stepped up bombing in the final week of 2023, with Russia killing at least 31 civilians on Friday in its biggest airstrike in the 22-month war against Ukraine.

UK claims to fend off Houthi strikes in Red Sea

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Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said British forces are ready to take action against Houthi rebels targeting cargo ships in the Red Sea.

In an article, he said Britain was “ready to take direct action” to protect this important shipping route.

Highlighting how a British warship shot down a suspected drone attack in the Red Sea in December, Mr Shapps said “we will not hesitate to take further action”.

Houthi forces have targeted foreign ships since the start of the war between Israel and Hamas.

The Iran-backed rebel group has declared support for Hamas and said it targeted ships bound for Israel, carrying out more than 100 drone and missile attacks.

US and British warships shot down these missiles and drones at great cost, but are now warning the Houthis to stop or risk military retaliation. In his article for the Daily Telegraph, Mr Shapps wrote: “The Houthis should make no mistake: we are committed to holding bad actors accountable for their illegal arrests and attacks.

“Continued aggression in the Red Sea risks leading to miscalculation and escalation that could trigger a regional conflict,” he added.

If the Red Sea is not protected, he wrote, “it risks emboldening those who seek to intimidate elsewhere, especially in the South China Sea and Crimea.

” Mr Shapps said the situation was “a test for the international community” and the UK must “stand strong alongside our allies”. The United States launched an international naval operation in December to protect shipping in the region.

Countries including the UK, Canada, France, Bahrain, Norway and Spain have participated.

As part of this coalition, HMS Diamond – a British Type 45 destroyer – shot down a suspected attack drone that month. The Ministry of Defense said it was the first time in decades that the Royal Navy had fired at an aerial target in anger.

On Sunday, the US Navy announced that it had destroyed Houthi “small boats” whose crews were trying to board a container ship in the Red Sea.

Helicopters from nearby US warships responded to the call for help and, after being attacked, sank three boats “in self-defense”. The crew died and the fourth boat fled the scene.

The problem for the US, UK and their allies is that targeting Houthi missile launch sites would seriously escalate the current crisis in the Middle East, potentially pushing the West and Iran into a direct confrontation.

It will also represent the West – as perceived by the Arab world – in entering the conflict in Gaza on the side of Israel.

The Red Sea is one of the most important shipping routes in the world because it connects markets in Europe and Asia.

About 12% of global trade passes through the Bab El Mandeb Strait, near where the Houthis are targeting.

Analysts warn that Houthi attacks could lead to higher prices, as it is also one of the most important routes for the transport of oil and liquefied natural gas produced in the Middle East .

Voice actor for Coco on Disney Ana Ofelia Murguía passes away at age 90

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Ana Ofelia Murguía, the Mexican actress who played great-grandmother Mama Coco in the Oscar-winning Disney Pixar animated film Coco, has died at the age of 90.

She stars in the film about a Mexican boy who travels through the land of the dead, uncovering family secrets while trying to become a musician.

The film highlights the Day of the Dead and celebrates Mexican culture. One of Coco’s most memorable moments is the scene where Mama Coco and her great-grandson Miguel sing Remember Me together.

He sings, “Because even though I’m far away, I still hold you in my heart” and she sings with him, “Until you’re in my arms again. Please remember Me.

” The film is set during the Day of the Dead festival held annually in South American countries, including Mexico, celebrating the cycle of life and death.

Large parades are held and people often paint their faces to resemble skulls to commemorate friends and family who have passed away and passed on to afterlife. Movie Talk About the success of the movie Coco The National Institute of Fine Arts stated: “We are deeply saddened by the sensitive passing of leading actress Ana Ofelia Murguía, who was a member of the stable troupe of the National Theater Company of Mexico and Her artistic career is very important for Mexican performing arts.

” Art and Literature are added. Born in Mexico in 1933, Murguía won the Golden Ariel Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011, in a ceremony honoring the best of the Mexican film industry.

She shared the award, for her career spanning more than 40 years in theatre, film and television, with director and writer Jorge Fons.

She also won Best Supporting Actress at the Ariel Awards in 1979, 1986 and 1996 for films including 1994’s La Reina de la Noche (Queen of the Night), about a performance artist vaudevillian returned to his career in Mexico after leaving Berlin following a troubled trip with the Nazis.

Celebrating Coco’s 2018 double Oscar wins for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song, one of the film’s producers, Lee Unkrich, said his biggest thanks go to Mexico and that the film could not exist without its “incredibly beautiful culture and traditions.”

“With Coco, we tried to take a step toward a world where all children can grow up seeing movie characters who look, talk and live like them,” he told the audience.

Fake “Marginalized people deserve to feel like they belong. Representation matters”

Zelensky’s New Year’s address promises additional weaponry manufactured in Ukraine

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President Volodymyr Zelensky has promised to sharply increase the number of weapons produced by Ukraine next year.

In his New Year’s message, Mr. Zelensky reiterated his promise that at least one million drones will be built.

Fighting continued into New Year’s Eve, with five people killed in attacks in Odessa, southern Ukraine, and the Russian-controlled Donetsk region.

Earlier, Vladimir Putin gave a New Year’s speech, praising his army but not explicitly mentioning the war.

The Russian President praised his soldiers as “heroes. at the forefront of the fight for truth” while also touching on economic issues, an important topic for many Russians, and declaring 2024 “the year of the family.

” Speaking on Sunday, as the war against Russia entered its third year, Zelensky said: “Next year the enemy will feel the fury of domestic production. ” He said Ukraine would produce “a million” more drones by 2024 – something he said earlier this month – and that F-16 fighter jets would be delivered by Ukraine’s Western partners deliver.

“Our pilots have mastered the F-16 aircraft and we will definitely see them in our skies,” he said. “So that our enemies can certainly see what our anger really is.

” The New Year’s message came just hours before more attacks. In Russian-occupied Donetsk, four people were killed and 13 injured, according to Denis Pushilin, the Russian-appointed head of Donetsk, on Telegram.

He described the attack as “a massive bombardment from multiple rocket launchers.

” Additionally, in Odessa, southern Ukraine, one person was killed and three others injured in a Russian drone strike, local governor Oleg Kiper said.

Fighting has increased in recent days, after Russia launched attacks across Ukraine on Friday, killing 39 people in what Kiev described as Russia’s biggest missile bombardment of the war hitherto Several cities were affected, including the capital Kiev.

This was followed by Ukraine’s attacks on Russia on Saturday, with Moscow reporting deadly airstrikes in the country’s southwest – leaving 24 dead and more than 100 injured in Belgorod, near the border.

Mr Zelensky called on Western allies to maintain support for Ukraine as the country faces the risk of aid from allies in Washington and Europe slowing down.

Ukraine has received the latest military aid package from the United States – with any further aid being delayed due to controversy in the US Congress.

Mr Zelensky admitted his country’s spring offensive was not as successful as he had hoped, but emphasized in his message that his country had become stronger before the full-scale invasion of Russia.

Mr Putin did not mention the war in Ukraine in his New Year’s speech, which was significantly narrowed compared to last year.

But he said: “To all those at the forefront of the fight for truth and justice: you are our heroes, our hearts go out to you, ” he said. “We are proud of you, we admire your courage. ”

Muhammad Yunus Nobel laureate jailed

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A court in Bangladesh has sentenced Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to six months in prison for violating the country’s labor laws.

Professor Yunus harshly criticized Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

His supporters believe the incident was politically motivated. The famous economist and three colleagues of Grameen Telecom – one of the companies he founded – were convicted of not establishing a social protection fund for workers.

All four deny any wrongdoing and have been released on bail pending appeal.

“As my lawyers argued convincingly in court, this judgment against me flies in the face of all legal precedent and logic,” Professor Yunus said in a statement released after the verdict.

“I call on the people of Bangladesh to speak out against injustice and support democracy and human rights for all our citizens.

” Yunus, 83, is known around the world as the “banker for the poor,” credited with establishing a pioneering microfinance lending system that helped millions escape poverty.

Professor Yunus and his Grameen Bank were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their pioneering work in 2006.

Bangladesh must end attacks on ‘bankers for the poor’ Discussing the verdict, one of his lawyers, Abdullah Al Mamun, told the media: “It is an unprecedented verdict.

No legal procedures were followed in this case and it was brought to trial hastily”.

“The idea is to damage its international reputation,” Mr. Mamun added We are appealing this verdict.

” Professor Yunus’ lawyers said he faces more than 100 other charges of labor violations and corruption allegations.

Ms Hasina once described Professor Yunus as a “bloodsucker” of the poor and accused Grameen Bank of charging exorbitant interest rates.

Irene Khan, former director of the human rights organization Amnesty International and a special rapporteur for the United Nations, was present at Monday’s trial.

She told AFP news agency that the verdict was a “betrayal of justice”.

In August, more than 170 global figures called on Ms. Hasina to end the “persecution” of Professor Yunus.

The letter, whose signatures include former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Virgin founder Richard Branson and U2 singer Bono, demands that the “continued legal harassment” of Professor Yunus cease.

Ms Hasina said she has invited international experts to evaluate the ongoing legal proceedings against Professor Yunus.

It is unclear what led to the friction between Ms Hasina and Professor Yunus, but the economist’s supporters said the government was trying to discredit him because he had considered forming a political party to compete with the ruling Awami League.

Men still being favoured over women for Chinese government jobs, study warns

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A data analysis of civil service recruitment adverts found thousands more posts are earmarked exclusively for men

Campaigners warn that even ‘women-only’ posts often come with a catch because they are matched by an equal number of ‘men-only’ jobs

Men have a significant advantage over women when applying for Chinese government jobs, according to new research.

A data analysis by the Inspection Squad for Workplace Gender Discrimination looked at the annual recruitment drive for the national civil service and found more government positions were reserved for men than for women.

The report, first published earlier this month, looked into the job requirements for all government positions advertised in October, a month before the annual civil service exam all candidates must pass if they want a permanent government job.

The team found that of the nearly 40,000 jobs being advertised many specified that they were “men-only” or “women-only” jobs – but there were 10,981 jobs earmarked for men compared with only 7,550 for women.

The difference between the two sexes of 3,431 equates to nearly 8.7 per cent of all the jobs being advertised.

A further analysis of the data found that gender discrimination is worst in the provincial bureaus of central government agencies, such as the Ministry of Railways or the People’s Bank of China, where more than 40 per cent of the positions have gender preferences.

Are rural China’s women on the brink of ‘no land, no money, no house’?

Tens of millions of women in rural China do not have their names on land contracts, putting them in a vulnerable position that can set up a struggle to obtain economic independence and social security. Photo: AFP

Among all the positions, only the revenue service, customs and census and statistics agencies have an even gender split, with the others all hiring more men than women.

“Those who do not take part in the exam or do not sign up for particular positions may not realise the obvious gender restrictions in the exam,” said the report’s author, who uses the alias Wang Lin. “We wanted to give an objective description of the situation.”

Wang is part of a group of volunteers who have been trying to improve workplace gender equality in the past nine years, filing complaints to government departments and using social media to publicise examples of discrimination.

A record 2.83 million applicants applied to sit the exam this year amid the country’s sluggish economic recovery, topping the 2.5 million that signed up in 2022.

The Post looked into the requirements for this year’s applications on the government’s website, and found that many “remarks” listed under the postings include additional job requirements that are not found in the official job description.

Some of these requirements state that the jobs are for fresh college graduates or for people with particular skill sets, but many others state the jobs are “men only” or “women only”.

But Wang warned there was an additional catch for the “women-only” jobs. These were often listed alongside an equal number of “men-only” posts, indicating the government department in question was only trying to ensure it recruited the same number of men and women.

“But for many more positions marked ‘men-only’, women really had no way to apply,” she said.

There is also a dearth of women occupying senior positions at the top levels of Chinese politics. Last year’s Communist Party congress finished with the first all-male Politburo in 20 years.

The United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women said in a report in May that the absence of women among China’s top leadership was concerning.

China’s Labour Law says employers cannot discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender or religious belief – but the Chinese government is often accused of failing to uphold the law and provide remedies for victims of discrimination.

US destroys houthi boats after red sea hijack attempt

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The US Navy intervened to halt an aggressive attempt by Houthi-controlled boats to board the Maersk Hangzhou, a container ship, in the Red Sea.

Originating from Yemeni territories under Houthi control, four small vessels engaged the ship, approaching dangerously close.

In response to the distress signal from the Maersk Hangzhou, US warship helicopters engaged the attackers. After coming under fire, they eliminated three Houthi boats in self-defense, resulting in the loss of their crews, while the fourth boat escaped.

Houthi forces have increasingly targeted Red Sea shipping since November, launching over 100 drone and missile strikes against passing vessels, focusing on those associated with Israel as retaliation for the conflict in Gaza.

The Maersk Hangzhou, registered in Singapore and operated by a Danish company, became the latest target in these series of attacks.

Following this incident, Maersk, a global shipping leader, has temporarily suspended its Red Sea operations for two days. This decision comes shortly after resuming the route, bolstered by a US-led mission to safeguard maritime traffic in the region.

The attack occurred early in the morning, around 06:30 Yemeni time, with the Houthi boats employing mounted weaponry and small arms in an attempt to board the ship, getting within 20 meters.

The ship’s crew issued a distress call, and their security team engaged in a firefight, as reported by the US Central Command (Centcom).

Helicopters from the nearby USS Eisenhower aircraft carrier and USS Gravely destroyer responded to the call for help and were shot at while “in the process of issuing verbal calls to the small boats”.

The helicopters “returned fire in self-defense, sinking three of the four small boats, and killing the crews”, Centcom said. It added that the fourth boat “fled the area” and no damage had been recorded to US personnel or equipment.

It was the second attack on the Maersk Hangzhou in 24 hours, after it was attacked with missiles on Saturday.

The anti-ship missiles were fired from Houthi-controlled areas as the destroyers Gravely and Laboon responded on Saturday, according to a previous Centcom statement.

A US Navy admiral told AP the missile attack was the first successful strike since a global patrol was launched on 18 December.

Centcom said while the ships were responding to the distress call, two anti-ship missiles were fired from Houthi-controlled areas at the pair of US navy vessels.

The USS Gravely destroyed the inbound ballistic missiles, Centcom said, adding it was the twenty-third “illegal attack by the Houthis on international shipping” since 19 November.

Centcom added the Maersk Hangzhou is “reportedly seaworthy and there are no reported injuries” on board.

Separately, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) organisation reported an incident in the Red Sea about 55 nautical miles (101km) to the south-west of the Yemeni port of Hodeidah.

In a statement, the organisation said an unidentified ship had reported “a loud bang accompanied by a flash on the port bow of the vessel” and several explosions.

No damage was recorded and all members of the crew were reported unhurt, with the vessel escaping the area to a nearby port, the statement said.

The rise in Houthi attacks over several weeks has led many shipping firms, including Maersk, to divert their vessels away from the Red Sea, travelling around the horn of Africa instead.

To reach the Suez Canal in Egypt – which connects to the Mediterranean Sea – ships must pass through the tiny Bab al-Mandab Strait, just off the coast of Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen.

The Tehran-sponsored rebels have previously claimed to only target “Israel-linked” commercial ships in response to the war in Gaza, saying the attacks are an attempt to stop Israeli attacks on Palestinians.

In a statement on Sunday, UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron said he told Iran’s foreign minister that Tehran “shares responsibility for preventing these attacks given their long-standing support to the Houthis”.

https://emp.bbc.com/emp/SMPj/2.51.0/iframe.htmlMedia caption,

Watch: Yemen’s Houthis released video in November showing armed men dropping from a helicopter and seizing a cargo ship

In response, the US launched Operation Prosperity Guardian – an international coalition to safeguard shipping in the the region.

In an interview with the Associated Press, US Navy Vice Admiral Brad Cooper said the Houthis do not seem to be ending their “reckless” attacks in light of the maritime taskforce.

He added that 1,200 commercial ships have passed through the Red Sea since the operation was launched, with none hit by drone or missile strikes until Saturday.

After the international taskforce was announced, the US Department of Defense said the Houthis had carried out over 100 drone and ballistic missile attacks since November. These attempted strikes targeted 10 commercial ships linked to more than 35 different countries, it added.

Maersk said last week that it was preparing to resume journeys through Red Sea – after diverting to the much longer route around the Cape of Good Hope because of recent Houthi attacks on shipping.

Sunday’s attacks have led to another 48 hour pause.

The Red Sea is one of the world’s most important shipping lanes as it links markets in Europe with Asia.

Analysts have warned the attacks could see a rise in prices, as it is also one of the most important routes for oil and liquefied natural gas shipments produced in the Middle East.

2023 Stole My Flesh And Blood, May Yul Edochie Laments

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2023 Stole My Flesh And Blood, May Yul Edochie Laments

May Yul Edochie, the estranged wife of actor, Yul Edochie, reflecting on the past year – 2023, said it stole her flesh and blood leaving her in the most devastating, miserable, and confused state.

The PUNCH reported the passing of 16-year-old Kambiichukwu, first son of May and actor Yul Edochie, who passed after he slumped while playing football in school.

Sharing a worship video on her Instagram account on Monday, May expressed the grief and devastation that the year brought, describing it as a period that snatched away her “flesh and blood” and left her in a state of misery and confusion.

She said, “Dear 2023, you were pregnant on the very first day of Jan unknown to anyone what you would deliver. You dealt with me in the most catastrophic ways…. Too many adversities/misfortunes and the worst of it, you stole my own flesh and blood, leaving me in the most devastating, miserable, and confused state that I could never have imagined.

“I lost all hope and nearly gave up, I had too many questions eating me all up but I kept hearing that voice echoing, ‘Who am I to question God?’

“I struggled so hard and stood on God’s words commanding us to give Him praise in every situation despite how difficult it is. Truly, I appreciate all the good people you made me cross paths with (my family, friends, strangers turned friends and my online family).

“I cannot begin to list names because it is endless but I want y’all to know that I will forever remain thankful for the incredible level of love and support showered upon me and my family in our most difficult times.

“I’m grateful to God Almighty for being God in my life, in other words, I’m so glad that man is not God.

“2023, it is with all that is within me, I say goodbye to you forever as I embrace the new year 2024 singing my song with a life of thanksgiving, a life of forgiveness, and a life of commitment to God.

“I pray that God in His infinite mercy and goodness will bless us all and shield us under His constant love. Afflictions shall never rise in our homes in Jesus’ name, I wish you all a happy and prosperous new year! ”

Credit: Instagram | mayyuledochie

Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II Steps Down January 14 After 52 Years

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Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II Steps Down January 14 After 52 Years

Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II announced Sunday that she plans to abdicate after 52 years and hand over the throne to her son, Crown Prince Frederik.

The queen, who is Europe’s longest-reigning living monarch, announced during her New Year’s speech that she would step down on January 14, which is the anniversary of her accession to the throne at age 31 following the death of her father, King Frederik IX.

Margrethe, 83, said the back surgery she underwent in early 2023 led to “thoughts about the future” and when to pass on the responsibilities of the crown to her son. “I have decided that now is the right time,” she said in her speech.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen paid tribute to her in a statement, offering a “heartfelt thank you to Her Majesty the Queen for her lifelong dedication and tireless efforts for the Kingdom.”

Margrethe is the “epitome of Denmark” Frederiksen’s statement read, and “throughout the years has put words and feelings into who we are as a people and as a nation.”

The 6-foot-tall (1.82-meters-tall), chain-smoking Margrethe has been one of the most popular public figures in Denmark, where the monarch’s role is largely ceremonial. She often walked the streets of Copenhagen virtually unescorted and won the admiration of Danes for her warm manners and her talents as a linguist and designer.

A keen skier, she was a member of a Danish women’s air force unit as a princess, taking part in judo courses and endurance tests in the snow. Margrethe remained tough even as she grew older. In 2011, at age 70, she visited Danish troops in southern Afghanistan wearing a military jumpsuit.

As monarch, she crisscrossed the country and regularly visited Greenland and the Faeroe Islands, the two semi-independent territories that are part of the Danish Realm and was met everywhere by cheering crowds.

Denmark has Europe’s oldest ruling monarchy, which traces its line back to the Viking king Gorm the Old, who died in 958. Although Magrethe is head of state, the Danish Constitution strictly ruled out her involvement in party politics.

Yet the queen was well-versed in law and knew the contents of the legislation she was called upon to sign.

She received training in French and English from her earliest years, as well as Swedish from her mother. In addition to archaeology, she studied philosophy, political science and economics at universities in Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Cambridge along with the London School of Economics and the Sorbonne in Paris.

Ever since his birth on May 26, 1968, Frederik André Henrik Christian has been the heir to the Danish throne.

He is the oldest son of Queen Margrethe and her late French-born husband, Prince Henrik, who died in February 2018. Frederik, 55, has a younger brother, Prince Joachim.

Since the age of 18, he has served as regent whenever his mother was outside the kingdom and carried out official duties, shaking hands with thousands and receiving foreign dignitaries.

The queen’s announcement made up only a few sentences at the end of her wide-ranging New Year’s speech which reflected on the “turbulence and upheaval in the world” amid the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine, and the climate crisis.

But she also thanked her nation’s people for “the warmth and hospitality I meet with everywhere in Denmark.”

While lavishing accolades on the queen, the prime minister also looked to the future.

“In the new year, Crown Prince Frederik will be proclaimed king. Crown Princess Mary will become queen. The kingdom will have a new regent and a new royal couple,” he said in his statement. “We can look forward to all of this in the knowledge that they are ready for the responsibility and the task.”

Credit: AP

President Hichilema same s£x position timely…it closes the crucial debate in Zambia says Amb. Anthony Mukwita

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President Hichilema same s£x position timely
…it closes the crucial debate in Zambia says Amb. Anthony Mukwita

From KBNTV-01.01.23

President Hichilema deserves commendation for putting to an end mounting speculation that his government was in full support of introducing same-gender relationships in Zambia says Ambassador Anthony Mukwita on ´The Analysis´ on KBNTV in Lusaka.

The President made the rare categorical statement at a church event that sought clarity on the crucial matter including his governments position on Zambia as a Christian Nation by constitutional decree.

“Certain things are not African certain things are not Christian it does not matter who has said it,” President Hichilema said, “they are not acceptable in our African culture we must have the courage to say we agree on certain things and disagree on other things. I am talking about LGBTQ and the likes…it is not acceptable in Zambia.”

This was the most categorical statement on the matter of LGBTQ in Zambia ever made in public by President Hichilema since he assumed office in 2021.

Following his election, Zambia saw g@y movements mushrooming around the country, including sections of the diplomatic corp openly flying g@y right flags at their embassies, a development that was seen as tacitly approved by President Hichilema until this week’s statement denying everything.

KBNTV CEO Pastor Kennedy Mambwe said President Hichilema´s widely circulated statement hopefully brings an end to the ´divisive´ discussion hugely supported by western donors and g@y group and commended the President for coming clean on The Analysis where he sits with Ambassador Anthony Mukwita discussing issues that made news during the week.

“Catholic Bishops said no to this (g@y) issue,” Pastor Mambwe said, “it doesn’t matter whether its President Joe Biden of the US who supports because in Zambia it’s not acceptable,” Pastor Mambwe said, “it’s good we finally heard from the President although it is clear he had no choice speaking on the heels of a strong statement by Bishop Willie Mfula…what is important is the President cleared the matter. Mr President, we salute you for settling this matter once and for all”.

Conversely, Ambassador Mukwita, a published author and international relations pundit said, “Mr President (HH) I was happy to hear that you are a man and not someone´s wife I am impressed that after two years of speculation you have given crystal clear clarity on this matter.”

Ambassador Mukwita added that, “critics say on The Analysis ´you always condemn President HH and government´ but today you have my kudos for upholding Zambia as a Christian nation and standing up against western powers that tried hard to impose their own values and cultures on Zambia bravo Mr President.”

The Ambassador added that one of the issues that boosted President Hichilema´s campaign and subsequent election into office was the dislike of the West of predecessor President Edgar Lungu´s open contemptuous rejection of LGBTQ which he said he would ´never touch with a ten-meter bamboo stick.´

President Lungu was immensely disliked by the West for his position against LGBTQ many pundits believe it cost him the Presidency as the western powers moved their support to his successor.

It is not clear how the western supporters of g@y rights will wine and dine with President Hichilema after his bold move to reject their wishes openly and categorically but reactions of support onto the Zambian President has suffered popularity poll numbers seem to have slightly climbed up.

Source: KBNTV

Fund Councils not CDF- Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba

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By Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba
Fund Councils not CDF

●The Constitution envisages a thriving local government with devolved powers, effective local consultative process to deliver public service and development.

●It is for this reason that positions of Mayor and Council Chairperson were provided to enjoy wide suffrage ( elected directly ), so that when resources are given or generated, decisions will be democratic and accountable.

● Central Government increased funding ( equalization fund) to support Councils to pay qualified professionals, Engineers and planners to run the Councils and Municipalities.

● Municipalities and Councils are then expected to run a democratic Government at local level.

● Prioritising CDF has undermined this work. It by-passes an established, elected and capacited infrastructure with its Secretariat, to push CDF as a development agenda.

● CDF is a mere component in this larger scheme of things;

Here are some of the reasons for the Decentralisation Policy;

(i) To empower local communities by devolving decision-making authority, functions and resources from the centre to the lowest level with matching financial resources in order to improve efficiency and effectiveness in the delivery of services;

(i) To design and implement mechanisms to ensure a “bottom-up” flow of integrated development planning and budgeting from the district to the central government;

(ii) To enhance political and administrative authority in order to effectively and efficiently deliver services to the lowest level;

(iv)
To promote accountability and transparency in the management and utilization of resources;

(V) To develop the capacity of councils and communities in development planning, financing, coordinating and managing the delivery of services in their areas;

(vi) To build capacity for development and maintenance of infrastructure at local level;

(vi) To introduce an integrated budget for district development and management;

(vii) To provide a legal and institutional framework to promote autonomy in decision-making at local level;

Key milestones achieved prior to the revision of the Policy include the election of Mayors/Council Chairpersons by universal suffrage, and establishment of the Ward Development Committees (WDCs) and Constituency Development Fund Committees (CDFC) to strengthen citizen participation in local development.

The role of traditional leaders in local governance was also strengthened through their participation in the House of Chiefs, in Councils, and in the Constituency Development Fund and Ward Development Committees.

Another achievement was the increased allocation of human and financial resources to governance structures at local level for enhanced service delivery and development.

Government also decentralised some of its functions to the district level and the Local Authorities, bringing services closerto the people.

The reintroduction of multi-party democracy in 1991 brought changes to the country’s decentralisation agenda.

The Ministry of Decentralisation was transformed into the Ministry of Local Government and Housing.

The enactment of the Local Government Act No. 22 of 1991 separated the party structures from Government structures, and repealed and replaced the Local Administration Act No. 15 of 1980.

Further, in 2002, the Government adopted its first ever Decentralisation Policy which was revised in 2013.

The Constitution of the Republic of Zambia was amended through the enactment of the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 2016.

The Act enshrined a devolved system of governance in the Constitution under Article 147.
2.2

The Constitution establishes local government as an autonomous level of governance with powers to formulate and implement by-laws and policies.

Article 152 prescribes that the Local Authority shall administer the district and oversee programmes and projects in the district.

The Provincial Administration is an extension of national government, established for the purposes of administering and coordinating the implementation of Government policies and programmes in a province.

Further, the Constitution provides for decentralisation.

The Constitution provides for devolution by way of transferring functions to a sub national authority or opening a branch to a public office or institution to bring a service to the sub-national level.

As responsibilities and functions are devolved from the centre and provincial capitals to Local Authorities and other structures at the sub-national level, Ministries and their subordinate agencies will assume new roles and functions of a supportive, supervisory and regulatory nature.

The Government enacted the Urban and Regional Planning Act No. 3 of 2015 to provide a framework for coordinating urban and regional development, which ensures environmentally sustainable development.

In this regard, Integrated Development Planning was adopted as a principal strategic instrument for operationalising national development priorities at the district level.

Further, the National Planning and Budgeting Act No.1 of 2020 was enacted to provide a national planning framework.

The framework recognised Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) as a critical long-term planning tool at the district level.

CHRISTOPHER KANG’OMBE IS KITWE’S ALDERMAN…as UPND Councillors stage a walkout in protest

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CHRISTOPHER KANG’OMBE IS KITWE’S ALDERMAN

…as UPND Councillors stage a walkout in protest

Kitwe, Monday, January 1, 2024 ——— UPND Councillors on Friday walked out of the forth ordinary council meeting after it was proposed that former Kitwe Mayor and now Kamfinsa Member of Parliament (MP) Christopher Kang’ombe should be installed as Alderman along with former Deputy Mayor Evaristo Chilufya.

But, despite walking out of the meeting the remaining Councillors successfully managed to install Mr Kang’ombe as Alderman together with Mr Chilufya because they had formed a quorum.

The UPND Councillors argued that Mr Kang’ombe did not deserve to be installed as Alderman because the council was suspended when he was Mayor.

But in an interview after the council meeting, Kitwe Mayor Mpasa Mwaya said the UPND Councillors walked out of the meeting because they were not happy with the debate which was discussing the installation Mr Kang’ombe as Alderman.

Ms Mwaya said despite the UPND Councilors walking out of the council meeting, the remaining councillors formed a quorum and installed the former Mayor as Alderman as provided for in the Local Government Act that a person who serves 10 years in the council qualifies to be installed as Alderman.

“That UPND Councillors staged a walkout of the council meeting is normal especially when you think differently on various issues. But I can tell you that, the council has guidelines and standing orders to follow, we just don’t talk or do things anyhow. So, those UPND Councillors walked out of the council meeting because they were not happy with the debate of installing Mr Kang’ombe as Alderman.”

“Despite the UPND Councillors walking out, the remaining councillors formed a quorum and so we installed Mr Kang’ombe as Alderman together with Mr Chilufya as provided for in the Local Government Act that a person who serves the council for 10 years can be installed as Alderman” Ms Mwaya said.

When asked on concerns raised by UPND Councilors that Mr Kang’ombe could not be installed as Alderman because the council was suspended when he was Mayor, Ms Mwaya said the council was suspended to pave way for investigations of any form of malpractices but after investigations were concluded, the council and Mr Kang’ombe as Mayor were not found with any case.

Ms Mwaya said the council had followed a right procedure to install Mr Kang’ombe and that it was sad that UPND Councillors decided to create drama and calling the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) to complain and create an impression that there was an illegality.

“I am surprised at the conduct of our colleagues but like I said that is normal when you think differently on various issues. Let us not waste time to fight political battles in the chamber when people out there are expecting us to deliver on various issues. Let us avoid creating unnecessary drama at the expense of serving the people,” Ms Mwaya said.

Meanwhile, Ms Mwaya has said the local authority is not making progress because the Town Clerk Patrick Kambita was misleading councillors and frustrating development by playing politics in the management of the Kitwe City Coucil.

Among the councillor who were in the forefront included Luangwa ward councillor Mary Zimba, Rokana ward MacMillan Mbao.

And inside information revealed that an instruction had been issued by a named senior government official in the province not to support the idea to install Mr Kang’ombe as Alderman hence their walk out on Friday during a council meeting.
( Daily Nation Zambia)

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