MALANJI DIDN’T CARRY ANY EXTRA BAGS FROM TURKEY

…apart from Two small pilot bags and a big Brown one that he normally travelled with testifies Ministerial Driver at Foreign Affairs

Lusaka, Wednesday, November 29, 2023 ( Smart Eagles)

Former Foreign Affairs Minister Joseph Malanji’s Ex-driver has told the Lusaka Magistrate court that he did not see anything sinister about the Two small pilot bags and a big Brown one that his Boss travelled with to and from Turkey.

In this matter, Malanji and former Secretary to the Treasury Fred Yamba are jointly charged with willful failure to comply with procedure relating to procurement, and being in possession of property reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime.

This afternoon, the State presented Malanji’s Ex-driver Christopher Pomboloka, 56, to testify what transpired between 27th and 31st December, 2020, when then Foreign Affairs Minister travelled to Turkey.

In his testimony, Pomboloka said he assisted Malanji with the loading of his laguage in the Car as he was headed for the Airport on December 28th, 2020.

He told the court that he loaded one heavy brown bag and two small pilot bags on the vehicle when the two left for the Airport.

“On 27 December, 2020, I was at the office with Hon Malanji and we knocked off around 17:00hrs and I drove him Home. He then asked me that tomorrow morning on 28th December, 2020, you should pick me at 6am because I have a trip to Turkey,” Pomboloka testified.

“When I got to his Home around 6am on 28th December, 2020, I found him ready to leave. He brought out 3 bags, 1 big suitcase, with 2 small bags with handles and wheels. And he told me to put in the vehicle. I picked the big Brown heavy bag and I picked the two smaller Pilot bags and put them in the land cruiser. After that, Hon Malanji came out of the House and asked me to drive him to the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport. We got there at around 06:45hrs at Zambezi VIP Lounge.”

He further explained that upon his return from Turkey, Malanji was with the same bags he had travelled with, weighing the same.

“24:05hrs on 31st December, 2020, I started the vehicle when Hon Malanji arrived at the vehicle with protocol officers, the big brown bag and the two small black bags that he had travelled with. Hon Malanji asked that I open the bonnet so that the 3 bags can be loaded and we started moving, and got to his Roma Home around 24:30hrs and when he came out, he asked me to take the bags in the house. I started with the big Brown bag then the two small bags,” He said.

During cross examination by the Defense, Pomboloka confirmed that the the same bags Malanji travelled with are the same ones he came back with .

He also confirmed that he had no idea on what was contained in the bag. He also said there was nothing sinister about the bags that Malanji traveled with.

He said Malanji would normally carry the big brown bag and the smaller one on his International trips as Foreign Affairs Minister.

Pomboloka has been a driver at Ministry of Foreign Affairs for 30 years. He worked with Malanji from 2019-2021.

Previously, Malanji had been accused of carrying $4.6 million in several big black bags from Ankara when he traveled to Turkey between 27th and 31st December, 2020.

Nakacinda lodges complaint against Miles, Ng’ona for perjury and other offences

ALEBWELELAPO project coordinator Raphael Nakacinda has continued to camp at the Courts as he tries every trick in the book to dislodge PF president Miles Sampa from his seat of authority, this time around by lodging a complaint against him.

Nakacinda has filed a complaint against Sampa and his Secretary General Morgan Ng’ona before the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court and wants the to be tried for perjury, attempts to commit an offense and forgery.

Allegations in count one and two are that Sampa on October 26, this year filed an affidavit in the principal registry of the Lusaka High Court purporting that he was President of the PF and a letter purpoted to have been issued to the Registrar of Societies which he claims was issued by the PF secretary general when infact not.

In count three it is alleged that Sampa and Ng’ona on October 25, 2023 attempted to change office bearers at the Registrar of Societies by presenting a list names when they had no authority to do so.

In count four the duo on the same date alleged to have made a false document tamed minutes of the extraordinary general conference held on October 24, 2023 purporting that it was issued by PF when in fact not.

In his complaint Nakacinda said that Sampa held an illegal convention at Mulungushi International Conference Center on October 24, 2023.

He claimed that Sampa and Ng’ona submitted purpoted minutes on a forged letter head at the Registrar of Societies requesting to change the office bearers of PF.

Nakacinda indicated that Ng’ona signed the letter purporting that it was an original headed paper from his office of secretary general yet it was fake.

He alleged that Ng’ona is not on the list of office bearers for the party that have been submitted to the Registrar of Societies.

Nakacinda said Sampa was illegaly instated as the Captain of their boat and he has gone round posing as president.

He accused Sampa of defaming him and others who hailed from the MMD by labelling them as hijackers, thieves and fraudsters which has lowered their image in the right thinking members of society.

The binoculars carrying politician added that Sampa and his successor Ng’ona have committed perjury, impersonation, forgery and attempts to commit an offence when they lodged documents at the Registrar of Societies to change office bearers of the party and ought to be prosecuted.

When the case was called before magistrate Keegan Litiya yesterday Sampa and Ng’ona were not before Court.

Lawyer Jonas Zimba who has been engaged to privately prosecute the duo said the two were notified of the proceedings yet it was not before Court.

He said having instituted the case by way of complaint he had written to the Director of Public Prosecutions Gilbert Phiri requesting for authorization to privately prosecute the two.

Zimba requested for an adjournment to December 6 for mention and possible plea.

By Mwaka Ndawa

Kalemba

COMPENSATIONS, COMPENSATIONS!!!

By Antonio Mourinho Mwanza, SP Deputy General Secretary

Social media has been awash with a debate concerning the numerous compensations that some people have been awarded following their complaints of injustice against the State. Some people have argued that the compensations are too exorbitant and selectively and exclusively being given to UPND cadres and sympathisers; others have argued that the State is setting a very wrong and dangerous precedence that it will fail to contain; yet others have been to the extreme, claiming that no one deserves to be compensated because according to them, “their are a lot of other people who suffered at the hands of the police since UNIP, yet they have not been compensated, so why should others be compensated”.

Here is my two ngwee:

1. It is only proper and just that any citizen who is abused or unjustly treated must be compensated. The nature and amounts of the compensation should be subject to litigation.

2. Perpetrators of State abuse and injustice must personally be held liable and punished. This would send a strong signal to deter would-be offenders.

However, here are some questions that beg serious answers;

1. Why is the Attorney General entering into consent judgments in favour of the complainants without even litigating or defending the State? Why is the Attorney General not contesting the cases? Why is he not defending the State and the Taxpayers money? Is it because the complainants are UPND members and UPND sympathisers?

2. Why is it that, it’s only UPND cadres and sympathisers who are being compensated? And these compensations are being done so generously and so expeditiously; why isn’t Government compensating many others whose cases have been in courts for longer periods of time?

3. Why is the State accepting to pay hefty legal
fees to the lawyers representing the plaintiffs? Is it because most of these lawyers are UPND lawyers or supporters of UPND?

4. What precedence is Government setting and is the State ready to deal with the ramifications of the precedence it is setting?

5. What is Government doing to bring the perpetrators of abuse and injustice to book?

6. How is Government intending to deal with the many cases of Opposition leaders that they are arresting on a weekly basis, on frivolous and vexatious trumped m-up charges? How will the State deal with these matters when the victims begin to sue for compensation?

Zikomo

Addressing Capital Flight and The Kwacha Conundrum

By Daimone Siulapwa

In exploring into the persistent struggle of the Kwacha against the US Dollar, a crucial overlooked aspect demanding our attention is the pervasive issue of capital flight and its profound repercussions on the Kwacha’s stability.

Primarily, the prevailing imbalance in our economy heavily favoring foreign interests poses a formidable obstacle to steering our economic trajectory.

The core of the Kwacha’s perpetual challenge against the US Dollar lies in the unbridled exodus of capital from our nation.

Monthly, substantial sums of dollars exit the country as profits for foreign-owned enterprises and illicit foreign business operators.

This drain on our economic resources perpetuates a cycle where a significant portion of the wealth generated within our borders benefits foreign entities rather than contributing to the growth and development of Zambia.

This predicament extends beyond well-known corporations such as Shoprite, Choppies, Pick & Pay, Spur, and myriad other foreign businesses saturating our malls and streets.

It encompasses the seemingly inconspicuous grocers, pubs, goat sellers, street vendors and traveling traders dealing in a spectrum of goods, such belts, sandals, carpets and more.

Hailing mostly from Tanzania, Burundi, Egypt, Zimbabwe and Kenya, these individuals operate without legal documentation, not only evading taxes but also silently repatriating profits in millions of dollars each month.

Moreover, the glaring reality that 80% of Zambia’s business economy is in foreign hands, with only 20% retained by locals, creates an imbalance that hampers our ability to shape and control our economic destiny.

This lopsided ownership structure creates an environment where decisions affecting our economy are often made by entities with interests misaligned with those of the nation.

With such a dangerous scenario, it goes without saying that every month, 80% of formal and legal businesses send their profits to safe havens outside the Zambia.

To break free from this economic bind, it is imperative to reverse the current scenario by implementing measures to empower local businesses.

A key strategy involves borrowing from successful models employed by countries like Botswana, China, America, and Russia.

These nations have recognized the importance of reserving certain businesses strictly for their citizens, thereby fostering a more balanced and self-sufficient economy.

Reserving specific industries exclusively for citizens is a pivotal strategy embraced by successful nations. This not only serves as an economic tactic but also ensures fairness and equal opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

The unrestrained competition with foreign enterprises, particularly those with large capital bases, places our citizens at a distinct disadvantage.

Policies aimed at reserving certain sectors for Zambian citizens foster local talent, incentivize entrepreneurship, and ensure that the majority economic benefits remain within the nation’s borders.

Botswana stands out as an exemplar in citizen empowerment initiatives. By strategically reserving key sectors for citizens, Botswana has forged a more inclusive and robust economy.

Zambia can draw inspiration from such success stories, tailoring policies to suit the unique needs and challenges of its economic landscape.

At the heart of the matter is the acknowledgment that as long as foreign entities exert considerable control over our economy, our nation’s journey will be fraught with challenges.

Achieving economic self-determination mandates a concerted effort to rebalance ownership structures; ensuring decisions concerning our economic future prioritize the interests of Zambians.

To propel the nation forward, policymakers must enact and rigorously enforce reforms promoting local ownership and economic empowerment.

These reforms should be crafted to gradually shift the ownership ratio, affording Zambian entrepreneurs an equitable chance to thrive in their own country.

This strategic approach aligns seamlessly with the advocacy for checks and balances, fostering a more equitable playing field for all citizens.

30.11.23

Daimone Siulapwa is the Editor-in-Chief of The Voice Newspaper. He is also a political analyst, an advocate for tribal unity and Citizen Economic Empowerment. Send your comments to dsiulapwa@gmail.com

THESE COMPENSATIONS ARE A DAYLIGHT LOOTING OF STATE RESOURCES- HON KAPYANGA.

………says consent Judgments are a misplaced priority by Government and worser than scammers claiming to have “impiya shabalanda”

Lusaka……… Wednesday, November 29. 2023. [SMART Eagles]

The Insatiable Appetite for Compensating UPND Cadres through Consent Judgments is a misplaced Priority worser than Scammers claiming to have ‘impiya Shabalanda’, Mpika Lawmaker Hon Francis Kapyanga has said.

Hon Kapyanga described the compensations as a strategy meant to siphon state resources to empower the UPND Members and Cadres.

He said it is worrisome that at a point people need basic services, the money is being used to compensate a few individuals.

“He says in the past two years, a number of UPND aligned Members compensated through Consent judgement has increased.

He said what is surprising that on some of the Judgements, they are dealing with cases which were discontinued by the DPP through a nolle prosequi and not an acquittal.

“The monies being given to the cadres, the money they are spending to buy off councillors are monies that can be used to buy essential commodities. It is disappointing that people such as Mumbi Phiri who were detained for a long period of time have not been compensated. We have those who killed our brother Kungo, most Zambians who have been abused by state agencies have not been compensated,” he explained.

In another development, Wusakile Member of Parliament Pavyuma Kalobo says Government must reverse the Mineral Royalty to ensure the country benefits from its mines.

He said the incentives given to the Mines are hindering the growth of the Kwacha.

Hon Kalobo said the Local Curency is suffering because of the bad decisions made in the Mining Sector.

He said non of the companies benefiting from the policy are investing in copper mining.

“All the proceeds from the minerals must come into Zambia. Look at how the Kwacha is suffering. We need to tax the mines and get what Zambia deserves,” he said.

Meanwhile, Chama North Member of Parliament Yotam Mutayachalo has called for a strong trade union that speaks for the welfare of the employees.

Hon Mutayachalo said trade unions must wake up and start representing workers amid the increase in the cost of living and general prices of goods and services.

He said this in reaction to the recent threats by the Judicial Workers and Allied Workers Union to down tools if their proposals are not met by the Emoluments commission.

“The threat by Judicial Workers to go on Strike is valid. It does not make sense for the emoluments commission to be determining parameters on negotiations,” he said.

Also Present during the briefing was Hon Kampampi Mulenga, Hon Cliff Mpundu and Hon Anthony Kasandwe.

EXPEDITE THE KCM VEDANTA TRANSITION PROCESS

…. submit the remaining legal framework in the Zambian court, Banda urges Mines Minister

Lusaka… Thursday November 30, 2023 (SMART EAGLES)

The Advocates for National Development and Democracy (ANDD) says in order to solve the challenges contractors and suppliers are facing at Konkola Copper Mines, it is profoundly important that government expedites the Vedanta – KCM transition process so that Vedanta takes full control of operations of KCM.

The organization says this will accord the investor an opportunity to commence implementation of its strategic and corporate investment commitments.

Some contractors at Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) have shut down operations at the mine due to the huge debt owed to them.

ANDD Executive Director Samuel Banda says due to the challenges at the mine, the contractors can no longer sustain their operations as a result they have downed tools.

Mr Banda says this is the reason why his organization has been calling on government to expedite the transition process so that Vedanta can quickly take over the operations of KCM and clear off the debt owed to the contractors and suppliers.

“Reports from the President of the Association of Mine Suppliers and Contractors Costa Mwaba that some contractors at KCM have shut down operations due to the non payment of debt owed to them by KCM makes sad reading and it is a clear indication that KCM need urgent recapitalization. Stakeholders are lookin up to Vedanta Resources to save KCM and resuscitate it. As ANDD, our position is that government in the interest of revamping KCM, increase copper production, restoring national economic development, clearing off the debt that KCM is owing, the Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Hon. Paul CC Kabuswe through ZCCM-IH should expedite the transition process of the handing over of KCM to Vedanta,” he said.

“We want government to hasten the process of withdrawing the provisional liquidator at Konkola Copper Mines to allow Vedanta Resources to set up the board of directors. We want to indicate that from the reports, KCM is actually in intensive care unit and Vedanta Resources the legal owners are ready to start operating and resuscitate the mining firm but they can only do so after the transition process.”

Mr Banda called on the Minister of Mines to finalize the remaining legal frameworks to allow Vedanta Resources to fully take over KCM.

He said the government should engage the provisional liquidator to submit the scheme of arrangement in the Zambian court and submit other legal documents in the London court of arbitration in order to speed up the transition process.

Mr Banda said it’s prudent that Vedanta Resources quickly takes over KCM to start implementing its investment commitment such as injection of US$1 billion for mine recapitalization and development, clearing off US$250 Million that KCM is owing to the suppliers and contractors, improvement of working conditions for employees.

“We want to indicate that small and medium enterprises (contractors and suppliers) are very important stakeholders in the mining sector because they play a pivotal role in promoting national economic and social development. Actually there is no country that can develop without the involvement of SME’s. In this regard Vedanta Resources should be well commended for the allocation of 250Million USD to clear off the debt that KCM is owing to suppliers and contractors,”he concluded.

He said the suppliers and contractors will be helped a lot when Vedanta takes full control of the operations of KCM hence the need to promptly finalize the transition process.

ZRA raids Spax Mining over tax evasion

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has uncovered a suspected tax evasion scheme involving fraudulent recovery of input Value Added Tax (VAT), underpayment of Mineral Royalty and non-disclosure of income orchestrated by Baba Kabaso Mulenga, the proprietor of Spax Mining Limited in Chingola.

According to ZRA Corporate Communications Manager, Oliver Nzala , the investigation had been prompted by credible intelligence which revealed a series of “concerning activities that point towards non-compliance and estimated financial losses for the government of over K8.8 million for VAT fraud”.

Nzala explained that the main allegations against Spax Mining Limited and Baba Kabaso Mulenga relate false VAT inputs.

“Investigations revealed that Spax Mining Limited has, through fraudulent means, been making false claims of Value Added Tax (VAT) inputs. The company allegedly submitted misleading information related to VAT inputs, resulting in an estimated loss of over K8.8 million in tax revenues for the country,” Nzala revealed.

Furthermore, Nzala said despite significant mineral operations, Spax Mining Limited had reportedly failed to make substantial mineral royalty payments.

He said the company had no export records to indicate that minerals have been traded or exported from the country, raising concerns about adherence to legal obligations and fair business practices.

“The search was aimed at obtaining evidence to prove or disprove the noted allegations against Spax Mining Limited and its directors.

The discoveries are pointing towards discrepancies in reported production and actual copper operations. Preliminary findings indicate the possibility of active copper extraction not accurately declared to the ZRA, contrary to the company’s declarations,” he said.

ZRA has embarked on a rigorous compliance enforcement programme to ensure that correct taxes are accounted for the benefit of all Zambians.

In this quest to enhance tax compliance, ZRA is urging all taxpayers to correctly declare their taxes. Voluntary disclosures are encouraged to correct any under omissions or under declarations. Tax evasion is a serious financial crime and the Authority will not hesitate to prosecute any taxpayer found wanting.

Kalemba November 29, 2023

COMMENT

We’ve lost sovereignty of our money!

The challenge of leadership is to “Be strong, but not rude; Be kind, but not weak; Be bold, but not bully; Be thoughtful, but not lazy; Be humble, but not timid; be proud, but not arrogant; Have humour, but without folly”, so said Jim Rohn.

While Amilcar Cabral guided that, “Hide nothing from the masses of our people. Tell no lies. Expose lies whenever they are told. Mask no difficulties, mistakes, failures. Claim no easy victories.”

This is what we expected from the new dawn.

And it is good that even President Hakainde Hichilema understands as he put it that, “Zambians voted for the UPND to deliver change and not lawlessness, and therefore, as party functionaries and especially as citizens that endured pain for several years, we have to do better and deliver development.”

Citizens expected better from the UPND given the menu of hope and high expectations they were fed. Hakainde and his ministers are quick to praise themselves at a slight victory. We all remember how they made noise about getting the IMF Extended Credit Facility and reaching a debt restructuring agreement with the Official Creditor Committee, even before a memorandum was inked! Then we had a turn of events with bondholders, with IMF and OCC putting spanners; and back home the kwacha and inflation are out of control, forcing the Bank of Zambia to intervene by increasing the statutory reserve ratio to 17 per cent and monetary policy rate to 11 per cent.

While Hakainde and his ministers are good at claiming easy victories, they hibernate and mask difficulties, mistakes, failures! When you consider the silence from central government about these strong measures the central bank has introduced, one can’t help but argue that BoZ is protecting the financial form of wealth of Zambia’s tiny rich class and its foreign associates.

But the kwacha cannot be and must not be expected to be strong with the current disastrous national unemployment, extremely low productivity on farms, in mines, construction, factory and other real sites of economic production. The true value of any national currency is also a reflection of the quantity and quality of national employment of economic factors of production! The Zambian kwacha needs, urgently, to have its value measured and determined by levels of employment of our national factors of production, not some abstract IMF, debtor and donor determined monetary and financial

variables! We cannot continue to have a central bank which is divorced from the fundamental question of national employment of the means of production – human and non-human – in our country! This is a recipe for costly long term national chaos and disaster, as we are experiencing, now.

BoZ must measure the value of its policies and actions on the basis of how much employment is triggered and sustained in the country by their work, not the artificially manipulated false value of the kwacha to major foreign currencies. This way, they will quickly discover that it is not the actual mathematical value of the kwacha to other currencies which matters: it is what this value does to production and productivity in Zambia which matters! This of course means a shift by BoZ from protecting the monetary value of the wealth of a tiny section of Zambians and their foreign associates to rooting their work in enhancing and advancing full nation employment and therefore promoting full production and higher productivity of all our national factors of production. This way, in synchronicity with all our economic players, BoZ can formulate and apply truly meaningful and genuinely national measures to protect our money, our kwacha, and its value. This is the essence of national sovereignty over monetary policy!

But currently, BoZ is chasing artificial externally imposed and fixed targets for the value of the kwacha. We have lost sovereignty of our money just like we have artificially and externally fixed inflation targets and other key economic variables including how much raw copper per year we must aim that foreign miners in Zambia export. This is a recipe for long term economic, social and political disaster. We have two countries in one. One tiny but rich which is dominated by

government and government policy, and the other, large and majority, on the periphery of government and government policies, generally viewed as a cost to government and foreign money. And BoZ fixates on the monetary needs of the smaller tiny Zambia. In simple terms, these fellows are working with variables that have very little to do with firming up the kwacha: managing monetary policy to stimulate full employment of the key factors of production in Zambia, including human labour! They are instead tinkering with the effects of internal extremely low employment of our economic factors! They are not focusing on monetary policies and variables which promote higher productivity on farm, in mines, in factory and other sites of production in Zambia. They are instead too sensitive to the value of the kwacha with respect to major foreign currencies! They cannot succeed to “defend” the leachate this way even for Zambians who hold their assets in financial form! It is suicidal in a country with extreme human unemployment levels to fixate on protecting the interests of a tiny minority’s financial wealth by wasting valuable foreign currencies, the way BoZ in a very chaotic and untargeted way is squandering our forex earnings from mining and a few exporters.

More than at any time in our political and economic history as an independent country, BoZ and all state institutions tasked to protect the value of our money need to target human employment, higher labour absorbing productivity on farms, in mines and factories, for both local consumption and exports, rather than their current pathological fixation on protecting the leachate from its inevitable free fall with respect to major foreign currencies.- The Mast

PRESS STATEMENT

PRESIDENT HAKAINDE HICHILEMA TO ATTEND THE COP28 HIGH LEVEL SEGMENT OF HEADS OF STATE AND GOVERNMENT IN DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation wishes to inform the nation that Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, will travel to Dubai, United Arab Emirates on 29th November 2023 to attend the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) High Level Segment for Heads of State and Government, scheduled for 1st to 2nd December 2023.

This event will be the 28th meeting of the Conference of Parties (COP28) to the Convention and is convened under the theme “Racing for a Better World”.

President Hichilema will be attending the COP28 at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates. He is scheduled to deliver a statement during the High-Level Segment on 1st December 2023.

Furthermore, he is expected to attend the World Climate Action Summit, the G77 and China Leaders’ Summit, as well as other high-level roundtable events focusing on key thematic areas.

On the margins of the meetings, the President will hold strategic bilateral engagements centered on crucial areas such as energy, agriculture, trade, technology transfer, infrastructure, and tourism.

The COP28 meeting will aim to assess progress in dealing with climate change, negotiate agreements, and set the direction to consolidate global climate action.

This resonates with President Hichilema’s continued emphasis on the existential threat of climate change to humanity, stressing the pressing need for decisive action to mitigate its profound impact on economies and societies, notably within Africa.

Zambia has not been spared of the negative effects of climate change with intermittent weather patterns significantly impacting food, water, and energy security.

In this regard, the President will join other world leaders at COP28 to advance sustainable development, leverage new technologies, and mobilise resources for agreed actions in order to protect countries and the environment.

President Hichilema remains committed to making Zambia a global beacon of environmental sustainability and a champion of the green economy.

The President is expected to return to Zambia on Sunday, 3rd December 2023, immediately after the High Level Segment concludes.

Hon. Stanley K. Kakubo, M.P
MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
CHARTER HOUSE
LUSAKA

29th November, 2023

Help us fight greed, Nalumango pleads with traditional leaders

By Oliver Chisenga in Livingstone

THE government has told traditional leaders that it needs their guidance and support in programmes it is undertaking using the private sector, particularly in communities.

Speaking when she paid a courtesy call on senior chief Mukuni in Livingstone on Saturday, Vice-President Mutale Nalumango said the government will continue to look to traditional leaders for support.

She noted that Zambia, like other countries, is going through economic challenges hence seeking support from all stakeholders.

“We will continue to look to you, you are our parents. We need your guidance, your support as the government on the programmes we are undertaking using the private sector, particularly in the community; we need your support. If you are not there or alienate yourselves, there will be no places to do the business we need to do because we always want to encourage partnerships with chiefdoms, government, and the private sector,’’ she said. ‘’Zambia, like any other nations of the globe, is going through economic challenges but it is unfortunate that we want to make our situation worse than it is in other countries. Actually, there are colleagues on this globe who are worse off than we are, but that is no reason for us to relax because everybody is going through hardship. We have to continue to work and this thing…what we want to see in our country is develop our own industries in different sectors.”

Vice-President Nalumango said the government wants to see value addition in Zambia, stating that if this was done there would be massive job creation as stated in the Eighth National Development Plan.

She however noted that the creation of jobs and resulting economic growth cannot be realised by the government alone but with the inclusiveness of traditional leaders.

“That is the pillar in the Eighth National Development Plan. It is economic growth with job creation because if our people are working, we are able to withstand the weather of the economy. This is what we need but we won’t do it alone. We need the royal highnesses so that we can encourage inclusiveness. Whether I talk to the youths, the voice is heard differently but when you do, it is also heard differently,’’ Vice-President Nalumango said. ‘’So it is in the disseminating of information and encouraging people on what government is doing to try and alleviate the many challenges that we are going through. Nothing is insurmountable, we will look to God. You need to help us fight the vice of greed because it went so much into us that we were not looking out to our neighbours, we are looking out for self. It is a spirit we must fight together. We are always happy to be here in this palace where I feel welcome.”

Vice-President Nalumango also took time to remind the media of their importance in economic development.

“Do you know how important you are? You are so important because you can choose to build or to destroy. You have it all in your hands. Even if you say ni camera fye (it’s just a camera), even the picture you take tells a story,’’ said Vice-President Nalumango. ‘’So we all have our responsibilities. Thank you for bringing us together, your highness.”

And Mukuni said he was honoured to receive the Vice-President and her entourage.

“We feel greatly honoured when you come, we feel humbled to see you. You are number two in the country and it’s not easy to get the number two twice in a year. It should be once every five years.”-Mast

COURT SUMMONS MILES SAMPA, MORGAN NGONA

MILES SAMPA, MORGAN NGONA FACE ARREST FOR FORGERY, TO APPEAR IN COURT TODAY

Lusaka-Wednseday 29th Novemeber 2023

The Lusaka Magistrate Court has summoned former PF member Miles Sampa and a Morgan Ngona.

The two are facing 3 counts of forgery, charges arising for using Patriotic Front documents and purporting to be leaders of the Patriotic Front Party when infact not.

The matter is coming up before Magistrate Keegan Litiya.

Below are the charges that Miles Sampa and Ngona are facing;

1. Statement of Offence: Perjury contrary to section 104 of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia. Particulars of Offence: MILES BWALYA SAMPA ,on 26# October,2023 at Lusaka in the Lusaka District of the Lusaka Province of the Republic of Zambia, swore and cause to be filed an aflidavit into the High Court Principal registry Purporting that he was and is President of the Patriotic Front when in fact not

2. Count2
Statement of Offence: Pertjury contrary to section 104 of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia. Particulars of Offence: MILES BWALYA SAMPA, on 26″ October, 2023 at Lusaka in the Lusaka District of the Lusaka Province of the Republic of Zambia, swore and cause to be filed an affidavit into the High Court Principal registry with an exhibit of a letter Purporting that the said letter dated the 25″ October, 2023 and delivered to the Registrar of Socicties was issued by the Patriotic Front Secretary General when in fact not.

3. Count3
Statement of Offence: attempt to commit an offence contrary to section 390 of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia,
Particulars of Offence:_ MILES BWALYA SAMPA and MORGAN NGONA whiles acting
together with others persons unknown did on the 25h October, 2023 at Lusaka in the Lusaka
District of the Lusaka Province of the Republic of Zambia, did attempt to change officer bears at registrar of socicties by presenting a list of the said officer bears when they had no authority to do such a thing.

Count4
Statement_of Offence: Forgery contrary to section 347 and of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.

Earlier today Miles Sampa was seen at the Office of the Home Affairs Permanent Secretary, Dickson Matembo allegedly pressuring him to wnsure that names at the Registrar of Societies were changed.

By Misheck Kakonde

In the wake of the UPND’s governance, the stark contrast between promised pledges and stark realities has shattered public trust. The failure to deliver on commitments, along with the misleading depiction of achievements such as the IMF deal, has left citizens disheartened, yearning for the anticipated change. The timeless adage that “lies have short legs” stands evident, exposing the limitations of deceit in the face of tangible outcomes.

Winston Churchill’s said “the price of greatness is responsibility” resonates deeply. The current UPND administration shoulders the burden of being held accountable for veering away from the assurances extended to the Zambian people. Drawing from Theodore Roosevelt’s words, urging courageous endeavors despite setbacks, emphasizes the imperative for action over passive acceptance.

Furthermore, those staunchly supporting the government will soon awaken from their political slumber. Hunger and hardship do not discriminate based on political loyalty, the consequences of governmental actions impact all citizens, irrespective of party affiliations. Thus, it is crucial for Zambians to transcend partisan divides and embrace a profound sense of patriotism for the nation’s collective welfare.

In the realm of governance, the role of the Speaker of the National Assembly assumes paramount importance. Upholding impartiality and exemplifying honorable conduct are imperative in this position. Taking inspiration from former speakers like Amusa Mwanamwambwa could serve as a guiding light for the current Speaker in steering parliamentary affairs with integrity, transcending political biases for the greater good of Zambia.

The UPND leaders in government Plutocratic behavior is worrying, the administration should learn from leaders like Kenneth Kaunda who echoed a call for unity and collective progress, than the weekly arrests of opposition members, people with different views without evidence for arresting in trying to excite the unsuspecting Zambian citizens. Kaunda’s emphasis on unity in diversity and a shared vision for a better future can serve as a beacon for Zambians in transcending political differences for the nation’s prosperity.

Enough with the deception, it is time to for the Hakainde led administration to be honest and seek a national indaba to discuss the economic status of Zambia and find solutions to avoid this political hallucination we are witnessing.

The author is a legal scholar, comparative politics specialist, History and Cultural Studies, expertise in international relations, negotiation, and protocol (ZIDIS). Author of the book “peering into Zambia Cultures, Ceremonies” and contributor in the book “Young Zambia between poverty and abundant resources”. Email: misheckkakonde@gmail.com

LET’S DISCUSS THE CONTINUED DEPRECIATION OF THE KWACHA IN THE FACE OF THE BANK OF ZAMBIAS EFFORTS TO STABILIZE THE CURRENCY.

The recent depreciation of the Zambian Kwacha has raised concerns among economists and citizens alike, especially in the wake of the Bank of Zambia’s consecutive increases in the Statutory Reserve Ratio (SRR). Despite these efforts, the Kwacha continues its downward trajectory. The central bank has implemented successive Statutory Reserve Ratio (SRR) increases. Initially raised by 3% to 14.5% on November 6th and subsequently by an additional 2.5% to 17% on November 22nd 2023 as measures aiming at stabilizing the currency.

Bloomberg’s report on November 6th, ranking the Zambian Kwacha as the world’s second-worst performing currency, provides a broader context to Zambia’s economic challenges. The Kwacha’s position was reportedly just ahead of the Argentine Peso. Meanwhile, Argentine President-elect Javier Milei has expressed intentions to close the Argentine central bank and transition to using the USD. While the situations differ, the Argentine case highlights the potential extreme measures that nations may contemplate in response to currency challenges

The successive SRR increases marked a proactive effort by the Bank of Zambia to address the Kwacha’s depreciation. However, given the limited impact of the first two SRR increments in stabilizing the Kwacha, the question arises whether the central bank will consider a third increment. That being the case, there’s need to assess the effectiveness of the existing measures and carefully weigh the implications of further adjustments. Whether to wait for the current measures to take effect or to proactively implement additional changes is a strategic decision that requires a good understanding of economic trends.

It is possible that a few other underlying issues are overpowering the intended effects of these policy measures.

Tax holidays granted to the mining sector may be playing a significant role in the Kwacha’s depreciation. If mining companies are not contributing their fair share to the national coffers, it can strain the country’s overall revenue, leading to a weaker currency. Therefore, addressing and re-evaluating these tax incentives is crucial for a balanced economic system.

The Mast Newspaper reported on November 23rd that Bank of Zambia Governor Denny Kalyalya stated that the central bank currently does not have sufficient Forex to defend the kwacha. A shortage in foreign exchange reserves can hamper the central bank’s ability to implement effective interventions in the foreign exchange market, potentially limiting the intended impact of SRR adjustments. The reported forex challenges highlight the need for a holistic approach to economic management.

Zambia, as a major copper producer, faces challenges in realizing adequate value from its copper exports. The global copper market dynamics, coupled with potential inadequacies in negotiation and pricing strategies, could be contributing to this issue. The government should explore ways to optimize the value derived from its copper and other mineral resources, ensuring a fair return for the nation.

To strengthen the Kwacha, immediate actions are necessary. These include diversifying the economy beyond copper, implementing stricter regulations on tax incentives for the mining sector, and fostering transparency in resource negotiations. Additionally, the government can also focus on promoting tourism, agriculture and other sectors to attract diverse investments, which will reduce our reliance on copper.

Amid these challenges, the proposal to sell copper in the local currency, the Kwacha, remains on the table. While this strategy may boost demand for the Kwacha, its success hinges on navigating potential risks. Fluctuations in global commodity prices, contractual complexities in the mining sector, and market perceptions must be carefully considered to strike a balance between promoting the local currency and mitigating associated risks. This approach aligns with the idea of promoting domestic industries and retaining a portion of the wealth generated within the country. However, careful considerations must be made to ensure competitiveness in the global market and avoid potential negative impacts on export volumes. Creating a balance between the benefits and risks associated with selling minerals in the local currency is of the essence.

The challenges faced by the Zambian economy extend beyond domestic factors, emphasizing the impact of external influences on exchange rates. Understanding these global dynamics is crucial for crafting effective strategies to address currency depreciation.

The depreciation of the Zambian Kwacha is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including SRR, tax holidays in the mining sector, and challenges in maximizing value from copper and other mineral exports. By addressing these issues through comprehensive policies, Zambia can work towards stabilizing its currency and building a resilient and diversified economy.

Feel free to add your discussions on this and let’s engage objectively for the good of our country.

Xhuzwayo Phiri

MY TAKE ON ZAMBIA IN THE NEXT 5 – 10 YEARS FROM NOW

Authored By Mupishi Jones

Let’s be rational and objective when analyzing the current social economic decisions made by the current administration in order to project how the future of our country will look like after 5 – 10 years from today.

1. CORRUPTION PERCEPTION INDEX.

The best way to tackle corruption anywhere in the world is to create an environment where the majority citizens buy in the idea and start regarding corruption as not only an economic evil but a cultural evil.

To create an environment where corruption is regarded by the citizens themselves as a social, economic, cultural and above all traditional shame.To the contrary, corrupt societies are those that have allowed the culture of glorifying individuals who’s wealth is indisputably obtained through the proceeds of corruption.

In Zambia we had almost reached at those levels of glorifying individuals who’s sudden wealth could not be explained and justified.These are individuals we had started referring to as “Don,abapondo,ba Director, Commander,Ba sogoleli”. However, there’s still a remnant of such corrupt individuals existing and pulling the opposite direction of the anti corruption drive.

The objective of President Hakainde Hichilema and his New Dawn Administration in the area of corruption is not to arrest anyone on mere suspicion of corrupt practices but to create an environment where society would buy in the idea of looking at corruption as a social, economic,cultural and above all traditional evil.To create an environment where anyone found wanting on corrupt practices,citizens must consider that individual as a social and society misfit!.

It doesn’t matter whether there’s being any arrests or not but the fact that we’re collectively talking against corruption everyday,is enough deterrent measure capable of reversing our corruption index perception of our country in the next 5 – 10 years from today.

Picture how our corruption perception index will be in the next 5 – 10 years from now if the current anti- corruption talk is sustained?

2. CDF PROGRAMS
   The New Dawn Administration under the auspices of President Hakainde Hichilema and Hon Situmbeko Musokotwane boldly picked it up from K1.6m per constituency per year and decisively raised it exponentially to K25.7m in their first year in office,K28.3m in their second year and K30.6m next year.

In the first two years, the WDCs priorities have been additional classroom blocks to accommodate an influx of school going children who were pushed out of class because they couldn’t manage to pay school fees but now it’s free.There’s also been a rush from the communities themselves to prioritize provision of classroom desks.

Another area of priority in these two years of CDF disbursed funds is the provision of reticulated water systems coupled with electricity either solar or hydro powered to all public institutional facilities such as health, education, marketplaces and bus stations countrywide.
This has been reinforced by the President’s clarion call of

(a) not having any child sitting on the floor by the end of 2024
(b) not having any baby born in an unsafe environment anywhere in the country!

These have been the priorities and hence the rush from the WDCs and communities.

This situation is likely to change in the next 5 – 10 years from now because the priority of the first two years would have been fulfilled.

In the next 5 – 10 years, with the CDF still guaranteed, citizens will witness within their doorsteps the direct impact of this CDF vision of President Hakainde Hichilema and his team led by Hon Situmbeko Musokotwane!

Almost everyone will have benefitted from grants and loans, local contractors and suppliers will have gained enough experience to handle any project.

In the next 5 – 10 years,more and more government projects would be executed by Zambian citizens themselves and the culture of glorifying foreign contractors and suppliers will eventually die a natural death.

The continuous flow of CDF into constituency bank accounts is enough political will to drive this agenda in the next 5 -10 years.

As we’re talking today,all the K25.7m allocated for 2022 was disbursed and over K20m from the allocated K28.3m for 2023 is sitting in all the 156 constituency bank accounts countrywide!

Challenges of the absorption rate of these funds are still existing but are slowly but surely being addressed by local authorities who are equally gaining experience of handling such funds every year.

3 BOASTING LOCAL CURRENCY

In the next 5 – 10 years, most of government institutions such as ZNS,Trades Training Institutions, Zambia Correctional services will have enough life to sustain not only themselves but the entire society.
The idea of awarding contracts to these Zambian institutions is to allow local currency to circulate and exchange more hands within the country before it finally crosses our boarders.

Hon Charles Milupi,a rarely heard Minister but surely must be commended for the background works such as sustained infrastructure deals he’s been clinching.

A good example is the Lusaka/Ndola dual carriage road which will continue to be maintained for the next 20 years after completion date.This public road will be contracted and maintained without the Zambian government spending a kwacha on it!

I see a different and prosperous Zambia after 5 – 10 years from today,do you see what am seeing?

Am I talking to constituency area MPs, the drivers of this CDF out there?,

Am I talking to local contractors and suppliers out there?

Am I talking to ZNS there?

Am I talking to Zambian Youths graduates and still training in various Skills Development programs out there?

I submit

Mupishi Jones
+26097480386

YOU CAN’T KEEP STATE SECRETS IN YOUR BEDROOM
…it’s an anathema, Nawakwi tells HH

By Fanny Kalonda

I THINK that politics in Zambia in terms of mobilisation has never been this easy because UPND are campaigning themselves out of office, says FDD leader Edith Nawakwi.

She says President Hakainde Hichilema is extremely insecure, angry and he doesn’t want any shred of competition and doesn’t want to be advised.

Featuring on Hot FM’s Hot seat programme on Thursday, Nawakwi charged that there is leadership poverty in the country.

She also said it is wrong for President Hichilema not to declare his assets “when in fact he is amassing.”

“He (President Hakainde Hichilema) has not declared his assets so we don’t know what he holds. We don’t know what his wife has. Now for him, it’s okay. He thinks it’s okay not to declare his assets but for his friend, if in fact you are a president and you travel, someone donates a K200 you can’t buy a house. Look we are in the opposition. How are we campaigning? We are campaigning by donations. I drive a VX, you think I could afford just to go to a shop floor and buy a VX,’’ she said. ‘’In this country, there is no law in any book that requires a political leader to declare the source of funding for a political party. Therefore, it is wrong for Hakainde not to declare his assets when in fact he is amassing. For me I say that the only reason he has refused to move from Community House is maybe he’s doing deals which he doesn’t want the state to see. The presidency has a certain system. In the presidential system you have people who keep diaries, people who keep documents. Now in your own house and bedroom how are state security assets being preserved? You see the President coming to work at 10:00. Is he working at his house? I mean we don’t know his routine because sometimes you are near this area you see him driving to work at 11:00. I think that we are paying for a no-show President, honestly. And it’s most unfortunate. What is it that he’s hiding which we don’t know? He has not declared his assets; he’s in his private house. He is travelling repeatedly. Is he doing transactions? Because it doesn’t tell us what he has to come up with. Is he doing transactions which are personal to his business? We don’t know.”

Nawakwi said Zambians are paying for a “no show” President who is rarely in the country.

“Have you ever seen any agreement and let alone the Vedanta agreement or whatever he has signed? We don’t know and honestly speaking, it’s the Secretary to Cabinet and their staff within State House who are the custodians of state assets. When I’m talking state assets, I’m talking about secrets. So you cannot keep secrets of the state in your bedroom. It’s an anathema. I mean are you telling me American presidents don’t have a better accommodation, they move to White House? Are you telling me that all these presidents who have lived, six of them, they didn’t have accommodation where they could stay,’’ Nawakwi wondered. ‘’Are you telling me that you are so important that your assets are a secret but he must follow me for owning an axe and say these are proceeds of crime? They follow you for even a car used in 2016. They are so petty but for them we don’t see them following up anyone else. They’re just following the opposition. So they have put the former president [Edgar Lungu] in a situation which requires that he comes back and addresses hunger. Addresses the looting which is going on in, now which is worse than under PF. And I have said repeatedly that this government will be the most corrupt government that this republic has ever

seen because they are not transparent. They’re just translucent. They do things behind our backs. We don’t know what they’re doing.”

And Nawakwi said the Pheluna Hatembo case is an embarrassment on President Hichilema.

“The insecurity in the President and the fear of competition… That kind of fear, insecurity is a worry. And this so-called Pheluna [Hatembo]

case is an embarrassment to the President himself. But this Pheluna issue is squarely on his head. He’s the one who abducted those people. He is the one who is sitting on farm 1924 and the other farms belonging to the late brothers, the Hambwalulas and the Hatembos. And these were assets mortgaged to Lima Bank,’’ she said further. ‘’They want to create a situation where all possible presidential candidates have court cases so when campaign comes you will hear that you are in Kabwe, you are in Ndola, you are at Chikwa Court.”

Nawakwi said UPND wants to think that they are the only party that are entitled to the country.

“What law have I broken to be perpetually persecuted in hospital? I’m sitting at home,

when he should let sleeping dogs lie he wants us now to tell the world that he is a collector of deceased persons’ estates. Now let me put it this way, he had said when he was in opposition that when the state security write a report to president Lungu, he sees it first. Did PF go after him and say this is espionage? What is espionage? UPND has created a new definition of espionage. For me what I know is espionage is that if I take secret information and sell to another country that’s espionage. But when I say Hakainde Hichilema is a stooge of the West that is not espionage,” Nawakwi said. “That is not a case which you can even follow because himself he has committed more felonies than anyone else will ever commit.

Because they never followed him when he said he receives state security information before the sitting president then got information, they should have picked him up and said tell us who in Office of the President gives you information. They just say let it go and say so if we follow him he’s going to cry foul as he would always do but for him if you sneeze,

espionage. You do this way, I mean look this kind of insecurity is not even giving him enough time to think about our country. That’s why we are in a state of mess that we are in. The economy is really the worst that we have ever seen. I know that the agenda right now for UPND is that they don’t want any competition.”

Nawakwi accused President Hichilema of being insecure and angry.

“I think we are all a bit worried about what the ruling party wants to bring to this country, a one party state. And for that we say that all political parties must refrain from telling the strategies that they have on air. Because then UPND says wow here they come let’s find a formula for destabilising them. You see democracy and poverty are not the same side of the coin. You can’t have this crunching hunger and continue to lie to your people, continue to be petty and think that people won’t have a change. I think that Zambians at this point in time have made up their minds that they want a change of government because here we have leadership poverty right now. There is no leadership in this country. There is leadership poverty. The people in power they don’t know what they are doing,” she said. “Hakainde Hichilema is extremely insecure, angry and he doesn’t want any shred of competition and doesn’t want to be advised. So even institutions under him are not being groomed. If you look at the case of the Registrar of Societies, the DPP, you look at the police, he’s not grooming any leaders to cement the democracy that we so much yearn for. But he is even inspiring anger in his followers and then we have this tragic incident of where police just open fire on an innocent child and this is a reflection of the bankruptcy of leadership in our country. When a leader is empathetic the followers, the people, the command around them will also show that empathy. When a leader is always angry, the people around him will think that vengeance is what Herod wants. You can sit with Hakainde Hichilema, he will be lying through his teeth.”

Nawakwi said President Hichilema has not been truthful about fuel, the kwacha and availability of mealie meal in the country.

She also expressed concern with the number of trips taken by President Hichilema.

“He has made 62 trips in two years while president Lungu made 37 trips in seven years. And you see the difference is that he’s doing two trips pay week. What time does he have to get over the jetlag, sit down and think about the mealie meal, the … in the hospitals? I noticed yesterday that his majesty’s government has given this government 1,000,000 pounds for anti-corruption fight to chase Bowman Lusambo, to collect a house there for K1 million. And yet that one million pounds could be used to effectively equip GO1 with the necessary supplies and provisions,” she said. “So the point I’m raising here is that this person has no priorities for the people of Zambia. When he has flown to Germany a week after the German President has been here I don’t know what he followed to go and do – whether he came to invite him. He would take seven days there, two days to fly, four five days to get over the jetlag. The week is over then he only has time to go to his farm, the next trip is by the corner. Truly, truly there’s a big vacuum in this republic. And we have a leadership vacuum and there’s no direction. I don’t see the economy turning around under his watch. I see us getting worse and worse and he is sinking this economic into the abyss. They perceive PF to be the competition but PF is not even the competition. The competition is the hunger in the stomachs. In this country when the people rise, they vote in earnest. You can be the most popular party but people vote and usually we are lucky people wait and plan and this one you will see to be worse than 1990.”

Nawakwi said President Hichilema does not want any competition.

“Hakainde Hichilema as an individual doesn’t want any competition and he will go to great lengths, that’s why I liken him to Herod during the arrival of Jesus Christ. He doesn’t like competition. He’s insecure. He’s just petrified about any shred of a possibility of someone rising,” she said.

Nawakwi added that Lungu’s come back was singularly inspired by President Hichilema.- The Mast

Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba Reminds Noel Nkhoma

Let us test the facts we usually state ;

● PF left price of 25kg breakfast mealie-meal at K120. It’s now at at K320.

● PF left the price of fuel at K17 per litre. It’s now at K29.9 per litre.

● PF left the price of fertiliser the FISP K600 and now is at K800 to K1,200.

● PF left the price of electricity low including connections fee was at K700 but is now at K7,700 minimum.

● PF left the exchange rate for dollar at K15.89 it’s now at K23.8

● PF left foreign reserves at $3.1billion, the reserves are now at $2.7billion.

● PF left national strategic maize grain reserves with Food Reserve Agency of 1.5million metric tonnes which is 7.5 months national supply. There is now basically two months supply being held by FRA!
Recently Government announced plans to import maize supply for 10 months.

8. PF built schools, colleges, universities. PF expanded classes by 14,237 classrooms for primary schools, 4,600 classrooms for secondary school and increased public universities from 2 to 7.
● It also built 110 secondary schools.

● PF built 650 health centres, 99 mini hospitals, 65 district hospitals and upgraded numerous clinics to level hospitals.

● PF built roads and bridges and specifically Township roads in many districts.

● PF built new dams
● PF uprated generation capacity from 1,600 megawatts to 3,500 megawatts and ended in loadshedding.
● PF built international airports and upgraded regional airstrip.

So what is my brother Noel Nkhoma talking about?
● PF foreign debt was at $12.9billion. Noel Nkhoma must explain why the debts is now sitting at $18billion ( $14.2billion + $3.8billion interest).
Let Noel Nkhoma also disclose how much they have borrowed since December 2021.

● Nkhoma may also take interest why there is a spike in large-scale acts of corruption.

On the successes Let him tell us about UPND successes and their CDF.

FIX THE MINING SECTOR, STOP BLAMING THE PREVISOUS PF GOVERNMENT OVER CHALLENGES IN THE MINING SECTOR, BANDA URGES FINANCE MINISTER, HON. MUSOKOTWANE.

Lusaka… Tuesday November 28, 2023

The Advocates for National Development and Democracy (ANDD) says it is morally wrong and illogical for Finance Minister Dr. Situmbeko Msokotwane to continue blaming the PF administration that they destroyed the mining sector.

Dr Musokotwane is quoted as saying Zambia wouldn’t have had any mining company left had the UPND government handled the mining sector the way PF did.

But ANDD Executive Director Samuel Banda says what Zambians are looking for at the moment are solutions and not blame games.

Mr Banda said the UPND was voted into government because they promised to fix the country.

“It is very clear that the people of Zambia voted for the UPND on the premise that they will offer solutions to challenges the country is still facing. What Zambians are looking for solutions and not blame games. The Minister of Finance and National Planning should at all costs avoid blaming the previous government but rather find solutions to address the challenges in the mining sector as it contributes largely to the growth of our economy,” he said.

“Apparently, as a country we are facing extreme economic challenges, high cost of doing business, low liquidity in the economy and our national currency is not performing well currently trading at US$1 to K23.88 and this is largely because our mining sector is not performing effectively and efficiently both in terms of production and exports. There is also low productivity in the mining sector due to the operational challenges at Konkola Copper Mines and Mopani Copper Mines and due to the fact that the government is too slow in implementing progressive mining policies aimed at enhancing productivity in the mining sector.

A few weeks ago, the Bank of Zambia Governor indicated to the public that we don’t have enough forex to sustain the value of our kwacha.

We agree with the Bank of Zambia governor, we don’t have enough Forex to sustain our national currency value because we are not exporting enough Copper to earn Forex due to the challenges in the mining sector. Raising the Monetary Policy Rate from 10% to 11% is not a good economic intervention, that is actually acutely shrinking our domestic economy.

We expect the minister of finance and Bank of Zambia governor to implement policies that will grow the economy, improve the living standards of Zambians and reduce the cost of doing business to promote trade and commerce.

The sound economic intervention to arrest the depreciation of Kwacha is by increasing copper and other mineral production and exports to generate more forex.

Government should be proactive and invest more in the mining sector to optimize economic benefits, not just in terms of earning more forex but to create the much needed employment and business opportunities for local suppliers and contractors.

Mr Banda said in as much as ANDD appreciates the efforts by government in revamping the mining sector, they are concerned at amount of time its taking for the legal transition process of Vedanta – Konkola Copper Mines deal.

He indicated that KCM being one of the strategic national assets, it is profoundly important it begins to operate at an optimum level to increase Copper Production and exports.

“We want to advise the Minister of Finance that raising the policy monetary rate from 10% to 11% percent is not a good economic intervention to arrest the depreciation of the kwacha. We need more forex! Raising the policy monitoring rate is just harming our economy and may further result in an increase in poverty levels, cost of living as well as cost of doing business,” he added.

“This increment however, is killing small businesses who are the key drivers of our country’s domestic economy and because of high interest rates, it is painfully difficult for them to access loan facilities (financial capital) from financial lending institutions to expand thier business portfolios .

And for those with loans, they will find it difficult to repay because the interest rate has been increased and already they are struggling to operate effectively and efficiently due to high cost of doing business.

He since challenged the Minister of Mines Hon Paul Kabuswe to work closely with his Finance counterpart to ensure that they unlock KCM promptly by finalizing the Vedanta KCM transition process. Unlock Mopani Copper Mine also by expediting the negotiations process with prospective investors.

He emphasized that government should finalize the transition process at KCM so that the mine can be up and running to address some of the socioeconomic challenges our country is facing.

I’m in hospital-Thabo Kawana

I am under the weather and most of you colleagues on DAZ have rained heavy on me in my in box over how you feel I am overworking myself judging by the traffic of pipo frequenting my office.

Let me say that I am satisfied that I have lived in the goodness of God on this earth for the time God has allowed me and continues to do so.

Like I say always on DAZ, I help alot of pipo because alot of pipo help me. I hate injustice and ill treatment of the poor and vulnerable because I too was poor and vulnerable at some point in my life.

My life story is nothing but the fullness of God’s mercy, there are pipo even from here that have visited my office and expressed concern on the multitudes that come there on a daily basis and how it is unhealthy for a person in my condition.

But please understand, what I have is a public office and therefore the pipo’s office, if I need privacy then I have no business in a public office.

The President appointed me out of many millions of more able and qualified Zambians not for prestige, comfort or self fulfillment no. He appointed me together with many others to help him serve the masses, the poor, the vulnerable and the needy in our Nation.

And this task I shall continue to do until the day my grave is prepared. So forgive me colleagues, I am not starborn and not getting your advise, this is just who we are and like spots on a leopard , we too can’t change.

I think strongly also that it is a beautiful death to die serving and saving others, what’s good is my children know what sort of Father they have in me and I pray they too grow up to always want what’s best and better for others.

Yes I am admitted to hospital wr I have been since Saturday but we are making steady progress and visitors are not allowed for maximum rest and ease of undisturbed treatment.

We have been here before and we shall pull through, I don’t think God is done with us on earth but hey, just in case…..we shall go out smiling.

We have done our bit and will continue to do our bit until that day, so please don’t worry much colleagues.

Apafwa Abantu, Pashala Abantu.

Compensations under UPND is white collar plunder – Kasandwe

By Thomas Ngala

BANGWEULU PF member of parliament Anthony Kasandwe has labelled the compensations taking place under the UPND government through consent judgments as white collar plunder of public resources.

But Vice-President Mutale Nalumango argued that “there is nothing fraudulent. There is nothing like plunder”.

Kasandwe claimed that he understood how methodical and meticulous the UPND government is.

He said this could be seen in the manner that the people handling the consent judgments were appointed.

“The people of Bangweulu are worried and concerned about the growing trend of meticulous white collar plunder of public resources through consent judgments. Of late we have seen that a number of people have been awarded huge sums of money deflating the government’s needed resources,” said Kasandwe during the Vice-President’s Question Time in parliament on Friday. “My question is…now I understand how methodical and meticulous UPND is. This can be seen in a manner that the people handling this matter were appointed just to clear the ground for plundering natural resources and public resources. Madam Vice-President, why is it that only persons connected to UPND are the ones who are being awarded through questionable consent judgments?”

In her response, Vice-President Nalumango argued that the compensations are not white collar plunder as labelled by Kasandwe.

“I would like to thank the honourable member for Bangweulu who comes out with a lot of passion on the awarding of compensation for people that were wrongly detained. There is nothing fraudulent. There is nothing like plunder,” she said. “It is important to see whether the law is being followed. The law is being followed so you can’t say questionable compensation. There is nothing like that. And this is not targeted at one group or the other. Anybody can go on and bring a matter before the courts and indeed if there was something, infringement on somebody’s rights, they should be able to be compensated.”

She added that compensation is a right to every Zambian.

“That is why as government you must be careful, including today, yesterday… if today we are going to have people wrongly jailed, definitely… but those things that were done under our colleagues [the PF regime]. We should have been careful then that people should not be incarcerated, detained for no cause,” said Vice-President Nalumango. “This is a right to every Zambian and the right must be looked after. One of the important things is that the individual rights must be protected. And if you detain a person wrongly, wrongful detention, you will definitely have them compensated. As a government you must be careful and that is what lacked in the previous regime.”