Former New York City mayor Bill de Blasio, 62, and his wife Chirlane McCray, 68, have announced their separation after 29 years of marriage.
The pair confirmed their breakup in an interview with The New York Times published on Wednesday, revealing that they would be undergoing a trial separation and dating other people but are not planning to divorce.
Bill de Blasio and Chirlane McCray sat down for an extensive and open discussion about their separation. They gave a nearly three-hour interview, during which they expressed their feelings, regrets, and perspectives on their marriage.
The mayor told the New York Times of his marriage: “I can look back now and say, ‘Here were these inflection points where we should have been saying something to each other.’ And I think one of the things I should have said more is: ‘Are you happy? What will make you happy? What’s missing in your life?'”
The couple, who will still be maintaining a shared living space also stated that they are not planning to divorce but will instead date other people.
They will continue to reside in their Park Slope townhouse, which served as the family home where they raised their two children. Despite their decision to separate, they intend to coexist and maintain a living arrangement together.
Reflecting on their decision, Mr de Blasio expressed regret over not asking important questions about their happiness and needs. The strain on their marriage, influenced by their public roles, is seen as a lesson for other couples navigating similar challenges.
The couple also attributed their separation to the pressures of Mr de Blasio’s mayoralty and the pandemic crisis, which limited their ability to address their relationship.
Their relationship had already undergone strain during Mr de Blasio’s 2020 presidential campaign, which Ms McCray considered a distraction.
De Blasio and McCray, a writer, and activist, married in 1994. They share two children; daughter Chiara, 28, and son Dante, 25.
First elected as mayor of New York City in 2013, de Blasio left office on Jan. 1, 2022, making way for new Mayor Eric Adams, who was sworn in after the New Year’s Eve midnight ball drop in Times Square in the first minutes of 2022.
LUSAKA-President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA has thanked His Majesty King Mswati III of the Kingdom of Eswatini for marketing Zambia’s tourist attractions.
President Hichilema says he is grateful that King Mswati took time to visit the Victoria Falls during his State visit where he urged other nations to do the same.
This came to light today when President Hichilema saw off King Mswati III of the Kingdom of Eswatini who was in the country for the State visit.
President Hichilema said Zambia is grateful to His Majesty and the great people of Eswatini for the continued support and ever growing ties in areas of trade, tourism and investment.
The state visit of King Mswati III to Zambia represents a remarkable occasion for both nations to reaffirm their commitment to friendship, cooperation and mutual respect.
The UPND Party Manifesto seeks to ensure that bilateral trade, economic and technical cooperation becomes the hallmark of the country’s foreign policy.
Mansa has recorded a sad story today where the head teacher at a named secondary school has been brutally beaten by a new teacher after a spat which started as a joke.
According to information available, a man identified as Jackson Siwale, 33, a new teacher, and Malama Kennedy, 52, head teacher at the school in question fought amidst the morning briefing.
The turn out of teachers was so poor, the matter that propelled the head teacher to call for a short briefing specifically to urge teachers to take work seriously. The briefing was unfolding well and considering the fact that few teachers were in school, the diplomats found it very convenient and aired their grievances to the head teacher.
Mostly, they were asking for stationery as they prepare for mock exams. The head teacher looked unconcerned and advised them to prepare tests which they shall manage to write on the board as the school has no money. This was when Mr. Siwale, who once taught at a Convent School and later joined a new college as lecturer until he was deployed last year said the school needed to be serious.
“You cannot joke with exams, that is why learners fail terribly here,” he added. The head teacher just looked him at said, “the joke is your suit. You do not know your size? Just keep quiet and wait for your confirmation.” The teachers in the meeting turned to look at Mr. Siwale, for sure, the jacket and trousers were modified to fit the tiny body. The shoes appeared to be oversize too. No one could old the laughter. Everyone laughed irritably including the head teacher. It was a cold wind that stopped the laughter. The head teacher was on the floor. Mr. Siwale, who is believed to be a martial art instructor, span on the table and gifted the head teacher the legendary kick.
Teachers rose and reached for the head teacher. But the angry Siwale did not let anyone stand in the way. He grabbed one teacher, headbutted him and gave another two punches until the left the head teacher alone.
The head was then on his feet. He tried his young days tricks and punches but this was no match to Siwale, the martial art instructor. He continually kicked the head teacher until he was confined in the corner with his chin resting on Mr. Siwale’s shoe. I can kill you sir! Mr. Siwale continued to shout respectfully.
Meanwhile, after Mr. Siwale walked out of the staffroom, Mr. Malama collapsed and was rushed to the hospital where he is being attended to. Who is wrong here? S
WRONG PEOPLE SURROUND THE LUNGU FAMILY BECAUSE OF THEIR WEALTH AND GIVING THEM WRONG ADVICE …***
By Stembridge Sikalundu
The LUNGU’S are still associated to active politics ,when the family is supposed to be reserved because of the kinds of people surrounding their wealth empire , the LUNGU’S has allowed wealth mongers around the family instead of genuine statesman and women , the name is still being used in many irresponsible rhetoric statements of Political nature and they have allowed it . The family should not have been this passive before or after serving this country in the highest office.
We can imagine the kinds of people that are still living very close to the LUNGU’S now who are not different to the thugs that were in govt and at party levels, it should take one wise person in the family to realise that what is being exposed about them may be coming from the same people that have lived with them , but because they have a serious fallout now , some people are still living dangerously by being closer to the LUNGU family .
What we can’t deny is that the LUNGU’S are now among the wealthiest families in the country and being the former first family , the composition is still a source of energy for others , most people have found it possible to earn a living out of this family , some continue to use loyalty of stupidity to get what they want , others are sympathisers because they will be kept longer around them . In most countries former first families go into restriction and quietness after having been at the helm of power for obvious reasons .
It is very unfortunate that circumstances that have been prevailing since the LUNGU’S lost power is that they still wanted to exist like an empire of excellence and elite in zambia . Who did the family choose to be with after moving out of state house ?, did they sought to have credible people that would straight away put this family on one accord ?, who is still there around them if it is not the love for their wealth ?, If they want peace and resolve what kind of people do we expect around them ?.
It is going to be more difficult for the LUNGU’S because they have wealth they can’t manage on their own and the most unfortunate part is that they did not expect to have it , it is too huge for the family because it mashfoomed without a track record , achievement had no specific time frame for assessment and acknowledgement , it was a situation of have this get this and what do you want .
We have some responsible senior citizens in this country , unfortunately the LUNGU’S created more enemies than friends ,they destroyed many bridges they needed to use now , it is never too late to search for the right people to offer counseling to the LUNGU’S , we can see them breaking ,we expected them to be stronger than before with power or out of power because being privilaged does not cause to committing abuse of authority in doing things .
Very few zambians will offer public sympathy to the LUNGU’S because of the kind of life during his tenure in office , it is time to reflect and see the end of things , let genuine people help the LUNGU’s , others are still using their name for self reasons and the family has not come out publicly to stop people from doing so , that has compromised their family position in society after moving out from the highest office position , the pressers have no dignity and substance to rebuild the name of the LUNGU’S , and those advising to do so are just leaches of the same wealth of the LUNGU’s. God bless mother Zambia .
LACK OF BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL COMPANIES AT LUMWANA, KALUMBILA AND KANSANSHI MINES SADDENING
…as Local Contractors makes an appeal to President Hakainde Hichilema
Lumwana, Wednesday, July 5, 2023 ( Smart Eagles Correspondent)
More local suppliers have complained over the alleged lack of adequate business opportunities for local companies at Lumwana, Kalumbila and Kansanshi Mines in the North Western Province.
Last month, local Contractor Mundia Lubinda wrote an open letter to President Hakainde Hichilema urging the Government to look at the issues surrounding TradeCorp, a South African company dominating supply of goods to Lumwana Mine.
Mr. Lubinda charged that Lumwana has been giving preference in all supply contracts to TradeCorp at the expense of local suppliers.
In reaction, another local supplier Sitali Mweemba has issued a media statement asking the government to ensure that local entities are not sidelined from business by foreigners at Lumwana Mine.
Mr. Mweemba said President Hakainde Hichilema should intervene directly in the issues at Lumwana to ensure that local businesses are not killed by lack of business opportunities in the mining sector.
He said it was unfortunate that even the contracts of supplying things like bathing soap were being given to foreign firms from South Africa.
“Your Excellency Mr. HH is warmly welcomed to the Copperbelt. Thank you so much for assisting Zambia this time to achieve the debt restructuring target with the Creditor through your efforts and your concerted efforts are appreciated. Allow me to beg you sir, please look into the suppliers complaints while you are on the Copperbelt. We need your assistance in assisting our suppliers with problems related to TradeCorp and white Foreign owned company supremacy at Lumwana,” Mr. Mweemba said.
“Lack of business opportunities for local suppliers, in Zambia, the SMEs industry is dying since there are not enough business prospects. While this is going on, our white Foreign owned businesses are expanding as a result of mining companies’ favouritism. Trading practices that favour a white-owned company over a local supplier are obviously unjust. Let me mention Tradecorp in Lumwana as an example of one such business. This company, sir, is a single source at almost every level, but no one has the guts to voice their displeasure. Should we permit such a thing to occur under your watch, Sir? Your Excellency Sir, South Africa, the DRC, and Tanzania all defend their own businesses and industries. But why is Zambia being exploited? Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) continue to be crucial to the nation’s economic progress, as you correctly observed,” he said.
“How can local SMEs succeed when foreign-owned businesses are given 90% of the market share in Lumwana, Kalumbila, and Kansanshi?How many Zambian/local suppliers have profited from S3 at Kansanshi?Your Excellency, you need to pay attention to what is happening in Kansanshi and Lumwana.The mines, sir, are becoming more and more inaccessible to the Local vendors. Nearly all of Lumwana’s supply needs, including repairs, are met by TradeCorp. By utilizing FQM SA to buy commodities for Zambia, Kansanshi is essentially giving Zambian businesses nothing.”
Mr. Mweemba said there is need for the Government to bring sanity in the mining sector.
“Institutions that manage businesses on behalf of the Governments (IDC, ZCCM-IH, etc.) are of relevance to us because they promote the private sector. Even the North Western mines would not lock us out in the manner in which they do if the government had more influence over our mines,” he said.
Two incidents this weekend that God reminded me of his priceless love for me. I lost my main phone on the plane and it couldn’t be found, even after removing the plane cushions and the cleaner sweeping the entire floor around where I sat. Bags were scanned over and over and no phone. I checked out and met my wife who had come to receive me. Then she said that she had been calling me and phone was just ringing.
Then I did a Muzala back to the plane ✈️ ,just before they closed the door for departure. With the help of some Zambian airport ground staff, we removed the bags on the top compartments around where I had sat whilst calling the number. This habit of putting phones on silent did not help matters. Then one sharp lady, I guess from Chipata, screamed “I have found it!”. It was in the top hand luggage compartment where the air hostess had put used duvet for the return flight. Kaya whether it fell off my hand luggage or some air hostess wanted to “play games”.
The relief got me to pray and thank God for the rest of the night. Yes it’s the same iphone 14 I bought pa Nkongole but more of its content I could not have done without.
Then last night, awe sure! I went to check on my few cows near the Sondela police camp, on the banks of the Kafue river. The road is extremely bad and faster if you hire a boat from the bridge for some hour ride on the river. I was with my security guy Boko and a cadre from the Copperbelt called Mr Ground.
By the time we were on the way back it got dark and VERY DARK . Apparently the cockswines do not need a light even from the phone to navigate into the dark of the river. Ours was doing well with his expertise but for some reason, he still maintained the same speed as if it was during the day. I warned him several times to slow down, but like most he was stubborn.
Awe sure. Next thing ,instead of making a sharp left to follow the direction of the river, he cruised straight into the mountain direction. Boat crushed into the river reeds and we were stuck about 20 meters from the flowing water and about 15 meters before the mountains. As with arrogance of most boat ‘drivers’, they had not even packed the paddling stick for emergency puddling needs. The engine could not start as it was caught up in the thicket of water reeds.
I ,however, then got to witness some water genius works from the cockswine and his two support boat boys. They took off their clothes and got into deep waters pulling the boat while holding on to the reeds. This is like 50 meters deep water. Slowly but sure the boat got back into flowing water away from the heavy weeds and mountain. We set off and it was another hour before we got back to the bridge and much to the relief of my wife and child I had left waiting on shore.
All I can say is if God is with you, he will protect protect you from all dangers and misfortunes. I had been playing gospel music when driving to Kafue and even played it louder on the way back.
In a startling revelation, renowned Zambian civil and human rights activist, Brebner Changala, has made damning allegations against President Hakainde Hichilema, accusing him of deceiving the Zambian people to secure victory in the 2021 election. Changala argues that instead of relying on the character of individuals, Zambians should focus on strengthening institutions through better laws to serve the nation’s interests.
“Mr. Hichilema knelt down and begged for a vote from Zambians, telling them he would be a better leader, but it was all lies looking at what is happening,” expressed Changala, highlighting his disappointment in the President’s actions since assuming office. This revelation comes as a surprise, considering Changala’s prior support for Mr. Hichilema during the election campaign.
Furthermore, Changala describes President Hichilema as a “loose cannon” who displays a propensity to suppress any form of criticism. He draws attention to the blame game played during the previous administration, where opposition leaders, including Hichilema, were often arrested, with President Edgar Lungu taking responsibility. Changala cautions that under President Hichilema’s leadership, the responsibility lies squarely on the President himself if individuals are wrongfully detained or abducted.
Emmanuel Mwamba, former Ambassador to the African Union (AU) and Ethiopia, joined the program and shared his own harrowing experience of arrest and brutalization by plainclothes individuals claiming to be police officers. Mwamba emphasized that his personal ordeal pales in comparison to the extensive catalogue of human rights abuses and arbitrary arrests documented in a recent report by the Department of State in Washington, covering the period from 2022 to the present under President Hichilema’s rule.
Mwamba further expressed frustration that accusations of forgery against him remain unsubstantiated, preventing his case from being brought to court. He vehemently denies the allegations, asserting that they were fabricated to tarnish his reputation as a result of his dissenting views on national issues.
Both Mwamba and Changala highlight the similar treatment experienced by other politically inclined individuals who have been subjected to harassment and arbitrary arrests, despite President Hichilema’s campaign promise to end such practices.
The program, hosted by Pastor Moses Chiluba, is available for viewing on YouTube and Camnet TV channel, providing a platform for the public to gain further insights into the discussion.
Mwamba challenges fellow civil society members to follow Changala’s lead and speak out against injustices, while Changala questions the apparent silence of the Human Rights Commission under President Hichilema, contrasting its vocal stance during President Lungu’s tenure.
Expressing his dismay, Mwamba recounts an incident where Commissioner Laura Miti openly mocked and laughed at him following his brutal arrest, despite the authenticity of his injuries confirmed by a government medical doctor.
Furthermore, Mwamba expresses surprise at the endorsement of “minimum force” against him by both the Inspector General of Police and the Minister of Home Affairs, Jack Mwiimbu. He points out that the Law Association of Zambia has deemed the use of minimum force unconstitutional and illegal in the country.
In response to the brutality he endured, Mwamba, through his legal representatives, Makebi Zulu and Corp, has filed complaints with the Human Rights Commission, Amnesty International, the United Nations Human Rights Agency, and the Zambia Police Complaints Board, seeking both damages and an apology for the physical and public humiliation he endured.
These revelations by prominent figures raise important questions about the state of human rights and the rule of law in Zambia. As the allegations continue to unfold, it is essential to closely monitor the actions taken by the relevant authorities and the response from civil society organizations to ensure transparency, accountability, and justice for all individuals affected.
VICTORIA FALLS IS A PLACE TO VISIT – KING MSWATI III
4th July, 2023.
LIVINGSTONE- His Majesty King Mswati III this morning, made an invitation to people across the world to visit the Victoria Falls and enjoy the magnificient view which he said is a place one must visit to see wonder God created.
“I want to encourage many people who have not been to come and see what God has done to this world. The Victoria Falls is one of the magnificient wonders of the world which stretches into Zimbabwe.” said King Mswati.
The King confessed that he had a wonderful time and calls upon people to visit and experience the spray caused by the 10 million litres of the falling waters going 108 meters deep.
The King braved the spray and allowed the curtains of the water falling off the gorges at the Victoria Falls to shower him and those accompanying him.
And Minister of Tourism , Rodney Sikumba said that he was happy that the bilateral relations between Zambia and Eswatini included connectivity and Tourism.
He was happy with the gestures made by the King and said that Zambia has so much to offer in terms of tourism.
Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga has accused the Nelson Chamisa-led opposition party, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), of the four-decade-long neglect of the Mbare flats.
Chiwenga said the Chamisa-led Harare city council rejected refurbishing the dilapidated flats.
In 2018, Chiwenga promised to replace the old flats with modern structures but now claims that the opposition-led Harare City Council thwarted the central government’s efforts.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Mbare, Chiwenga said that after the elections, the ZANU PF government would pass laws to prevent opposition party-led councils from obstructing development projects, NewsDay reported. The former army boss said:
I came here in 2018 and talked about Matapi and Shawasha flats saying that places like these together with Sakubva (Mutare), Mkoba (Gweru) and Makokoba (Bulawayo), need to be fixed.
Plans came in for construction and Citizens Coalition of Change (CCC) denied the offer saying that ‘if you build those structures, you will take away our votes’.
It is now a thing of the past. We gave them latitude, and we will evoke the law that when we want to construct better housing for our people, we will do it whether the council likes it or not.
There are no questions about it. Laws are made by human beings and it is the human beings who revoke laws which are not amenable to our people. I urge you to vote for councils that belong to ZANU PF and we shall make Zimbabwe great.
I have come here with Local Government minister (July Moyo) so that we can uplift Mbare Musika to make it a world-class market like what other countries are doing, together with Mupedzanhamo Market.
You have been voting councils from MDC and CCC. There hasn’t been any development which has been taking place. They have destroyed urban areas. There is litter everywhere to an extent that if you need fresh air these days, you will go to the rural areas.
The Mbare flats, which were built during the colonial era, currently house thousands of families who use communal toilets and water points. In 2011, a project funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to renovate the Matapi Flats in Mbare was unsuccessful due to the interference of the ZANU PF-affiliated Chipangano terror group.
STATEMENT BY THE ACTING MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND MEDIA AND CHIEF GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON HON, MAKOZO CHIKOTE, MP ON CLAIMS THAT GOVERNMENT IS DEMONISING THE LUNGU FAMILY
Government wishes to categorically deny allegations by members of the family of the former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu that it has played a part in influencing the alleged demonisation, on various media platforms, of some members of that family who are presumed to own properties suspected to be proceeds of crime.
It is important to emphasise that Government’s intention is not to demonise any individual or family, let alone, members of the family of the former President but rather to ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law.
Further, it is imperative to note that the dissemination of information through news items published in tabloids and social media platforms as well as broadcast on various radio and television stations is beyond the control of the Government.
We want to emphasise that Government does not control the content or editorial decisions of media outlets. The responsibility for news coverage lies with the media organisations themselves. The Government neither influences nor endorses the demonisation or sensationalisation of stories involving individuals, including the former President or his family members.
In cases where the Government is directly involved in providing information to the media, we strive to ensure transparency, accuracy, and fairness. Our intention has always been to present information in a manner that upholds the principles of justice and respect for all involved.
Furthermore, we understand the concerns expressed by the Lungu family about the alleged negative portrayal of their father in the media. However, it is crucial to remember that media organisations operate independently, and their editorial choices are beyond the control of the Government.
We do not condone the sensationalisation or undue exposure of individuals involved in any investigations, as it can undermine the integrity of the legal process and cause unwarranted harm.
Our priority is to ensure a transparent, thorough, and fair investigation into matters related to property suspected to be proceeds of crime. Any actions taken by law enforcement agencies are guided by legal protocols and procedures, with the aim of upholding the principles of justice and due process.
In conclusion, Government affirms its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring a fair and just process for all individuals.
Hon. Makozo Chikote, MP ACTING MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND MEDIA AND CHIEF GOVERNMENT SPKESPERSON
OPEN LETTER TO TASILA LUNGU, DAUGHTER OF FORMER PRESIDENT EDGAR LUNGU, REGARDING ALLEGED POLICE BRUTALITY
Dear Hon Tasila LUNGU ,
I recently came across two videos that I believe require some correction, as they contained remarks made by Members of Parliament. The first video featured the Lundazi MP, who argued that the police were selectively arresting individuals from the Eastern province. I found this statement to be highly immature and unreasonable. What kind of country are we trying to build if people feel entitled to break the law simply because the person in power belongs to their tribe? As lawmakers, it is your duty to strengthen our laws and protect the future of our nation not regions.
Based on the argument by Lundazi MP, it is clear that we have regressive thinking by some of you lawmakers. Those who wronged Zambians must be held accountable regardless of region. We need justice and sanity restored. The targeting of certain regions under the PF administration may have influenced their current mindset.
The second video featured two MPs, Hon. Mundubile and yourself, Hon. Tasila Lungu, accusing the UPND government of police brutality. While I do not wish to justify any wrongdoing, if indeed it has occurred under the UPND, I would like to remind you, as the firstborn of the former president, that many of us appealed to you to sit down with your father and advise him to exercise proper leadership during his tenure. However, neither you nor your mother took any interest in doing so. It is essential to consider the well-being of others when you are in a privileged position, something that many of those in the PF failed to recognize and appreciate.
Some of us survived by God’s grace during your father’s administration. We do not wish to return to those experiences, and personally, I do not want to witness any Zambian becoming a victim. However, those who have committed crimes and those who continue to do so should be held accountable.
One thing I can assure you, Madam Tasila Lungu, is that if your father’s successor had been careless, the situation would have been terrible for your family and the PF. Fortunately, he ensured that nobody from his camp sought revenge. Instead, cases such as the murder of Lawrence Banda were legally addressed, and I’m sure you are aware that the murderer dined with your family at State House. Unfortunately, this was not viewed as violence according to Lundazi MP, Mr. Mundubile, and yourself, Madam Tasila. It is worth noting that you are now expressing concerns about police arrests affecting your members, but I am referring to cases where your government was responsible for the loss of lives, such as Mapenzi, Mukonka, Kennedy Mudenda, Kungo, Nsama Nsama, Joseph Kaunda, Obed Bwalya, Frank Mugala, Vespers, and many others.
The moral lesson here is that those whose relatives hold certain positions of power should advice them to conduct themselves appropriately while in office because power is transient. Laws such as the Cybersecurity Act, which the PF introduced to target the opposition, are now being used against the PF themselves, who never imagined they would be in the opposition. Let us all learn the lesson that voters are not foolish, despite what many self-serving politicians may deceitfully believe.
Remember, the police officers who once hunted us under ECL are now the same officers under HH. It’s surprising that you accused them of being political cadres, as it implies you recruited individuals who have now turned against you. So, who should be held responsible, ECL or HH?
My dearest sister, understand that your father greatly disappointed our nation, and just appreciate the best course of action HH is striving to accomplish for your family and the Zambian people.
Government must stop prosecuting and persecuting people in the media. Their dirty campaigns from Opposition has been perpetuated in Government.
They lied through a statement issued by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) that she had bought a bank worth K300million. It had to take Bank of Zambia to dismiss the falsehoods by the ACC.
They lied that she owned the 48 houses. Now a different couple emerged as owners and has been jailed for the property.
Now they say she owns Fishponds worth K13million! Imwe mwaliimbapo ama fish ponds bushe? How much can fish ponds cost? K13million? in Kanakatampa area? land sitting on traditional land? Maybe they were misquoted, maybe it’s K13,000!
Of course the over-evaluation and the deliberate overstating of the value of the properties is designed to incite maximum public loathe and cause great embarrassment against the family.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) started a process to seize assets through a non-conviction based forfeiture Order, and the matter was with their media networks the whole week before their lawyers or the family could be served the documents!
What was the intention? To scandalise the family and conduct a public trial for a virtual public lynching.
STATEMENT BY THE ACTING MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND MEDIA AND CHIEF GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON HON, MAKOZO CHIKOTE, MP ON CLAIMS THAT GOVERNMENT IS DEMONISING THE LUNGU FAMILY
Government wishes to categorically deny allegations by members of the family of the former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu that it has played a part in influencing the alleged demonisation, on various media platforms, of some members of that family who are presumed to own properties suspected to be proceeds of crime.
It is important to emphasise that Government’s intention is not to demonise any individual or family, let alone, members of the family of the former President but rather to ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law.
Further, it is imperative to note that the dissemination of information through news items published in tabloids and social media platforms as well as broadcast on various radio and television stations is beyond the control of the Government.
We want to emphasise that Government does not control the content or editorial decisions of media outlets. The responsibility for news coverage lies with the media organisations themselves. The Government neither influences nor endorses the demonisation or sensationalisation of stories involving individuals, including the former President or his family members.
In cases where the Government is directly involved in providing information to the media, we strive to ensure transparency, accuracy, and fairness. Our intention has always been to present information in a manner that upholds the principles of justice and respect for all involved.
Furthermore, we understand the concerns expressed by the Lungu family about the alleged negative portrayal of their father in the media. However, it is crucial to remember that media organisations operate independently, and their editorial choices are beyond the control of the Government.
We do not condone the sensationalisation or undue exposure of individuals involved in any investigations, as it can undermine the integrity of the legal process and cause unwarranted harm.
Our priority is to ensure a transparent, thorough, and fair investigation into matters related to property suspected to be proceeds of crime. Any actions taken by law enforcement agencies are guided by legal protocols and procedures, with the aim of upholding the principles of justice and due process.
In conclusion, Government affirms its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring a fair and just process for all individuals.
Hon. Makozo Chikote, MP ACTING MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND MEDIA AND CHIEF GOVERNMENT SPKESPERSON
4th July, 2023 May be an image of 1 person, dais and text
PLEASE DO NOT REMIND US OF THE THINGS YOUR FATHER MADE US GO THROUGH
I just watched this piece on Lungu family Presser
My view to this is that , yes indeed let us allow for justice and also allow law enforcement agencies to work accordingly. This is what they are doing . To the contrary I thought it is the PF calling government names for allowing law enforcement agencies do their work . PF does not want to be answerable for their bad actions and are busy looking for public sympathy. It does not work like that … when some of us were being caged for trumped charges we went to court and won the case.
Now as former first family , think of how your father tormented the HH family by arresting a man who did not commit any offense 15 times , tear-gassed the family , broke into the house , and later your father even promised to hand over power to himself then arrest HH immediately after assuming power.
Imagine , where HH would be if your Dad won elections. HH extended an olive branch to your Dad but your Dad would still call HH a hypocrite. Your father is still active in politics and when he is treated as one you complain .
Your Dad is unrepentant and does not appreciate even the peace he has so far enjoyed . Your PF believes there is no freedom unless they are given more power to attack citizens and cause bloodshed .
Thank God I am not HH , you were going to cry!!!
Lawrence Banda is no more because your father wanted the country to be that way, Grazier Matapa is no more , Mapenzi Chibulo , Nsama Nsama , Joseph Kaunda are no more and they will never come back , think about their children! Some UPND members are moving with bullets in their bodies to date and no justice has been grated to them yet .
You are able to even hold Press Conference which were not easy to hold when your Dad was ruling . Justice was far-fetched yet You still can’t see the big heart HH extends to the PF . PF thugs hunted us down and burnt people’s houses for merely belonging to the opposition.
HH escaped gun shots in western Province at the hand of your father .
Your Dad stopped HH from flying to campaign and where he did , police chased him like a thief !
You planted the fake Hatembos case to simply abuse your powers . You went to the extent of demonizing the people of Bweengwa by faking a video on ZNBC that Tongas in Bweengwa were hunting down Bembas … purely evil matrix to say the least .
You called HH a satanist for merely choosing to contest elections.
Remember that not even RB enjoyed such an atmosphere but had his passport grabbed and and immunity lifted .
Let us not start seeking sympathy but allow the justice system the space to work .
Imagine as Mark Simuuwe , I was abducted by your PF government but I have never sought sympathy except to move on . I was later arrested and locked up but I faced the court . What is wrong with us being asked on where we got the money from ?
Your own FIC published the document at your time which showed corrupt practices by politically exposed persons and ministers giving themselves contracts, and sponsoring and linked some politicians to terrorism as per FIC report by Mary Chirwa administration then.
UPND members were chased from markets and bus stops ;
Some tribal groupings lost their jobs for merely belonging to those tribes ! They were retired in national interest.
Your father was tyrannical to say the least !
Some PF officials were at the center of illegal Mukula exports to mention but a few ….
Should we move on and allow the law to remain broken? God forbid . Law breakers should account for their deeds .
You should appreciate the space you have . Today you can even talk about justice not at your father’s time . Courts were intimidated with gun shots and teargas canisters .
Hooliganism was what punctuated your Dad’s leadership .
Thank God HH told his party members never to revenge nor attack anybody, this country could have been too small for you….
But remember that HH is only human; don’t make him think that he is doing nothing … to safeguard your family …
Please don’t remind us of the things we went through under your Dad’s leadership!
TEARS ! TEARS REALITY CHECK FROM TASILA LUNGU JUST WHEN SOME CITIZENS ARE SEEKING REMOVAL OF THE FATHER’S IMMUNITY …***
By Stembridge Sikalundu
We have seen ESTER LUNGU cry during the gassing terror act in this country , when ECL had the instruments of power to prevent terrorist attacks in the country , it is astonishing to see that close aides to ECL are charged over the same case when about 57 people lost their lives in this country . The address by TASILA LUNGU complaining that the past one year the former first family has not seen it easy regarding the many issues of possession of wealth suspected to be proceeds of crimes against the state . TASILA says they should be let to defend themselves from the courts . We are very much aware that there is an act which requires one to hand over properties to the state without going through the courts , if govt is being mocked in public to suggest it is persecuting the LUNGU family , it means without wilfull handing over of these properties they are suggesting of having the capacity to defend themselves in the courts of law . We know what money can do if given a chance .
It is important to remind any member of the first family to introspect , no one other than fellow PF members that are going to be sympathisers with the ECL family , and zambians are not going to hate president HAKAINDE HICHILEMA and the UPND govt because of siezing properties from the former first family being one of the reasons PF was voted out ,it is the duty of every govt to do so unfortunately in the past people were forgiven on account of being accomplices , zambians stopped a long time sympathising with the ECL family after regretting giving them power to govern this country , zambians can’t be beaten twice when they gave the leadership to ECL on sympathy terms , where was TASILA to advise the father when PF thugs were killing zambians ? , TASILA should have cried together with the children of LAWRENCE BANDA , NSAMA , KASONGO that were left helpless after their deaths , many zambians who wanted the father out of power were displaced , properties damaged , companies closed , many died because of depression . TASILA was very much present to see how PF carders displayed huge sums of money which was paid to them to consolidate power , money supposed to improve the welfare of many disadvantaged zambians today .
Is TASILA not surprised to see that people who were close to the father charged for possession of wealth suspected to have been obtained using proceeds of crimes during the reign of the father ? , why was ESTER LUNGU crying in public during gassing when the husband offered a bounty and yet close people to ECL knew something ? , if TASILA is saying the former first family is innocent , the simple question is where did the money which built all these properties in question come from ?, being the former first family the constituition is still applicable to account for the wealth in question , it is not president HAKAINDE HICHILEMA who asked the EIA to issue an investigative report on MUKULA smuggling from zambia , it is the law that is in effect which represents the country and all zambians . Public sympathy through tear drops is not going to be the way to cause attention that something is bothering because the state is siezing properties . Humbleness is not by opening the mouth to cry . Let the former first family seek councelling and forgiveness from God. We told them all nothing lasts forever because there is time to smile and time to cry . God bless mother Zambia .
AN OPEN LETTER TO OUR SISTER TASILA LUNGU. TAKE NOTE OUR SISTER.
Sorry my sister I won’t take much of your time I will try by all means to be brief in my deliberations.
As a married man it’s really sad seeing my girl child crying or breaking down in public it really touches my heart.
Madam Tasila LUNGU you are woman whom I have cherished and loved from day one when I saw you leaving Heroes stadium holding the Hand of your father definitely you are the DAD’S GIRL. Your love for your dad it’s overwhelming my sister.
It also pained me seeing you having a presser which just lusted something about 5 minutes and the most touching thing you broke down on the beginning of the presser IAM REALLY SORRY SEEING YOU SHADING TEARS FOR THE MIS APPROPRIATION OF YOUR DADS CONDUCT OVER THE GOVERNMENT RESOURCES.
I HEARD YOU IN the press briefing were you said YOUR DAD HAS DONE ALOT OF THINGS FOR THE PEOPLE OF ZAMBIA
Let me remind you things your Dad did to the Zambian people.
People used to be killed without your Dad saying anything.
People used to be beaten merely for putting on anything red on the streets of Lusaka. And your Dad never said anything I say anything.
People failed to Bury their relatives peacefully at Leopards hills in fear of cadres to attack them and your father kept very quiet and comfortably without saying anything.
Are you aware that your father removed all the meal allowances in all government universities and your father kept quiet as if things were ok.
Are you aware that UNZA was closed almost a year from the command of your father.
Are you aware that your father being a commander of all armed forces he killed alot of innocent people through police service??????
Are you aware that your father kept quiet when gassing was happening in the country.
WE LOVE YOU OUR SISTER YOUR LOVE FOR YOUR FATHER IS CHERISHED BUT DONT INVOLVE THE NATIONAL SYMPATHY TOWARDS YOUR FATHERS CARELESSNESS IN GOVERNING THE COUNTRY.
YOUR FATHER WAS THE MOST RUTHLESS, CARELESS AND UNCARING PRESIDENT IN THE ZAMBIAN HISTORY.
DONT INVOLVE YOUR SELF IN THESE CAPITAL OFFENCES YOUR FATHER COMMITTED, STOP SCRATCHING THIS HEALING UP WOUND.
THE ZAMBIAN PRESIDENT MR HAKAINDE HICHILEMA HE IS VERY QUIET IN PROTECTING YOUR FATHER PLEASE STOP TOUCHING THIS SLEEPING LION.
JONATHAN SHARIBS MWIIYA
Monze district youth chairman in charge of politics affair.
THE. UPND GOVT IS ACCOMMODATIVE TO RELEVANT CRITICISM WITH AN OPEN DOOR POLICY…***
By Stembridge Sikalundu
In a democratic state where there is a democratically elected govt , opposition and the citizens of this country are free to raise issues which many people see to productively be moving the country forward with a more purposeful agenda . At times some people have said the UPND govt does not like to be CRITICISED , buy truthfully one who says it is not right for the govt to introduce free education policy can not be entertained , because that is not out of checks and balances but hate and retribution .
We have seen the opposition criticising the president for going out of the country to engage the international community and other foreign organisations which promote economic support and investments , zambia can not prevail in isolation when a lot has to be addressed to ensure many sectors of the country are propelled to create growth in the economy . There are many issues to do in the country ,and without these efforts , zambians will not see any better .
The problem in the opposition now and before is the way they think and strategise on how to personally attack the president , I’ve not heard any opposition leader that has recommended govt for reintroducing meal allowances for university students , why didn’t the other opposition criticise the removal of these university allowances ?, Previously the opposition was fighting the UPND party not to form govt , it is practically impossible to see them congratulating the UPND govt , it is in the same lane that much of the critism is based on the hate for the president , because they never like the good things he is doing for the country
We need comparative advantage to oppose the UPND govt meaningfully , the prime objective of any formed Political party is to form govt and improve the living standards of citizens , when opposition leaders fail to burn out issues which should hold any govt in office accountable of it’s decisions by marely being critical on the president from the stands when he was in opposition to the time when he wins elections to become the republican president , it is because clearly some people have no issues relevant for critisism , when someone says debt restructuring is nothing to go on record for .
It is a democratic principle of rights to criticise any elected govt , the platform to criticise what a govt is doing wrong is not creation of enemisis , politics is a civic duty which is related to the people of that country at all times , in Zambia we almost thought political affiliation is a division of power and not excellence in creating motives that support the intellectual abilities that are meant to improve the ways in which the country looks after it’s people , it is through criticisms that reminds a govt that it is not by itself under the table of power and control . The UPND govt is open to ideas and capacity building to help improve the lives of zambians in unity and Peace . God bless mother Zambia .
KING MSWATI, MUKUNI CONFER PRIVATELY IN LIVINGSTONE
CHIEF Mukuni, of the Toka Leya in Kazungula, yesterday held a closed-door meeting with King Mswati III, of eSwatini, in Livingstone. King Mswati, who officially opened Zambia International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Ndola on Saturday following his arrival in the country on Friday, is in Livingstone for a private visit.
After the private meeting between Chief Mukuni and the King, Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba, who was joined by Minister of Energy Peter Kapala, Livingstone Mayor Constance Muleabai and District Commissioner Eunice Nawa, hosted lunch.
The King was later expected to have a royal express ride on the steam-powered train from 217 area to the Victoria Falls border with Zimbabwe and then dinner followed by a night stop.
According to a programme seen by Zambia Daily Mail, King Mswati is today expected to view the Victoria Falls followed by a boat cruise on Zambezi River.
He will also sample Zambia’s wildlife through a safari drive in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park before his return to eSwatini.
THE Patriotic Front (PF) will not keep quiet or shut up on talking about the governance wrongs being committed by the new dawn administration until President Hakainde Hichilema decisively deals with the real and bigger python in the name of high cost of living, corruption, police brutality and illegal mining on the Copperbelt and Mpika, Brian Mundubile has said.
And Mr Mundubile says there is nowhere in the Constitution that when a political party loses power to govern, its leaders and members lose their rights to speak against the wrongs and violations in the governance system.
Mr Mundubile said President Hichilema had been referring Zambia’s external debt as a python yet it was from the same debt that the country had seen unprecedented exponential economic infrastructure development in the education, health, telecommunication and energy sector.
Mr Mundubile, the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament said what was constricting and eating Zambians was the high cost of living, high cost of fuel, mealie meal, and corruption in the entire procurement system as well as the diminishing democratic space in the country.
He said in an interview that it was politically, economically and socially incorrect for President Hichilema to ask Zambians to join him in celebrating the successful debt restructuring when it was a well-known fear that harder times were coming ahead as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) conditions shall come into effect.
“Mr Hakainde Hichilema, the President of Zambia should be informed that the PF will not keep quiet or shut up and watch as the country’s peace is deteriorating. We are in a democratic dispensation and it is not right for President Hichilema to shut us up. There is nowhere in the law that when a political party loses power to govern, its leadership or membership also loses their right to speak against the wrongs.”
So, let President Hichilema know that the biggest python is not the debt he is talking about. The biggest python is the high cost of living, the high cost of mealie meal, fuel. The bigger python is the grand corruption in the new dawn under the watch of the President.
The python in the house is the non-availability of essential medicines in hos- pitals and unless and until President Hichilema deals with those, he is rest assured the PF will not keep quiet,” Mr Mundubile said.
Mr Mundubile is calling on President Hichilema to deal with the alleged illegal mining at the Konkola Copper Mine (KCM) by a company called Sensele before asking Zambians to join him in celebrating the debt restructuring deal.
He said President Hichilema was able to promote free education because the PF in power borrowed and prudently used the loan to build primary and secondary school across the country.
Mr Mundubile stated that communication and movements of good and services had been made easier because the former ruling party used the borrowed money to build communication towers, roads and three big international airports.
He explained that the PF was transparent in its borrowing and that Zambians came to know about the US$12 billion debt because the matter had been brought up on the floor of the House in Parliament.
“The President is now calling the debt as the python but while in opposition, he promised Zambians that he was going to deal with it. He said it was a small issue. So. When he is calling the debt python when he promised he had a solution for it, then the President is constructively admitting that the assignment of governing the country is bigger than he thought. That is probably President Hichilema in his view thinks the K28 million Constituency Development Fund is the answer to all the problems,” Mr Mundubile said.
JOHANNESBURG, July 2 (Reuters) – South Africa’s electricity minister said on Sunday the country was closer to ending daily power cuts as warmer weather returns towards the end of the year, but declined to give a specific date.
South Africa is on course to see its most blackout days in history this year with daily power cuts extending to almost 10 hours a day, affecting businesses and households in an economy already hobbled by high interest rates and inflation.
The power cuts, called loadshedding locally, is expected to shave off 2 percentage points from GDP this year, the central bank said last month.
Blackouts have eased in the past few weeks but there is a fear that as the southern hemisphere winter takes deeper hold in July and August, higher heating demand could trip many power plants. By September, the temperature starts to climb once more.
“I know when we get into summer conditions, then at the current rate, generation will far exceed demand,” Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa said in a news conference.
Due to interventions on system maintenance and availability and efforts from businesses and households, the worst case scenario of peak winter demand of 34,000 megawatts (MW) has not materialised, he said.
The capacity available is plateauing around 29,000 MW, giving enough room to bring the power cuts down to Stage 3, where 3,000 MW are taken off the grid, leading to between two and fours hours of daily power cuts, the minister added.
South Africa implements power cuts in stages from one to eight with eight being the highest and translating into over 10 hours of daily power cuts.
Ramokgopa said the country was reaching a stage where power generation was beginning to keep up with demand, with blackouts coming down from Stage 6 to Stage 3 in the space of six weeks.
South Africa could soon have no blackouts for 24 hours, he said.
“I want to say to the South African people we are much, much closer to that date,” he said.
Billionaire businessman, Aliko Dangote has revealed that while some of his staff have houses abroad which they use as holiday homes, he has none.
Dangote, in an interview with Business Insider Africa outlined the need for young people to take their eyes off luxurious things and focus on making their businesses grow.
He said;
“A lot of people even the younger ones, we need to be very careful because one of the biggest issues with us Africans is that we spend our projected incomes.
“Once you start doing business and the business starts doing well, rather than for you to keep investing into the business, you start spending money and thinking that the profit will continue to come. There are ups and downs in business so you need to be very focused and say ‘Okay fine what do you do and how to do those things.
“Luxury things, they also take up your time which will not make you focus on your business. I mean, I don’t have any holiday home anywhere; I don’t have a house anywhere but I know people who are working for me, they have a house in London. But I don’t.”
See reactions below;
real_funkymallam: When you have too much money and you travel frequently, you don’t need houses everywhere. You are more comfortable in the best hotels . A house needs proper maintenance and care, and that means salaries for security, cooks , Gardners, electricity, tax, etc . Only a serious businessman knows this.
sirbignero: You don finish the Refinery or you never finish am? Na the question be that! You dey among this Nigeria problem because how could you and that Werey ex president dey commission something wey you never build finish??😂.
polished_ice: Why are you the only licensed person to produce cement? So no room for others that might want to grow 🙄.
queen_presty: Richest man in Africa with government backing. Richest man in African government loaned money to build refinery but same government couldn’t not build one refinery. May be you are waiting for same government to buy the house abroad for you. Richest man in Africa bawo.
grande_cojones_: Na you wan be richest man in Africa, some people just wanna have enough to live a dream life and keep things soft with steady stream.
maami_wealth: That’s absolutely his business. This is no way motivating anyways🤷♀️, Invest in whatsoever you want. Everybody go kpai las las.
PRESS STATEMENT BY THE CHILDREN OF MR EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU, ZAMBIA’S 6TH REPUBLICAN PRESIDENT
THE past year and a half have proven to be hard times for our family. Our lives have revolved around family and constantly being invited to the Law Enforcement Agencies. We have endeavored to lead a quiet life after our father left office in August 2021.
We must hasten to say that we are not objectionable to the Law Enforcement Agencies making inquiries into any matter and we have constantly and consistently complied with the Law Enforcement Agencies. Despite our compliance, it seems to us that it has become fashionable to demonize the Lungu family based on unfounded allegations.
The state has not made it any easier for us, as they seem to play to the gallery in matters that relate to our family. Ordinarily, we would expect to be the first to know as relates to matters involving any member of our family. However, we have learnt of the recent lawsuits through news items published in tabloids and various social media platforms. We proceeded to engage our lawyers to obtain the necessary documents from the state, which attempt was met with difficulties.
We have finally obtained the necessary documents and will proceed to respond appropriately.
Our appeal to you all is to allow us to defend ourselves in court. The dramatization of our circumstances by the state in the daily tabloids has only worked to demonize our father who worked diligently to serve this country and willingly handed over power to the incumbent. We have had to spend considerable amount of time with our father and mother who, in all these difficult times, have opted to remain silent.
Our father’s resolve is that we allow the law to take its course, and we agree with that position.
Whereas some may call our father different names, he remains a caring father to us and a loving husband to our mother.
We wish to thank all that have reached out and empathized with us. Your encouragement has kept us going.
In conclusion, our request is that we may not be tried in the media but that we be given justice in court.
READ BY HON. TASILA LUNGU-MWANSA, FOR AND ON BEHALF OF THE LUNGU FAMILY. 04/07/23 3 mins · Public
His Excellency Mr. Chibamba F. Kanyama has presented his Letters of Credence to His Excellency Mr. Joseph Biden Jr., President of the United States of America formally accrediting him as Ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the Republic of Zambia to the United States.
During the ceremony at the White House in Washington D.C. to accept his Letter of Credence, President Biden said the United States and Zambia have enjoyed decades of friendship, and relations between the two countries are stronger than ever.
President Biden said the U.S. looks forward to deepening partnerships on many shared objectives in Zambia, the African Continent and around the world.
He said the U.S. and Zambia share an unshakeable commitment to the centrality of democracy and the responsibilities it entails.
“Our two countries share an unshakeable commitment to the centrality of democracy and the responsibilities it entails. We know protecting this cherished tradition requires tireless reflection and self-improvement. We also know particular attention must be paid to the aspirations of our youngest citizens, who demand and deserve an accountable, responsive, and just administration,” President Biden said.
“We look forward to working with you and the Government of Zambia to prove democracies can deliver meaningful, inclusive growth to empower a health, prosperous future.”
President Biden said the U.S. see openings to collaborate across a range of issues including strengthening governance, ensuring regional peace and security, and enhancing food and energy security.
“I applaud Zambia’s reform efforts and I welcome opportunities to deepen our bilateral and multilateral cooperation. We see openings to collaborate across a range of issues including strengthening governance, ensuring regional peace and security, and enhancing food and energy security. I welcome your ideas for how we can strengthen our partnership to advance our shared objectives and confront our common challenges,” said President Biden.
And Mr. Kanyama stated that President Hakainde Hichilema looks forward to maintaining close bilateral relations based on mutual values and shared interests.
Mr. Kanyama said the Government of the Republic of Zambia greatly appreciates the assistance that the U.S. Government offers through USAID and the President Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR) programs focused on areas such as Agriculture, Economic growth and Health.
“Over the past twenty years, nearly Six Billion U.S. Dollars has been committed to Zambia with a huge impact on improvements in health care. It is worth noting that last year PEPFAR commemorated twenty years of providing support to the global effort to end the HIV pandemic. Through the work of PEPFAR, Zambia has exceeded UNAIDS HIV targets in treatment and viral suppression through close collaboration with the Zambian government and other parties,” Mr. Kanyama said.
He said the people and the government of Zambia also appreciate the benefits accrued from the work of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) in lusaka which initially focused on business reforms and improving water supply and sanitation.
Mr. Kanyama said the new Millennium Challenge support will be directed at infrastructure development, policy reforms and agri-business developments.
Issued by
Charles Tembo First Secretary Press and Public Relations Embassy of the Republic of Zambia Washington D.C. USA ctembo@zambiaembassy.org
President Joe Biden participates in a photo line during an ambassador credentialing ceremony, Friday, June 30, 2023, in the Oval Office of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz)
Lusaka- United Party for National Development UPND Consultant Mark Simuuwe says President Hakainde Hichilema has achieved more than his predicessors in a small period of time.
Speaking today when he featured on One Love Radio, Mr Simuuwe said President Hichilema’s good leadership has put the country on a right path to both economic growth and human development.
He charged that the head of state has opened economic routs that has been shuttered for along time.
Mr Simuuwe further charged that president Hakainde has became the example of good leadership not only in Africa but the world as a whole.
Commenting on the high prices of mealie meal, Consultant Simuuwe explained that high prices of the commodity has been as a result of Law of demand and supply and not lack of UPND policy direction.
To the listeners out there should understand that the high prices of mealie meal is as a result of low supply of maize corn,” said Mr Simuuwe.
He further pointed out high prices of farming inputs as a major setback in Agricultural sector which he said UPND led government remains committed in addressing it as evidenced by the Newly Launched Capital Fertilizer Manufacturing company.
Falcon News Crew reports that the Mark Simuuwe said local fertilizer production company will rejuvenate the agricultural sector through the supply of cheap fertilizer to the famers which will trickle down to the high production of maize.
Mark further pointed out, government move to revamp farming blocks adding that the gesture will see most Zambian people invest much resources in mechanized type of farming.
And on fuel shortages, the consultant explained that that there is no county in the world with cheap oil because of Russia blocked peninsula which affected the fuel transportation to other parts of the world.
He added that the whole world is now only fighting for fuel in the middle east thereby creating the high demand of the commodity world-wide.
He implored that the government should be commended for putting a framework aimed at addressing the fuel challenge in the country.
He assured citizens that New Dawn administration will soon address the fuel shortage like Electricity.
GIVEN LUBINDA TRYING TO MAKE A SILLY MOUNTAIN OUT OF A MOLEHILL; HE HAS NO DEFINITE DIRECTION
…. Lubinda’s Political Twilight will be disastrous….
It’s absolutely absurd for illegal Patriotic Front Party Vice President Given Lubinda to start tossing other candidates out of the race because of his dwindled political strength.
Lubinda is scared of meeting his “Waterloo” because he knows that his strength is too porous to stand the pressure that comes with leadership.
Despite other candidates being ill treated, they’re made of sterner stuff that’s why Given Lubinda looks at himself as lightweight, hence suspending his colleagues without concrete reasons just to enhance already decayed political fortune he once enjoyed.
History shows that there’s no magic bullet for a good leadership but hard work and servant-ship.There is nothing like mere “mailing in” to victory.
Lubinda’s actions are leaving the party with ‘vale of tears’ because of his ego and stubbornness with no regard for Party’s general populace that have continued to hope for the better amidst Lubinda’s mischief.
He has failed to keep the party intact and he’s behaving like “viviparous lizard” stuck in spider’s web.The so called pile “Zayelo” must know that the “weed of crime bears bitter fruits” and hope he’ll handle the pressure once the seeds he is sowing start bearing catastrophic fruits.
Former Kabwata lawmaker shouldn’t mislead himself he’ll pay for his crimes one day; the “weed crime bears bitter fruits”.Many people who try to ‘toot their own horns’ have failed deplorably before, and he is trading on a very thin hot line.
Today is a red letter for him but tomorrow will be totally the opposite and he’ll live to regret. Patriotic Front does not belong to him as an individual it’s for all those who believe in its manifesto and ideologies at large.
If he has run out of steam as result of acting as vice President for too long,he must resign rather than trying to kill the party through senseless and useless suspensions.
We all know he wants to stand as well but blocking other aspirants is uncalled for and will not tolerate any individual with a sole objective of destroying the party.His “ego embedded in dwindled political fortune” invited the wrath of his own cadres when he was Kabwata Member Of Parliament, thought he learnt lessons but alas it’s the opposite.
Lubinda is behaving like an “old duck” in many ways he has no desirable morals to take the party further and those singing and wagging before him do not mean well for the Party.
Patriotic Front supporters have found themselves on the “horns of dilemma” because of such mediocre kind of leadership which is unable to see beyond their pink noses.
The other day Mr Hakainde Hichilema was urging Zambians to work hard if they want to live well and be comfortable.
Listening to him I was wondering what my relatives in Eastern Province, who work seven days a week with no rest, would make of his words. The more they work the poorer they become.
They work hard every day growing cotton, tobacco, soybeans, groundnuts and maize, but their lives are not improving. The transnational corporations that deal in cotton and tobacco – and others – are the ones becoming richer and richer from their sweat and hard work.
The lives of these relatives of mine will never improve, no matter how hard they work, unless we deal with the way they are being robbed – and only a socialist revolution can truly end this exploitation.
We have politicians in the ruling party becoming richer and richer without much hard work – all from corruption, crooked fertiliser, oil, and other deals and contracts.
Clearly, when it comes to living a successful life, one of the most common thoughts that most people have is that they need to be extremely hard working. But the truth is that hard work alone is not enough.
There is no point working hard on something that gives you only small rewards. You can spend your entire life working hard on something but have nothing to show for it at the end of the day.
Now, the reason I’m writing this is NOT to tell you not to work hard, but rather, to share with you why hard work alone is insufficient if you want to be successful.
And more importantly, if you are working hard right now but not seeing much by way of results, and have been doing this for some time, you should perhaps spend some time thinking about your work.
Is the effort you have poured into it giving you the best results?
WHEN GREAT EFFORTS COMBINE WITH THE WRONG STRATEGY
While I’m not denying that hard work is important, it is only important when you are working hard at the right thing.
For instance, if you have been jogging and running for years, does that mean you are a good marathon runner and are able to compete at an Olympic level? No. But why is that?
You can work hard and run a marathon three times a week for the next ten years, but that does not make you an Olympian. Why?
The reason is that hard work alone is not enough. You need to follow a blueprint or the right strategy to get you where you want to go. If you keep running to the west, there is no way you can catch up with the sunrise, no matter how fast or how hard you run.
We were conditioned to work hard at whatever job we get and to believe that things will work out. This is false. Working hard at the wrong thing will not produce much for you.
In fact, working hard itself alone will exhaust you and shorten your life. Ronald Reagan has a famous quote: “It’s true hard work never killed anybody, but, I figure, why take the chance?”
Look at the picture above this article: a guy pushing a big boulder. As you can see, no matter how hard he tries, there is no way the guy can move the boulder unless he has a lever.
If you want to earn a million dollars a year, merely working and earning $5,000 a month will not make you reach your target. You need to do something else. You need something extra.
By saying that you need to do something extra, I’m not referring to working harder or spending more time doing it. Even if you are hard working and you work an additional five hours a day, and your boss doubles your salary to $10,000 a month, there is still no way you can reach the million-dollar mark.
Unless you leverage a system, you can never hit that goal, no matter how hard you work. This is why you need to learn how to leverage other financial vehicles, such as real estate, compound interest, business, and so on.
HOW DO YOU DEFINE HARD WORK?
The problem with working hard is that most people define “hard work” in the wrong way. They think that working long hours equals hard work which, I believe, is only partially true.
If you are working hard in the construction industry under the hot sun, then yes, you are working hard. However, if your work is all about sitting in a comfortable chair and typing and reading website after website, that is not really hard work in the same way, right?
You see, it all depends on how you define it. To me, there are two parts to the definition of hard work.
The first is what most of us already know, which is to work hard on a goal, diligently. But the second part is one that most people miss out on. It involves improving your strategy to make sure you are getting the right results.
In “hard work”, the first word “hard” is what we commonly know as working longer hours and putting in more effort. The second word, “work”, is all about something that WORKS. Yes, you need to be hard working, and work on something that works.
If you are at work right now, take a few minutes to think about the investment of time and energy you are making. Is your energy and effort well spent? Are you doing something that will pay off handsomely or will all your efforts go down the drain?
Things will become clearer if you think about working in a fixed-salary job. You will never see much economic benefit from pouring your energy into that job. Yes, you can be promoted and receive a pay raise, but you are sacrificing your life (time) with money.
Your boss may be grateful for all the hard work you have poured in, but it is impossible for him or her to give you a pay raise every month just because you work more.
Dr. Mwelwa Unsilencing the Voices: Breaking the Chains of Intimidation in Zambia
In the land of Zambia, a chilling climate of intimidation has taken root, choking the voices of those brave enough to challenge the powers that be. The right to freedom of expression, a vital element of any thriving democracy, is being eroded, leaving dissenters vulnerable to retribution and silencing.
It is a peculiar paradox that in this supposed land of freedom, where open dialogue should flourish, questioning the government can expose one to a web of surveillance and persecution. Each critique, each call for accountability, seems to be met with a swift and calculated response, digging deep into individuals’ pasts to find any semblance of guilt that can be used against them.
But what of those who sing praises, who bend to the will of the establishment? They revel in their liberty, protected by a shield of complicity. They enjoy the freedom to speak, while those who dare to raise their voices find themselves labeled as criminals, deprived of their basic rights.
Zambia is not the first nor the last country to be caught in this endless cycle of revenge. Those in power may revel in their temporary dominance, but time inevitably brings change, and with it, the uncovering of past transgressions. The dossier used against dissenters today may very well be unleashed against the celebrated loyalists tomorrow.
Is this the legacy we wish to perpetuate: a cycle of fear, where one administration fuels the flames of intimidation and another follows suit? Must we succumb to the same tactics employed by those in power, or can we carve a different path?
Let us reject the chains of intimidation that bind us and strive for a better Zambia. Rather than tearing each other down, let us embrace a society built on dialogue, respect, and the exchange of ideas. Our strength lies in empowering every individual to voice their concerns, to challenge the status quo, to demand transparency and justice.
Change begins with us, with our refusal to be silenced. We must foster an environment where truth is not met with punishment but met with open ears and genuine dialogue. The freedom to express oneself is not a privilege reserved for the select few; it is the right of every citizen, irrespective of their beliefs or affiliations.
In our quest for a Zambia that upholds the values of freedom and democracy, let us not be defined by the actions of our predecessors. Let us carve a new narrative, one where the voices of dissenters are respected and valued, where accountability and justice reign supreme.
Unsilence the voices, Zambia. Stand together to break the chains of intimidation and weave a society where freedom of expression is celebrated, cherished, and protected for every citizen, regardless of their stance. Let our collective voices resound in unison, united in the pursuit of a brighter, more inclusive future.
Since the riots in France started a week ago, according to Zartoshte Bakhtiari, he hasn’t gotten more than three hours of sleep each night.
He works as the mayor of Neuilly-sur-Marne, which is located east of Paris in one of the poorest regions of France.
By night, he serves as an early warning system for police battling the riots there by patrolling the streets with a dozen staff members and municipal council members until 4:00 or 5:00.
He tells me, “Within days, we [were] in hell.”
On Tuesday, he’ll head to the Élysée Palace with more than 200 other mayors to discuss the crisis with French President Emmanuel Macron.
His request is for “more toughness” from the state, and permission for the local city police to use drones to monitor activity in the town.
“What’s happening now is the result of years of weakness from politicians, and decisions that have not been taken,” he says.
“It’s a problem of authority because these [rioters] don’t fear justice. [They] may go to court, but they come back home a few hours after trial simply because we don’t have enough places in jail in this district of Paris. We cannot support this kind of weakness from the state.”
Just outside his office in the town hall is the charred wall of the local city police station.
“They jumped over this wall at 1am with a jerrycan of petrol,” Mayor Bakhtiari explains, gesturing to the fleet of seven charred squad cars, their ashen skeletons lined up beneath the blackened façade.
But the building was shared with the public housing department, tasked with finding homes for 2,300 local people.
Inside, the office is a carbonised shell of melted plastic and ash. Not all the paper files were digitised. The details of many of those most desperate for housing here have been wiped from the records by the fire.
The head of the housing department, Laurence Tendron Brunet, stands among the burnt ruins in tears.
“I’m so sad,” she says. “We’re going to rebuild, we’re going to start again. But right now there are people who are so desperate for housing. I know about half of them – when they call, I recognise their voices. They’re not files, they’re human beings.”
Mayor Bakhtiari says the arsonists were caught on a video surveillance camera, and from the footage they appear to be teenagers, perhaps 14-16 years old.
“I find it hard to understand that it’s children who are destroying things,” Laurence says, “because at that age, your parents should be responsible for you.”
Round the back of the building, overlooking the car park with its fleet of charred police vehicles, we find a neighbour who filmed the fire on his mobile phone, and agreed to speak to us anonymously.
“Typical,” he says, when he hears about the suspected age of the arsonists. “Organised thugs launch kids of 11 or 13 into the event, telling them: ‘you’ll never go to prison, so go ahead.’ That’s the norm here; they send the young kids [to] the front line. It’s a gang tactic.”
The worst-hit part of Neuilly-sur-Marne is an area called Les Fauvettes. The public library, shops and a supermarket have all been torched here. Les Fauvettes is also home to many of the rioters themselves.
Aicha, a 23-year-old teaching assistant, lives there too. She says she understands the initial anger that sparked the violence – even if she thinks it has since turned into looting and destruction.
“They’re fed up,” she says. “It always falls on the same people. If you’re black or Arab, a gun is pulled and shots fired without thinking. When it’s a white person, they think twice before shooting or even giving a fine.”
But back in his office at the town hall, Mayor Bakhtiari rejects accusations that there’s a problem with the French police.
“Absolutely not, I cannot hear that kind of argument,” he insists. “Maybe we have people in the police who are racist, but we cannot say the police [itself] is racist. The police behave very well here in France.”
But the actions of individual officers, like the one now facing a charge of voluntary homicide for shooting 17-year-old Nahel M. last week, are only half the story.
The other half is about the divisions these events expose within France.
A public collection for the family of that officer topped a million euros on Monday – dwarfing the amount collected for the family of Nahel.
Sarkodie’s controversial song ‘Try Me’, which was a response to Yvonne Nelson’s allegations in her memoir, has been removed from Apple Music and Spotify.
The song, which was released on June 28, 2023, sparked a lot of backlash from Ghanaians, who accused the rapper of ‘slut shaming’ the actress and disrespecting womanhood.
In her memoir, ‘I Am Not Yvonne Nelson’, the actress claimed that Sarkodie impregnated her in 2010 and denied responsibility. She also revealed how he took her to a clinic for an abortion and left her there to bleed.
Sarkodie, however, denied Yvonne’s claims and accused her of lying. He said it was her choice to abort the baby and that she was playing the victim card because the world listens to women more than men.
The song also called out Yvonne for being promiscuous and having multiple partners.
The song has since been taken down from Apple Music and Spotify, following complaints from some gender activists and online users.
One of them, Esther Tawiah, urged the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) to ban the song and make Sarkodie a scapegoat for denigrating womanhood.
She said the song’s lyrics belittled the abortion pains of Yvonne Nelson and showed no empathy for her situation.
She made these remarks on GHOne TV, where she was interviewed by Natalie Fort.
According to gender activist Esther Tawiah, MUSIGA should impose a ban on Sarkodie’s song “Try me.” She argues that Sarkodie’s actions were disrespectful and suggests using him as a scapegoat to deter other “irresponsible” men. pic.twitter.com/GuukNYDAaW
— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) July 1, 2023
One twitter user @ShadrackAmonooC, who joined several users in discussing the latest development, alleged that the song was removed from the streaming platforms because the beat used was sampled without authorisation by the music producer MOG.
Many people have also expressed their displeasure with Sarkodie’s song on social media and called for an apology from him.
Yvonne Nelson has not yet responded to this new development concerning Sarkodie’s Try Me.
OUR PAINFUL 😖 STORY
BEING A CADER WITH BROWN JOMBOZ
I started politics while at school in 2008 . In 2011 I was appointed UPND Lusaka province youth Information & publicity secretary .
In 2013 I went to school and went off politics a bit. In 2014 whilest at college studying to be a secondary school teacher, I made a decision to go into active politics. I decided that I was never going to work for the government as a teacher but to persue my political aspirations.
I took an active role back into politics and was later given a position in the party in 2015.
In 2019 there was a convention and I contested as UPND lusaka district Information & publicity secretary and emerged victorious.
In 2021 I aspired to be adopted as a civic leader in our area but I didn’t get the chance to contest because I found my self in police detention as a political prisoner.
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2021 WE GOT INTO POWER
Our president preached so much about no caderism ,peace and the rule of law.
This stopped many if our people from doing wrong things and it stopped caderism.
Today we are more encouraged to work on our own and we are encouraged to love our enemies even those that oppressed us.
THE CHALLENGES WE FACE
• We don’t get paid . ..there is no Salary for us . There is no allowance for us . There are no hardship allowances, contracts or jobs that are given to any party officials because of being party officials. We are simply volunteers.
• No one in the private sector can employ us or our relatives if discovered, because they fear if governments change they will be in trouble. We can not take part time jobs because employers fear employing politically charged and exposed people.
• Some people think those who have decided to join active politics at our age have never been to school and that they are just cadres.
• Some people are Always reminded about the caders during the time of PF that used to put on brown boots and used to beat up people..wearing a party legalia and brown boots now reminds some people of violence when in actual fact it’s just a legalia. ( We must change our mindset towards party regalia)
• Let’s accept party regalias and brown JOMBOZ to be part of our African Politics. This is what characterizes our politics. It’s a symbol of physical strength & readiness to work.
• PF caders used their advantage to get jobs, free money, contracts and Opportunities. So now that we are in power – People think we equally have the same money and opportunities not knowing that those opportunities are no more because we are all equal with ordinary Zambians.
• Our being in the party is a risk .Other opposition political party members are always pingilalini us to deal with us once we step out of power. They think we are the ones who are enjoying in Zambia. Not knowing we are different as we have maintained peace.
• Did you know that sometimes we eat at last ( pa last ) because the president normally loves to service ordinary Zambians before he can service his own party people.
• Sometimes we cry 😢 in our unguarded moments and ask ourselves if it was necessary to dump our professions …we have many challenges… We are just like you .
Conclusion
✓ Bally has made everyone equal in Zambia.
✓ We are just party officials who have chosen to be different from the previous party officials ✓ Accept us and let’s stay together— we stay in the same communities and buy in the same shops. Appreciate the efforts being made by the president to kill caderism and promote peace .
Today’s party officials with brown JOMBOZ are very much peaceful and educated .
STATE HOUSE is silent on the rising incidences of torture and brutality by the police! Why? Is it because it is complicit?
Recently, the US State Department released a detailed report dubbed ‘USA 2022 Country Report on Human Rights Practices: Zambia’ which brought to light a number of human rights abuses committed by Mr Hakainde Hichilema’s administration.
The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) also condemned the increased incidents of police brutality against members of the opposition and cited the recent arrests of PF presidential hopeful Mr Emmanuel Mwamba, PF member and blogger Mr Rizwan Patel as well as Mr Given Phiri, a co- accused person with former State House Special Assistant for Politics, Dr Christopher Zumani Zimba as among the incidents where police brutality was in evidence.
LAZ further condemned the Inspector General of Police, Graphael Musamba, over his stance on police brutality, stating that there is no law which gives the police service power to brutalise citizens in the name of ‘minimum force’ during arrests. It also stated that it was not the function of the police to control the ‘toning down of citizens’, who have the right to freely express their views in line with their constitutionally protected freedoms. Earlier, Mr Musamba was reported as ‘urging the opposition to tone down and cooperate with the officers or else the police will use minimum force’.
Amidst all these problems between the police and the public in general, State House has remained conveniently silent about what is going on. But we are not surprised because we have stated over and again that the gestapo style of policing that is currently taking place is under the orders and supervision of Mr Hichilema’s most trusted agent, Mr Fanwell Siandenge, the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of State House, who is working with a hit squad of well-known UPND cadres drafted into the State House security system.
It is also well known that in fact, Mr Siandenge is the de facto Inspector General of Police and all key decisions are taken by him while Mr Musamba remains a powerless Inspector General of Police. We say this with utmost sincerity and sympathy for Mr Musamba because no human being should be forced into such a situation. But we understand because that is Mr Hichilema’s style of leadership, in which he keeps some people merely to save face or for convenience while he continues to pursue increased political clout.
Furthermore, the recent justifications and empty denials on this matter from Minister of Home Affairs, Mr Jack Mwiimbu, justice minister Mr Mulambo Haimbe and acting information minister Mr Makozo Chikote, only confirms one thing, the gross human rights violations by police are all part of the grand scheme to silence dissent hence the silence from Mr Hichilema, who should ideally be the one to address such very serious concerns.
The partisan policing and torture the country is currently witnessing is fully sanctioned by the top UPND government leadership.
It is now clear that those who don’t agree with Mr Hichilema or choose to align themselves with the opposition will be dealt with viciously. And the chilling incidents of brutality and torture by the police are calculated to intimidate the masses. This is meant to set the stage upon which the 2026 presidential and general elections will be held – unlawful use of force by police – but it won’t work because the police are not the law unto themselves.
We also want to remind Mr Hichilema and his hit squad in the police that they are not big enough to stop the revolution that is being waged against poverty, corruption and imperialist puppet leadership. The struggle for justice, equity and peace will go on and the hope for a better socialist Zambia will not die. The Zambian people are resolved and cannot be cheated anymore.
To the international community, in particular, the European Union (EU), who have chosen to pay a blind eye to these violations, we say, pretending that all is well in Zambia today is being complicit in the crimes committed. It is barbaric, inhuman and disrespectful to the Zambian people to endorse this regime, given the trend of brutality and torture against the innocent citizens we are seeing today.
The rapidly shrinking political space and decline in freedoms of expression, movement and association under Mr Hichilema’s leadership is a travesty and adds to the increasing crackdown on peaceful dissent in the country. This is not the Zambia we all want and definitely, this is not how peaceful nations are built. Mr Hichilema’s heavy handed approach must be stopped forthwith.
We demand that investigations into these gross violations be opened and the perpetrators together with their superiors issuing orders be brought to justice.
DID YOU KNOW THAT THE BIGGEST HINDRANCE TO ZAMBIAN TALENT IS OUR COLLECTIVE INFERIOR MINDSET AS ZAMBIANS?
I do not know the connection, but somehow, somewhere between the time we learned that we were supposed to be the kindest, most hospitable group of human beings on the planet to visitors from outside, we also picked up the worst form of inferiority complex.
One wise observer put it this way: “It is in our collective traditional cultures that seeks to honour visitors more than our own. As such visitors leave having experienced the best of us and yet we are relentlessly cruel towards each other.”.
We Zambians don’t believe in ourselves. It usually takes outsiders to come and tell us how lucky we are to have had rare, strong Zambian individuals among us, individuals that have gone on to change the world and yet are highly rejected, trampled on, pulled down, and called names back home.
We now have a new generation of Zambians. Across the different spheres of human influence, we have young Zambians that with our support, can be world beaters.
We have that gifted singer who just needs better producers and handlers. We have that meticulous Accountant that needs money to complete their professional Exams. We have that young businessman who needs someone to trust them with their first Purchase Order. Yes, We have that #kuzo who just needs to land the next big role to be the new #Henry Cele.
I see you young people. I see massive potential. Let us cast aside this useless PHD syndrome that has not gotten us anywhere for now close to 60 years of independence and let’s push ahead, together towards a future of achievements for Zambains and Zambia.
THE APOLOGIES IN ZAMBIA TO PRESIDENT HAKAINDE HICHILEMA ARE WELCOME BUT TRUST NEEDS ANOTHER PROCESS ! …***
By Stembridge Sikalundu
The spots of a leapard can’t be changed but it is likey that the behavior can be changed . It is very normal for anyone to apologise when they realise what they did was wrong , however it takes a lot of humility to accept certain appologies , especially when we review the past happenings in the country , some people have asked why now because since loosing elections people have continued to prevail the same way using the rights of democracy .
It takes one person to realise that it is human to make mistakes and it is well to apologise because there are varying reasons and effects which remind people the mistakes they did , when everything is going on well people don’t think of how much pain they cause on others , that is why some people should get punished for others to learn not to ever do the same wrong things .
We need to introspect and assertively focus on why suddenly there is a spate of apologies from people in the former ruling party which is almost being done at the same time ? . We knew it was going to be a matter of time that many people were going to realise their mistakes , it is necessary now to take lessonsble effects on how the moral fiber was artificially erosioned , time is an equaliser for some people who don’t see beyond what they know .
Zambians must be very united at all times , in poverty or distressful times ,whether our opinions and reasons don’t match , politics is a civic duty which involves every citizen in this country , if you are not affected then one is effected , the influence of politicians in the country has taught zambians many things , peace and unity is not guaranteed if there is no love and togetherness in the nation . Leaders are models of this important reputable history of our coexistence , we must forever harness on because our country is founded on the unified Principle .
The future with peace and unity among us will promote social economic development , let’s open a new chapter of correction and propriety ,if politicians were the reason for all these unzambian activities which happened in the country , it is our responsibility in this country to help guide our leaders on the good foundation which our forefathers left , whoever takes away these values in order to become a leader of any elective positions , let’s be critical to raise the flame , Zambia is everything to us and the future generations must come to appreciate our cultures in diversity . God bless mother Zambia .
ON A LIGHTER NOTE: STATE FUNCTIONS AND THE ROLE OF FORMER PRESIDENTS AND VICE PRESIDENTS IN ATTENDANCE
By Dr Nevers Mumba
I have noticed that each time we have posted pictures of myself attending National Events, especially in my capacity of Former Republican Vice-President, it is usually followed by a lot of questions asking why? In some cases, some respondents are quite disrespectful and even question why these leaders must attend such functions to ‘eat’ while people out there ‘are suffering’.
So for the avoidance of doubt, all former Republican Presidents, and Former Republican Vice Presidents are now considered as part of the Establishment as Ex Officials.
What is this means is that Cabinet Office makes efforts to Invite all elligible Statesmen and Women to state functions. Due to various reasons, the invitees may or may not make it to particular National Events and those that manage, typically represent the rest.
As of today, Presidents Edgar Chagwa Lungu is the only surviving Former Head of State and He leads the list of Statesmen. He is followed by Former Vice Presidents Gen. Godfrey Miyanda, Enock Kavindele,Dr. Nevers sekwila Mumba, Dr.Guy Scott, and Madam Inonge Wina.
Please young people, don’t insult these elders each time you see them at State Functions. The Government requires their attendance because these function are not about any Individual or political party, but they are all about Zambia and our shared National interest.
In other words, State Functions are do different from family weddings. You always need family elders to be in attendance as a stamp of approval and to show that the family has been represented and that the matrimony has the full blessing of the family representatives.
The National Road Fund Agency (NRFA) has collected over K1 billion from Toll Gates this year, representing a collection performance efficiency of 126 percent and is on course to beat the 2023 target of K2.7 billion.
NRFA Public Relations Manager Alphonsius Hamachila said the K1.1 billion was raised from 38 Toll collection points across the country between January and May 2023 against a target of K887 million during this period.
Speaking at the ongoing Zambia International Trade Fair in Ndola, Mr. Hamachila said the NRFA, through the Ministry of Finance and National Planning was channelling most of this revenue towards dismantling arrears owed to road contractors and consultants.
Mr Hamachila said the New Dawn Government was leveraging on the National Road Tolling Programme within the framework of the Public Private Partnership (PPP) to finance road infrastructure development on a sustainable basis.
And Mr Hamachila has called on motorists to take advantage of the cashless payment system through the acquisition of the Electronic Toll Cards as this was a faster and efficient way of paying tolls.
He said through the cashless payment system, the Agency collected K152 million this year, representing 30 percent of inland toll collections.
He said the Agency was on a drive to increase the 60,000 Electronic Toll cards in circulation and have since partnered with commercial banks and mobile telephone service providers to facilitate the crediting of funds on the Toll Cards.
Dr CHITALU CHILUFYA’S REINSTATEMENT GIVEN LUBINDA’S DISCRETION…remains expelled until party veep’s consideration-PF
…remains expelled until party veep’s consideration
Lusaka — Monday July 3rd 2023
Patriotic Front PF Presidential Candidate Dr. Chitalu Chilufya will remain expelled from the party’s Central Commitee until consideration by party vice president Given Lubinda.
Last year Dr. Chilufya and other Members of the Central Commitee were removed from the Commitee on the pretext that they had not been attending meetings and other party activities .
Others affected by this move were Hon. Dora Siliya,Hon. Charles Zulu, Hon. Kutemba Konga, Hon. Philip Kosamu, Hon. Dr. Jonas Chanda and Hon. Kabinga Pande.
It is believed that Dr. Chilufya had not received any letter or call for diciplinery hearing for the said cause.
In a press statement dated Sunday October 16th 2022 Issued by party MCC Chairperson for Information and Publicity Hon. Raphael Nakachinda Dr. Chilufya indicated that he had not received any expulslsion letter.
Hon. Nakachinda indicated that Dr. Chilufya’s case had been placed under consideration .
“At the last sitting of the Central Committee, Dr. Chitalu Chilufya came to the meeting and stated that he has not been aware of any letter. His case is therefore under further consideration” read part of the press statement .
Yesterday, 10 monthes after the expulsion information emerged that PF vice president blocked Dr. Chilufya’s reinstatement into the commitee on grounds that there was no place for him and he had not shown remourse.
Close sources suggest that this was against the displinery committee’s resolutions.
But party MCC deputy chairperson for Information and Publicity Emmanuel Mwamba described the reports as fake and malicious.
In a statement on sunday Mr. Mwamba confirmed that Dr. Chilufya’s reinstatement was Mr. Lubinda’s preserve .
“We must state howver that there was an appeal received from Dr. Chitalu Chilufya seeking reinstatement, which matter has been under consideration. However the process and procedures in accordance with the party Constitution may require a fresh and direct appointment other than a reinstatement that Hon. Dr. Chitalu Chilufya had requested.This matter remains under consideration and is preserve of the Acting President” He said .
FULL STATEMENT
IGNORE FALSE STORY ABOUT EXPULSION OF DR. CHITALU CHILUFYA
Lusaka-Sunday, 2nd July, 2023
We have noted a false and malicious story circulating on social-media and alleging that the Central Committee has expelled Mansa Central Member of Parliament, Dr. Chitalu Chilufya, from the Central Committee or from the Patriotic Front.
The story is false and malicious and is clearly intended to cause division and sow feelings of discord against the Central Committee and the party.
It must be noted that the Central Committee has not had any sitting other that the last meeting held on June 24th, 2023 and whose resolutions were announced to the general public.
DR. CHITALU CHILUFYA AND THE CENTRAL COMMITTEE
It must be noted that the Central Committee in its sitting held on 16th October 2022 dropped several members of the Central Committee after repeated requests for explanations for non-attendance of its meetings.
Those dropped included;
1. Hon. Dora Siliya
2. Hon. Dr. Chitalu Chilufya
4. Hon. Charles Zulu
5. Hon. Philip Kosamu
6. Hon. Kutemba Konga
7. Hon. Dr. Jonas Chanda
8. Hon. Kabinga Pande.
This position has not changed since 2022.
Earlier the Central Committee at its sitting held on 12th June, 2022, ratified the appointment of new members of the Central Committee that included;
1. Hon. Dr. Chishimba Kambwili.
2. Hon. Bowman Lusambo.
3. Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba.
4. Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya.
5. Hon. Japhen Mwakalombe.
6. Hon. Dr. Canisius Banda.
7. Ms. Charity Kapona
And.
8. Ms Tapiwa Muhango.
We must state howver that there was an appeal received from Dr. Chitalu Chilufya seeking reinstatement, which matter has been under consideration.
However the process and procedures in accordance with the party Constitution may require a fresh and direct appointment other than a reinstatement that Hon. Dr. Chitalu Chilufya had requested.
This matter remains under consideration and is preserve of the Acting President.
We therefore appeal to both the media houses and members of the party to ignore the false allegations contained in the unattributed statement circulating.
For further clarification, kindly get in touch with the undersigned.
Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba
Member of Central Committee
Deputy Chairperson -Information and Publicity
PATRIOTIC FRONT
PRESIDENT HICHILEMA CALLS FOR PRACTICAL EDUCATION SYSTEM
NDOLA- President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA has reiterated his call on education authorities to put in place a system that responds to the needs of the people.
President Hichilema says the Ministry of Education should continue working towards ensuring that education takes a practical approach that enables learners who complete their studies to venture into entrepreneurship rather than waiting for white collar jobs.
President Hichilema made the call when he toured the Ministry of Education Stand at the ongoing 2023 Zambia International Trade Fair being held under the theme, “Stimulating Economic Development through Partnerships, Trade and Investment”.
President Hakainde Hichilema said there is need to introduce school curriculum systems that will enable children pursue their career of choice in the early stages of their education.
And President Hichilema commended the early childhood education department for responding to the New Dawn Government’s agenda of ensuring education begins at an early stage.
President Hichilema said early education is extremely important for the harmonious development of children, who are the generation of Zambia’s future.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Information and Media Director Spokesperson Thabo Kawana said everything about the New Dawn Government and its delivery to the people is anchored on the Ministry of Education.
The Director Spokesperson said the Ministry can be benchmarked at hundred per cent as it has and continues to deliver to the Zambian people’s expectations.
“To us we are ever so proud and that is why in our little way, we do everything possible to support the Ministry of Education,” Mr Kawana said.
Mr. Kawana said the New Dawn Government looks up to the Ministry hence appealed to staff to continue on the same path so that other civil servants can emulate their good work.
CHINESE AMBASSADOR TO ZAMBIA GRACES BENE MUKUNI CEREMONY
2nd July,2023
KAZUNGULA- More than twenty-five Royal Highnesses and thousands of people from across the country this morning gathered at ‘Simukale Shrine’ and ‘Gombwa’ which is the main arena to celebrate the Bene Mukuni Traditional Ceremony.
The ceremony narrates the history of Mukuni Ngombe’s journey from Kola in Congo to Zambia’s Victoria falls through songs, cultural dance, drums and narrations.
The narration excited tourists and youths that listened attentively to the songs, cultural dance and drums played by the Royal group composing of teenagers, youths and elderly women.
Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Du Xiaohul said the friendship between Zambia and China is based on mutual understanding, love and respect for each other.
Speaking during the Bene Mukuni Traditional Ceremony, held at Mukuni Village in Kazungula said, that the world during the past week paid so much attention to the debt restructuring deal which Zambia had achieved.
“We provided maximum support to Zambia during the debt restructuring process and I want to say that China never pressed for any payment nor attached politics to the debt issue,” said, Ambassador.
He commended Chief Mukuni for his commitment to continue upholding Zambia’s culture through traditional ceremonies.
Adding that, he was happy that the traditional ceremony and the history of Chief Munokalya Mukuni, attracted tourists who learnt a lot about how the chiefdom arrived at its last destination which is Mukuni village situated 3kms away from the Mighty Victoria Falls.
Ambassador Du Xiaohui pledged more support to Zambia following President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to developing the country.
Speaking at the same occasion Chief Mukuni who spoke through the Chairman of the ceremony appealed to government to formulate a policy that would help deal with succession wrangles that have hit most of the chiefdoms in the country.
“The nation is fatigued with succession disputes and the mode used to deal with such issues is denying the local and families involved to resolve issues.
Chief Mukuni appealed to the Chinese government to empower Zambia with technology so that it matches development taking place in the changing world.
The ceremony is held annually to renew and cement, traditions, cultural and ancestral bond that exist between the Royal houses of Mukuni Royal dynasty and all ethose stablished during the pre-colonial Africa era.
Overall, Simukale Cultural Heritage site situated near the Victoria Fall serves as a tangible and intangible representation of the cultural heritage, spirituality and history of the local communities.
It plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the cultural identity of the region while providing educational and tourism opportunities
The US Supreme Court has struck a blow against gay rights after deciding in favour of a Christian graphic-designer who refused to serve same-sex couples based on their religious beliefs.
The court ruled 6-3 for designer Lorie Smith, who had argued a Colorado law that prevents discrimination based on sexual orientation, race, gender and other characteristics is against her rights to free speech.
US Supreme court rules that businesses can discriminate against gay people
Smith’s argument was that, as an artist, a ruling against her would force artists — from painters and photographers to writers and musicians — to do work that is against their beliefs.
Colorado state law prohibits businesses open to the public refusing service because of sexual orientation. But the Supreme Court now says artists cannot be compelled to express messages against their religious beliefs.
Smith’s business, called 303 Creative, sells custom web designs, but she opposed providing her services for same-sex weddings.
Smith’s lawyer, Kristen Waggoner, said the Supreme Court was right to reaffirm that the government cannot compel people to say things they do not believe.
“Disagreement isn’t discrimination, and the government can’t mislabel speech as discrimination to censor it,” she said in a statement.
Conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote in the ruling that Colorado’s law would force Smith to create speech that she does not believe, in violation of the U.S. Constitution’s First Amendment.
“Were the rule otherwise, the better the artist, the finer the writer, the more unique his talent, the more easily his voice could be conscripted to disseminate the government’s preferred messages. That would not respect the First Amendment; more nearly, it would spell its demise,” Gorsuch wrote.
“The First Amendment envisions the United States as a rich and complex place where all persons are free to think and speak as they wish, not as the government demands,” Gorsuch added.
The court’s three liberal justices dissented. Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote, “Today, the Court, for the first time in its history, grants a business open to the public a constitutional right to refuse to serve members of a protected class.”
Sotomayor added, “By issuing this new license to discriminate in a case brought by a company that seeks to deny same-sex couples the full and equal enjoyment of its services, the immediate, symbolic effect of the decision is to mark gays and lesbians for second-class status. In this way, the decision itself inflicts a kind of stigmatic harm, on top of any harm caused by denials of service.”
The decision by the court, on the final day of rulings in its term that began in October, comes at a time when laws targeting the rights of transgender and other LGBT people are being pursued by Republican legislators in numerous conservative-leaning states.
The case pitted the right of LGBT people to seek goods and services from businesses without discrimination against the free speech rights, as asserted by Smith, of artists – as she called herself – whose businesses provide services to the public.
President Joe Biden, a Democrat, criticized the ruling.
“In America, no person should face discrimination simply because of who they are or who they love,” Biden said in a statement, adding that he fears the ruling could invite more discrimination.
“More broadly, today’s decision weakens long-standing laws that protect all Americans against discrimination in public accommodations – including people of color, people with disabilities, people of faith and women,” Biden added.
“The PF Massive Infrastructure Development: The Hidden Mystery”
Once upon a time in a land called Zambia, there was a government that had big dreams. They wanted to build grandiose infrastructure projects that would make the world’s jaw drop. So they went to the bank, borrowed a ton of money, and set out on their mission to create a masterpiece.
The result? A magnificent mansion that boasted all the latest fancy gadgets and futuristic technology. It was the talk of the town, the envy of nations far and wide. People marveled at its beauty and the success that it represented. But little did they know the hidden mystery that lay beneath its shimmering facade.
You see, this marvelous mansion came at a hefty price – a burden that would burden the family for generations to come. The family’s income was now shackled to the weight of loan repayments, stretching far beyond their retirement years. They had a beautiful house, but at what cost? They struggled to afford basic necessities like food, clothes, and even medical bills. Their dreams of providing a good education for their children faded away as they grappled with the financial strain.
And just like that family, Zambia found itself in a similar predicament. Under the PF government, the country borrowed and borrowed until it reached a point where more than 40% of the national income was funneled into debt repayment. Talk about biting off more than you can chew! This is why we’re now talking about debt restructuring, because our debt is set to outlive even those who made the decisions to borrow in the first place.
But let’s not get too gloomy, my friends. Patience is key when it comes to reaping the fruits of our labor. I remember back in the day, planting mango trees in the village and eagerly waiting for them to bear juicy fruits. It took years for those trees to mature, long after I had left the village behind. And now, as we face the worst economy in recent times, we must remember that it didn’t happen overnight. It’s a result of choices made in the past, decisions made by the UPND.
Now, I don’t want to point fingers or lay blame. That’s not what this is about. It’s about recognizing our mistakes, taking responsibility, and seeking forgiveness. We all make errors, but it’s how we learn from them and strive for a better future that really counts.
Just like those mango trees, it will take time for the consequences of our actions to unfold. But as long as we reflect, hold ourselves accountable, and have the courage to rectify our mistakes, there’s hope for a brighter tomorrow. Our biggest crime would be failing to acknowledge the wrongs of the past. Some of these wrongs may not amount to criminal offenses, but they are certainly moral wrongs – a grave injury to the unborn generation of Zambians.
So let us not be afraid to address the hidden mysteries and challenge the status quo. Only then can we truly pave the way for a future that is not shackled by the mistakes of the past. Let’s learn from the tale of the magnificent mansion, and ensure that our pursuit of grandeur does not come at the expense of our people’s well-being.
South Africa’s Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini is being treated in hospital for suspected poisoning, his traditional prime minister has said.
The BBC understands that the king sought medical attention in Eswatini as he is uncomfortable with seeking treatment in South Africa, Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi added.
This follows the sudden death of one of his senior advisers, also of suspected poisoning, Chief Buthelezi said.
However, the king’s official spokesman said he was in “perfect health”.
The monarch was currently not in hospital, and “unnecessary panic” should not be created, Prince Africa Zulu said, in what appeared to be an indirect reference to Chief Buthelezi’s statement.
King Misuzulu was crowned in front of thousands of his subjects last October.
But a vicious power struggle has been raging within the royal family over the 48-year-old’s accession, and tensions have also recently surfaced between the monarch and Chief Buthelezi.
The Zulu king does not have formal political power and the monarch’s role within broader South African society is largely ceremonial, but he remains hugely influential with a yearly government-funded budget of several million dollars.
A faction within the family is challenging his claim to the throne in court, insisting that he is not the rightful heir of his late father, King Goodwill Zwelithini.
They insist that another son of the late king, Prince Simakade, should be the monarch.
King Zwelithini had six wives and at least 26 children.
His will has also been challenged in court by his first wife, Queen Sibongile Dlamini-Zulu, and her two daughters.
A court dismissed their case last year, but they said they would appeal against the ruling.
There is no suggestion that any members of the royal family are behind King Misuzulu’s suspected poisoning.
The South African police have not yet commented on the claims.
In his statement, Chief Buthelezi said King Misuzulu’s senior aide, Douglas Xaba who stayed with him, “passed on quite suddenly and that there are suspicions that he was poisoned”.
“When His Majesty began to feel unwell, he suspected that he too may have been poisoned.
“He immediately sought out medical treatment in Eswatini. I am informed that His Majesty felt uncomfortable seeking treatment in South Africa, as his parents had both received treatment in South Africa and subsequently died,” Chief Buthelezi said.
Chief Buthelezi added that while the king had recently appointed Prince Africa as the head of communications in his office, he, as the traditional prime minister, had an obligation to inform the Zulu nation of “this worrying situation”.
“Our immediate concern is the King’s wellbeing. We as the Zulu nation pray for His Majesty’s full and swift recovery.
“Should there be any reason for further investigations, that will be attended to by the authorities,” Chief Buthelezi said.
In his subsequent statement, Prince Africa said there appeared to be an “orchestrated agenda and a desperate narrative to communicate defamatory and baseless claims” that the king is unwell.
“Ultimately, this creates unnecessary panic and perceptions of instability in the Royal Crown,” he added.
However, Prince Africa confirmed the monarch had undergone a medical examination in Eswatini while visiting his uncle, King Mswati III.
The checks were carried out because of “our current times of pandemics and other dangerous ailments”, and also “to mitigate against any untimely eventuality, given the reports of Mr Xaba’s sudden passing”.
King Misuzulu’s accession was sudden and unexpected, and he has been at the centre of palace intrigue.
His father died during the pandemic in March 2021 of diabetes-related complications.
He was the Zulu nation’s longest-reigning monarch, having served on the throne for almost 50 years.
King Misuzulu’s mother, Queen Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu, then became the regent, but she died a month later.
She was the sister of Eswatini’s King Mswati III – Africa’s only absolute monarch.
At the time, Chief Buthelezi dismissed rumours that she had been poisoned.
He had backed King Misuzulu’s accession to the throne, but recent reports suggested that sharp differences had emerged between the two.
It followed a dispute over the chairmanship of the Ingonyama Trust Board, which manages vast tracts of land controlled by the monarch.
The king appointed Chief Thanduyise Mzimela as its chairman, but this was opposed by Chief Buthelezi who felt he was inexperienced for the post, according to local media.
