Foreign Affairs Minister Harry Kalaba has again cautioned veteran politician and diplomat Vernon Mwaanga against issuing statements that have the potential to injure Zambia’s relations with its neighbours.
This is after Mr Mwaanga described Mr Kalaba’s reaction to his comments over reports that a Dubai based firm which was implicated in the Uganda election rigging scam had been awarded a tender to print ballot papers for the general election in August as childish.
Dr Mwaanga told election stakeholders in Zambia to verify facts that the Dubai-based company called Al Ghurair, which the Electoral Commission of Zambia has selected to print ballot papers for the August 11 general elections, was the same one that printed ballot papers for the controversial elections in Uganda, some of which were reportedly pre-marked.
But Mr Kalaba wrote to Dr Mwaanga on April 20, threatening that the government would not protect him if the Ugandan government decided to prosecute him for making reference to some electoral issues currently being contested in that country’s courts.
“I wish to express to you sir, the displeasure and disappointment of the government of the Republic of Zambia on the recent remarks attributed to you as reported in the Saturday Post Newspaper of 16th April, 2016 entitled ‘Watch ECZ.’
“It must be stated that the naming of a sovereign state in an internal matter relating to the political process in that country, whose facts are before its domestic courts, and have not been fully verified was highly regrettable and unwarranted especially since it came from a person of your stature and standing in the practice of diplomacy and international relations,” Mr Kalaba wrote.
In response, Dr Mwaanga said he was very disappointed and angry with Harry Kalaba’s childish and immature way of dealing with issues and his meaningless threats.
Dr Mwaanga charged that Mr Kalaba had a childish approach to handling issues.
“Hon Minister, I have received your letter dated 20th April, 2016, concerning the printing of ballot papers by ECZ in Dubai. I am very disappointed and angry that you held a press briefing and made remarks before verifying what I had actually said. My statement was in writing as always and I expected you to verify what I had actually said. I have been a chief election observer in Uganda and have established very strong links with its people and civil society.
All I was saying is that there is information available on blogs and websites in Uganda containing information about dictator Yoweri Museveni which required ‘verification’. What is wrong with verification? I am a consummate diplomat, I choose my words very carefully,” Dr Mwaanga stated.
But below is Mr Kalaba’s latest response to Dr Mwaanga’s statement
Dr. Vernon Mwaanga’s personal attacks
Good morning Zambia.
I am yet to receive the letter from my elder brother Dr. Vernon Mwaanga which he has, however, circulated on social media and the Post Newspaper of today.
Based on the content of what I have read in the papers, Dr. Mwaanga has for one reason or the other felt offended by my earlier advice to all political players in the country to refrain from issuing statements that border on Zambia’s relations with other countries.
Dr. Mwaanga indicated that he was angry with me for the stance I took to censor his public statement concerning the purported printing of ballot papers in Dubai and implicating the Sovereign State of Uganda and he has gone on to label my actions as being childish and immature.
He has also pointed out that it was his democratic right to engage in any discussion and hold any opinion on national matters and that my advice or concern over his statement was a baseless threat.
I wish to inform the Nation that the PF Government will continue to uphold our long cherished values of respecting and protecting freedom of speech and individuals’ rights to self-expression and information.
But at the centre of that freedom should be responsibility, self-restraint and patriotism.
Freedom of expression cannot and should not be allowed to crowd our judgement and impinge on our collective responsibility to respect the Sovereignty of other Nations.
It was not my intention, direct or indirect, to question Dr. Mwaanga’s right to verify where the ballot papers will be printed.
The focus of my advice to my elder brother was that given his stature in our country, he has added responsibility to censor his opinions that may easily be interpreted as reflecting the opinions of the country.
In the era of modern diplomacy, we have ceased to rely on war-words to settle disputes and the art of self-restraint has not only gained its momentum, but also forged a new world order that heavily hinges on people who can handle awkward situations without upsetting any side.
A seasoned diplomat like Dr. Mwaanga knows that this country can derive the utmost benefits while retaining national dignity from both his experience and his measured indulgence in public discourse.
I personally would not expect him to shun from his responsibility to patch up the rifts caused by his publicly expressed opinions.
Dr. Mwaanga’s experience in the International arena ought to have equipped him with all the necessary knowledge required to understand that while indeed, most people can be trained to be career diplomats, excellent ones share some qualities that boarder on patriotism, sober language and patriotic adaptation.
Patriotism is always glorified in international diplomacy because the patriot thinks first of his country and later of himself.
A sagacious diplomat like Dr. Mwaanga cannot show greater passion for his motherland than by carrying national interests through his speech and self-interrogation.
In this regard, a great responsibility rests upon our statesman, not only to enjoy his right to self-expression and right to information, but also to maintain the confidence and trust of the people of the world and forge international relationships that focus on the growth and peace of our land.
In the recent past, Dr. Mwaanga has visited my office thrice and he has throughout encouraged my youthful dynamism and nodded my performance.
I have cherished his encouragement and contribution to our country’s diplomatic endeavours but when his actions and words collide with the interests of the country, I have a duty to bring that to his attention and if doing so is an act of childishness and immaturity, then I am inclined to doubt my elder brother’s intentions for our land and consequently left perturbed by his desire to straddle the middle stretch of the political see-saw.
As the current appointed top diplomat of our land, I cannot allow unsupported insinuations that meddle in the affairs of other Nations and that are not based on factual information but rather on unproven blogs and media sources.
Dr. Mwaanga himself has stated in his statement that his source of information is certain blogs and websites in Uganda.
A statesman of his stature and standing cannot be expected to put the reputation of our country at risk on the basis of such unreliable sources of information. This is like going to war armed only with a bunch of teaspoons.
As I have said before, the Government of His Excellency Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, remains committed to international diplomacy, good governance and the rule of law and we will ensure that these elections which my elder brother is so worried about, are conducted in a manner that is free, fair and credible and conducted on a level playing field.
Elections are won or lost on the basis of ideas and the character of those tasked with explaining those ideas to the electorates.
In the PF, that is what we have chosen to base our focus on.
We are united in projecting the good values of our land to the outside world and we have been tenacious to highlight what we have been doing since we came in power. That’s what has the potential to win us the next election.
Zambia is renowned for her democratic and diplomatic credentials and the PF Government remains fully committed to maintaining these standards.
We may not be everyone’s first choice, but we are a great choice. We may not be perfect, but we need not be because only Christ is perfect and our perfection may only be judged on the basis of our passion and intentions for our people.
And as for me, I cherish positive criticism whether it comes from one of my kind or from the opposition. I cherish the ideals of collective wisdom and value the attributes that I can only have by learning from others.
That’s who I am. Take me the way God has made me or watch me as I walk away because God advises me not to sit in the counsel of those not propagating his agenda.
Well said honourable Kalaba.Ala icibemba cilanda ati umuntu ngakula ninshi na mano yaya
yalepwa so Ba VJ kuwayawayafye.
Kalaba sounds more mature than VJ……..I wonder why the UP N Down party doesn’t want the massive votes we will give ECL to be counted by ECZ…………for them to be crying rigging everyday it seems they only want votes from a particular province to count in the August 11th election especially that they registered babies who don’t qualify to vote. Mukose!
Excellent communication delivered with the highest measure of maturity, love, respect and in a spirit of mature Zambian top Diplomat. Its flawless in intent and meaning. Blessed are the peace makers. It cannot be politics on everything lets love one another.
Statement is too long. Full of grammatical and spelling errors. Typical of people unqualified people holding positions they do not deserve, Kalaba the former Registry Clerk at Ministry of land is trying to sound sophisticated by using big words and completely missing the point. But that is typical of all Edgar Lungu’ senior advisors.
That was a long story from Kalaba.
Even if Uganda sued VJ, the court hearing in Kampala won’t be before 15th August. The in coming Foreign Affairs Minister Garry Gondo will protect his uncle VJ.
It is not Zambia’s image or relations that I am concerned about, but my big fat belly.
How can VJ say things that threaten my belly security?
If Changwa falls, my belly has a bleak future, so please spare some thought about that.
My belly is more important that the welfare of Zambians.
HONORABLE KALABA IS MATURE AS CAN BE SEEN FROM THIS ARTICLE. ITS ENCOURAGING WE STILL HAVE THE YOUNG WHO ARE AS SMART AS HON. KALABA. BUT U KNOW SOME PEOPLE ARE SO PROUD THAT THEY CAN’T HUMBLE THEMSELVES AND SAY ‘I WAS WRONG, I AM SORRY’. VJ IS ONE SO PROUD SENIOR CITIZEN AND HE THINKS EVERYTHING HE DOES OR SAY SHOULD BE APPLAUDED BY EVERYONE, IF CRITICIZED THEN HE SAYS “I AM UPSET AND DISAPPOINTED”.
Have you heard of any of the serious and developed countries say they will not protect a citizen against another country regardless…therein lies the folly of Kalaba
@ State Council
What happened to Honorable (LOL) Kalaba threat to sue New York Police Department over the issue of late Sata been attended by emergency services in hotel room, when instead he was “jogging in Central Park”???
Crapping as usual?
CURIOUS BEHAVIOUR FROM KALABA. DR. GUY SCOTT, A SERVING PF MP, MADE DISPARAGING REMARKS AGAINST SOUTH AFRICA WITH WHOM WE HAVE VERY CLOSE RELATIONSHIP, KALABA’S REACTION WAS VERY CASUAL. VJ, A PRIVATE CITIZEN, MAKES A STATEMENT AGAINST UGANDA WITH WHOM WE HAVE VERY REMOTE RELATIONS, THE REACTION FROM KALABA HAS BEEN AGGRESSIVE. WHY? HAS VJ TOUCHED A SENSITIVE CORD? KALABA’S REACTION TO VJ’S STATEMENT SPEAKS A LOT ON THE ISSUE IN QUESTION.
What a lengthy response! Anyway Kalaba has said what he had to say but his lengthy response does not change my position on what is obtaining on the ground. Kalaba should simply tell Zambians whether or not the Dubai Company did print the Ugandan Ballot Papers. Kalaba should desist from diverting attention on the real problem to out-doing the successes of VJ in the field of Diplomacy and international relations. I smell jealous playing a role here. You’ll never reach VJ’s standard Kalaba. That much I can assure you.
So what is before Uganda courts; is this firm implicated ..if the answer is yes; then VJ has a point and Uganda has enough problems to come chasing VJ given that Museveni rigged those elections. Ugandas are too docile worse than Zambians.
Another Dull Minister, how would you pass a statement like that over your own citizen?? that he will not be protected if Uganda wanted to prosecute him? this is thinking with his mouth and Tummy?? than the integrity of our nation.
You know how Yoweri Museveni has Cline to power without allowing any change. GET YOUR FACTS COZ IT IS TRUE UGANDA RIGGED THE ELECTION. don’t blame Mwanga..
I always thought Harry Kalaba was intelligent enough and fit to work in the UPND government. This press release was unnecessarily long, illogical and not focused, typical of PF press statements. All Mwanga said was, you cant give a company to print ballot papers that is being challenged in the courts of law for allegedly mishandling the printing of ballot papers in uganda recently to the advantage of the government. We know Harry is just worried that without rigging, his job is done but he shouldn’t make it so obvious to everyone.
Latest!!!Kalaba is the next on “Califonia University’s list” to be bestowed with an Hon degree – the schedule is as follows: Tuesday – Kalaba, Wednesday – Mumbi Firi, Thursday – Faza Bwalya , Friday – Za Yellow Lubinda, Saturday – Kaingu, Sunday the university takes a rest, as they prepare the next list of gullible PamaFi politicians lining up for degrees!!
Vote wisely 11/8/2016!! Vote Zambia forward!! PamaFi kuya bebele!!
#chagwamustfall!!
I thank you!!
I dont know much about Mr Kalaba, but he sounds very wise in his response. Since he has categorically stated that PF is committed to holding free, fair and credible elections this August, I would like to challenge Mr Kalaba to also verify the claims that Dr. Mwaanga stated. We cant say that the claims are not credible just because the information is on blogs and websites. Otherwise why are the election issues of Uganda in their courts if the info is not credible?
ECZ must drop this idea of trying to print the ballot papers in Dubai. If Mr Kalaba really claims to be who he says he is, then he must add his voice to block ECZ from going ahead to print ballot papers with that suspicious company in Dubai. Failure to that, this will be cheap talk.
Scarface Kalaba is too much used to browbeating opponents. He thinks he can browbeat VJ the same way he and The Drunkard intimidated Guy Scott when he was Acting President. Kalaba is a coward like all schoolyard bullies. Kalaba knows nothing about diplomacy, other than kowtowing to dictators like Mugabe and Museveni.
#ChagwaMustFall
THESE MINIONS IN PF WILL ALWAYS REMAIN DULL JUST LIKE THEIR OWN LEADER. THIS DESPERATION IN PF WILL REALLY KILL THESE GUYS. WHY ARE THEY ALL OVER RANTING VERY USELESS IARGUMENTS? LET ME WARN LUNGU AND HIS DULL MINIONS THAT NO MATTER WHAT YOU SAY OR WHAT WE DO, WE THE ZAMBIAN PEOPLE ARE RESOLVED TO CHANGE GOVERNMENT ON AUGUST 11. VIVA HH VIVA! VIVA UPND VIVA!
Now that’s some sober and knowledgeable piece of counsel/writing by hon. Kalaba
What is sober is to respect elders, and just say a little like 2 proverbs.
This Kalaba is like telling a story to a drinking Edgar… Such a long story.
Indeed, well said Hon Kalaba. School the elder Statesman. He has forgotten his diplomacy. he was angry and rude where you are mature and polite.
THIS IS A COUNCIL COMING FROM A YOUNG SOBER, HUMBLE AND RESPECTIVE KALABA. FROM THIS WRITING ONE WOULD CONCLUDE THAT KALABA HAS SOME CREDIBLE HIGH ACADEMIC LEVELS OF WHICH I CAN’T REMEMBER VJ HAVING BEEN AT UNZA OR ANY OTHER UNIVERSITY TO SWEAT FOR HIS FIRST DEGREE LATE ALONE HIS POST GRADS. HOWEVER, I THINK THIS IS A SHEER WASTE OF TIME AND ENERGY RESOURCES ON SOME DRUG DEALERS WHO DEFINITELY DON’T UNDERSTAND SUCH LANGUAGE WHICH IS OUT OF THE CONTEXT OF DRUG-DEALING. KALABA SHOULD LACED THIS COMMUNIQUE WITH SOME ELEMENTS OF DRUGS AND INDISCRIMINATE WOMANIZING FOR HIS CLIENT TO UNDERSTAND.
@2.1 typical of NOSTRA- ANUS, he, like his fellow UPND dunderheads use their a.s.s.e.s. for thinking. Kalaba is right, the former Pablo escoba (VJ) of zambia must just say sorry. Pablo VJ Escoba must reflect on his foolish statement and not blame kalaba.
what kind of brains do UPND supporters have? seem like slow punctured brains.
Well said Kalaba. This is modern wisdom. Not the old fashioned wisdom of VJ.He still thinks he is the only best diplomat in Zambia. Things have changed ba VJ. we now have more and better minds than yours. What you said was wrong. u were blinded by your tribes man and his party. Just apologies to the gvt of Uganda especially to Museveni for calling him a Dictator after he allowed you to work in his country as a chief elections Obsever. Shame.
The fact still stands that you plan to rig. Otherwise, ECZ should consider other printing options for fair game. You professional failures (PF) have damaged this country economically and socially.
Kalaba sounds more mature than VJ……..I wonder why the UP N Down party doesn’t want the massive votes we will give ECL to be counted by ECZ…………for them to be crying rigging everyday it seems they only want votes from a particular province to count in the August 11th election especially that they registered babies who don’t qualify to vote. Mukose!
VJ basing his serious allegations on what people write on blogs and websites where you find people like the Ugandan version of Mushota!
You will be surprised about Uganda blogs. Their equivalent to Mushota goes under name of Museveni
That is wisdom to poor VJ
Well said kalaba but forgive some of these chaps like him they are sick taking strong drugs the list include masebo,vj,mutati,hh,etc there way of thinking off the mark.
We are not interested in whatever Kalaba is trying to defend his envy and that of his master. The fact is you have chosen to print in Dubai so that you can rig the elections. As pertaining to cost of printing of ballot papers, it far cheaper to print in South Africa than in Dubai. On comparison, it will cost $1.5 million in South Africa and $3 million in Dubai. What is PF and ECZ hiding? Nowonder our president continue to brag that he will win the election with over 70% because of pre-marked ballots he intends to steal like what Museveni of Uganda did. Shame ECL and ECZ.
well said, Kalaba and PF are trying to divert attention. If the concerns of our people are not addressed, this has a potential to plunge the country into civil war, never mind what VJ said
So Kalaba is not. Disputing the fact that VJ is right & therefore Kalaba is trying to say that VJ would have used the right channels of bringing this matter to people’s attention & not the media.
In short; ECZ should be probed!
The Hon. Minister is saying things correctly diplomatically, however, as far as I know, Dr Mwaanga does not hold a government post at the moment. Therefore, why should utterances of an ordinary citizen be deemed as having a possibility to cause disruption of bilateral relations that exist between 2 countries? Is VJ speaking on behalf of the Zambian government to cause a diplomatic tiff between the countries?
@Jitan. VJ is well known for his role in Uganda election monitoring. As far as Uganda is concerned VJ was representing Zambia esp that our country is an icon of democratic elections in the Region. Anything coming from VJ will definately be misinterprated as views of Zambians about Uganda.
Keep dreaming. Nobody in his right mind believes in Zambia under PF being an icon of anything, maybe only xenophobia. Zambia is a failed state, full of yapping numbskulls.
#ChagwaMustFall
The issue still remains. There are allegations in the public domain that ECZ has connived with PF to rig the 2016 elections using a Dubai Printer, Al Ghurair to print extra and premarked ballots for Zambia. It is further alleged that the Dubai Printer printed ballots for the disputed Ugandan elections in February 2016. Minister Kalaba should just tell the Nation whether these allegations are true or false. ECZ should respond and justify why they have selected a tainted printer at a price of $3.5 m compared to $1.6m quoted by a South African company which has printed ballots for Zambia in 2011 & 15 . Can ECZ respond? All this noise seem to suggest that the rigging allegations are true. ECZ should not use this controversial printer becoz Zambians don’t want their votes stolen on 11th…
PF are trying to divert out attention with kalaba engaging in a school girl spat with VJ
I cannot add or subtract from top Zambian diplomat Hon Kalaba’s statement. His choice of words is top drawer diplomatic material. It reduces Mr Mwaanga to some kind of undisguised tribal alliance, for how else would you even begin to understand his undiplomatic tantrums? There is other way to understand this VJ except by using the tool of associating names and their regional origin. But surely is that how low vJ can sink? My God!!!!!
This is as damaging to UPND as the GBM “arrest Lungu” statement that small boy hh has just rubbished. If that statement was not window dressing then I expect HH to publicly correct VJ too. But then again maybe the corrections and denials by HH only apply to people from outside his clan? We saw his failure to mask this regional inclination last year with…
Kalaba has not addressed VJ’s arguments. He misdirected himself by misinterpreting VJ’s statement and now trying cleanse himself going all over lengthening a discussion that is short. Kalaba needs to go back to VJ’s statement and analyse it then and find a piece that injures diplomatic ties with Uganda. It’s no denying that the Ugandan election brought violence and people died. Regardless of where VJ got his information the fact remains that there was violence in Uganda due alleged malpractice. What is Kalaba’s preoccupation Diplomatic ties or Zambian people’s peace and security? If Kalaba and government ignore VJ’s warning and go ahead print ballot papers in Dubai there will be no peace in Zambia. When Kalaba says they are committed to run free and fair elections at the same time…
stone age diplomacy vs digital diplomacy
Contd……We saw small boy’s failure to mask this regional inclination last year with Munkombwe’s tribal statement during the 2015 election rally at Choma…….but maybe let small boy issue a statement before I judge him?
When Kalaba says they are committed to run free and fair elections at the same time ignoring the counsel from VJ this makes him childish. He has even failed to point out exactly was wrong with VJ’s statement because clearly he is playing politics. Kalaba’s ranting a are empty only celebrated by those that lack capacity to analyse but easily excited by some girlish writings. This is not poetry Mr. Kalaba it’s a matter of national interest. You can no longer afford to ignore Internet media. Mr Kalaba wants to get information from the Uganda’s state broadcaster the replica of ZNBC? What truth can you get from such media houses such ZNBC? Again Mwaanga is right when he calls Kalaba’s statement childish – evidence is in his latest statement above.
VJ the former mandrax dealer dealer and worst womanizer Zambia has ever had is broke and evidence is there for all to see. He is making all these statements as a gamble in case his tribes mate wins and appoints him to a government job. That will not happen. To refer to blogs such as Zambian watchdog type as source of his information just confirms how desperate the man has become. The best the man can do is ask for some cash and start farming in a more serious way.
Mr mwanga had his time in politics and now he should live politics to the young people. He should learn from his friends, the Enoch Kavindeles, the Winas etc.He should be giving counsel and not taking sides to all political parties due to the length of time he being politics.
@ Maliongo, let me make it simple for your cretin head to understand although I know that I am wasting my time as UPND cadres have chosen not to listen but to remain in the backwardness of primitive village politics. VJ is a Zambian diplomat, he was appointed Chief Election observer for Uganda and paid by AU so he reported his findings to the appointing authority. He is not expected to use his intimate knowledge of whatever happened in Uganda in public to serve such narrow uPND interests, and lastly he cannot refer to The president of Uganda as dictator. Just give vJ some Mukupa or mabisi to drink in order to cleanse the DNA chemicals in his head, and he will come to his senses, rather than him trying to run embarrassing, winless and fruitless battles with Hon Kalaba. It’s also damaging…
…..to UPND if small boy is capable of reading his politics.
@ Terrible you and me cannot match in levels of intelligence unless you are A+ grade my boy. Do your research and read what Arab said when he came back from Uganda and by the way nothing that needs secrecy in what VJ said. Kalaba was written to in secrecy by VJ but chose to reply through the media. Follow these events and remember to be driven by nothing but truth.
You may not find solace in self comfort.
@ Tom, well said. But you see sometimes when you are young you can mask yourself and your true beliefs, but in many cases when you age like vJ you may fail to mask those beliefs that you have hidden from the public eye all these years. Even KK and Gray Zulu must now be shocked at this clearly regional revelation of the other side of VJ, for that is what it is.
Kalaba is trying to divert attention from the real issue. VJ is not in government and he was not representing the whole population of Zambia when he made that statement and how can the government of Uganda be offended by comments of an ordinary citizen! The fact is PF and ECL want to rig the elections! They have failed to explain why they settled for a company whose bid was the most expensive in whatever way you look at it. People are asking honest questions! Please explain or just shove aside that scheme! You are leading a country of very sober people. Don’t forget that!
What suing? Everyone knows that Museveni is a dictator. PF your tactics won’t work. Your time is up.
Now I understand why g12 certificate is important. Does kalaba have one? Obviously the English vJ used eluded his brain.
please help kalaba understand the letter
no wonder we can’t develop
But why is VJ an ex drug dealer giving advice to politicians? This is like Al capone giving advice to John Kerry in the USA; that can’t happen. I know Zambia is a democratic country but why should con men like VJ be allowed anywhere near power? I don’t understand how a shameless self confessed drug dealer can give advice to anyone.
it is because of the same reason why a convicted fraudster, lungu can be allowed to be a president….
@kolopa why should a proven thief like Lungu be allowed to govern our beautiful country? Sure that can’t happen in the US.
@ maliongo who is more of a thief your ka god hh or his Excellency ECL be very careful you will die of envy hh is not our president and he might not be.
Lungu has been convicted of fraud and deregistered by LAZ, HH has never been convicted of anything.
@ Kolopa again.com
If Hon. (LOL) can take orders from convicted embezzler who has committed one of the worst sin lawyer can do (‘BREACH OF TRUST”) in the name of “Justice”, PLEASE, where is the difference between VJ presumed “advisory role” to politicians and horde of criminally corrupt inner circle of “profiteering failures” masquerading as “Special Adviser to the President”.
Think before answering! Just in case!
A well copy and paste letter from Kalaba. Most of what he is saying is from UN document which he has simply domesticated to look like his own. Careful Kalaba, a lot of us read.
Patriotism means verifying your processes before plunging your country into chaos
what if this company is found guilty in Uganda?
Can the PF and ECZ address the allegations that it was cheaper to print in SA with all specs met then in dubai, instead of trying to divert out attention by engaging in school girl face book type ”he said, i said” tantrums with VJ
The country is in very irresponsible hands in all spheres of existence; economically, domestically, health wise, internationally, academically etc
Whereas the whole electoral process from ballot printing, actual voting, vote tallying, subsequent declaration of the winner and power hand-over (if any) must be transparent, we have to be mindful when expressing our opinions to sovereign states especially pre-emptying such sensitive political matters whose outcome has not been released. Such pronouncements may revive the tension that still builds within the divergent supporters besides soaring diplomatic relations. Personally, I keep off on matters I know may dent Zambia-Kenyan ties. Notwithstanding, this should not deter us from expressing our divergent opinions, keeping all factors equal.
That’s why verifying is important before subjecting our own country into chaos
why can’t we use a clean company without pending court cases
There are no diplomatic issues here. The real issue is the PF and ECZ’s schemes to rig 2016 elections in favour of PF using rigging methods that were applied in Uganda. Al Ghurair is the printer at the centre of the storm. This company’s reputation is now tarnished and as such we do not want this printer to print ballots for Zambia. ECZ should come clean on why they intend using this discredited Arab Printer as opposed to using the South African Printer. There are no valid reasons to change printers other than suspected rigging plans by ECZ and PF. The only way to retain confidence in the Zambian electoral system is to abandon printing services from Al Ghurair of Dubai. ECZ should deliver to people of Zambia transparent,free,fair and credible elections. Thats what people want!
Clearly PF in step with ECZ! The Dubai maneuver is as PF as it is ECZ. It’s a menu they both are working on, a recipe concocted by one for the other.
pipo watch the space,
Hon. Kalaba is intelligent, am beginning to like him. these are the kind of leaders we have missed in a long time that can articulate issues for the people to understand. surely this is flawless and matchless. kudos ba Kalaba. PF yalisungapo mwe.
What “DM” stands for?
“Demented Maniac”
Nice counsel kalaba. Forgive VJ he is too old so he is going mad because of dementia.
what qualifications does kalaba have..?am doubting his sanity
Ba Kalabaa these r empty sweet nothings. At face value your words sound so cool but a deeper look reveals the true lies inherent therein. Can u honestly today boast of your party’s cherished values of protecting our freedom of speech and expression?Ubufi bakalamba lesa tafwaya.Who doesnt knw that yours is a BRUTAL regime that cannot stand the truth?How many citizens are today b4 the courts of law on trumped up defamation of the president charges?Talk of Eric Chanda, Mukosha Funga etc..2016 let us vote wisely bane.
Whatever Mwaanga has said is immaterial, the fact remains that Uganda and Zimbabwe are governed by dictators who would never win an election without massive rigging. Wouldn’t it make Zambia even more id!otic to copy their electoral practices? The Dubai company is suspect why do the thugs and ECZ insisting ballots be printed there? If this public spat with Mwaanga is intended to detract us from the real issue it’s another one of PF’s lunatic strategies that are always blowing right in their drunken and confused faces. It won’t work, people are geared and ready to replace this clueless govt.
Listen here:
Weighing about 67 tonnes (67,000Kgs), the ballots have been printed by South African company Pal Media Pty.
UK firm TALL Security Print will soon deliver ballots for sub-county chairpersons and sub-county directly-elected councilors; UAE’s Ms Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing House for district chairpersons, district directly-elected councillors and sub-county women councillors, while local printer Picfare Industries will deliver ballots for municipality mayors, municipality councilors and special interest group councilors.
WHY ISN’T ANYONE TALKING ABOUT THESE POINTS HERE!!?????
We may comment in “90 days”!!!
I have been following the debate btn the two and my conclusion is hon.kalaba is more mature and patriotic than vj…i discredit mwanga based on 3 reasons: 1st surely how can he base his authentic statement on website and bloggers comments surely 2ndly he claims he was chief observer in uganda and yet he was not sure who printed ballots and asking ordinary citizens to verify …alarmist 3rdly uganda is soveregnty country and therefore passing such careless and childsh coments borders on interference in internal matters . This is a problem when individuals with 5 brains (pls refer to gbm fb) team up
@If not why not:
Obviously you are either a moron or a pure dunderhead that is incapable of understanding issues OR both.
1. VJ didn’t base his article on the bloggs alone – of course that is what Kalaba is saying but that is NOT true. You need to read VJ article again – you ID.I.OT.
2. Yes VJ was the chief observer. Uganda used 3 printers – VJ wanted verification of the printer for the Presidential Elections. Mind you VJ was not running BUT Observing elections – dont be daft you pig.
3. VJ was and still is only concerned with intentions by PF to rig this election – NOT the issue of sovereignty of Uganda! Are you really Normal? Mother fu.ck.er!!
YOU ARE SICK IN
@if not why not…so since you are an internet blogger you mean to say what you are blogging is rubbish. If you can’t even trust yourself as an internet blogger how do you expect others to. What Kalaba is saying is that even when knowledgeable people go to the blog to voice out facts we should not trust them. That thinking is so 19th century. As an internet blogger, I thank VJ for trusting that blogging is a form of valid information gate. I don’t trust ZNBC.
There is a solution to this printing of ballots problem. Since the British govt has offered £4 million to ECZ for the 2016 elections they should be allowed to oversee the bidding process and make sure the winning printer is reputable and will not try to manipulate the ballots. They should approve the list of bidders after thoroughly vetting them. The tainted Dubai printer should be excluded from the bidding processes. Most important the British govt should pay direct to the printer to avoid “greasing” among ECZ and Govt officials. This way all stakeholders will happily participate in the elections and the most popular candidates will win fairly.
Iwe ka short man Kalaba VJ can not be your brother but gran pa have respect what diplomacy do you understand stupid *****.
Ba Mwaanga aba na kashi have impaired his reasoning.
Ba Kalaba ni ba UNZA graduate. Ba ‘Dr’ Mwaanga’s educational achievement is Form 5. Then editor of a newspaper, then chief editor and finally appointed by Kaunda as Zambia’s represented at the UN.
He was only 19 when he went to the UN. So far he remains one of the most celebrated diplomat. He served Zambia during the cold war and was one of the authors of the bid that brought China into the UN and the Security Council which stabilised the balance of the UN from west domination. VJ knows what he is talking about and if I were you, I would mark his words and consider them carefully.
Please who tells you Nkombo is incoming Foreign Minister. Garry is a trained teacher so his skills will be best used for a profession in which he qualified maybe he can out do Kaingu…the Foreign Minister is someone in the diaspora who we all know so please stop peddling lies as usual..first you said next president now you say next FM? Ah make up your minds badala
Whoops, I put it to Kalaba that on the 3 occasion VJ has visited you, he released his political knowledge to you and as a result he(VJ) is becoming empty. Well said. No doubt VJ is some veteran. We Zambians should harness some experience of the likes of Mwaanga. One way is to have him at the University as a lecturer.
Now come on guys, come think of it; who is benefiting and encouraging this animosity? The Lucifer’s File a.k.a The Post Newspaper. It thrives on such animosity, quarrel and craziness.
and “Plunderers Federation” with non existing IQ always fall for it!!!
Now I can understand why “bailout” by IMF is inevitable.
With such “smart”and “intelligent” membership of “Plunderers Federation” in charge of Nation finance and economy, we are lucky to have survived so long.
If PF want to govern the country peacfully after they win the elections as their supporters are predicting, they need to investigate and address the nation as to why a more expensive distant printer was chosen. Their silence is breeding discontent with the potential to explode the nation.
PF seem yo be in paralysis when it comes to reassuring the nation. Same thing with the rutial killings, the president should have addressed the nation early on when police stations were been burned.
Kalaba what would you lose to call the elder man and speak directly with him? You have a bigger task at hand such as the upcoming election, ritual killings, devaluation of the kwacha, poor medical services, rising poverty levels, high unemployment, huge government debt, unruly ministers and deputies, in party fighting, load shedding… I go further? Have a good Sunday
Fairchild you are out of mind! While Zambia welcomes donor aid your comment above is misplaced. You should know that Zambia is a sovereign country and will not allow Britain or any donor for that matter to interfere in the running of our elections. Any donation which seeks to impose unacceptable conditions will be rejected. We will not work with donors who are sponsoring regime agendas through unpatriotic opposition parties. Donors must know that Zambia has always managed its elections transparently and this year’s elections will not be any different.
Is. ‘….aid in combating voter fraud…”
An Unacceptable interference in our sovereignty????
@ Kalabo
Only “unpatriotic” party in Zambia goes by name of “Plunderers Federation”.
As to accepting or refusing donation, please do not make me lough. This lot has already sold next generations in to bondage in the name of “unprecedented development”.
When it comes to “sovereignty”, tray to convince IMF that only bailout cash is welcomed but conditions attached to it are to be dictated by “…a sovereign country…”!!!
Kalac is childish and foolish he never went to learn diplomacy whilst vj is a graduate of diplomacy,what ached kalaba is exposure of pf manouvers to rig elections,if vj erred kalaba should have gone to see him in private,vj sacrificed a lot in zambias independence struggle while kalac was a baby,respect elders blood fool!
VJ Mwanga is trying hard to remain relevant to the political landscape in the country. However his downside is failure to recognise and appreciate change. The only change he might appreciate is one coming from UPND. Smell the coffee sir and read the discourse. But then Mwaannga does not learn….Remember the circumstances under which he was fired from a Cabinet portfolio by late Mwanawasa. ? In all fairness he is tainted and not worth listening to. Hon Kalabe you represent modern day diplomacy. I find you very articulate, typical of a schooled Catholic. Keep up the good work and may God bless you
Kalaba is SDA and he was trained Evangelist before he decided to let go of the ministry and go to UNZA then joined politics.
The Lucifer’s File aka The Post Newspaper is inclined to causing mayhem in the country. It was the work of the Lucifer’s file that costed Nevers’ Veep position under the LPM’s reign. VJ’s lack of humility lately is playing to the File’s gallery. The File is highly malicious; to sale it has to cause confrontation by spreading falsehood. Last time it carried a story which tried to malign some Chief; well the Chief distanced himself from the story. Now VJ and Kalaba should read between the lines. Stop encouraging the File. Ballots ‘ll be printed in Dubai, period.
The same file put PF in power….
I don’t care who the File has helped put it power. I don’t like hate sponsors. Tamula ponokapo muno Zambia ayi? Stop the useless fights and give us real politics.
I don’t know why Africans are scared of calling a spade a spade.The elections in Uganda were a shame. If Uganda cut ties with Zambia, so what? There is no trade to talk about and nothing in common except being members of the commonwealth. Again, VJ as a private citizen is free to comment about any country and any president. VJ is not running for president. Why should a private citizen’s views be taken to represent that of government?
Well Zambian Sugar company would disagree with you and a lot of cement is exported to Uganda.
Surely I dont see the reason for printing these papers abroad …I vote in the UK and have personally examined the ballot paper there is nothing significant that stands out about the actual paper quality or features. If I you recall the selfsame PF back in 2008 and 2011 objected to the printing of ballot papers in RSA due to fear of rigging….8 years on nothing has changed, we are giving about $3million US dollars to a foreign contractor add the past elections in the past 15 years the figure goes to about 15 million dollars. this money could have been invested in the best printing machines money can buy at Govt Printers and the company could also be competing for the same contracts Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing is bidding for.
When are we going to think independently this…
When are we going to think independently stop this mental slavery… this generation of politicians is a let down the same names keep popping up like VJ just changing sides no one ready to tackle the underlining problem; all happy with this rotten cycle …simply ask yourselves what John Magufuli of Tanzania would do?
Is #kalaba a diplomat ? Who is a diplomat if I may ask?
Is #kalaba a diplomat ? Who is a diplomat if I may ask? Is a government minister a diplomat ?
@Kalabo
Actually Fairchild’s proposition is the best under the circumstances. It’s clear PF doesn’t want free and fair elections because they know their myopic and disastrous governing style will get them the boot out of office. ECZ have proven themselves to be BOUGHT women and men of PF. They have been hired by PF to rig the election. It’s that plain.
Jesus, the only begotten of God, we disgrace, disarm and destroy the serpentine spirit of manipulation, oppression, falsehood, anger, jealousy, lies, wickedness, malice, laziness and corrupt communication.
Fire of God, lick the agents of the devil and humiliate them to a thousand generations. You pharoatic and amelakite spirit, die by the command of God!!
You demons militating against HH through aatanism receive the potent judgment of God!
Father God, I plead the blood of Jesus Christ over HH and cancel, annihilate and obliterate all arrows of wickedness from the pit of hell fired by satan and his demonic forces. Any underworld power militating against the destiny of HH, I command you to wither and die and all your mouth pieces are ashamed by the blood of Jesus.
Every tongue that is speaking incantation of evil and lying against HH, die right now in the Name of Jesus. Anyone who allows himself to with malice aforethought speak lies and insults against HH, the blood and power of Jesus is against you. Angels of God, pursue these agents of wickedness and break their teeth and bones. Bring them to eternal damnation, shame, and torment unto a thousand generations.
Holy Ghost fire, I command the spirit of wickedness,…
Which god have u dedicated this prayer? Not the God who sent his only begootten son to come and die for our sins I believe. Your god is from UPND heaven I believe. you should grow up
Holy Ghost fire, I command the spirit of wickedness, slander, false accusation targeted against HH to die and instead the spirit of wisdom, kindness, love and understanding is installed to the Glory of God!
Those who have made it their mission to hate and accuse, slander and pull down HH, Lord I call the fire and brimstone napalm fire of God to lick them into nothing. Where they stood, there shall be emptiness of shame and torment and anguish.
Lord the blood of Jesus cover HH. Jesus Christ in front, behind, on the left and right and above and beneath HH. HH is protected by Psalms 91 and the overcoming resurrecting power of God that raised Jesus from the grave and humiliated the devil and his demons. Praise the Lord!!
“The ballot papers were printed by Ms Paarl Media of South Africa which won the tender to print the key voting material for presidential, parliamentary and district woman councillors. Other companies expected to deliver ballot papers in the coming days include TALL Security Print Ltd of United Kingdom (for sub-county chairpersons and sub-county directly-elected councillors), Ms Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing House from the United Arab Emirates (for district chairpersons, district directly-elected councillors and sub-county women councillors), and Picfare Industries (for municipality mayors, municipality councillors and special interest group councillors).”
The following printing companies should be blacklisted;
Paarl Media of South Africa
TALL Security Print Ltd of United…
The guy is trying to sound so sophisticated by using big words whilst delivering just one weak point. At school we used to call such bukamushi (villager) or amaailele( irreverent)
What meaningful contribution has VJ made to Zambia other than spread HIV, being divorced by hundreds of women and drug dealings?
Now that he is in his last days he wants to bring trouble to Zambian using his Kachema bad party.
This debate challenges me not to abide peacefully and bury my intelligent head in a heap of sand through conspiracy of silence. If we are indeed a Christian Nation we should have respect for Leaders whom God has given good health and appropriate time to be in charge of our Zambian Affairs. VJ was giving such chance and respect during his tenure in politics. He should not incite strife now. Please, it is now time to ask God to reveal who would be our next Heavenly Anointed President through prayers and meditations. You will be shocked no amount of Campaigns, Corruption, Votes Buying, Intimidations, Tribalism and what have you, will produce your favourite candidate to become our next President, but prayer intensive intercessions, peace and justice will surprise you after 11th August, 2016…
Honourable Kalaba has lost in this diplomatic discourse.
As government minister Kalaba should have called Dr V. J Mwaanga whom Kalaba respects from his tone and have a face to face discourse.
Responding to news media by a senior government minister to opinion expressed by an elder consumate former diplomat Dr V J. on issues pertaining to diplomatic ettiquette is shambolic to Kalaba. Kalaba should learn to engage citizens rationally and diplomatically.
“…..should learn to engage citizens rationally and diplomatically”
First they are incapable of learning, second they all have a ruthless streak and any form of criticism invariably drives them crazy. I didn’t read the gibberish garbage he spewed.
Why not just use companies interested in democracy, how do you hire a company that does not embrace your ideologies in the first place? ECZ are a bunch of criminals and are up to no good with that company. Countries like UAE should never be brought near the circles of democracy, they do not understand that and in this ballot printing, they will be hoodwinked to do as the hiring authority say or wishes!
Wow people can waste time. Honorable Kalaba im so proud of you and i only wish people like GBM, HH, Nkombo, and Mweetwa can emulate you. I respect your sound mind such that even when you are called names you still remain civil wow so gratifying.
To my fellow bloggers that decide to argue even when the know the truth you are the ones that are causing unnecessary choes. Paarl Media is the company that printed the presidential ballot papers and we have said it sunce this issue came up but you have chosen to ignore and have continued to insult citizens because you have chosen to listen to VJ. Wisdome bane’ VJ has even failed ti be a good role model to his children what more the nation at large. Bwana Vj that was careless of you and Hon Kalaba may you continue looking to God for guidance…
VJ has lost relevance to our politics and can he just rest at home, He is tired
Imwe leave mr mwaanga he doesn’t think properly from the time he was badly beaten at mazoka funeral. His left ear became impaired for some time and that affected his brain and thereby poor reasoning. By the way, who gave him that doctorate if I may ask? 11 August 2016 lungu lungu lungu and lungu amen
Is the “Patriotism” Mr. Kalaba is referring to the same he showed when they were trying to subvert the constitution when Guy Scott was acting President (l still remember the bloated vein on the forehead)? VJ was simple and to the point. If your Dubai company is part of the court process in Uganda regarding rigging, VJ is right. Why are you insistent on using it?
Truth still remains. Ka Lungu wants to rig. Period!
Amen!
The two leaders have spoken enough. They should exercise restraint. They are discussing important matters is a way that is too embarrassing. The former cabinet minister has had his own chance. In his time, some of his predecessors kept quiet not because he never wronged but because of the respect for the office. The new minister could also issue a comprehensive statement through an official spokesman or spokeswoman in order to avoid appearing disrespectful. When corruption is in the air, then the right office to contact is ACC. Public outbursts can only be seen as political activism likely to discredit PF government. To come to power, UPND needs to recognize the legitimate claims to lead the nation that PF is making based on past election results.
malice is prone to exposure.VJ wants to use his background of “Intelligence” little does he know that he is out-dated. VJ has no answer but “crooked response” far away from objectivity. The man is a “Kruked” diplomat, confessed drug trafficker,hence, Kalaba should not abuse his accolade on such a person.
F00lish old VJ. His political career is an anti-climax. He has become irrelevant and will do all the wrong things to try and salvage the little that is left of his now stale political career. To late old man, pack your bags and retire while people still have a little respect for you.
1. If ones opinion is not targeted at the issue at hand, but at demeaning the person they are discussing with, then objectivity is lost and the two will not arrive at a logical conclusion. Our leaders need to learn to tackle a matter on a one on one in the interest of the nation. What is at stake here is a our reputation as a nation, not VJ not Kalaba.
2. On the printing of Ballot papers, my opinion is that the stake holders need to meet ECZ to clear concerns on how the Dubai Company is being selected. If the concerns are genuine, nullify the tender process, if it is mere speculation, clear the air. The printing process will then, as per precidence set, be witnessed by all stake holders to avoid suspicions and malice. We must leave a peaceful united Zambia for our children. Be…