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Zambia’s financial stability under threat

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Zambia’s financial stability under threat
Dr Denny Kalyalya

The Bank of Zambia has noted that weakening economic growth, load shedding and tightening liquidity in Zambia are threatening financial stability in the market.

And the Central Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee has maintained the policy rate, a key determinant in lending rates, at 10.25 percent.

BoZ Governor Denny Kalyalya says the committee took into account projected inflation remaining above the upper bound of the 6.8 percent target range, tightened liquidity and reduced production owing to electricity challenges.

Dr. Kalyalya noted that increased food prices owing to droughts in the last farming season have also had a negative toll on inflation.

He says the above factors required the upward adjustment for the policy rate but the Central Bank had to hold it pending some measures by the Ministry of Finance.

Speaking during the MPC quarterly briefing in Lusaka today Dr. Kalyalya noted that global growth has equally weakened with demand for copper by China having reduced owing to decline in investment in emerging markets and reduction in global trade due to ongoing trade tensions between the USA and China among others.

And Bank of Zambia Deputy Governor Operations Francis Chipimo said access to finance has remained a challenge for private sector growth and investment.

Dr. Chipimo however said there are a lot of developmental issues being undertaken aimed at enabling the financial sector mobilize savings and lend money to investors with ideas.

Why 2021 is critical for ECL and HH

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Why 2021 is critical for ECL and HH
HH and President Lungu meet at late Munkombwe’s burial in Choma
HH and President Lungu meet at late Munkombwe’s burial in Choma

By Chimwemwe Mwanza

Vicious, vindictive and vengeful aptly describes the Zambian political arena. Former Presidents, Kenneth Kaunda, Rupiah Banda and the late Frederick Chiluba all have scars to prove this. In the 80’s, Kaunda locked up Chiluba on flimsy charges that failed to hold in a court of law. After he became Head of State, Chiluba retaliated by sending Kaunda to Mukobeko maximum prison.

The irony for Chiluba is that his handpicked successor, Levy Mwanawasa motivated Parliament to waive off the latter’s immunity thereby exposing Chiluba to several graft charges formulated by the now defunct Task Force on Corruption. With his legacy tainted by a skewed narrative, only death saved Chiluba from possible jail time. To erase his predecessor’s legacy and ensure his humiliation, the late Sata’s PF re-created this trend by consigning Rupiah to a life of court appearances.

Off significance to this conversation, UPND leader, Hakainde Hichilema (HH) served time in Lilayi prison on a laughable treason charge – this at the hands of the current PF regime. For a fact, HH has never hidden his disdain for President Edgar Lungu and his stint in a tiny Lilayi prison cell has probably served to reinforce the UPND leader’s contempt for the President.

Just why such vindictiveness and blatant abuse of power seems to gratify incumbents is hard to understand. In the absence of reason, one might well speculate that this show of brutality is all about a naked flexing of political muscle – a bit more like, ‘can I show you who is the boss’. Whatever the reason, the difficulty is that this trend erodes the very democratic tenets and political maturity that Zambia is renowned for in the rest of Africa and the world over.

Which makes 2021 an interesting contest. Other than bread and butter issues, the fore mentioned factors will weigh heavily on the minds of both President Lungu and HH heading closer to the polls.

Who is likely to win?

The tiny but seismic shift in fundamentals on the ground seem to suggest that this will be a closely fought contest. Besides, recent electoral predictions across the globe – even by the most experienced pundits have gone against the grain making it even more difficult to provide an accurate outcome.

For example, in 2012, several analysts predicted an outright victory for Rupiah’s MMD only for the PF to spring a surprise. Suffice to acknowledge that, while characteristics of the Zambian electoral landscape may differ in comparison to mature democracies, there are similarities to draw from – especially in elections where the voter’s desire for change outweighs any other considerations.

Unaware of a groundswell desire for change, an over-confident former British Premier, David Cameroon called a snap referendum to determine Britain’s future in the European Union (EU). He was stunned at the outcome. Against odds, the British electorate voted for Brexit thus paving the way for what has now become Britain’s messy divorce from the EU trade block.

Humiliated by a razor thin loss to Brexit supporters, Cameroon was forced to call his time as leader of the conservative party. In yet one of the biggest election upsets of the 21st century, Donald Trump steam-rolled establishment candidate, Hillary Clinton to become the 45th President of the US. Therefore, the notion that either the PF or UPND might have an edge over the other heading towards 2021 is fallacious. Truth is, this is an election that could swing either way.

Why ECL will be desperate to win

Despite the PF’s public show of confidence, their determined focus on HH and constant whip-lashing of his perceived tribal inclinations, best illustrates their genuine fears and by extention their desperation. Rightly so, they can’t afford to be complacent. 2021 will be a referendum on their ten years in power. Be rest assured that this is one election where the PF’s well – oiled propaganda machinery will likely throw both the sink and kitchen at the UPND bearing in mind what is at stake. In fact, the proposed amendment to the constitution is intended to disadvantage the opposition ahead of the polls.

What troubles the mind is that the current constitution which the PF is attempting to discard was signed into law by the sitting President amid a jam-packed Independence stadium. Three years later, it’s tempting to ask. What has changed to warrant an amendment to this sacred document? By now, PF knows too well that the much-punted humility of their candidate might be a hard-sale more so to an electorate that appears too desperate for change. They can’t afford lethargic arguments such as they being the only party with a manifesto. Need they be reminded that having a manifesto is one thing and delivering on its content is another.

What about the promise that they would lower taxes and put more money in the pockets of the working class? Did they deliver on such including creation of job opportunities? You be the judge. The President is aware that he will be facing an electorate that is weary of rising food costs. A persistent drought over the last two seasons has only compounded the hunger situation – more so in outlying areas of the country. In addition, the policy uncertainty in mining taxation and the stand – off between government and sections of the mining community is taking its toll on economic growth. Perceptions around inaction on corruption might not help his cause either. While some of these challenges might not be, the PF’s making, the electorate always tend to punish a sitting government for their suffering – sometimes unfairly so.

Never mind whether HH has genuine or has yet to formulate charges against the PF, he has consistently warned that the PF leadership will be called to account for wrong doing once he becomes President. The tacit implication of this threat is that, HH is already extending bed spaces at Chimbokaila, Kamwala Remand and possibly Lilayi prisons for use by the PF leadership. And knowing fully well what is at stake, a possible loss is too ghastly for the PF to contemplate. For President Lungu, there will be no better motivation to win the polls than lose to a sworn rival.

Its State House or bust for HH

PF has over-exposed the country to a mountain of debt that will outlive generations to come. It is precisely why the 2021 polls will boil down to the economy. As a businessman, HH knows too well the implications of our foreign debt on the fiscus. Zambia can’t afford to keep borrowing to fund consumption and expenditure on non-productive sectors of the economy.

This is the message he has been selling the grassroots. For a fact, he has the support of the broader investment community, including some global mining giants. Most important though, the International Monetary Fund appears to have factored in his possible victory in 2021 hence their reluctance to engage the current government on a possible economic rescue package.

The question is, has the UPND leader’s message of change found resonance with the electorate? While he appeals to the affluent and middle class in Parklands, Kansenshi and Kabulonga, the grassroots in Mandevu, kwa Nagoli and Chamboli seem to be struggling to grasp his vision for the country. Be reminded that he desperately needs this voting block to win the elections.

Against the backdrop of challenges, this looks like HH’s election to lose. Fact is, he can’t afford a record of 4 election loses on the trot. Such a scenario will certainly cast him into political wilderness and the glue that’s bound the UPND together over the years will finally loosen. Is this what he wants?

It’s entirely up to him and how he manages his campaign otherwise it might just well be that he will once again fall short of expectation and hand the PF another 5 years in power. And him being such a vexatious litigant, our Supreme and Constitutional courts will likely be kept busy. Watch this space.

The author is an avid reader of political history and philosophy. He loves Nshima with game meat. For feedback contact him on kwachaoneATgmailDOTcom

Battle lines have been drawn for this weekend’s 2025/26 season opener

Chief Editor
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Battle lines have been drawn for this weekend’s 2025/26 season opener

Battle lines have been drawn for this weekend’s 2025/26 season opener Carling Black Label Samuel ‘Zoom’ Ndhlovu Charity Shield with coaches of the eight teams involved in the competition declaring their sides ready for skirmishes.

The Charity Shield will be played over two days at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola with Kansanshi Dynamos facing Konkola Blades and the Women’s game will see promoted Super League sides National Assembly and Konkola Blades facing off on 9 August.

On 10 August, Zesco Ndola Girls will face Green Buffalos before the main match between league champions Power Dynamos and Zesco United.

During the pre-match media briefing at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, Power deputy coach Songwe Chalwe predicted an exciting match against Copperbelt rivals Zesco United.

“We know how important this game is. It is always exciting to play against Zesco United,” Chalwe told journalists.

Zesco coach Emmanuel Siwale said the Charity Shield will help his team to get ready for their upcoming assignment in the CAF Confederation Cup.

“It’s going to be a very good and exciting game. It is important that we are preparing for CAF games. It will be a tough match but good for the team,” Siwale said.

Last month, the main sponsor Zambian Breweries unveiled over K2 million investments towards the expanded Charity Shield during the launch at Broadway Station in Ndola as the Zambian Premier League uncovered the expanded two-day format and inclusion of women’s matches.

Konkola Blades coach Beston Chambeshi said Sharp Razor was thrilled to play the Charity Shield against fellow promoted Super Division side Kansanshi.

“It is wonderful to be part of the Charity Shield. I want to thank sponsors of this Charity Shield. Kansanshi has a good team but we are ready for the match against them,” Chambeshi said.

Kansanshi coach Zeddy Saileti says the Solwezi side is not taking the Charity Shield match lightly.

“I expect a very entertaining game. I think this game is very important for Kansanshi, we are in preseason,” Saileti said.

The K2,000,000 investment towards the Charity Shield include a K750, 000 sponsorship package for the Zambia Premier League, and prize money for competing teams, sports kits, and a national campaign to encourage fan participation.

The ECL Burial Case and Bill 13 Are Both about Property Rights.

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The ECL Burial Case and Bill 13 Are Both about Property Rights.

By Chanda Chisala.

The protracted impasse of Edgar Lungu burial case appears took another twist when the Pretoria High Court decided to grant the government of Zambia the authority over the remains of their beloved father and husband. This was followed by an immediate appeal of the ruling by the family, to give the case a final hearing.

One thing this impasse has brought out clearly is just how politically motivated Zambians have become when taking sides over any issue. Those who support the UPND believe that the family has been petty, irrational, vindictive, and just hateful against their beloved president Hichilema, which is supposedly the only reason they didn’t want him at the burial of the late president. Those who support the Patriotic Front or oppose the UPND, believe that the family were right to not want Mister Hichilema at the burial, in honor of the wishes of the deceased, and that it is the current president who has been irrationally obsessed with viewing the body of his former nemesis.

If the UPND were in opposition and “bodies” were exchanged, they obviously would have taken the opposite position, as would supporters of the PF if it was their president in power.

As Zambians we need to move to taking our positions on issues based on principle and not just unthinking partisan politics or emotional personal battles. But this will only happen when our educated intellectuals, who are supposed to be our guiding lights, elevate the debates to abstract principles, to guide the rest of us so that we could take consistent positions that have nothing to do with personal loyalties.

I propose that in the ECL burial impasse, the principle that is at risk of being destroyed is the primacy of private property. The most civilised societies in the world have always been those that have had a higher respect for private property ownership than other societies. Those societies that have been left behind are those that took the longest to appreciate this powerful concept of the sovereign rights of an individual to own and control his own property, as long as he does not use it to physically harm other people.

We know that the body of every deceased person naturally belongs to the immediate surviving family of that person, just like the rest of the property they owned. We have thus now abandoned our traditional culture of “property grabbing” which disrespected the widow and children of a deceased person and shared his property to as many relatives as possible, according to the “wisdom” of the family elders, sometimes leaving his family virtually destitute. As we have become more enlightened, we recognise that the family and next of kin of the deceased have the supreme rights over his property, including his body, unless he stated otherwise in a documented will.

The judge in the Pretoria case was thus wrong to override the wishes of the family of Edgar Lungu by basically granting ownership of the former president’s remains to the Zambian state. The court should have followed the more civilised legal principles of their own country, which tend to protect rightful ownership of private property even when powerful entities are interested.

It is for exactly this same reason that we oppose the UPND government’s most recently infamous Bill 13, a piece of legislation that, again, aims to weaken the firmness of private property rights by giving final determination of land ownership conflicts to some lower government bureaucrat who can easily be influenced by political interests. This erodes the security of private property and takes us backwards in our process of modern civilisation.

What’s surprising about these positions taken by the UPND is that their party is led by a president from the business world, whom you might expect to be a strong proponent of strong private property rights.

The very foundation of capitalism, after all, is this principle of private property. It is the reason that capitalism ultimately triumphed over opposing ideologies, as it led to the unprecedented creation of wealth as people accrued more and more property from their hard work. During the Cold War, some countries sided with the anti-private-property side, known as communists, in which the state had supreme control over everything. The individual was nothing. The individual was to see himself as the servant of the society, and thus a servant of the state.

On the opposite side were the capitalists, who believed the individual was supreme over his own property, his own mind and his own life. In this system, it was the government that was the servant of the individual; their main job was to protect his property from those who want to take it or use it without his permission, even if they are in the majority. The Western capitalist side went as far as creating documents that would protect the individual even against the government itself, if they ever tried to violate his property rights. In the United States, which was leading the capitalist side, such inviolable rights are enshrined in what they called the Bill of Rights, the strongest part of the constitution that is nearly impossible to change. No law could be made that went against these rights; no action could be taken by the state.

On the other (communist) side, the individual was treated as nothing. The individual’s property was seen as belonging to the entire public and he was only a custodian of it. The political leaders presented themselves as the supreme authorities who had the wisdom to decide what should happen to any of that property. They claimed that they were in the best position to know what is always in “the public interest”. Not only could they confiscate any person’s property, including his business (“nationalization”), they believed they even had the right to set the prices of his goods (“price controls”), all in the name of this nebulous “public interest.”

The recent invocations of “public interest” by the Zambian Attorney General in the case of the Lungu burial case is reminiscent of this kind of retrogressive dangerous thinking. Public interest is not supposed to be just anything the authorities decide it means.

In our new civilised world, “public interest” should really only come into play when the property and lives of individuals are threatened by someone’s actions or indeed by acts of nature. For example, while the president and the Attorney General were busy fighting over the disputable “public interest” in Edgar Lungu’s burial process, the local Zambian people of Kitwe were fearing for their lives after the American Embassy warned its citizens to vacate the town due to alleged lethal air pollution. That is an issue of true public interest that should focus the government’s resources to fully establish if there is indeed an endangering of people’s lives and to decide an urgent solution. The main job of a government in a civilised society is to protect lives and property from those who might harm them, whether consciously or unwittingly. Real “public interest” should thus always have this aspect of emergency to justify government intervention on private property, like in the Covid pandemic case. It should never be about some ceremonial interest in funeral protocols.

The Zambian government, no matter which party is in power, should commit itself to protecting the sanctity and security of private property rights, as servants of the people, instead of being the one that violates them. They should certainly not be the ones doing the “property grabbing” from helpless bereaved families.

The author, Chanda Chisala, is the Founder of Zambia Online and Khama Institute. He is formerly a John S. Knight Fellow at Stanford University and Visiting Scholar to the Hoover Institution, a policy think tank at Stanford. He was also a Reagan Fellow at the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) in Washington, DC. You can follow him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/chandachisala

Lungu’s Body to Remain in South Africa Pending Appeal

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Lungu’s Body to Remain in South Africa Pending Appeal

The remains of former Zambian President Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu will not be moved from South Africa following the successful filing of an urgent appeal by his widow and family against a court order for repatriation.

The South African High Court, Gauteng Division in Pretoria, had earlier ruled in favour of an application by the Attorney General of the Republic of Zambia to return Lungu’s body to Zambia for burial. However, the family lodged an urgent appeal challenging the “whole judgment and order” issued by Judge Ledwaba.

Under South African law, the filing of a notice of appeal generally acts as an automatic stay of execution of a judgment, halting enforcement until the appeal is decided. This principle is rooted in Section 18 of the Superior Courts Act of 2013, which states that “unless the court under exceptional circumstances orders otherwise, the operation and execution of a decision which is the subject of an application for leave to appeal or of an appeal, is suspended pending the decision of the application or appeal.”

South Africa’s hybrid legal system—combining Roman-Dutch law, English common law, and customary law—recognises that while a notice of appeal typically suspends a judgment, exceptions can be made. In such cases, the winning party must demonstrate irreparable harm if the order is not enforced and that the losing party will not suffer irreparable harm if it is.

The stay in this case means Lungu’s body will remain in Pretoria until the appeal is heard. The BBC reports that private security services have been engaged to guard the remains at the morgue following repeated attempts to remove the body without authorisation.

Legal experts say it is unlikely the Zambian government will attempt to move the body before the appeal is resolved, as doing so could violate South African law. The Sheriff of the Court is not expected to sign any enforcement orders while the appeal is pending.

Yesterday, the Pretoria High Court in South Africa authorized and ordered Two Mountains, the funeral parlour keeping the body of the late former President of Zambia, Edgar Lungu, to immediately surrender his body to the Zambian government for repatriation and burial.

In a landmark judgment delivered in South Africa today, Judge Aubrey Ledwaba, sitting together with two other judges, ordered that Two Mountains should, upon being served with the court order by the Sheriff of the Pretoria High Court, immediately surrender the body of the late Mr Lungu to the representative of the Zambian government.

“The eighth respondent is authorized and ordered upon service of the court order by the Sheriff of this Honourable Court to immediately surrender the body of the Late President Lungu to a representative or representatives of the Zambian High Commission to enable the applicant to repatriate the body to Zambia for the purposes stated in paragraph 4 above,” Judge Ledwaba read the judgment in court.

Paragraph four of the judgment is an order that the applicant, which is the government of the Republic of Zambia, is entitled to repatriate the body of the late Mr Lungu for a state funeral and burial thereafter at Embassy Park in Lusaka.

The court further ordered and authorized that the former first lady, Esther Lungu and the late Mr Lungu’s family, including Mr Makebi Zulu, the late former President’s lawyer, should be present when the body of the late Mr Lungu is surrendered to the government of Zambia and repatriated for the state funeral and burial at Embassy Park in Lusaka.

“The First to Seventh Respondents are authorized to be present when paragraphs 4 and 5 of this order are executed, and an Aide De Camp, the late president’s physician, and two family members may accompany the coffin containing the body of the late President Lungu during the repatriation,” Judge Ledwaba said.

The judge added that there is no order as to costs, which includes reserved costs.

And the Pretoria High Court has ruled that the wish of the late former President not to be accorded a state funeral cannot override public interest.
Referring to the case of The People v Secretary to the Cabinet Ex parte Kaweche Kaunda (HP768 of 2021) [2021] ZMHC 6 (7 July 2021), Judge Ledwaba said public interest can override personal wishes.
He said in this regard, the court (Pretoria High Court) referred to the case of The People v Secretary to the Cabinet Ex parte Kaweche Kaunda (HP768 of 2021) [2021] ZMHC 6 (7 July 2021).
“That court stated that a state funeral is a public funeral ceremony, observing the strict rule of protocol, held to honour people of national significance. In addition to that, even if it was a personal wish of the late President not to be accorded a state funeral, such a wish must be overridden by the public interest,” the judge ruled.

Judge Ledwaba observed in his judgment that the late President Lungu, like any other President in established democracies around the world, deserves to be buried with the necessary dignity.
“This court cannot bar a President of another country from attending a state funeral,” he said in the judgment, noting that there is no doubt that the current President of Zambia would be involved in receiving foreign dignitaries as Head of State of the host country.

On the issue of whether Zambian or South African law is applicable, the Pretoria High Court considered the decision of Society of Lloyd’s supra; one has to determine a flexible and sensitive manner in which the legal system has the closest and most real connection to the dispute.
In legal terminology, ‘supra’ means ‘above.’

“The domicile, habitual residence and nationality of the late President and the family are connecting factors that would point to the Zambian law as proper lex causae,” he said.
Lex causae is a Latin legal term which means ‘the law of the cause’ referring to the law that governs the substantive rights and obligations of parties in a legal dispute, rather than the procedural rules of the court.

Former President Lungu died on June 5, 2025, at a private hospital in South Africa. He was 68 years old.

On 24th June 2025, Zambia’s Attorney General, Mulilo Kabesha, representing the government, launched an urgent application in the Pretoria High Court for an order to, among other things, seek that the funeral parlour (Two Mountains) be ordered to keep and to preserve the body of the late former President Lungu and not to remove or dispose of it in any manner pending the finalization of the application seeking its repatriation.

The urgent application followed the earlier decision by the Lungu family to bury the body in South Africa at a private funeral, citing some disagreements with the government of Zambia.
The following day, on 25 June 2025, the Pretoria High Court, pursuant to an agreement by the parties ordered that the funeral and burial of the late President Lungu be suspended pending the determination of the main application.

And speaking after the judgment, Mr Kabesha, said the ruling by the Pretoria High Court ‘makes good sense’ because the late Mr Lungu belonged to the Zambia.

The late Mr Lungu led Zambia as President from 2015 until August 2021.

Court Rules – Lungu to be buried in Zambia

Lusaka Times Editor
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Court Rules – Lungu to be buried in Zambia

A South African court has ruled that the late former Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu must be buried in Zambia, siding with the Zambian government in a high-profile legal battle with his family over his final resting place.

The ruling, delivered in Johannesburg, upholds the government’s position that Mr. Lungu’s burial should take place at Embassy Park, the official presidential burial site in Lusaka reserved for heads of state. The court’s decision follows weeks of legal wrangling between the State and the Lungu family, who had sought to have the former leader laid to rest in South Africa.

Government lawyers had argued that the burial of former presidents at Embassy Park is not only a matter of national protocol but also of historical preservation, ensuring that the contributions of past leaders are honoured in a recognised state memorial. The State further contended that Mr. Lungu’s burial in Zambia would allow the nation to collectively pay its last respects.

On the other hand, family representatives — led by former First Lady Esther Lungu — opposed the move, insisting that the late president had expressed a wish to be buried privately in South Africa, where some of his children reside. They accused the government of politicising a deeply personal matter.

The court, however, found that the Zambian government had a legitimate claim over the burial arrangements of a former head of state and that such matters carry significant public interest. The judgment paves the way for the immediate repatriation of Mr. Lungu’s body to Lusaka, although it is not yet clear when the burial will take place.

Mr. Lungu, who served as Zambia’s sixth president from 2015 to 2021, died last month in Johannesburg after a period of ill health. His death has triggered both political reflection and public debate over his legacy, as well as the handling of state protocols for departed leaders.

Government sources have indicated that preparations at Embassy Park are already underway, with plans for a state funeral likely to be announced in the coming days. The decision is expected to draw mixed reactions, as political allies and opponents weigh in on the legal and moral dimensions of the case.

Eastern cops hunt 2 female suspects in infanticide

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Eastern cops hunt 2 female suspects in infanticide

Police in Eastern Province have launched a manhunt for two female suspects who were allegedly involved in infanticide in Sinda District.

Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer, Robertson Mweemba who confirmed the development identified the suspects as Onisha Daka aged 20 and her mother Ruth Phiri of Lwanika village.

Mr Mweemba revealed that Onisha Daka was heavily pregnant and reportedly gave birth to a live baby girl on August 5, 2025 at an unknown time but later dumped her in a pit latrine.
“Brief facts of the matter are that Onisha Daka who was heavily pregnant gave birth to a live baby girl who was dumped in a pit latrine,’’ he said.

He stated that the matter was reported to the police on August 6, 2025 after the babe was retrieve by community members  in collaboration with officers from the fire department.

“Villagers heard the cry of a new born baby from the latrine but no one had the courage to go and retrieve the babe,’’ he said.

Mr Mweemba disclosed that the baby was later taken to Chakalawa health post where it was confirmed dead.

He said the body has been given back to the family for burial stating that no foul was suspected.

Mr Mweemba, however, revealed that Onisha Daka and her mother Ruth Phiri who is suspected to have helped with childbirth are on the run.

He added that a manhunt has been launched to ensure the suspected culprits are brought to book.

Persons with Albinism in Zambia living in fear

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Persons with Albinism in Zambia living in fear

Persons with Albinism (PwAs) in Zambia say they live in fear, not because of their genetic condition, but because of ignorance, myths and false beliefs that still prevail in some communities in the country.

The albinos say harmful practices are unacceptable and must be strongly rejected by right thinking members of society because they constitute a violation of the principles enshrined in the International Human Rights Treaty.

Zambia Albinism Alliance (ZAA) Secretary General (SG), Price Chibwe says albinos allegedly living in fear face of multiple human rights challenges including experiences of stigmatization and discrimination, poverty, subjected to extreme forms of violence .

Mr Chibwe noted that harmful practices related to witchcraft accusations and ritual attacks at the hands of their abled persons causes fear among albinos.

He called for an action plan and protection to people with albinism, including psycho-social support, access to quality health care, and combating discrimination, human trafficking and organ harvesting.

The ZAA SG said this in Lusaka today during the International Albinism Awareness Day. Initially, the Day falls annually on June 13 but it could not take place owing to organisational constraints.

The 2025 theme is dubbed,” Empowering the future; celebrating albinos in every shade.”

‘’I call for intensified initiatives with a positive impact, with the main focus on harmonising criminal laws on crimes against persons with albinism, carrying out national and international awareness campaigns, and social inclusion, especially of children with albinism in school,’’ he said.

And Lusaka District Commissioner, Rose Zulu w said government is aware and it is working with Civil Society Organisations for the promotion, care, love and protection of the rights of people living with albinism.

Ms Zulu said government is deeply concerned with the incidences of violence include killings, abductions, mutilations and infanticide, verbal abuse and bullying against people with albinism.

She observed that Zambia has witnessed several cases where persons with albinism have been attacked and tragically killed, apart from enduring discrimination for their skin colour.

The DC assured that strategies and mechanisms being put in place by the government at the United Nations provide specific and concrete measures to promote and protect the rights of persons with albinism and create conditions for their realisation.

“Persons with albinism are our friends, fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, nephews, and nieces and are just like us, and deserve to be treated with respect and dignity,” she said.

Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council Executive Director, Anne Mbewe-Anamela advocated for the ratification of the African Disability Protocol to advance the interests of people with albinism in various sectors such as health, education and employment.

Ms Mbewe- Anamela who was represented by Finance and Administration Manager, Florence Lufunsa, bemoaned that female albinos face major challenges than males.

And Pauline Siame, a mother staying in Chongwe district complained that human rights violations and abuses against people with albinism in Zambia are common.

Ms Siame further complained that even after a person with albinism has died, their graves are at risk of exhumation to obtain body parts for sale and used for other ritual purposes.

Muchinga records high MPOX cases

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Muchinga records high MPOX cases

Nakonde District in Muchinga Province is on high alert as MPOX cases rise amidst cross-border risks.

Nakonde District Health Promotions Officer, Getrude Chipampe said the district has recorded 22 suspected cases of MPOX as of August 6, 2025, with 11 of  confirmed cases.

Speaking in an interview with the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS), Ms Chipampe said the border town situated at the critical Zambia-Tanzania intersection, which is a hub for regional trade, tourism, and migration, is now taking precautions to curb the spread of the disease.

“The Zambia-Tanzania border is a critical intersection for regional trade, tourism and migration increasing the risk of cross-border transmission of infectious diseases,’’ she said.

She revealed that the confirmed cases have shown symptoms typical of MPOX, including rash, headache, fever, and in some instances, lymphadenopathy.

Ms Chipampe pointed out that out of the 11 confirmed cases, nine patients have been discharged, while two remain in admission at Nakonde Mini Hospital.

She added that the two patients currently in admission are a couple, both aged 43, residing in Katozi Village.

“They presented with rash, fever, and lymphadenopathy a week before seeking medical attention and were detected through Event Based Surveillance active case search on August 1, 2025,” she said.

Ms Chipampe further cautioned residents to take preventive measures to curb further spread of the disease.

She advised the general populace to avoid close contact with infected persons, wash hands with soap, stay home if symptoms of MPOX are present, wear a face mask, use condoms when having intercourse and avoid multiple sexual partners.

She said the symptoms of MPOX include fever, severe headache, swollen glands, muscle pain, backache, feeling weak, skin rash, sore eyes, pain in the rectum, and pain or difficulty in urinating.

MPOX, a disease caused by the Monkey Virus, can cause a rash resembling pimples or blisters accompanied by flu-like symptoms.

It can potentially be spread from animals to humans and from person to person through direct contact with bodily fluids, contaminated objects, or close contact with an infected person.

Maamba Energy to inject 400 additional megawatts into aational grid by Mid-2026

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Maamba Energy to inject 400 additional megawatts into aational grid by Mid-2026

Maamba Energy Limited (MEL) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Cyrus Minwalla, has announced that the company is on track to deliver a total of 700-megawatt power into national grid by the middle of next year

Mr Minwalla disclosed that an additional 400 megawatts, will be generated from the Maamba phase two expansion power plant and the additional 100-megawatt will be generated from the solar project.

“With 300 already in output, we plan that by mid next year 400 will be added making a total of 700 into the national grid,” he announced.

Speaking during a joint media tour by ZESCO, Mr Minwalla said the move forms part of the company’s long-term commitment to powering Zambia’s development through consistent and reliable energy supply.

“Our top priority is to deliver the maximum possible power to ZESCO and the Zambian national grid. This means ensuring our maintenance standards are world-class and that every ounce of energy that can be produced from our power plant is delivered to the nation,” he said.

 The CEO confirmed that the 300-megawatt thermal expansion project is already underway, with visible progress on the ground.

“We’ve already cleared the land, and the EPC contract is close to being finalised. By mid-next year, we expect to be injecting another 100 megawatts from solar. Its a critical step in diversifying our energy portfolio and contributing to Zambia’s renewable energy targets,” he stated.

M’membe Criticises Hichilema Over Re-Submission of Rejected Bills

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M’membe Criticises Hichilema Over Re-Submission of Rejected Bills

Socialist Party president Fred M’membe has launched a scathing attack on President Hakainde Hichilema and the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), accusing them of arrogance and poor governance over the re-submission of bills previously rejected by Parliament.

In a strongly worded statement titled “Rejected Bills: Why Is Hichilema Refusing to Learn, Refusing to Stop?”, Dr M’membe described the UPND administration as “directionless, clueless, and shockingly arrogant,” alleging that the government continues to make “political and economic blunders of catastrophic proportions.”

At the centre of his criticism are bills that were thrown out by Members of Parliament but have reportedly been sent back for what government officials are calling “consultation.”

Dr M’membe questioned the logic behind this move, arguing that if elected representatives had already rejected the proposals, there was little justification in reintroducing them.

“Who are they trying to consult? If the elected representatives of the people have already rejected the bills, what is there to consult on? Why waste taxpayers’ money chasing dead proposals?” M’membe asked.

He accused the government of disregarding the will of the people and governing through force rather than consensus. According to M’membe, the approach reflects an obsession with pushing an “unwanted agenda” on citizens, rather than engaging in genuine democratic processes.

“This country deserves leaders who listen, not rulers or tin-pot dictators, who bulldoze their way through failure. People are tired of this thoughtless system and arrogance of leadership that is destroying our country,” he said.

The government has not yet issued an official response to Dr M’membe’s remarks.

Lumezi man kills stepfather

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Lumezi man kills stepfather

A 20-year-old man of Lumezi district is on the run after allegedly killing his step father.

Komani Banda, aged 65 years, is said to have been hit with a log and was pronounced dead upon arrival at Lundazi district hospital.

Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer, Robertson Mweemba, said the crime is believed to have happened between 20:00hrs on Monday, August 4th and Tuesday, August 5th 2025 at around 14:00hrs, at Chipwafu village in chief Zumwanda’s area.

The matter was reported to the police by the deceased’s nephew, who witnessed part of the ordeal.

“Brief facts of the matter are that on the stated date, the deceased person was at his house relaxing on a reed mat around the fireplace. The reporter of the crime, Masauso Zimba, was also nearby in his hut when he suddenly heard his uncle screaming that he was hurt. When he rushed outside, he found the suspect, Keyala Nyirenda, hitting the deceased with a log,” he said.

It was reported that the deceased person even tried to defend himself but immediately fell down after taking a few steps, while trying to apprehend the said suspect.

“The nephew also tried to give chase but failed to catch up with the said suspect. Transport was then organised and the injured person, who only complained of stomach aches due to the inflicted pain, was immediately rushed to Njoka rural health post for treatment,” Mr Mweemba explained.

He was later referred to Lundazi district hospital where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

“The matter was brought to the attention of the police who later rushed to Lundazi district hospital and conducted a physical inspection on the said body, and no physical injuries were noticed,” he said.

The body has been deposited in Lundazi district hospital mortuary awaiting postmortem examination to ascertain the cause of death while the suspect is on the run and a manhunt has since been launched.

Immigration Department unearths document fraud syndicate

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Immigration Department unearths document fraud syndicate

The Department of Immigration has uncovered a document fraud syndicate involving over 370 passports of different countries and other documents.

According to a statement made available to ZANIS today by the Department of Immigration Chief Public Relations Officer, Namati Nshinka, seven suspects have been apprehended and detained while 372 passports have been seized.

Among the seven apprehended suspects are three Zambians, three Burundi nationals and one suspected Congolese.

Mr Nshinka pointed out that Zambian nationals include a 35-year-old Assistant Registration Officer based at the Ndola Passport Office and Augustine Phiri aged 31, both linked to the supply of passports and forged identity documents.

He said these were apprehended in Ndola on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

He further stated that the department is actively pursuing at least one more individual in connection with a suspected human smuggling syndicate operating under the guise of travel facilitation.

“The operation is believed to involve the production and use of fraudulent identity and travel documents to secure visas and facilitate the illegal movement of individuals, including Zambians and foreign nationals, to various international destinations,” Mr Nshinka added.

He explained that the investigations were triggered by a formal report regarding some suspicious documents submitted to one foreign embassy in Lusaka by a 40-year-old Burundian refugee, Jean-Claude Sibomana, on behalf of a Zambian national.

“Acting swiftly on the report, Immigration Officers apprehended Sibomana on Friday, August 1, 2025, shortly after his visit to the said embassy. He was found in possession of a Zambian National Registration Card and a Zambian Passport in the name of Oscar Musonda, raising immediate concerns about the genuineness and source of these documents,” he added.

Mr Nshinka noted that the sheer volume and diversity of the recovered passports point to a well-coordinated transnational network that may have been facilitating human smuggling, irregular migration, and visa fraud on a significant scale.

He explained that preliminary findings suggest that the syndicate was involved in processing and supplying forged documents to facilitate the acquisition of visas for individuals traveling abroad.

“The documents ranged from national passports and refugee cards to academic transcripts and institutional stamps, many of which were used in visa applications or to establish false identities,” he explained.

Mr Nshinka also said owing to the diversity of potential offences, the Department of Immigration has incorporated other security wings into the investigations.

“We remain resolute in dismantling criminal networks that undermine internal security through fraudulent immigration practices. We also wish to call upon members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious immigration-related activities to the nearest Immigration Office,” Mr Nshinka said.

There’s no cause for alarm over Kitwe water contamination-Mweetwa

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There’s no cause for alarm over Kitwe water contamination-Mweetwa

Government says the environmental crisis caused by the February acid tailings dam failure at Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited in the Copperbelt Province has been contained and public health and water quality restored in affected areas.

Speaking during a joint press briefing held in Lusaka today, Chief Government Spokesperson, Cornelius Mweetwa, explained that acidity levels in the Chambishi, Mwambashi and Kafue rivers have returned to normal and concentrations of heavy metals are steadily decreasing.

Mr Mweetwa, who is also Minister of Information and Media, said government pledged to safeguard the environment, public health and promised transparency throughout the remaining restoration process.

“Government can confidently assure the safety of the people in the affected areas. There is, therefore, no cause for alarm,” Mr Mweetwa said.

He said the pH levels recovered by early March, and over 200 water and sediment samples have been collected for testing, 163 of which are currently undergoing analysis at an independent laboratory in Kitwe.

He said in an effort to enforce compliance, the government invoked Section 107 of the Environmental Management Act after Sino Metals failed to appoint a qualified consultant to conduct a full environmental impact assessment.

A consultancy firm will now be selected by the government, with costs to be borne by Sino Metals.

Mr Mweetwa further said when the pollution occurred, the Ministry of Health dispatched rapid response teams to Kitwe, Ngabwe, and Mumbwa districts, adding that only three cases of suspected water-related illness were recorded, all of which fully recovered.

“No deaths or acute heavy metal poisoning have been reported,” the Minister confirmed.

He said in Kitwe, two water treatment plants were temporarily shut down after detecting pH abnormalities but resumed operations within days following successful chemical treatment and quality assurance.

He explained that the Nkana Water Supply and Sanitation Company provided alternative water via bowsers during the disruption.

Mr Mweetwa further said in response to the pollution, the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) immediately suspended operations at the facility and issued an Environmental Restoration Order compelling the company to clean up and submit a remediation plan.

He said ZEMA also began lime dosing to neutralise acidity and launched ongoing monitoring of water, soil, and sediment.

He stated that the Mine Safety Department suspended Sino Metals’ operations, issued a compliance order with 12 corrective actions, and fined the company over K1.5 million.

The fine has since been paid while the company is also compensating affected communities for crop and soil damage over two farming seasons.

The Minister said going forward, all mining companies have been instructed to cease disposal of acidic tailings into dams without prior neutralisation and that existing facilities must comply by December 2025.

“We remain fully committed to holding the polluter accountable,” Mr Mweetwa assured, adding that Sino Metals has so far cooperated fully.

Meanwhile, Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Mike Mposha, said the government went beyond affected areas to test the water and reached as far as Ngabwe and Mushingashi near Mumbwa district.

Mr Mposha said the government also engaged the international community when the disaster occurred and outlined actions to restore the environment and against the polluter.

Meanwhile, Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu, said the water being supplied in Kitwe and surrounding areas is of the World Health Organisations (WHO) required standards and was safe for drinking.

He said the Water Resource Management Authority (WARMA) has continued to monitor the water quality.

The pollution incident, which saw approximately 50,000 cubic metres of acidic slurry discharged into key water bodies, had triggered nationwide concern.

The pollution occurred on 18th February 2025 when Sino Metals reported the failure of tailings dam TD15F.

Yesterday the United States (US) government ordered the immediate withdrawal of all U.S. personnel from Kitwe and surrounding areas following revelations of a major toxic spill at the Sino Metals Leach Mine in Chambishi.

According to a health alert issued by the U.S. Embassy in Lusaka, newly uncovered information reveals that the mine tailings spill released a mix of hazardous and carcinogenic substances into the environment, including arsenic, cyanide, uranium, and other heavy metals.

These contaminants allegedly pose both immediate and long-term health threats through exposure in water, soil, and even the air.

The U.S. government also banned official travel to Kitwe if it would require reliance on municipally sourced water for drinking or cooking.

“Beyond contaminated water and soil, contamination from the spilled mine tailings may also become airborne, posing a health threat if inhaled,” the embassy stated.

Changala Says UPND Was Ill-Prepared to Govern Zambia

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Changala Says UPND Was Ill-Prepared to Govern Zambia
Changala Says UPND Was Ill-Prepared to Govern Zambia

Prominent governance activist Brebner Changala has sharply criticised the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), arguing that the party ascended to power in 2021 without a clear governance roadmap and remains fundamentally unprepared to lead the country.

Speaking in an interview with The Mast, Changala warned that the UPND’s continued failure to adequately plan, consult, and deliver on key national issues is plunging Zambia into a crisis of leadership and credibility. He asserted that the administration, despite enjoying immense goodwill upon assuming office, squandered public trust through what he described as poor decision-making and a narrow, exclusive leadership style.

“They didn’t have a plan. They had a desire to be in State House,” said Changala. “They ran a race of mudslinging and character assassination. They painted the PF as the most corrupt government in the history of this country, and they capitalised on that perception. But what we are seeing now is a party that was never ready to govern.”

He lamented that instead of uniting the country after defeating the Patriotic Front (PF), the UPND leadership has grown increasingly elitist and detached from the grassroots. Changala accused the party of engaging in selective consultations, favouritism in appointments, and a failure to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability it once championed in opposition.

“They are not engaging the stakeholders. They don’t listen to the people. They are only listening to a very close clique within the corridors of power. And that is a dangerous path to dictatorship,” he warned.

According to Changala, one of the clearest signs of poor leadership is the government’s failure to manage expectations, especially on the economic front. He questioned the slow pace of delivering jobs to the youth, the inconsistent policy environment, and the growing disillusionment among even the most passionate UPND supporters.

“Today the people who used to sing for the UPND and President Hichilema are the ones mocking him,” he noted. “They promised too much, and delivered too little. People are now waking up to the fact that slogans and soundbites are not governance.”

Changala, a veteran human rights defender, also cautioned that Zambia’s democracy is being weakened by what he called “a disguised authoritarianism” creeping into the political space. He cited the intolerance toward dissent, the weaponisation of law enforcement agencies, and the increasing surveillance and intimidation of civil society voices as indicators of shrinking democratic space.

“The UPND said they would be different. But how different are they if they’re now targeting critics and arresting opposition leaders?” he asked.

He also denounced the government’s failure to demonstrate empathy in times of national suffering, particularly pointing to rising living costs, water contamination issues, and an economic downturn that he said is hitting ordinary Zambians the hardest.

“It is not just about policies on paper. Leadership is about compassion. This administration has become arrogant. They think because they have numbers in Parliament, they are untouchable,” he added.

Changala expressed concern over the UPND’s inability to build sustainable bridges across political divides, suggesting that the party’s governance style is rooted more in political expediency than national development.

“You cannot lead this country by alienating others. Even the PF, as discredited as they were, still represent a significant portion of this country’s voice. They too must be heard,” he stressed.

He called on President Hakainde Hichilema to recalibrate his administration’s direction and reconnect with the ordinary people who placed him in power with great hope and belief.

“Leadership is about listening, humility, and course correction. This ship is veering off. The earlier they realise it, the better for this country,” Changala concluded.

His remarks echo a growing wave of concern across civil society and among political analysts who argue that the UPND’s early promises of reform and inclusive governance have been overtaken by insularity and poor execution.

Transparency International Sounds Alarm Over 2026 Poll Credibility

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Transparency International Sounds Alarm Over 2026 Poll Credibility

Transparency International Sounds Alarm Over 2026 Poll Credibility

Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) has raised serious concerns about the integrity of Zambia’s upcoming 2026 general elections, citing alarming levels of procurement manipulation within the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).

In a detailed statement, TI-Z executive director Maurice Nyambe outlined a disturbing pattern of internal interference within ECZ, particularly regarding the ongoing tender process for biometric voter registration (BVR) equipment and software. According to Nyambe, two companies — Miru Systems and Starlab — advanced to the final stages of the procurement process under questionable circumstances, despite failing to meet critical eligibility criteria.

“As outlined in our investigative report published yesterday in The Mast, two companies, Miru Systems, with a concerning global record, and Starlab, of which very little is known, have advanced to the final stage of the tender under questionable circumstances,” Nyambe said.

He revealed that a disqualified bidder had its appeal controversially upheld by the Zambia Public Procurement Authority (ZPPA), while other stronger contenders were excluded without proper justification. Nyambe attributed this irregularity to internal manipulation by ECZ officials.

“Multiple whistle-blowers have come forward with evidence that raises suspicions about internal interference by ECZ officials to influence the outcome of the 2026 General Elections, raising serious concerns about the transparency and fairness of the whole process,” he warned.

The allegations come at a time when confidence in Zambia’s democratic institutions is already fragile. Nyambe stressed that if the current trajectory continues, the legitimacy of the voter registration process and, by extension, the elections themselves, would be compromised.

“These revelations could potentially cast a long and dark shadow over the credibility of the 2026 elections and threaten to erode public trust in democratic institutions,” Nyambe said.

He further called on the ECZ to suspend the current due diligence process and to initiate an independent, urgent review. TI-Z is also demanding full disclosure of shortlisted bidders’ profiles, evaluation criteria used, and a clear explanation for the exclusion of other contenders.

“We call for comprehensive investigations by law enforcement agencies, including the Anti-Corruption Commission, into allegations of procurement manipulation,” said Nyambe.

He echoed sentiments made by Secretary to Cabinet Patrick Kangwa at a previous Integrity Committee Forum in 2024, where Kangwa warned that corruption often thrives when senior officials fail to take action within their institutions.

“We agree with this and stress that failure to address these revelations will fly in the face of government’s professed commitment to fighting corruption as envisioned in the National Policy on Anti-Corruption,” Nyambe added.

He emphasised that the voter registration process is the very foundation of electoral credibility and urged that no compromises be tolerated.

“We can ill-afford a compromised process that does not adhere to the highest standards of accountability and integrity,” he stated.

Nyambe also warned that unresolved issues within ECZ could result in post-election unrest and widespread mistrust of the results.

“Our motivation remains the protection of Zambia’s democratic integrity. We urge all public institutions to cooperate transparently and take corrective action where needed, not in opposition to government goals, but in service of them,” Nyambe concluded.

His warning has found resonance among several stakeholders, including the opposition, civil society, and religious organisations, many of whom have already expressed discomfort with how ECZ is managing preparations for the 2026 elections. There are growing fears that the entire process is being rigged in favour of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND).

As electoral preparations continue, TI-Z’s findings may intensify pressure on the ECZ to operate with greater transparency, and could shape public discourse on the fairness and freedom of Zambia’s next general elections.

Man gets Life Sentence for Murder of his under over a K20 debt

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Man gets Life Sentence for Murder of his under over a K20 debt

The Solwezi High Court has convicted and sentenced a 28-year-old man of Kipuna village in Kalumbila district to life imprisonment after finding him guilty of hacking his uncle to death.

Solwezi High Court Judge Obister Musukwa found Martin Kalanda, a peasant farmer of Tundula area, guilty of hacking his uncle with an axe over a K20 debt.

Particulars of the offence are that on an unknown date, but between 29th and 30th September 2023, Kalanda did murder Jaineke Sokotela in Kalumbila district.

During the trial, the court heard that Kalanda and Sokotela had a heated argument on 29th September, 2023, around 19:00 hours after returning from a drinking spree.

The court heard that Kalanda asked Sokotela to pay him the K20 balance that remained after selling him an axe, but that Sokotela promised to pay his nephew later, as he had no money that day.
It was heard that Kalanda insisted on being paid the money and threatened to hack his uncle with an axe if he did not pay him.

Later that night, Kalanda was heard hitting the axe into a tree which was near his house, saying that is how he was going to hack his uncle.

According to the evidence before the court, Sokotela was discovered dead at his farm in Kamisamba area on 30th September 2023 with deep cuts on his head, left cheek, and throat with an axe embedded in his head.

Kalanda, in his defense, denied quarrelling with his uncle or even threatening his life and that his uncle did not owe him any money.

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