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Creating a Culture and Sense of Embracing Outside Ideas: The Missing Link to Innovation

Chief Editor
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Creating a Culture and Sense of Embracing Outside Ideas: The Missing Link to Innovation

Zambia is a country celebrated for its peace, cultural diversity, and religious tolerance. However, beneath this veneer of tranquility lies a complex web of social and structural challenges that stifle innovation and progress. Over the years, I have observed several troubling patterns that undermine our nation’s potential. As a forestry advocate and a committed member of the Forestry Institute of Zambia, I believe that the key to unlocking our country’s latent innovation lies in fostering a culture that genuinely embraces outside ideas and promotes meritocracy over nepotism.

Nepotism and Structural Instability

Zambia is plagued by nepotism, camouflaged under a guise of piety and superficial Christianity. With every change in political leadership, there is a corresponding upheaval in civil service structures. New governments often purge existing civil servants, replacing them with individuals aligned with the ruling party. This trend, observed from the era of His Excellency Dr. Rupiah Banda through to His Excellency Michael Sata, and exacerbated during His Excellency Dr. Edgar Lungu’s tenure, continues today. Civil servants, purportedly non-partisan, are often deeply entrenched in party politics, eroding the integrity of public service.

Public Media and Truth Suppression

The public media in Zambia is excessively dependent on the ruling government, often to the detriment of truthful reporting. This reliance distorts public perception and undermines the accountability of those in power. The media’s primary allegiance seems to be to the government rather than to the Zambian people, who have the right to unbiased information.

Corruption and Justice

Corruption is a persistent issue, frequently addressed by political elites in rhetoric but seldom in practice. High-profile corruption cases involving powerful figures are rarely pursued to conclusion, while ordinary citizens face protracted and often futile battles for justice. The disparity in how justice is administered undermines public confidence in our legal and political systems.

Permanent Secretaries and Institutional Memory

The role of Permanent Secretaries, meant to provide continuity within the civil service, is undermined by frequent political appointments. While the office remains, the occupants change with alarming regularity, disrupting institutional memory and long-term planning. This instability hampers the effectiveness of government operations and policy implementation.

Neglect of University Research

Innovations from our universities are left to gather dust, a consequence of inefficiencies within civil service structures. When unqualified individuals occupy critical positions, they pursue personal agendas at the expense of broader innovation. Universities, which should be hubs of research and development, are sidelined, and their contributions ignored.

Parastatals and Private Sector Dynamics

Parastatals and private entities often fail to embrace research and development. Since 2009, I have witnessed numerous innovations from young graduates being dismissed by organizations. My personal experience with proposals for improving wooden utility pole maintenance, presented to ZESCO and ZAFFICO, exemplifies this. Despite presenting viable solutions since 2021, I have yet to receive a response. Such disregard for innovative ideas is widespread, leading to wasted talent and missed opportunities.

Meritocracy vs. Connections

Zambian society tends to prioritize connections over meritocracy, a practice that significantly hampers our economic and service delivery. Employment decisions are frequently based on personal connections rather than qualifications, resulting in a bloated public service and inefficiencies. For Zambia to progress, meritocracy must be prioritized, ensuring that the most capable individuals are in positions where they can drive development.

Public vs. Private Sector Balance

Our economy is overly reliant on the public sector, which stifles private sector growth. While initiatives like the Zambia National Service have public support, they risk suppressing private sector dynamics. Government interventions, from controlling the mukula trade to managing mealie meal production, should not suffocate private enterprise. The balance between public oversight and private sector freedom is crucial for sustainable economic growth.

Glorification of Wrongdoing

There is a troubling trend in Zambian society to glorify wrongdoing by the political and financial elite. Wealthy individuals often face a different standard of justice compared to ordinary citizens. This disparity erodes trust in our legal system and perpetuates a culture of impunity. High-profile cases of political figures escaping accountability are visible to all and reinforce the perception that justice is selective.

Imbalance in Public Service Employment

The disproportionate employment of teachers, police officers, and health workers over judicial officers highlights a strategic oversight. An efficient justice system is essential for maintaining law and order, yet it is often neglected. This imbalance suggests that those in power may fear an effective judiciary that could hold them accountable.

To foster a culture of innovation, Zambia must embrace outside ideas and prioritize meritocracy. This requires a fundamental shift in how we view and utilize our human resources. Nepotism, corruption, and the suppression of innovation must be addressed head-on. By valuing merit over connections and ensuring that our civil service, media, and public institutions operate with integrity and efficiency, we can unlock the full potential of our nation. Only then can Zambia truly innovate and progress, harnessing the talents and ideas of all its citizens for a brighter future.

By Eng Chaliafya Katungula
Forestry Advocate, Secretary General
Forestry Institute of Zambia

FAZ opens Inquiry On Selection Bias Inquiry

Chief Editor
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FAZ opens Inquiry On Selection Bias Inquiry

The Football Association of Association of Zambia (FAZ) has taken note of the serious allegations raised by its Saudi Arabia based player Fashion Sakala and other stakeholders around player selection.

Given the gravity of the allegations, FAZ will conduct its own internal investigations but also encourage all interested parties to report these matters to relevant judicial bodies, in this case the Ethics Committee.

The Ethics Committee will under its mandate as provided by article 59 of the FAZ constitution conduct its investigations.

“Matters of this nature require thorough investigations and therefore members of the public and all relevant stakeholders are encouraged to bring forth evidence to put this matter to bed,” says FAZ General Secretary Reuben
Kamanga.

“FAZ will in due course provide information on the next step.”

Issued By FAZ Media Unit
0n behalf of:
FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF ZAMBIA

Lusaka High Court Upholds Miles Sampa’s Election as PF President

Chief Editor
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Lusaka High Court Upholds Miles Sampa’s Election as PF President

The Lusaka High Court has dismissed the case brought by six PF presidential contenders challenging the election of Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa as the party president. This ruling solidifies Mr. Sampa’s position as the PF President until further notice.

Lusaka High Court Judge Vincent Siloka dismissed the case due to want of prosecution. The plaintiffs, who included Lunte Member of Parliament Mutotwe Kafwaya, Mporokoso Member of Parliament Brian Mundubile, Mansa Central MP Chitalu Chilufya, former Information Minister Chishimba Kambwili, former Defence Minister Geoffrey Mwamba, and former Deputy Minister of Agriculture Greyford Monde, were found to have a multiplicity of court actions regarding the matter.

Judge Siloka noted that the plaintiffs did not comply with the court’s orders of direction in the prosecution of the case. Additionally, they failed to file an affidavit opposing Mr. Sampa’s application to dismiss their case.

Mr. Sampa was elected as PF President at an extraordinary convention held in October 2023. The court’s decision confirms his leadership of the party amidst ongoing internal disputes.

Zambia Commemorates Africa Freedom Day with a Call for Resilient Education Systems

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Zambia Commemorates Africa Freedom Day with a Call for Resilient Education Systems

Zambia joined the rest of the continent in commemorating Africa Freedom Day under the theme, “Educate and Skill Africa for the 21st Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong Quality and Relevant Learning in Africa.” This year’s theme underscores the urgent need to revamp educational frameworks across Africa to meet the demands of the 21st century.

President Hakainde Hichilema addressed the nation, emphasizing the importance of creating resilient education systems capable of withstanding economic fluctuations, technological advancements, and societal changes. “This theme is both timely and appropriate,” President Hichilema said, “as it aligns closely with our vision here in Zambia to provide not only free education but also education that equips learners with the necessary skills to become future entrepreneurs and their own employers.”

The President highlighted the historical significance of Africa Freedom Day, a time to honor the selfless sacrifices of the founders of African nations who fought to free the continent from the shackles of colonialism. He pointed out that the freedom achieved by these pioneers remains incomplete without addressing the pervasive poverty that hampers economic growth across the continent.

“Our government is committed to building our nation’s economy and improving the livelihoods of our people,” President Hichilema affirmed. He called on all African nations to prioritize the development of resilient education systems that ensure increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning for all citizens.

The President’s message resonates with Zambia’s ongoing efforts to enhance its educational sector. By focusing on providing free education and fostering entrepreneurial skills, Zambia aims to prepare its youth to become self-reliant and contribute significantly to the nation’s economic development.

As Africa Freedom Day is celebrated, it serves as a reminder of the enduring need to address critical issues such as education and poverty.

Solwezi Road Accident Leaves 18 With Serious Injuries

Chief Editor
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Solwezi Road Accident Leaves 18 With Serious Injuries

Eighteen people have sustained serious injuries and are admitted at Solwezi General Hospital after they were involved in a road traffic accident that happened on Thursday on the Kasempa-Mutanda road in Kalumbila District in North-Western Province.

Provincial Police Commanding Officer Dennis Moola confirmed the development in a statement made available to the media in Solwezi indicating that among the victims is a five-year old male juvenile of Mufumbwe District.

Mr Moola said the accident happened when the driver Simonda Musiyalike aged 41 who was driving a Toyota Hiace minibus Registration number ATB 8188 coming from west to eastern direction, failed to negotiate a curve due to excessive speed and careered off the road and hit into a tree.

He disclosed that the driver who is said to be a resident of Kimale area in Kalumbila sustained a swollen right arm and general body pains.

Mr Moola said the police have since instituted investigations into the matter.

Meanwhile THE remains of the three victims of the road traffic accident that claimed four lives and left six others injured on the Kasama-Mbala road on Monday have been put to rest.

The three victims, who include a father, mother and son have been buried at Soft Katongo Cemetery in Kasama, while the fourth victim were buried on Wednesday in Kungu Village.

Hundreds of mourners from all walks of life gathered at Deeper Life Church in Kasama to pay their last respects to the three before the burial.

ZANIS reports that Kasama District Commissioner Annie Paul who attended the burial service announced that government would assist the children of the deceased by putting them on the social cash transfer programme.She urged family members to prioritise the well-being of the children over the remaining property.

“I have heard that the deceased were going to the farm to harvest their maize. Let us not hear that you are asking how many bags of maize are being harvested, but instead find ways to look after the children. The government does not tolerate property grabbing and you may end up in prison,” she said.

The District Commissioner also commended Radio Mano for offering a job to one of the children in place of the deceased father.
“We should not only love our friends when they are with us but also in death. This is the heart Africans are known for, continue with this same gesture,” she said.

She further encouraged Radio Mano to support the children with the benefits the father worked for, adding that it can give them a starting point in life.

Meanwhile, Radio Mano Board Vice Chairperson Prisca Zimba said the station has lost a dedicated member who worked tirelessly for 20 years.

She described Charles Mwape as an employee with a good heart and patience in his duties.And The children of the deceased described their parents as loving, kind and hardworking.

“Mom, Dad, you were loving and kind to us. You worked tirelessly day and night to meet our needs. You were supportive and always encouraged us to get educated. We will forever cherish your memories,” they said.

Charles Mwape, a technician at Radio Mano Community Radio Station in Kasama died in a road traffic accident with his wife, firstborn son, and a nephew.

The family was going to the field to harvest maize when their Toyota Vitz Vehicle, driven by the nephew, was hit by a Tata Truck belonging to ZAFFICO.

The deceased were all in one vehicle, while six people from the Tata Truck sustained injuries and were rushed to the hospital.

China Tips African Youth

Chief Editor
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China Tips African Youth

Authorities in China have implored African youths to maximise the China-Africa Cooperation to enhance social economic transformation on the continent.

Deputy Director General of the Department of Foreign Affairs of Zhejiang Province Chen Jiangfeng noted that the Chinese Government in partnership with African countries has created various knowledge exchange programmes which youths from Africa can leverage to improve their livelihoods and develop their countries.

Mr. Chen said this in Jinhua during the opening ceremony of the 8th China-Africa Youth Festival which has attracted 64 youth representatives from 52 African countries.

He stated that the population of youths in Africa is high hence youths are crucial to the China-Africa Cooperation.
“We anticipate our youths to make use of platforms like this festival to exchange ideas, deepen bilateral friendships and cultural exchange,” he said.

Mr. Chen observed that Africa and Jinhua city share a strong economic bond with trade between the two regions having exceeded US$36 billion in 2023.

He added that Jinhua city has established relationships with 528 African cities.

Earlier, Angolan-based African Youth Representative Mbamby Keane called on African leaders to strengthen their relations with China especially in areas where the countries need partnerships such as construction, technology, promoting entrepreneurship and fighting against social inequalities.

“Youths are the future leaders hence our presence here further cements the many years of relations that Africa will have with China,” Mr. Keane said.

Speaking in a separate interview, Zambian Youth delegate Samuel Ngwira applauded the Chinese Government for promoting the preservation of the Chinese culture among its citizens.

Mr. Ngwira observed that China has married modernisation to its culture thereby maintaining its identify.
“Despite being the world’s second largest economic giant, China has not drifted away from its culture. This is something we all can emulate since a nation without culture is dead,” he said.

Mr. Ngwira, who is also United Party for National Development (UPND) National Youth Secretary stated that African countries can also learn from China regarding the implementation of economic reforms which supersede political affiliations.

“The economic reforms devised by a particular administration are implemented regardless of who is in power in China. I look forward to a time when African countries and Zambia in particular will fully adopt a non-partisan approach to effecting national development,” he said.

Mr. Ngwira added that African youths should take advantage of the ties their leaders have forged and harness the China-Africa relations to bring about positive change on the continent.

[ZANIS]

ZNS Out to Drive Economic Development

Chief Editor
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ZNS Out to Drive Economic Development

In a fast-changing world, entrepreneurship is one of the main drivers of economic development. Zambia, for its part, has laid a strong foundation for economic take-off despite challenges ranging from disease to drought.

Enter the Zambia National Service (ZNS). It has always been the desire of ZNS Commander Lieutenant General Maliti Solochi to ensure that the military wing retains its institutional pride in peacetime struggles. It was therefore not surprising when ZNS launched its holding company on Thursday.

Through the launch of the much-anticipated Eagles Holdings Limited, the military wing announced its intention to enhance its participation in the country’s economy by unveiling eight companies across various sectors, including security, trading, minerals, fuels, construction, transportation, fumigation, and events.

Lt. Gen. Solochi’s command has fearlessly and innovatively looked outside the box to contribute to the economic development of the country. In a dynamic and diverse security environment, ZNS analyzed and developed a durable strategic plan that led to the creation of a holding company to ensure the military wing, which has been associated with agriculture, infrastructure development, robust culture, and sports, can measure up well to the demanding standard of the new Dawn government’s manifesto and meet the aspirations of the Zambian people amidst the current global fiscal realities.

ZNS was established and organized to provide national service in food production and rural reconstruction. This mandate has not changed since the Kaunda days, but what has seemingly changed over the years is the clear focus from command to ensure that it meets the expectations of the government in general and the citizenry in particular.

As a public institution, ZNS has continued to align itself with the historical role of rallying behind the government to boost the economic and human development agenda. By looking outside the box, Lt. Gen. Solochi has chosen to reconstruct a modern ZNS that can be responsive to the government’s transformation agenda of fostering economic and social development on an immediate and sustained basis.

While Gen. Solochi and his command continue to focus on key issues of particular interest, such as:

  • The production of staple food crops like maize, rice, wheat, sorghum, and cassava to feed into the milling plants that have been constructed at great cost so that people can buy cheap mealie meal at an affordable price.
  • Taking up the challenge of rural reconstruction; building bridges, roads, dams, schools, health posts, and housing for local government (local authorities and constituencies) using the revived Builders Brigade Branch and Land Development Branch.
  • Remaining a Rapid Reaction or Standby Force to respond to emerging crisis situations, especially disasters such as floods in conjunction with the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit.
  • Helping address climate change concerns and public capital or social needs in general whenever the need arises.

In order to realize this vision, ZNS under the watch of Gen. Solochi has reformed its affairs by not only upgrading its infrastructure, modernizing its equipment, improving its human capital, and enhancing its systems to meet the demanding standards of the new Dawn administration but also participating in other economic affairs of the country through its holding company.

By establishing a holding company, ZNS may still be called upon to provide some security or protection duties. It is still performing this function through various operations around the country as part of its noble mandate to preserve.

ZNS appreciates its mandate but can no longer restrict itself to agricultural activities and infrastructure development. It had to step up, and indeed it has done so. Ideally, military operations other than war (MOOTW) in peacetime across the Defense Services must benefit the human security aspects to which ZNS belongs.

The ZNS Command leadership has diligently revolutionized its affairs by investing systematically and methodically in areas that will not only promote food security and spur rural reconstruction but also other economic sectors through the holding company. Through the holding company launched on Thursday, ZNS intends to harness the vision of Command and support the new Dawn government. It is a paradigm shift to support MOOTW, which is long overdue.

ZNS command has conducted due diligence through various benchmarking visits to countries such as Egypt and Ethiopia, where the military is a huge stakeholder in the economies of those countries. Tanzania, which emulated the concept of establishing an auxiliary military wing, is now way ahead of Zambia. ZNS had to go to Dar es Salaam to learn best practices. The holding company is a result of such a benchmarking visit.

ZNS has changed its strategies in a changing environment by developing strong institutional frameworks to support emerging threats such as the challenging economy. ZNS has demonstrated its ability to be adaptive and innovative to help mitigate the effects of a global economic meltdown and other emerging threats.

Criticism

Since the launch of the holding company, some people have taken to social media to criticize the well-thought-out initiative. ZNS Command should embrace criticism and use it positively. When the holding company overperforms, it will win the critics over. For now, Gen. Solochi should grow a thick skin and remain focused.

By Benedict Tembo

ERB calls for investment in alternative clean sources of energy

Chief Editor
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ERB calls for investment in alternative clean sources of energy

Amid the power deficit that has resulted in load shedding, the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) is calling for more investment in alternative clean sources of energy such as solar and gas.

ERB Copperbelt Region acting senior manager Ezra Siamasumo said the board wants more people and entities to invest in solar and gas.

Mr. Siamasumo has pledged ERB’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for the energy sector that is environmentally friendly and resilient to climate change.

He was speaking when selected ERB officials and the media toured the Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) Solar Power Plant in Itimpi, Kitwe.

“Regulatory flatworks are in place so we just want to see more people entering the energy sector investing in solar power plants so that we can have an energy sector that is more resilient to climate change,” Mr. Siamasumo said.

CEC Senior Manager Renewables Reuben Munungwe said Zambia should take advantage of the good sunlight to generate more solar power for domestic use and export.

According to Radio Icengelo News, CEC acting Chief Financial Officer Lizzie Muwowo saluted ERB for supporting the corporation’s solar power projects in Riverside and Itimpi.

Police Deny Allegations by Former President Edgar Lungu

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Police Deny Allegations by Former President Edgar Lungu

The Zambia Police Service has addressed recent allegations made by former President Edgar Lungu, who claimed that there were plans to ambush him at night. In an official statement, the police categorically denied these allegations as unfounded and false.

Inspector General of Police, Graphel Musamba, emphasized that at no point had the police intended to ambush Mr. Lungu or any other citizen. “Our primary concern is the safety and security of all individuals, including Mr. Lungu,” Musamba stated. He reassured that, as a former head of state, Mr. Lungu is entitled to protection, and the monitoring of his movements is conducted strictly for his safety, adhering to standard procedures with respect to his privacy and dignity.

The police further explained that even if Mr. Lungu fails to inform them of his movements, they would still ensure his protection by monitoring his activities as part of their duty.

The statement clarified that the police security personnel currently assigned to Mr. Lungu are funded by the government. However, it acknowledged that in certain situations, these personnel might not be sufficient to ensure his safety during all movements. Thus, additional measures by the police are sometimes necessary to provide adequate protection.

The Zambia Police Service appealed to the public to understand their role in maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of all citizens. “We ask for your cooperation and to avoid making baseless accusations against the police when it suits particular interests, only to seek police assistance when it becomes convenient,” Musamba noted.

The statement concluded by reaffirming the police’s commitment to protecting and serving the public impartially and professionally.

Graphel Musamba
Inspector General of Police

President Hichilema Bids Farewell to Outgoing Chinese Ambassador

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President Hichilema Bids Farewell to Outgoing Chinese Ambassador
President Hichilema and First Ladty Mutinta Hichilema bid farewel to outgoing Chinese Ambassador Du Xiaohui and his wife

President Hakainde Hichilema warmly hosted the outgoing Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, His Excellency Mr.Mr. Du Xiaohui, as he came to bid farewell at the end of his tour of duty in the country.

In a gesture of goodwill, President Hichilema sent his warmest greetings to His Excellency Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, and to the citizens of China, expressing gratitude for the deepening diplomatic and bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

President Hichilema particularly thanked the Chinese government for its crucial role in resolving Zambia’s debt restructuring programme, highlighting the significant impact of this support on the country’s economic stability. He also acknowledged the numerous projects initiated during Ambassador Du’s tenure, expressing optimism for continued trade and investment to benefit citizens of both countries.

During the farewell, President Hichilema emphasized the importance of revitalizing the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA), urging swift resolution of outstanding issues and reaffirming Zambia’s readiness to address any impediments to the project.

Furthermore, President Hichilema expressed gratitude for the Chinese government’s assistance in combating COVID-19, the cholera outbreak, and the ongoing drought situation. He underscored Zambia’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with China, especially in trade and investment, as the country marks its 60th anniversary.

“Zambia at 60 years shall forever work towards enhancing our relationship with China, particularly in areas of trade and investment, to provide more opportunities for our citizens in both countries,” said President Hichilema.

The farewell event underscored the enduring friendship and cooperative spirit between Zambia and China, setting a positive tone for future engagements and collaborations.

President Hichilema Pardons Over 1,000 Inmates in Honor of Africa Freedom Day

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Pardons Over 1,000 Inmates in Honor of Africa Freedom Day
File picture: INMATES at Solwezi central prison sing gospel
music in appreciation after Youth and Sports Deputy minister Stephen
Masumba (not in picture) donated assorted soccer kits including pairs
of jerseys and footballs to Solwezi prisons football team in Solwezi

In a gesture to commemorate Africa Freedom Day, President Hakainde Hichilema has pardoned 1,005 inmates. Acting Home Affairs Minister Ambrose Lufuma announced the development in Lusaka.

Mr. Lufuma detailed that the pardoned individuals include 939 ordinary inmates, 39 elderly inmates, eight women with circumstantial children, and four foreign nationals. Additionally, 15 inmates had their sentences commuted, a reflection of the President’s prerogative of mercy as stipulated under Article 97 of the Constitution.

This significant act aims to address overcrowding in Zambia’s correctional facilities, where the inmate population currently stands at 28,225 against a holding capacity of 10,650. The government is also expanding open-air correctional centers, such as the nearly completed Nansanga Correctional Centre in Serenje, which will accommodate 1,600 inmates.

The government is further implementing measures like non-custodial sentences for minor offenses and improving legal aid to alleviate overcrowding.

Mr. Lufuma emphasized the importance of community support in reintegrating the pardoned inmates, urging families and the public to welcome them back and give them a second chance.

Below is the full Press Statement

Press Statement by the Acting Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security on the Special Presidential Release of Inmates

To commemorate Africa Freedom Day, His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Force, has exercised his prerogative of mercy by pardoning 1,005 inmates. The inmates pardoned are categorized as follows: 939 ordinary inmates, 39 elderly inmates, eight female inmates with circumstantial children, four foreign nationals, and 15 inmates whose sentences have been commuted. Out of the 15 inmates whose sentences have been commuted, two are lifers and 13 are long-term inmates. Among the pardoned, 943 are males and 62 are females. These inmates are from various prisons and correctional centres across the country.

This action by the President is in exercise of the powers conferred on him by the Constitution, pursuant to Article 97 of the Constitution Chapter One of the Laws of Zambia, which provides for presidential pardon and substitution of severe punishments imposed on convicted persons.

Ladies and gentlemen, members of the press, overcrowding in correctional facilities remains a source of concern to the government. As of 06:00 hours this morning, May 24, 2024, the inmate population stood at 28,225, against the holding capacity of 10,650.

To address overcrowding in prisons and correctional centres, the government is expanding open-air correctional centres across the country, some of which include Nansanga in Serenje, Mwomboshi in Chisamba, and many others. Once completed, Nansanga Correctional Centre, which stands at 90% completion, will have a holding capacity of 1,600 inmates, increasing the holding capacity to 11,250 inmates from the current 10,650. The government is also promoting the imposition of non-custodial sentences for minor offenses and the continued granting of police bond to decongest police cells, and bail on flexible conditions, for bailable offenses.

Further, the government has also established legal aid desks in prisons and correctional centres to allow accused persons access to legal services at the point of need.

Ladies and gentlemen, members of the press, the pardoning of women with circumstantial children is in line with the address by the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, on the progress made in the application of the national values and principles delivered to the third session of the thirteenth National Assembly on Friday, March 15, 2024, and the presidential directive issued to the Commissioner General during the pass-out parade in Nyango, Kaoma, on September 29, 2023, regarding separating circumstantial children and juveniles by providing them with alternative accommodation away from correctional centres.

Further, to address the welfare of children found in conflict with the law, the government has incorporated the Juvenile Act into the Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022, which demands that children should not be in the same parameter with adult inmates of mixed categories.

Ladies and gentlemen, members of the press, I am glad to inform the nation that the presidential directive to find alternative accommodation away from correctional centres has been secured with the support of the Ministry of Infrastructure Housing and Urban Development and will be launched in the next few weeks.

On behalf of the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, the Zambia Correctional Service staff, inmates, and indeed on my own behalf, I would like to take this opportunity to thank His Excellency the President, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, for exercising his prerogative of mercy on the said inmates. The Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security and staff of the Zambia Correctional Service are confident that the pardoned persons have been rehabilitated and are ready for reintegration into society.

Successful reintegration of former inmates is, however, largely dependent on the support of members of the immediate families and communities of the former inmates. We accordingly call upon the families of the pardoned inmates and members of the public at large to support the former inmates by not discriminating against them. It is essential to give the pardoned a second chance to find their feet as law-abiding citizens.

Hon. Ambrose L. Lufuma, MP
Acting Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security
24th May, 2024
Lusaka

Yayukanyikwa (it’s known) ; PF has a history of nasty and violent transition!

Chief Editor
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Yayukanyikwa (it’s known) ; PF has a history of nasty and violent transition!

The other day, Socialist Party leader Fred M’membe took to Social Media urging the UPND to give back the PF to Edgar Lungu and his team.

“Let them give back the PF to its authentic leadership of Mr. Edgar Lungu and his team. These are really the authentic leaders of the party and not Mr. Sampa and his league,” stated M’membe in his statement.

Well….what a dumbest and ludicrous suggestion to make! As a former Editor of a reputable newspaper, a lawyer and indeed an intellectual of note; we expect M’membe to be mindful of the political discourse in this country, and therefore don’t expect him to comment on issues devoid of facts for the sole purpose of deliberately misleading the masses.

It’s a well documented fact PF has a history of violent and nasty transition; how is UPND expected to resolve their problems? PF has wrought these problems upon themselves, and must therefore extricate themselves from the same!

In his book, Adventures in African Politics, PF founding vice president Guy Scott lets-us in into the murky world of PF’s undemocratic and ‘kaponya’ way of choosing its leaders.

“By late November, the PF Secretariat was deep into the job compiling lists of eligible delegates, drawn up in accordance with the constitution. Under severe pressure and threats, the team worked under tight security, around the clock, to produce a credible register of voters. Mulungushi Rock rapidly became overrun with unknown and unregistered delegates. The entrances were manned by thugs, who chased away many who were entitled to attend. The atmosphere was febrile; the appearance of any leader not in the Edgar camp could have triggered any kind of response. I was in the presidential guesthouse in nearby Kabwe, waiting for confirmation that the accreditation process was acceptable, at some level at least. One delegate ended up being detroused! Under Inonge Wina’s leadership, candidates were called to come forward with the required 2000 nominating delegates. Of all the candidates, only Lungu was there. No one else could have turned up without serious risk to life and limb. So there was only one candidate. He was declared to be elected unopposed.”

What do we make of this?

Miles Sampa is a good political student; he has obviously mastered the above political script in accordance with the Gospel according to PF! Edgar Lungu is on record as having resigned as PF president upon being “whitewashed” by non other than Hakainde Hichilema in the scintillating 2021 general elections!

After what was occasioned on him by Lungu and his cohorts following the untimely demise of Micheal Sata, did you expect Sampa to remain ndwi (idle)? It was just natural that Sampa followed the same route as Lungu of choosing the next leader of PF, and ended up being ushered-in as president, unanimously!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a

Political/Social Analyst

Former President Lungu had his time to serve Zambia – Matatiyo

Chief Editor
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Former President Lungu had his time to serve Zambia – Matatiyo

Former Diplomat to Malawi in the late president Levy Mwanawasa’s administration Nebat Matatiyo has urged former President Edgar Lungu to step down from active politics and stop attacking President Hakainde Hichilema and his administration.

He said Mr Lungu should give chance to Mr Hichilema to implement his programs for the people of Zambia.

Speaking in an interview, Mr Matatiyo said former president Edgar Lungu had his time to serve the people of Zambia adding that it is now time for President Hichilema to govern the people of Zambia.

He said instead of going out making public attacks against Mr Hichilema, the former president should seek forgiveness and reconciliation with the UPND administration and President Hichilema for the betterment of many Zambians who ushered President Hichilema into office in 2021.

Mr Matatiyo added that if Mr Lungu has seen that something was going wrong in the way President Hichilema was governing the country he should advise President Hichilema and his administration to sort out the problem amicably instead of making negative utterances against the UPND administration and President Hichilema.

He also called on the Catholic Clergy in Zambia to advise the former Head of State to stop politicking.

He said Zambians want to see peace continue prevailing in the country.

He said Mr Lungu should not forget that the New Dawn Administration knows alot about him and his dirty dealings when he was in Government saying that if he is not careful he would be harshly dealt with by the State.

Hardship: The Hunger Is Too Much For Zambians

Chief Editor
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Hardship: The Hunger Is Too Much For Zambians

We urge Mr Hakainde Hichilema and his government to acknowledge the immense hardships currently facing the people and commit towards guaranteeing a practical economic recovery plan, which will significantly improve the standard of living.

We say this because life for the majority of our people is getting extremely desperate. There is no doubt that every new day is presenting fresh and unbearable challenges for the great majority of our people. Lately, the local news on various media platforms is never short of stories about price adjustments. It’s one price increment after another! That is how our people are getting by, but the question is: for how long?

Fuel is unreasonably high, food prices are skyrocketing, loadshedding is at its peak – 12 hours per day, mealie meal is scarce and unfordable for many, water rationing has begun, employee’s salaries are being wiped out by the economic meltdown, and many other challenges. The country is collapsing in our faces. Where is the leadership of Mr Hichilema? Where are the “brilliant ideas” they had before being elected into office? What has happened to the promises Mr Hichilema made?

Mr Hichilema and his government must realise that the honeymoon is over! The boasting and self-praise cannot get the people out of these hardships. It’s time to work. Let him fix the economy, as he had promised, and ease the burden of misery and squalor amongst the people. He needs to fix the cost of living, high fuel and food prices, loadshedding, water rationing and shortages, poor salaries for workers, and many other problems facing the people.

Let him stop running away from the real issues – fixing the economy and fulfilling the promises he made to the people. Let him show commitment to the economic survival of the country and the people. The people are eager to see a president who will make Zambia better and more affordable prices for all. And not a president whose preoccupation is to make things worse. People have suffered enough, and they don’t want a president or government that is an impediment to improved standard of living.

We call upon Mr Hichilema and his government to urgently attend to the many challenges facing the country and create an all-inclusive, fair, and equitable system of governance, which will benefit all Zambians. There is a need for them to restructure the country’s finances to match its priorities and boost the purchasing power of the population, especially the vulnerable to guarantee a trickle- down effect of prosperity.

Life has become unreasonably high and unfair. We urge Mr Hichilema to disengage from the self-serving and posturing leadership he is in, which is premised on self-preservation and self-aggrandizement. These retrogressive traits need to be halted lest we end up worse than we are today.
Enough of the suffering.

By Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

Solutions To Our Problems

Chief Editor
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8
Solutions To Our Problems

This year, our country will turn 60 years of independence. We, however, find ourselves in a much worse situation than we would have ever imagined.
Obviously, we are not doing well in most of the key economic indicators. At times, it feels like we are in a dream; we want this dream to be over; but it is our reality. And we need to face this reality. Things are not well; we have many problems.
The truth is, the problems of our country can be solved only if we dedicate ourselves to fight for it with the same energy, honesty, and patriotism our freedom fighters had when they founded it.
But we also need to keep in mind that the solutions to our problems cannot continue to depend on the selfish interests of a few people with money nor on the cold calculations of profits that a few businessmen draw up. We cannot continue looking for hope from people who constantly lie and have no vision. The country cannot continue begging on its knees for miracles from a few golden calves, like the Biblical one destroyed by the prophet’s fury. Golden calves cannot perform miracles of any kind.
Our country cannot continue begging or relying on IMF deals; these deals have never worked for us, and they are evidently not working.
There’s a lot of workers’ money – NAPSA and other pension funds – sitting in banks and being misused to build with little benefit to the workers. Instead of leaving it up to individual profit-seeking capitalists and their agents in government to decide how this money should be invested, the working class should decide on a democratic basis where the wealth produced by them is invested – without a doubt there would be reasonable amounts available for investment in free education at every level.
All Zambians need to take the economy and political power into their own hands in order to provide decent education, public services and standards of living for all – a society in which the full benefits of economic development can be enjoyed by all.
The current open market system, by its very nature, cannot provide this; it is only a socialist transformation of society that holds a brighter future for our people.
The SP government backed by the people and with the respect of the nation, after cleansing the different institutions of corrupt practices and elements would proceed immediately to the country’s industrialisation, mobilising all inactive capital and submitting this mammoth task to experts and men and women of absolute competence totally removed from all political machines for study, direction, planning and realisation.

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party

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