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Home Affairs Minister to flag off phase one of the mobile registration exercises

Chief Editor
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Home Affairs Minister to flag off phase one of the mobile registration exercises

Home Affairs Minister Hon Stephen Kampyongo is tomorrow, Saturday, August 1, 2020 expected in Mwense district of Luapula Province to flag off phase one of the mobile registration exercise.

Speaking when he featured on Radio Phoenix’s “Let the People Talk” program today, Hon. Kampyongo said the mobile issuance of National Registration Cards (NRCs) was intended to increase coverage and reach out to citizens who lived in far-flung areas.

Hon. Kampyongo explained that the 2020 mobile registration exercise would be conducted in a two-phased approach of 40 days each.

“The mobile registration exercise will be done in two phases, and 40 days is for each phase. The first phase, which will commence tomorrow, will run up to the second week of September, the second phase will run from September 1 to the second week of October,” he said.

He explained that, “Phase one will cover Luapula, Northern, North-Western, Copperbelt and Eastern provinces while phase two will cover Western, Southern, Lusaka, Central and Muchinga provinces”.

The Home Affairs Minister said the aspect of recognizing and registering citizens is an important undertaking which should not be limited to elections only.

He urged officers to be patient and maintain the highest level of professionalism when dealing with citizens especially in remote parts of the country.

“To the officers on the ground, be respective to the people you will be interacting with. We know that you will be dealing with different categories of our people in these rural communities, I urge you to be professional and patient. Any officer who will mishandle our people will be removed from the exercise and appropriate action will be taken,”he warned.

Government Released a total of K14.3 billion to service Zambia’s debt in the first half of 2020

Chief Editor
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Government Released a total of K14.3 billion to service Zambia’s debt in the first half of 2020

The government released a total of K14.3 billion for debt service in the first half of 2020.

According to the Ministry of Finance, domestic debt service payments totalled K8 billion, which included K1.9 billion principle repayments on government securities.

Secretary to the Treasury Fredson Yamba says on the other hand, external debt service amounted to K6.3 billion with principle repayments amounting to K3.3 billion.

“January to June 2020 expenditure performance: Preliminary figures indicate that expenditure in the first half of the year amounted to K46.8 billion, including amortization. Of the total expenditure, K33.7 billion was financed from domestic resources, and K7.9 billion was foreign financed. Personal emoluments accounted for 26.7 percent of total expenditure. During the period under review, K12.5 billion was released to cater for salaries, third-party payments, and overseas allowances for staff representing Zambia, abroad,” he said.

“The total personal emoluments expenditure between January and June 2020 was 1.1 percent above projection. The adverse movements in the exchange rate contributed to higher than anticipated Kwacha equivalencies from the dollar payments. Further, the depreciation of the Kwacha against major trading currencies, led to an increase in inflation, on average. This also led to higher than programmed disbursements for allowances for staff in Zambia’s missions abroad.”

Mr. Yamba said the Treasury also released K3.7 billion to finance general government-wide operations, representing 7.9 percent of total expenditure.

He stated that this was 24.5 percent above projection due to the higher than targeted disbursement of K2.3 billion for the ordinary use of goods and servicescomponent, K549 million for mobile registration, K240 million for compensation and awards, and K112.3 million for national population and census activities.

“The total amount released under the ordinary use of goods and services component also included, among others, K359.2 million for purchase of medical supplies in government hospitals, K146.8 million for contributions and subscriptions to international organisations, and K77.3 million for the skills development levy. Further, a sum of K73.4 million was released towards Covid-19 related expenditure,” he added.

“Expenditure on transfers and subsidies totalled K4.3 billion. Notable items in this category included:1) K1.9 billion for ordinary grants of which public universities got K556.5 million, hospitals K311.4 million, and grant aided institutions in line ministries K598.5 million;2) K585 million to support the operations of local authorities through the Local Government Equalization Fund; 3) K559 million towards the revenue mobilisation activities of the Zambia Revenue Authority; and,4) K518 million released in June for dismantling arrears for petroleum product supplies.”

The Secretary to the Treasury also disclosed that during the period under review, releases under the social benefits category amounted to K602 million.

Mr. Yamba further said of this amount, K550 million was released to finance the pension fund gap against an initial projection of K82.5 million for the period.

“January to June 2020 revenue performance: Total revenue collections and grants amounted to K32.2 billion, 5.1 percent below the projected target of K34.0 billion for January to June 2020. Tax revenue accounted for K24 billion, non-tax revenue K7.5 billion, and project grants K729.6 million.Tax revenueIncome tax collection during the period under review amounted to K14.3 billion against a target of K13.3 billion,” he further stated.

“Mining companies made payments amounting to K2.9 billion as company tax while K6.7 billion was collected from PAYE.
Insurance premium collections amounted to K53.1 million against a target of K59.2 million thusrecording an under collection of 10.3 percent. Citing the impact of the Covid-19 induced economic slowdown on income earning prospects, most insurance sector consumers opted to downgrade their policies from comprehensive to third party, thereby leading to reduced insurance premium
levy collections. Value Added Tax (VAT) collection amounted to K6.06 billion against a target of K9.11 billion. Performance was below target by 33.5 percent, mainly on account of the Covid-19 induced economic slowdown.”

He emphasized that the Covid-19 situation led many companies to scale down production and, in some instances, lay off-workers.

He further disclosed that between January and June 2020, customs & excise duty collections of K3.53 billion against a projection of K4.17 billion, were below target by 15.3 percent.

“This was on account of the closure of trade ports and general activity slowdown at national boarders due to Covid-19 related factors.Export duty collections amounted to K102.4 million against a target of K98.4 million. Collections were above target by 4.1 percent. There was elevated positive performance in precious metals and copper concentrate export in the months of January and February 2020. The substantial gains in
these first two months surpassed the depressed performance (due to effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on the economy) experienced between April and June 2020,” he said.

“Non-tax revenueNon-tax revenue collections during the period under review totaled K7.48 billion against a target of K5.63 billion. The 32.8 percent above target performance is attributed to a dividend received from the Bank of Zambia, and overall good performance in road tolls and revenue collection by the Road Traffic and Safety Agency. The substantial collections in road tolls and levies in the first quarter(January – March 2020) surpassed the depressed performance registered between April and June 2020 due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on the economy.”

My brother in marriage succumbed to Covid-19, he could not be treated because of delayed results

Chief Editor
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My brother in marriage succumbed to Covid-19, he could not be treated because of delayed results

By Bradley Chingobe

Yesterday, my brother in marriage succumbed to Covid-19. Fact that I was actively involved during his battle with Corona and also watching his wife break down upon hearing the news was a life-changing experience.

I Am gutted with his death; Left a young wife and little children.

Am angry with the ministry of health; Why should COVID-19 results take more than a week to be released?

He took his COVID test early last week at UTH. That’s the same time he was admitted into CFB. His results to this day have not been released. CFB, despite him exhibiting acute COVID symptoms, could not transfer him to a COVID center coz no center would admit him without results.

When his condition deteriorated on Wednesday, we decided to engage a private person to test him. The private test results were released yesterday at 11 AM. He was positive. CFB transferred him to Levy hospital immediately. He succumbed to covid-19 at around 16hrs.

Today, Friday. Over 9 days after he took his test, a day after his death MOH has not released his results.

What’s the point of testing if you will only know your results 10 days later?

Imagine how many people you might infect whilst wait for your results.

Imagine how easily your condition would deteriorate because you are waiting over 10 days so as to be moved to a COVID-19 center.

Remember, no other hospitals apart from the COVID centers are allowed to treat COVID-19 cases.

I had a chat with him (through a window) on Wednesday. He looked upbeat. Was even sitting on his bed. His Dr told me his hands were tied as he didn’t have the results.

Maybe if his results were released early he would have been transferred earlier & perhaps he wouldn’t have died..

Convincing Napsa Stars Got Top of The Table

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Napsa Stars on Friday took a two point lead into the last round of the 2019/2020 FAZ Super Division season following a 2-0 home win over Buildcon at Woodlands Stadium in Lusaka.

Napsa came into the match with 15 positive Covid-19 cases from their playing staff announced on Wednesday.

However, Napsa ultimately fielded a very solid team and were missing just four regulars from their pre-Covid-19 roaster when they resumed their season today after a four-month break.

Collins Sikombe scored a brace to send Napsa into championship contention after winning their penultimate fixture of the season and see them continue where they left off before the lockdown to collect their fourth straight league win.

Sikombe’s first goal came in the 7th minute when he controlled a cross with his head before beating defender Ngosa Sunzu and firing the ball past goalkeeper Ndjomo Ndjana.

Ndjana then kept Buildcon in the match denying Sikombe again in the 24th minute and Daniel Silavwe in the 42nd minute.

Even without striker Tapson Kaseba who suffered an ankle injury in the 26th minute, Napsa still looked very businesslike as they have done all season.

Kaseba was one of two key regulars together with Bornwell Mwape back on Friday who missed Napsa’s 2-1 away win over Green Eagles on March 7.

Kaseba was ineligible to play against his parent club Eagles in March while Mwape, who replaced him on Friday, was returning from a lengthy injury layoff.

Meanwhile, Buildcon’s best effort came from an Isaac Shamujompa free kick in the 52nd minute that went inches wide but made a statement with a loud bang that echoed around the empty stadium after hitting the advertising board.

Sikombe put the result beyond doubt in the 73rd minute when he converted a penalty after Sunzu handled the ball in the area.

Napsa have 48 points, two more than second placed Nkana and Forest Rangers who are tied on 46 points.

Nkana can reclaim number one in their penultimate league game this Saturday if they beat Red Arrows away in Lusaka.

Buildcon stay put at number 13 ,three places above the bottom four relegation zone with 29 points.

PF must now begin to cement the gains it is making in formerly UPND strongholds-Davies Mwila

Chief Editor
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PF must now begin to cement the gains it is making in formerly UPND strongholds-Davies Mwila

PF Secretary General Davies Mwila says the ruling party must now begin to cement the gains it is making in formerly UPND strongholds while continuing its efforts to replicate similar results elsewhere.

Mr Mwila says as the PF celebrates the victory in 10 of the 30th July Ward by-elections, PF must ensure that UPND have not closed their eyes.

He has thanked party structures and all members at grassroots level, for their untiring efforts to familiarize our fellow citizens with the PF’s Developmental Agenda. Indeed, your gallant efforts comrades have and are yielding desired fruit!

The Patriotic Front has won ten Wards, eight of these in the heart of the opposition UPND. These recent victories by the PF including those ones in UPND strongholds include some of the following:

Nakanya Ward of Nalikwanda, Western Province; Chabale Ward in Serenje, Central Province; Lobufu Ward in North Western Province; Nyoka Ward in North Western Province; Silumbu Ward in Sesheke, Western Province; Imusho Ward in Sioma, Western Province; and Nangweshi Ward in Sioma, Western Province among others.

Below is a full statement…

STATEMENT BY HON DAVIES MWILA, SECRETARY GENERAL, PATRIOTIC FRONT (PF) FOLLOWING LOCAL GOVERNMENT BY-ELECTIONS HELD IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE COUNTRY.

31st July 2020

As you may already be aware, the ruling Patriotic Front (PF) has won ten (10) Wards, eight (8) of these in the heart of the opposition UPND. These recent victories by the PF including those ones in UPND strongholds include some of the following:

Nakanya Ward of Nalikwanda, Western Province; Chabale Ward in Serenje, Central Province; Lobufu Ward in North Western Province; Nyoka Ward in North Western Province; Silumbu Ward in Sesheke, Western Province; Imusho Ward in Sioma, Western Province; and Nangweshi Ward in Sioma, Western Province among others.

As the PF celebrates these monumental victories, the Party leadership wishes to sincerely thank its structures and all members at grassroots level, for their untiring efforts to familiarize our fellow citizens with the PF’s Developmental Agenda. Indeed, your gallant efforts comrades have and are yielding desired fruit!

As PF, we must therefore begin now, to cement the aforementioned gains in these formerly UPND strongholds, while continuing our efforts to replicate similar results elsewhere.

Elections at Ward level are extremely important because they reflect the real voices and desires of ‘ordinary’ citizens at grassroots level. To our people in Chiengi, your Government hears you! The PF winning one (01) Ward in a UPND stronghold could have been termed as a fluke or ‘stroke of luck’ by some sections of our society. However, the PF taking away eight (08) wards in UPND strongholds cannot be a fluke, it is a pattern. A pattern which reaffirms a self-evident fact that: the opposition, both individually and collectively, cannot unseat the ruling PF. A pattern which confirms that, the wind of change is sweeping across the formerly UPND strongholds. A pattern which reaffirms the fact that, where UPND used to win by landslides at grassroots level, even if they win now, they do so by very small and negligible margins.

This is because, like the Scriptures have said in Isaiah 32:3:

“Then the eyes of those who see will not be blinded, And the ears of those who hear will listen.”

Again, in Luke 24:31;

“Then their eyes were opened and they recognized…”

At grassroots level in UPND strongholds; the eyes of our fellow citizens are not blinded and their ears have listened regarding the visible development being implemented by the PF Government. Our people at grassroots level have opened their eyes and increasingly recognize the Development Agenda being driven by the ruling PF under the leadership of His Excellency President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

To all Party structures and members everywhere, let us always remember that the Patriotic Front Party is a grassroots movement; a movement of the “people”. Therefore, we must constantly listen to the voices and wishes of our people at grassroots level, while selling the Patriot Front’s Transformative Manifesto.

SIGNED:

Hon Davies Mwila

Secretary General

Patriotic Front

Party Headquarters

Zambia

Zambian Breweries has commends Zambia Revenue Authority for its fight against smuggling in of alcohol

Chief Editor
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Zambian Breweries has commends Zambia Revenue Authority for its fight against smuggling in of alcohol

Zambian Breweries has commended the Zambia Revenue Authority for its spirited fight against smuggling of alcohol into the country.

Company Country Director Jose Moran says the brewing company is proud of the revenue collector for championing the war against the illegal movement of alcohol and other goods.

Mr Moran said his Company is delighted that ZRA has taken the bold step of clamping down on this illegal activity.

He said this is not an easy fight, but it is a praiseworthy move.

Mr Moran stressed that smuggling is detrimental to Zambia’s economic development and called for an end to such illegal act.

He said smuggling is not only illegal, but robs the country of the much needed revenue for economic development.

In a Euro Monitor report of 2018, it was revealed that tax revenue losses through the Illicit alcohol market, in Zambia increased from US$50 million in 2014 to US $145 million in 2018, the largest contributing factor being smuggling.

Mr Moran noted that Zambian Breweries stood together with ZRA in condemning smuggling in Zambia.

“Together with ZRA, we strongly denounce smuggling alcohol in and out of our country. Our dream, as the country’s largest brewer, is to see a better world; a smuggling-free Zambia,” he emphasised.

The country director also urged the revenue collection authority to continue fighting the illegal activity for the betterment of the country.

“Our country depends on you for timely revenue collection. Please continue doing what you do best and we shall all win this war against smuggling,” he said.

In the last week of July, 2020, the ZRA fought running battles with suspected smugglers at COMESA market in Lusaka after it intercepted a truck carrying smuggled alcohol.

Earlier in the month, the authority destroyed various illegally imported goods valued at more than K1 million at Chirundu One-Stop-Border-Post.

President Edgar Lungu Fires Zambia National Service Deputy Commandant

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President Edgar Lungu Fires Zambia National Service Deputy Commandant

President Edgar Lungu has terminated the contract of Zambia National Service (ZNS) Deputy Commandant, Major General Alick Kamiji.

In his place, President Lungu has promoted Brigadier General Benson Miti to the rank of Major General and appointed him as ZNS Deputy Commandant.

The President has thanked Maj. General Kamiji for the services he rendered to the Government of the Republic of Zambia and wished him well in his future endeavors.

The President has wished the new Deputy Commandant God’s blessing and success in his new role.

Meanwhile, President Edgar Lungu has said that Zambia has no excuse not to grow enough food for everyone because of the good soils and favorable climatic conditions in some parts of the country.

The Head of State said that it was in this vein that he has in the past instructed the Zambia National Service (ZNS) to establish big farms in Northwestern, Muchinga, Luapula and Northern Provinces.

The President also noted that the country cannot continue boasting of having more water bodies in the region when people have no access to clean drinking water.

The President said that this when he swore in Dr. Jonas Chanda as Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental protection Minister. The President also swore in Benson Miti as Deputy Commandant of the Zambia National Service.

And President Lungu urged Dr. Chanda to ensure people, especially those in rural areas, have access to clean drinking water.

He said Dr. Chanda should use his work experience in Nigeria, Rwanda, Botswana, and Swaziland to protect the environment.

President Lungu also said there is a need to promote the establishment of new infrastructure that will help the government to provide water and sanitary services to the people.

He said Dr. Chanda and other cabinet Ministers are there to serve the interests of the people.

On Major General Benson Miti, President Lungu urged him to be loyal to the Command and ensure he motivates staff in the Zambia National Service.

President Lungu said he is proud of the Zambia National Service’s contribution to food production and the construction of infrastructure.

And speaking in an interview, the new Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental Protection Minister said he will work with other ministers to deliver on what the PF promised the people.

He said since the PF came in office in 2011, Zambia has increased by more than fifty percent people’s access to clean drinking water and sanitation services.

Let No One Rob you of the Government you need by Unproven Theories-Nevers Mumba

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Let No One Rob you of the Government you need by Unproven Theories-Nevers Mumba

 

By Dr Nevers Sekwila Mumba, President

30 years ago, this Month, a Movement for Democracy was born. It was a people’s movement.

After 26 years of a UNIP led one party state, Zambians decided, in their numbers to change the shape and culture of Zambian politics.

The Movement for Multiparty Democracy, MMD started as a Pressure group in 1990 to fight for the re-introduction of a Multi-Party system of government. Dr Kenneth Kaunda then President of the Republic of Zambia refused to accept this option, but after pressure from the MMD, he relented and called for a referendum, supposedly to enable the Zambian people to decide the issue. MMD seized the opportunity to mount one of the most effective pro democracy campaigns ever seen anywhere in Africa. Before the referendum could be held, Dr Kaunda called it off and accepted MMD’s demand for Multiparty elections. The then article 4 of the Republican Constitution of Zambia was repealed allowing for the formation of other parties. Dr Kaunda signed the bill into law on 17th December, 1990.

This day remains etched on my mental mind because at 09:00hrs that day, Dr Kaunda had called for me to meet him at State House. I was a young Evangelist of only 30 years of age. I was conducting a Gospel Crusade in Woodlands stadium when I was summoned to State House. I had no idea what the urgent call was all about until I was ushered into the President’s office. It is then that Dr Kaunda mentioned that he was about to make a huge declaration that afternoon and needed God’s strength and guidance. We held hands and prayed for a prolonged period of time. Little did I know that after that prayer a new Party, MMD would be formed and that 22 years later, I would become its 4th President.

MMD became a political party on 21st December, 1990. The Registrar of Societies issued a registration certificate to MMD on 4th January, 1991.

The National Interim Committee (NIC) comprising Mr FJT Chiluba, Mr Arthur N Wina, Mr V J Mwaanga, Mr Kelly Walubita, Mr Levy Mwanawasa, Mr Ephraim C Chibwe, Mr Andrew Kashita and Mr Akashambatwa Mbikusita Lewanika decided to call a National Convention on 27th and 28th February, 1991 to elect a National Executive Committee in accordance with the Party Constitution which was prepared by the legal Committee and approved by the National Interim Committee.

30 years later, we gather here to honor and celebrate the many champions of Zambian democracy who have gifted us with the freedoms we now enjoy. We shall never forget your courage, your resilience and your determination to form the Movement for Multiparty Democracy. As a party, we have chosen to etch your names permanently on the history blocks of our changing nation. We salute the Unions, the Media, the University and college students, the marketeers, the Churches and the millions of Zambians for setting aside your individual comforts in order to create the movement we now call the MMD.

HONOR

There are those who wish to diminish the significance of these sacrifices. There are those who wish to bury this history and pretend to forget that the MMD represents the aspirations of most Zambians. The party that represents freedom for all. Freedom of speech. Freedom of expression. Freedom of association and the Freedom of assembly. These are the godly values our founders suffered for. Today, we shall have the rare privilege of honoring a few of our founding fathers.

JOURNEY

At 30 years, the MMD stands as a battle tested organization. It has seen both great days and terrible days. It has seen both good and bad leaders. It has brought both good and bad things. But MMD has been greatly applauded for the great things it has brought and has also equally been punished for the bad things. MMD was rewarded for bringing back multiparty democracy. It has been heralded for bringing a free market economy and a free media. MMD dismantled the troubling national debt of $7.5 billion. MMD sustained an average economic growth rate of 6%. MMD liberalized both politics and the economy.
But it has also been punished when in 2011 it was accused of corruption. Zambians decided to withdraw their trust in September 2011 and voted the MMD out of power.

REGAINING THE TRUST

It was at this point of weakness that the party started to look for a way to rebuild and survive. A National Convention was called in 2012 to choose new leadership which could bring hope to a dispirited and tired party. A leadership which could stand toe to toe with the new and vengeful ruling PF party whose priority was to dismantle the former ruling Party. The lot fell on the current New Hope Leadership led by myself whose responsibility is to assure all Zambians that this is a new MMD. We shall take all that was good about MMD and publicly abandon all that which the Zambian people detested about the MMD prior to 2011 General election.

MESSAGE TO GENERAL MEMBERSHIP

To our membership nationwide, we wish to assure you that your party having survived one of the most punishing storms is back on its feet and it has come back with great determination to recapture its number one place in Zambian politics.
Some feared that the persecution, the assault and the destabilization we faced the past four years has taken away our chances of winning the next election. To the contrary, our pain, humiliation, tears were only meant to prepare us for the humongous work ahead of us. The work to bring a divided nation together. The work to restore the lost faith in government. The work to rebuild the broken economy. The work to bring back our lost Christian values and restore our nation to the true status of a Christian nation as declared by our founding President Dr FJT Chiluba.

Under my watch, we shall not disappoint or fail our founding fathers. Both those in the grave and those still with us. We shall turn our past battles into victory for all Zambians. This is not the first setback our party has faced in its 30 year journey. Shortly after announcing the first cabinet, in 1991, some of the original members who felt that they deserved better agitated for the establishment of a new party called National Party. Many Zambians believed this break away would end the MMD journey, but our party membership fought and overcame the temporal setback. In 2001, an agitation by some to give our first President a third term threatened the very existence of the MMD. The result was a fragmentation of our party into three parties, the FDD, and HERITAGE Party. This was considered the last nail in the existence of our party by many, but the national membership rallied together again and pulled the party out of danger and managed to win the following election under the late Levy Patrick Mwanawasa.

In 2014 following the death of President Michael Sata, our party’s democratic credentials were once again tested. We called on the highest courts of the land, we met in many places as different groups and in the end, the party was divided into three. Some supported the ruling Patriotic Front while a number of our MPs opted to support the UPND. The core membership as in previous times again stood firm to defend the existence of the party. Then came a more vicious test in 2016. It was like none other in the past. A convention was simulated and purported to have been held. This one went to the core of our credentials as a democratic party. It was very confusing as it easily convinced some unsuspecting members. But with a vow never to disappoint the sacrifices of our founding leaders, we led a determined fight to defend and protect the party. We were thrown in jail, stoned, the secretariat taken and verbally abused. My guidance to the party was not to use any violence to protect the truth but rather to test the justice system of our country. During the three year legal battle our opponents made more than 23 applications and appeals and we won all the twenty three including the final judgement on November 5th 2019. We wish to pledge to our membership and to the legacy of our founding fathers that with the same determination and fight that we have exhibited in the past four years, we shall fight to rescue our nation from the deeming light of the Patriotic Front. We have done it before and we shall do it again.

MESSAGE TO THE CHURCH

From our inception in 1990 as a party, the church has supported our values for freedom and the rule of law. The church was vocal against any injustices they observed during our rule. The church was the moral compass of the nation.

Today our nation is lost at sea. Our title of Christian nation has been rendered almost of no value. The country is broke and broken. Witchcraft has found its abode in the corridors of power. The anger of the Lord looms over our nation. Freedom has been taken away from the citizens. But more worrying is the silence of the corporate voice of the church. Our prayer as the New Hope Movement for Multiparty Democracy is that, “Let God arise and His enemies be scattered.” We have chosen to partner with the Church to bring back Zambia on the road to prosperity and Godliness. May the Church not become the enablers of evil but the watchmen on the wall of justice and morality. We pledge to the founding President Dr FJT Chiluba to uphold the declaration of Zambia as a Christian nation.

MESSAGE TO THE WOMEN

As we approach the 2021 general election, the New Hope MMD has as a matter of policy decided to make our women folk the engine for political and social change. Our 55 member National Executive committee has finally reached the 50% threshold for women. This is the reflection which we shall see in the distribution of leadership positions when we form government next year. We are not aware of any party in the nation with similar demographics. We call all women with a passion to create a better Zambia to make the New Hope MMD as a party of choice if you wish to stand for any elective office next year.

MESSAGE TO THE YOUTH

Without a courageous cadre of youths, no society can experience real change. Today, our young people remain cheated without a future. Our generation in our selfishness has not planned for the future of our young people. With certificates, diplomas and degrees in their hands, they have no where to go. They remain chained to their parents or other people’s homes with no income and worse still no dignity. While we are living in our future today, no future is being created for our young people. The PF government continues to use the youth as bulldozers to clear political paths for a privileged few. They are used to wield pangas to instill fear in the opponents of those in power. Government has continued to abuse the fortunes which must be preserved for future generations. I wish to apologize on behalf of my generation to our youth in the nation for consuming your future through unrestrained corruption and selfishness.

It appears that those with power to prepare and preserve your future are determined to squander it. They are not willing to give it to you. Our call to you is that you come and get your future. You must get it by force as the Bible says. New Hope MMD is leading the way to create an opportunity for any youth who wishes to participate in governance to come and take advantage of the youth policy of our party which has reserved 50% of all elective positions in next year’s election for the youth. To demonstrate our commitment, the party recently elected the first youth as Deputy National Secretary, Gregory Mofu. We shall keep our word. The MMD shall uphold the original dream of our founding fathers in this regard.

MESSAGE TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

Multiparty Democracy is also a representative form of government. The New Hope MMD is resolved to fully incorporate persons with disabilities into all structures of the party with an affirmative policy. We have encouraged persons with disabilities to aspire for positions at the National Executive Committee level by participating in our forthcoming National Convention. We shall have as many ministers from persons with disabilities as qualify to play those roles. There shall be no discrimination in the coming New Hope Government.

IN CONCLUSION

TO ALL ZAMBIANS- Let no one rob you of the government you need by unproven theories that seem to suggest that a former ruling party cannot be voted back into power. Last month Malawi proved this theory to be impotent when they elected the Malawi Congress Party back in office after being in opposition for twenty six years. Zambians and Africans in general are no longer concerned about the name of a political party but the content and the character of the people who run that party.

Martin Luther King Jnr said, “ I have a dream that my four little Children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” I wish to add that, “I have a dream that Zambians shall not judge true leadership by the name of a political party but by the morality and integrity of its leaders.”

Let no one rob you of the leader you need by unproven theories that seem to suggest that a Pastor cannot become a President. Again, it has taken Malawi to teach Zambia, a Christian nation that it is possible. Malawi becomes the first country on the continent to elect a Pentecostal Pastor as President, Rev Dr Lazarous Chakwera. The best president is the one elected on merit and not on prejudice.

Zambia needs a revamped MMD to come back and renew the dreams and aspirations of all Zambians.

Zambia needs a leadership of morality and integrity to take it beyond 2021.

May the spirit and courage of our founding fathers carry us to victory next year. Happy 30th Anniversary to all members of the MMD, past and present.
May God bless our great party and may God bless the Republic of Zambia.

I thank you.

30 Jul 2020

Government Releases Funds to pay Suppliers of Face Masks in Five Provinces

Chief Editor
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Government Releases Funds to pay Suppliers of Face Masks in Five Provinces

The government has released funds to pay suppliers of washable face masks in five Provinces.

Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit National Coordinator Chanda Kabwe says this follows the completion of verification of suppliers’ details and quantities supplied in the five Provinces namely; Western, Luapula, Northern, Muchinga, and Eastern.

Mr. Kabwe has explained that the Government has released about K1. 3 million for Western, Luapula K369, 000, Northern K1. 5 million, Muchinga K590, 000 while Eastern Province has received K1. 5 million.

Speaking to journalists in Lusaka, Mr. Kabwe further disclosed that Government has released K1. 6 million to the Ministry of Youth and Sport for various activities including payment to youth groups that supplied masks and for the welfare of the street kids.

He said Government has also released K600, 000 to all the three market associations that had been engaged to supply masks.

The National Coordinator also said Government has released K800, 000 to pay all-women cooperatives within and outside Lusaka.

He added that the Government has further released funds to three youth groups that had been engaged to supply masks in Lusaka and Eastern Province.

Mr. Kabwe said Government has also released K200, 000 to the Ministry of Defense through Mulungushi Textiles to pay traders who had supplied masks and another K200, 000 to Correctional services to pay the traders.

He explained that the payments released so far are part of phase 1 and that phase 2 will include Copperbelt, North-Western, Southern, Central, and Lusaka Provinces.

Mr. Kabwe said suppliers who will not be paid in phase 1 should exercise patience as phase 2 suppliers will receive their payments soon.

FAZ league to abruptly close next week

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FAZ league to abruptly close next week

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has decided to bring the 2019/2020 season to an early closure following an Executive Committee meeting held on Thursday afternoon.

The decision to close the league has been necessitated by the concerns that the Association has received from various stakeholders especially Government through the Ministry of Health particularly from Zambia National Public Health Institute.

The recent surge in numbers of the covid-19 occurrences has put a strain on the health system across the board.

FAZ has been monitoring the situation and also constantly engaging the authorities on the possibilities as the numbers continue to surge.

One of the major challenges has been the long delays in securing test appointments and results by most of the clubs in the league after being tested which meant that certain matches could not be played due to the inability of clubs to produce results when called upon to do so.

Regrettably with the surge in numbers it has meant that the flow of results has been slower.

Unfortunately despite signing up to observe the guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health, the compliance levels by most of the clubs have also not been satisfactory. The ZNPHI noted some lapses that they brought to our attention and the clubs affected.

Among the breaches noted by ZNPHI from our clubs were failure to manage the isolation of players and officials who tested positive, unrestricted access to camping sites, failure to observe social distancing and lack of sanitizers and disinfectants at designated places.

“Arising from the following challenges and in view of the high incidents of new covid-19 cases the FAZ executive has been left with no choice but to bring the league to an early closure,” reads part of the resolutions availed by General Secretary Adrian Kashala.

FAZ has since provided a roadmap on the completion of the current league and the resumption of the 2020/2021 season.

The current league will be concluded on August 6, 2020 after all the teams have played their Week 27 round of matches.

Accordingly, champions will be declared for both the FAZ MTN Super Division and FAZ Eden University National Division One.

FAZ will ensure that all outstanding issues around fixtures are cleared to avoid controversy.

The lower leagues and women leagues will also be allowed to wind down their season by playing an equal number of games.

FAZ will provide the roadmap in due course.

Furthermore, the executive has decided that the 2020/2021 season will commence on October 17, 2020.

The ABSA Cup will be played as a precursor to the 2020/2021 Season after the Charity Shield.

Prior to the resumption of training for the 2020/2021 season clubs should observe all health protocols during training.

Testing will be conducted at regular intervals in order for FAZ and Ministry of Health and Ministry of Sport to monitor COVID-19 infection levels amongst players and officials.

FAZ wishes to thank everyone who has supported its efforts to resume the league especially the patron His Excellency Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

“We will continue adhering to the health guidelines as we conclude the current season and commence the next one. We are alive to the fact that we have to live with the reality of the covid-19 under the New Normal,” Kashala says.

This is according to a statement issued by FAZ Communications Manager Sydney Mungala.

Zambians bans foreign tourists as Covid-19 numbers swell

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Zambians bans foreign tourists as Covid-19 numbers swell

The Zambian Government has suspended the issuance of all tourist visas until further notice.

This is according to a notice issued by the US Embassy and posted on its website.

Travelers arriving in Zambia without a visitor visa with plans to apply for a visitor visa upon arrival for non-essential purposes will not be permitted entry despite Zambian borders being officially open.

Entrance to Zambia through non-tourist visas or permits is subject to approval from the Ministry of Health following a health screening at the port of entry.

All travelers coming into Zambia will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result.

The test should have been conducted within the previous 14 days prior of arrival to Zambia.

The notice says Travelers who do not meet this requirement will not be allowed into Zambia.

The Zambian Government is enforcing a mandatory 14-day quarantine, testing, and regular monitoring at the residence or preferred place of stay for persons entering Zambia.

Persons arriving are no longer required to quarantine at a government-designated facility but must communicate to the Ministry of Health officials where they intend to reside and provide accurate contact information for regular follow-ups.

This includes those entering Zambia at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) as well as land borders.

It said Symptomatic individuals will be tested for COVID-19 at the airport and required to enter isolation protocol at a Zambian government facility.

International commercial flight options currently exist in Zambia with Ethiopian Airlines and U.S. citizens who wish to return to the United States are advised to make commercial arrangements on Ethiopian Airlines as soon as possible.

The U.S. government is not arranging repatriation flights out of Zambia and that routine passport services are currently suspended.

Claims that former Education Minister had died is a sign of decayed media ethics among some institutions

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Claims that former Education Minister had died is a sign of decayed media ethics among some institutions

Information and Broadcasting Services Permanent Secretary Amos Malupenga has threatened to revoke broadcasting licenses for media institutions misinforming the public.

Mr. Malupenga said that his Ministry will not allow unprofessional conduct among the media institutions causing alarm among members of society.

Mr. Malupenga said that the broadcast by Spring TV on Wednesday claiming that former General Education Minister David Mabumba had died is a sign that media ethics among some institutions have decayed.

Speaking in Solwezi when he paid a courtesy call on his North Western Province counterpart Willies Mangimela, Mr. Malupenga challenged media associations to condemn unprofessional conduct among media institutions.

Earlier, LUAPULA Province Minister Nixon Chilangwa announced that he had visited David Mabumba, a day after being removed from position as Minister of General Education following a shameful episode.

Mr Chilangwa that Former Luapula MPs today visited Hon David Mabumba at his home and he was doing fine and that none of the hospital, suicide allegations ever happened.”

“I have equally spoken to him today to just encourage him and that in all things we should thank and praise God
This what we should be doing for each other,” sai Mr.Chilangwa.

PF Wins Majority of Ward Seats

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PF Wins Majority of Ward Seats

The Patriotic Front has won the majority of the ward by elections that were held yesterday making further inroads in the opposition strongholds.

From the results seen so far, the ruling party has won about 8 of the by elections majority of them in UPND strongholds.

The PF has won the Imusho by election in Sesheke with 388 votes beating UPND who polled 384 votes.

In Silumbu ward in also in Sesheke, the PF polled 362 votes followed by UPND with 267 votes while UPPZ was third with 10 votes.

The PF also scooped the Chibale Ward in Serenje with 572 votes beating UPND who had 433 votes while in Lubofu Ward in Kasempa PF scored 305 votes beating UPND who got 204 votes.

The ruling party were also victorious in Litoya Ward in Kabompo getting 68 votes with UPND getting 47 votes.

In Katete Ward in Chienge where NDC claimed massive vote buying, PF won the election with 1,178 votes followed by UPND with 686 votes while NDC came out third with 153 votes.

In Mongu, the PF beat the UPND with 873 votes against 633 to win the election also winning Nangweshi Ward with 967 votes against UPNDs 469 votes.

However, the UPND also retained a number of seats beating the PF in Munyambala ward in Mufumbwe with 339 votes against PFs 292 votes.

The UPND were also victorious in Kabompo ward were they got 1, 256 votes against PFs 596 votes. In Chikenge ward, the UPND got 315 votes while PF lost with 223 votes.

The opposition were further victorious in Limulunga scoring 1,263 votes against UPNDs 1, 014 votes.

In Chavuma Central, the UPND won with 893 votes against PFs 776 votes.

We will Find Serious Local Investors for Mulungushi Textile-HH

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We will Find Serious Local Investors for Mulungushi Textile-HH

The UPND says it will once in Government find serious local investors and possibly partner with foreign plus government injection for Mulungushi Textile and others like it in order to revive them.

UPND Leader Hakainde Hichilema says his Government will create cotton outgrower schemes among the farming community especially for youth and women to supply Mulungushi Textile and others like it.

He said by doing so, his government will encourage Mulungushi Textile and others like it to manufacture a lot of fabric and in turn create employment opportunities for the Zambian people.

Mr Hichilema said colleges and trade schools will be encouraged to train more people in the tailoring industry and support more youths youth and women to set up tailoring workshops and buy the fabric from Mulungushi Textile and others like it.

He has emphasised that uniforms and other linen, for example, security wings, hospital and clinics bedding curtains and many such should be bought by government institutions from these workshops so they can expand more.

He said the UPND in Government will further review the tax regime for imported fabric so as to protect the local industry.

Mr Hichilema says this is just one example of how one sector can create jobs and opportunities for the youth and women.

He said Mulungushi Textile industry in Kabwe and others like it in other parts of the country are key to UPND planned economic recovery that will create jobs after 2021 elections.

The COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Development Grant is Fraudulent-Ministry of Finance

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The COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Development Grant is Fraudulent-Ministry of Finance

The Ministry of Finance has cautioned the public to be wary of unscrupulous individuals that have embarked on a scheme to defraud unsuspecting members of the public by purporting to be managing Covid-19 stimulus grants.

Secretary to the Treasury Fredson Yamba says the Ministry is aware of the Fake email addresses and illegal internet platforms being used in the scheme.

Mr. Yamba said that the government has not set up an Economic Stimulus Development Grant resulting from an agreement between the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, Global Entrepreneurship Facility and Zambia.

He says the so-called Winnie Chilanga whose name appears on the fake application form does not represent the Ministry of Finance in any capacity.

The secretary to the treasury says the pubic should be aware that there is NO part of the Ministry which is referred to as the Secretariat Grants Department as she or he wants people to believe.

Mr. Yamba says the procedure for accessing funds from public institutions is clear and can be found on official Government platforms.

He says Government maintains an open-door policy for its citizens and partners but does not in any way offer unsolicited grants as portrayed by the scammers.

Mr. Yamba said that the only Covid-19 related official facilities for access by the business community and citizens is the 10 billion kwacha Medium-Term Financing Facility from the Bank of Zambia and accessible through Commercial Banks.

The other facility is the 8-billion kwacha Covid-19 bond of which 4-hundred and 70 million kwacha is for the youth empowerment scheme and 30 million for artists.

The Ministry of Finance has written to the Cybercrime Units of the Zambia Police Service, Drug Enforcement Commission, and ZICTA, to help trace the criminals that are circulating the fraudulent grant offers and to identify the source of the emails.

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