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No reports of harsh punishment for gays under Hichilema

No reports of harsh punishment for gays under President Hakainde Hichilema and United Party for National Development (UPND) leadership. Gay rights advocates will agree it is not enough to call it a progress on the issue.

Late 2019 two men were sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by Zambia high court judge for engaging in same sex relationship. The punishment was too harsh to dodge criticism. Not only local gay rights advocates criticized the punishment, the international community did as well.

The United States Ambassador to Zambia then, Daniel Foote, criticized the punishment. He was expelled from the country for that.

Since then, no harsh punishment has been recorded, but that doesn’t mean LGBTQ+ individuals in Zambia are free. They are not because the law criminalizing homosexuality still exist.

Those interested in the issue definitely expected Senator Patty Murray and his team to discuss that with President Hakainde Hichilema during the recent visit to the country. It appears they did not discuss LGBTQ+ rights.

“This morning at State House, we held a meeting with the U.S. congressional delegation led by Senator Patty Murray. The other senators included; Senator Chris Coons from Delaware, Senator Gary Peters from Michigan, Senator Catherine Cortez Masto from Nevada and Senator Peter Welch from Vermont.

During the meeting we discussed a wide range of issues including the friendship that Zambia shares with the United States. We briefed the delegation on how Zambia is repositioning its social, economic and political journey, with the national development plan as the blue print.

Other issues discussed included the drought, food security, and jobs for our women and youth. We also thanked them for the support in the recently concluded debt restructuring process. We shall continue to engage with partners for the betterment of our country. May God bless our country, Zambia. May God bless the United States of America.”

Hichilema posted on his Facebook page few minutes after hosting the U.S. Congressional delegation at State House in the capital Lusaka on March 26, 2024. The post doesn’t mention LGBTQ+ rights.

When he was in opposition Hichilema position on gay rights was not that clear. Many mistakenly thought he support gay rights. Today Hichilema position is very clear. He has repeatedly stated his administration is not ready for homosexuality.

The article on U.S Embassy in Zambia page talking about the very meeting does not clearly mention LGBTQ+ rights either. A paragraph that closely points to that says the delegation met with President Hakainde Hichilema and several Zambian government ministers to explore how the United States can support reforms to the business enabling environment to attract greater investment and better spur economic growth.

It continues by saying the government leaders discussed the decades-long U.S. support for the health and agriculture sectors and strategies for systematically expanding agricultural productivity and sustaining Zambia’s improvements in public health. And says they also emphasized the central roles of the rule of law and fundamental freedoms to accountable and responsive democratic governance.

The paragraph ends by saying separately, the delegation met with members of the private sector and civil society to discuss efforts to bolster Zambia’s economic growth and support for democratic governance. It mentions fundamental freedoms. Because individual rights fall under such freedoms, maybe LGBTQ+ rights were on the table.

The delegation was led by Senator Patty Murray of Washington. In a company was Senator Chris Coons from Delaware, Senator Gary Peters from Michigan, Senator Catherine Cortez Masto from Nevada and Senator Peter Welch from Vermont. Was on a two-day visit to Zambia.

Late 2019 two men were sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for engaging in same sex relationship. Since then, there have been no reports of harsh punishments in relation to homosexuality.

It is not enough to call that a progress on LGBTQ+ rights. It could be because of fear. The visiting U.S. Congressional delegation needed to engage Hichilema on the issue. The law can remain, the punishment needs to be looked at.

By Venus N Msyani

Row arises over Kwacha grounds in Ndola

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The proposed subdivision and sale of Stand number 1346 Kwacha Grounds has sparked widespread opposition among residents of Ndola.

Ndola Central Member of Parliament Frank Tayali has emphasized the importance of preserving community spaces and fostering a brighter future for Ndola Central and beyond.

Tayali observed that despite claims of the said land being idle, ” Kwacha Grounds holds significant value.

” Kwacha Grounds holds significant value.as a strategic reserve for sporting and recreational amenities, which play a crucial role in fostering community unity and well-being, ” he said.

He has advised stakeholders to prioritize the preservation and enhancement of Kwacha Grounds instead of sacrificing it for commercial gain.

Tayali, who is also Minister of Transport and Logistics, has proposed innovative approaches such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) or long-term land leases to attract developers for investing in modern sporting infrastructure.

He emphasized the need for a strong declaration that Kwacha Grounds must never be sold, underlining its significance as more than just a piece of land but as a symbol of community identity and well-being.

CSAWUZ Calls For A Two-Tier Pension For Public Workers

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The Civil Servants and Allied Workers Union of Zambia (CSAWUZ) has appealed to government to introduce a two-tire system of pension for civil servants.

CSAWUZ General Secretary Makai Makai says the suggested tier-system for civil servants will be a win-win scenario for all parties, government and civil servants. Mr Makai said although public service workers are employees of one government under the same conditions of service, it’s unfortunate that they are treated differently on matters of pension administration.

Currently civil servants are mandated to contribute their pensions to either National Pensions Authority (NAPSA ) or Public Service Pension Fund (PSFP) which have separate laid down benefits for its members.

Speaking during a presser at the Union’s Secretariate in Lusaka , the CSAWUZ General Secretary said this scenario has become a cause of concern by his union for a long time now.

“The challenge that we have observed is that these two categories of employees is that they work for the same government, getting the same salaries and enjoying the same conditions of service. Unfortunately, at retirement they are treated differently and according to our analysis we have observed and realised that those contributing to PSPF are treated far much better than those contributing to NAPSA because the two schemes are different,” he said.

He added that his Executive is aware that employees on PSPF also contribute to NAPSA upon retirement take home with a meaningful retirement package but for civil servants contributing under NAPSA, they just get an income replacement ratio of about 40 percent.

He explained that for an individual under NAPSA, they can only get a lump sum if they have served less than 15 years and reach retirement, then they can be given a one-off lump sum.

“We want to call upon government to either give public service workers an opportunity to choose where to belong to so that they are able to determine their lives in retirement.

” Secondly, is to either create another pension scheme specifically for civil servants, so that civil servants also contribute to two pension schemes, so that as they retire, they get something from NAPSA and also something from the other scheme,” added Mr Makai.

He appealed to government to come up with a second-tier pension system for civil servants so as to avoid destitution during retirement.

“We have seen it with grant aided institutions and a good example is NAPSA itself, they contribute to NAPSA, but they are also on another scheme, ZESCO contributes to NAPSA, but they have another pensions scheme, why should it be like that with civil servants?” he wondered.

In retirement, people are old, and their vulnerability increases thereby requiring enough funds and when this is done it will help government reduce on the budgetary allocations to towards the social Cash transfer.
He said there is a lot of positivity in the decisions government is making and expect that they will take this plea from the civil servants.
“In the Eighth National Development Plan, there is a proposal of coming up with a second-tier pension scheme for public workers. How I wish it could be done as early as yesterday,” he added.

Grand reunion at the cemetery

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They were gathered at the cemetery…… to plot their evil…… Away from the snooping eyes and eavesdropping ears of the men in dark suits and sun glasses. All of them…….Those who hated him with a passion…..Those writhing in pain with bitterness…..Those extremely green with envy…….Those desperate to exert revenge……Those whose hearts had escaped from their chest cavities…….. Those who had just awakened from deep slumber …..Those eager to coin a name for themselves…..

They had broken ranks with cultural norms and practices and congregated at the resting place of the dead. They had one purpose in mind…..to identify a grave where to inter Kachema, after of course ejecting him from the colonial mansion by whatever means!

Jagwa, the local tycoon reputed to have been chased from the colonial mansion by imisepela for looting the treasury had ensured that there was a generous supply of food and beverages for everyone. He had flown in celebrity chefs from Europe to prepare the great feast…..gourmet menu – high quality delicacies crafted to deliver exquisite taste! They washed down the food with Moët & Chandon, the world’s best-selling champagne!

As the clock struck the witch hour, Shicotha cleared his throat and called the house to order. He had pitched-up in a black overflowing dress and a white head gear. After taking a quick swig from a bottle of Jameson, which he was more than willing to share with Jagwa, he slammed it down on a glass table. He tried to look as much sober as possible as he conducted roll-call.

Just when no one was looking, Jagwa swiftly grabbed the bottle of Jameson and drained half of its contents into his stomach! His eyes were now glittering with excitement as his dimples dug in further.

“Colleagues, it’s not wise to indulge in alcohol when deliberating on matters of such grave importance,” Calabash said, hiding his face behind his hand as he pretended to scratch the scar on his face

Ever since papa from Malawi assured him God had revealed to him he was to be the next occupant of the old mansion along Independence Avenue, he tended to overrate himself. He actually postured himself as more intelligent than the rest of mankind put together! Whenever time allowed him, he’d call his folks back in the village on his iPhone 15 informing them he was truly the annointed one……and not that “worthless drunkard from Chawama!”

“We shall ask ba Mpundwi to open up in prayer…” Shicotha simply ignored him.

He wasn’t going to allow anyone to dictate to him how things were supposed to be done, including over-ambitious chaps such as Calabash. He had a bone to chew with Kachema for making him eat humble pie in that scintillating thriller in Magoye decades ago. He was determined to do what ever it took to wrestle the crown from him even if it meant joining forces with those he had little or no regard for.

The aging cleric staggered clumsily as he tempted to remain erect. He had indulged in too much wine for anyone’s liking. He gave a long winding boring prayer about how the dilapidated mansion needed to be rescued before its total collapse.

“There’s too much hunger in this village…….all because of one individual!” he shouted to the heavens above as others murmured in agreement. “Kachema must go…..”

Jagwa, obviously a man of little faith but more into the pleasures of this world, was already sound asleep, and snoring like a lion.

“Amen!”

Jagwa was startled out of sleep. He quickly looked around…..a shadow of embarrassment crossing his face.

“Without wasting much of our time,” Shicotha said, choosing his words very carefully like a judge who is about to deliver a landmark judgement. “I shall ask Jagwa to give us his opening remarks….”

Jagwa was on fire! He had to prove to them he wasn’t sleeping on duty after all, or indeed completely inebriated. He gave an account of the ‘misdeeds’ of Kachema according to what he knew.

“He has taken away my kasaka kandalama; I can’t feed my gadas anymore! He continues to boycott my challenger which is now rusted and gathering dust,” they egged him on with plastic smiles and fake applause. “He’s giving away too much money to the students which they’re just wasting on kachasu and ba pondo! Look at the way he has compromised the quality of education in the village by opening the doors to every Jim and Jack? Children are now failing to distinguish the difference between pharmacists and farmers……”

“What is in it for us?” Cidadwe who had been observing him questioningly asked, suddenly.

Cidadwe had created for himself an outfit which he believed would take him to the colonial mansion although he wasn’t really making any progress. He saw this as a golden opportunity to make a name for himself.

“Typical of men; you can’t even give chance to women to speak!” It was mama Namaqui, bitterness engraved all over her face as usual. “I hate Kachema with a passion. I gave him all my heart, but he kept spurning my overtures. I won’t rest until he pays for it!”

Curtheka, whose party she had inherited from the General kept nose-diving, had now taken to the floor.

“I must caution this gathering that we’re at war with a shrewd individual; if you may recall, our colleague mama Namaqui tried to have him arrested at all costs and prevent him from appearing on the ballot papers with the help of Hamtambos, but to no avail.”

“Oh yes, he’s quite a smart aleck,” exclaimed Mpundwi, “he actually rejected my offer to be his God-father!”

Imbhoila – the ex. musician who had applied to be adopted to go to Manda hill was then invited to entertain them as they gobbled the sumptuous menu.

“As for me……” She was saying after belting out one or two boring songs. “I am more than ready to entertain the crowds with my music as we traverse the country.”

“And we shall equally seek to engage the US government to cripple this government by imposing sanctions…..” Cha’ngra offered as he adjusted his maze cap.

Cha’ngra had been nursing septic wounds after seemingly being sidelined on appointments as a diplomat. He was determined to slice Kachema to pieces.

Puree who had just divorced his Caucasian wife suddenly erupted into an irritating laughter to the chagrin of all. Just when everyone thought he had gone bonkers and perhaps on the next bus to Chainama; he swiftly took to the floor.

“Let’s not ignore the fact that the Church is a corner stone that we should alway involve in our grand scheme of things,” he smiled sheepishly, “We must endeavour to reach-out to the clergy as much as possible.”

“Amen to that!” they echoed in unison.

Imbhoila immediately took to the floor to celebrate what has just been achieved as Jagwa popped-up a bottle of champagne and sprayed it in the air.

As the sun emerged out of its hiding, Shicotha stood up and gravely brought the gavel crushing down on the mahogany desk. He majestically cleared his throat……they looked at him expectantly.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” his eyes dramatically swept across the graveyard. “Our meeting shall now adjourne until further notice.”

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Message For Today: Supersede

Today’s Scripture

His favor lasts a lifetime.
Psalm 30:5, NIV

Supersede

Friend, God’s favor upon your life is not for a few years, just for when you’re in your twenties or thirties. No, His favor is for as long as you’re breathing. We can all look back and see these moments of favor where God opened doors we could never open. He had you at the right place to meet your spouse. He promoted you when you weren’t next in line. He healed you when it didn’t look good. The good news is God never does His greatest feats in your yesterdays; they’re always in your tomorrows. Yes, we should celebrate and be grateful for what He’s done. But He’s taking you from glory to glory. Your future is going to supersede anything you’ve seen in the past. The Scripture says, “You haven’t seen, heard, or imagined what God has in store for those who love Him.” That’s why we can live with expectancy, excited, hopeful, and full of praise. You’re about to step into one of these moments of favor that takes you to a new level of your destiny.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that You are the Most High God and that Your favor toward me lasts for my lifetime. Thank You that my future is going to supersede what I’ve seen in my past. I declare that I am going to live with a great expectancy for what is coming. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

joel Osteen Ministries

Free Education helped reduce poverty levels in China

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The implementation of the free education policy has greatly contributed to the elimination of extreme poverty in China, authorities have said.

China Anti – Poverty Research Institute Professor Wang Sangui said providing free education to vulnerable members of society is one of the poverty alleviation strategies his government put in place to eliminate extreme poverty in the country.

Professor Sangui stated that Government provided free primary and secondary school education to learners from poor households.

ZANIS reports that Professor Sangui said this when he gave a lecture to international Journalists who are attending a Journalism fellowship programme at the China International Press Communication Centre (CIPCC) in Beijing.

“Additionally, students from identified vulnerable homes were given living allowances. This reduced school expenditure for poor households and ended the intergenerational transmission of poverty,” he said.

China achieved the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal number one of eliminating extreme poverty in 2020, ten years ahead of schedule.

The Renmin University of China Lecturer said Government lifted over 770 million people out of poverty between 1978 and 2010.

“Government additionally lifted 100 million of the poor population out of poverty between 2013 and 2020. It established manufacturing industries so as to provide employment for the citizenry. It also promoted cooperative agricultural production and health care subsidies to the poor,” Professor Sangui said.

Meanwhile, Zambian Education Activist Pascal Mulenga noted that Zambia can draw lessons from China with a view to eliminating extreme poverty.

Speaking in a separate interview, Mr. Mulenga, who is also the Zambia Union of All Persons with Disabilities (ZUAPD) President, observed that the Zambian Government is on the right trajectory with regards providing education opportunities to the vulnerable members of society.

He said education is one of the tools that can bring about social economic transformation in the country.

Mr. Mulenga, however, called on Government to consider making education more disability inclusive by ensuring the cost of disability material such as braille material, hearing aids and wheelchairs are more affordable.

“Vulnerable populations including the differently abled can contribute to development too especially if they are educated.

” If our country is to reach the level of China’s development, there is need to ensure all the schools are funded adequately and have necessary infrastructure such as electricity, disability equipment and computer laboratories,” he said.

Mr. Mulenga stated that rural schools should be made more conducive so as to promote the retention of teachers thereby promoting education in the rural population.

ZAF Non-Commissioned Course 56 Graduates: Embarking on a Path of Service and Discipline

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The Zambia Air Force (ZAF) celebrated a significant milestone this week as Course 56 of Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) successfully graduated after completing rigorous training in Mbala. The ceremony, held at the Kapotwe Chintu Military Training School at ZAF Samora Machel Air Force Base, marked the culmination of their journey from civilians to disciplined military personnel.

In a message echoing pride and encouragement, President Hakainde Hichilema, also the Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Force, congratulated the graduates, emphasizing the pivotal role they now play in safeguarding the nation. “We are proud of you, and the nation is now looking up to you to serve it diligently,” expressed President Hichilema. “Uphold integrity and discipline throughout your military service,” he urged, underscoring the values crucial for their roles in the defense of Zambia.

The Minister of Defence, Honorable Ambrose Lwiji Lufuma,, reiterated the importance of recruiting and training defense personnel for national security. Addressing the gathering during the passout parade, he emphasized the significance of the graduates’ role as pillars in safeguarding the country against aggressors. “Recruitment of defence personnel is essential for the defence and security of the country,” stated Honorable Lufuma, highlighting the gravity of their responsibilities.

Minister of Defence, Honorable Ambrose Lwiji Lufuma inspects the guard of honor

In his address to the newly minted NCOs, Zambia Air Force Commander, Lt Gen Oscar Msitu Nyoni, emphasized the twin pillars of integrity and discipline as essential virtues for their service. “Uphold integrity and discipline throughout your service,” urged Lt Gen Nyoni, while also cautioning against deviations from military standards. He emphasized the need for responsible conduct both on and off duty, including prudent use of social media and maintaining optimal health.

Lt Gen Nyoni expressed gratitude to the government and the Commander-in-Chief for their support in bolstering the Air Force ranks through recruitment. He reassured the nation of the Air Force’s unwavering commitment to defending against all threats, including initiatives to ensure food security through agricultural activities.

The Passout Parade marked not just the end of their initial training but also the beginning of a journey filled with diverse roles and responsibilities within the Air Force. From aircraft technicians to administrative clerks, the graduates are now poised to contribute to the professionalism and effectiveness of the ZAF across various domains.

As these young men and women step into their roles as defenders of the nation, they carry with them the expectations of their leaders, the gratitude of their fellow citizens, and the weight of their duty to safeguard Zambia’s sovereignty. With discipline, integrity, and dedication, they embark on a noble path of service to their country, ready to uphold its honor and protect its people.

Six Million Youth Ready To Give Evidence For Jean Chisenga

By Sakwiba Sikota

(BUFI BAKATEKA BWACHILAMO)

Honourable Jean Chisenga was called upon to exonerate herself for telling President Hakainde that lies have become too pervasive and they should be scaled down.

This was at the end of President Hakainde’s address to Parliament on the progress made(if any) in the application of National Values and Principles.

President Hakainde approached Hon. Jean Chisenga to expand on the areas she felt had been subject of lies. She obliged by giving a litany of false promises that had not been met. President Hakainde, much to the disappointment of his handlers, failed to provide any coherent ansers and merely claimed that h was not responsible for the problems we were buried under but it was the drought at fault.

The President’s handlers were then given the cue to go into attack mode. A letter was issued to her demanding that she exculpates herself for having challenged the president on lies. She responded and was expecting to be accorded a hearing. After all the much talked about ‘Rule of Law’ ordinarily would allow the accused to challenge her accusers and to call witnesses in their Defence.

It seems that Parliament was merely going through the motions and the fate of Hon. Chisenga had already been decided. It is clear that this is the case because Local Governmenr Minister Gary Nkomo publicly declared, even before Jean Chisenga was heard, that, “Jean Chisenga won’t go unpunished for calling HH a liar in Parliament.”

If accorded the right to a hearing, I am sure she would have put forward twenty plus a bonus one instances of justification for her call out to President Hakainde with regards to lies.

She would have called the witnesses set out below to give evidence on her behalf. The authorities in Parliament were afraid that having a hearing would be opening a Pandora’s box full of cans of worms.

The contents of the Pandora’s box would include, but not be limited to, the following;

1. DEATH-ROW

As all the president’s men were sending Jean Chisanga to the ‘Parliamentary gallows’, they should have remembered that President Hakainde has been claiming to all and sundry that he was once on Death-row.

Jean Chisenga had lined up the Commissioner General Fredrick Chilukutu of the Zambia Correctional Service(ZCS), the Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha SC., and Chief Justice Mumba Malila SC., to come and tell us if President Hakainde was ever on Death-row. I am sure that they would not lie.

2. CHALLENGER GULF STREAM SALE

Bally on several occasions said he would sell the Gulf Stream challenger jet.

Essential witness to call is the Attorney General to state if there has ever been any sale contract reviewed by his chambers. The Zambia Air Force Commander would be able to confirm that this military asset has never been lined up for sale.

Bally’s claim that he was selling the Challenger would clearly not fly.

3. NO FLIGHTS ON GULF STREAM CHALLENGER

Talking about the Challenger flying, Bally stated that he and his officials or family would never fly in the Gulf Stream challenger.

Witnesses would be brought from Civil Aviation to state which flights the Gulf Stream has undertaken and who appears on the flight manifests.

The authorities in Dubai, Johannesburg, Kiev and Moscow would be flown in to give evidence on this.

Video security footage at these airports would also be viewed to jog a few memories.

4. LOAD SHEDDING

President Hakainde said under UPND load shedding would come to an end. Infact at a press conference in 2022, missed by numerous people who were without power that day, Bally challenged Zambians “Who is experiencing load shedding?” and asked If anyone was being loadshedded. He then boastfully claimed, “we have ended load shedding in less than a year.”

I would bring Engineer Victor Benjamin Mapani, MD for ZESCO ZESCO Limited with his Board Chairperson, Mr. Vickson Ncube and Hon Eng Peter Chibwe Kapala, the Minister of Energy to shed light on Load shedding.

5. K12 FUEL

HH promised that Fuel price would be reduced from K17 per liter to K12.

Thousands of motorists can be called to give evidence and fuel the growing mountain of evidence of bold untruths that Zambians were fed with.

6. NO MIDDLE MEN IN FUEL PROCUREMENT

Bally also promised that Middlemen in fuel procurement were to be done away with.

The Energy Regulation Board will be called to give evidence on the Tazama pipeline and who is bringing in fuel, from what source and at what amount.

7. V8 CAR SALE

As far back as August 2022, Bally promised to sell the Government V8 fleet as it was too expensive to maintain. He told us how just revving it chews up ten liters of fuel.

Jean has lined up security footage from the Parliamentary car park and several drivers for ministers and some senior military and security personnel to give evidence on what they drive and whom they drive.

This evidence will drive most Zambians crazy.

What is driving Toyota, the makers of the V8, crazy is the claim by HH that merely revving a V8 twice chews up ten liters of fuel. This damages their brand name. The CEO of Toyota and their top engineers are ready to come and present evidence, on behalf of Jean Chisenga, that Bally must have been pressing the wrong peddle when he claims two quick revs chewed up ten liters of fuel.

8. RULE OF LAW

Bally claims that his government follows the Rule of law.

Witnesses from Parliament will be called to show that the Mopani sale was never brought as required by the Constitution for ratification before Parliament.

It appears Bally has confused the Rule of Law to be the Rule of Man.

9. MILES SAMPA

On the Miles Sampa PF hijack scandal Bally, like Shaggy, simply said, “It wasn’t me!”

Witnesses we would call to come and say they saw it was Bally whom Miles Sampa met at community House, to get the green light and possibly some green bucks for the project, would be Mr. Ground and Amerika.

Bally would then hopefully humbly admit, “It was me!”.

10. GRAPHIC CHANGE IN EXCHANGE RATE FROM TO HOURS

Bally seems to have a fixation for 14 hours pledges. He famously promised that when he is sworn in at 10:00 hours the Kwacha Dollar exchange rate by 14:00 hours would have reached K10 from K21 that it was.

The Bank of Zambia Governor will be called to give evidence that the Kwacha Dollar rate has never come anywhere near K10 during the UPND reign. Right now it is at the highest it has ever been.

Bally cannot convince us that 14:00 hours is a ‘leap hour’ that we should only expect, like February 29th which only comes once every leap year, four years from now.

11. ANOTHER 1400 HOURS PLEDGE

At his last press conference Bally said police on arresting people on bondable offenses before 10:00 hours should release them on police bond or take them to court within twenty four hours.

As he was making this solemn pledge, journalist Sam Kaseba had been held in custody for a few days and continued to be so held even after what was supposed to be a solemn pledge.

He is not the only witness who will be called but others such as Namo Phiri and Abel Musonda of Millennium TV, Thomas Allen Zyambo and many others will be called to testify.

HH is quickly running out of time for his 14:00 hours pledge. We have gone past injury time on extra time on this promise. No need for VAR review, this was clearly a lie.

12. INVESTMENT OF 25.8 BILLION WITHIN SIX MONTHS

On 18th October 2019 Bally promised, whilst in Washington, that within six months of his election 25.8 billion dollars investments would come into Zambia. He announced that he had secured these pledges which were just waiting for his election.

Two and a half years after his election it is clear that he never secured any such firm pledges.

Minister of Finance will be subpoenaed to confirm that Bally’s pledge and promise of 25.8 Billion Dollars within six months, were clearly as brittle as a lover’s oath.

13. DEBT RESTRUCTURING IS SKILLFULLY DONE

Bally has posted again that, “It is done!”

He has said debt restructuring has been achieved and ‘done’ because of his skillful negotiation prowess.

Skillful resolution of debt restructuring has been debunked by the IMF MD Kristalina Georgieva Eurobond Creditors when she warned Ghana President Akufuna-Addo that Zambia was a bad example on how to negotiate with bond holders. She said we were only useful for other countries to know what not to do.

On 24th June 2023 the country was brought to a standstill when thousands were bused to Kenneth Kaunda International Airport to receive Bally from Paris. Zambians made to believe the deal had been “done”. Home Affairs Minister Jack Mwiimbu also believed this and said in his welcoming remarks that it was done. Turned out this was premature.

Again this week we have been to,d on none less than Bally’s page that, ‘It is done!’ We now learn from Minister of Finance who will be subpoenaed as a witness that it is only 75% done.

Clearly again it is not done and the elation leading to celebrations and back slapping is counting chickens before they hatch.

This may be a medical case of PE, premature elation!

14. CYBER SECURITY

Repeal of Cyber Security Act was a very clear promise made by Bally.

Court records will be subpoenaed to show that the greatest and most frequent prosecutions made under the Cyber Security laws have been instigated and pursued under the UPND government.

15. REPEAL OF PUBLIC ORDER ACT

Bally promised immediate repeal of Public Order Act upon coming into office.

A long line of opposition party leaders, NGO’s and others have been stopped from gathering and can give evidence. Church leaders will give evidence of police surrounding their congregations to stop certain people from congregating there.

16. GOLDEN JUBILEE MEALIE MEAL

Bally promised that Mealie meal prices would come down to fifty Kwacha

When calling for President LUNGU to resign over the mealiemeal prices which were then at K152, Bally wetted our appetites and promised he would bring this staple food down to the Golden Jubilee figure of fifty Kwacha.

Jean Chisenga was ready to gather all those people, queuing up for mealie meal, across the country to come and tantameni outside the Privileges Committee hearing in readiness to give evidence that they have never seen the Golden Jubilee mealie meal in any of the shops.

17. REASONS FOR MEALIEMEAL SHORTAGE

Bally has blamed the current food shortages on drought.

Witnesses to show that Bally’s excuses have dried up would include former information minister Chushi Kasanda who stated that our strategic reserves of maize grain from the 2019 to 2022 harvests, stored in the Food Reserve Agency sheds, was all being sold. Another witness we would strategically keep in store would be Agriculture Minister Mtolo who said we were going to keep on exporting maize grain stocks.

No doubt these witnesses would not exhibit a shortage of truth about how we sold everything in the granary leaving us nothing for, figuratively a ‘rainy day’ like the drought we are now facing.

Just like you cannot have your cake and eat it; you cannot have your maize grain and sell it.

18. NO CADRES ABOVE THE LAW

Bally promised that cadres would not be holding sway over our lives.

Jean Chisenga will call the Chinese businessman on the Copperbelt dragged to the police by cadres. She also planned to subpoena GilbertLiswaniso to testify on how he has acquired mining interests in foreign firms mining in Zambia.

Beene Hachoomba, a presidential campaign member for HH, would also be subpoenaed to give evidence on the attack on Monday 25th March in Kanyama perpetrated by whom he identified as ‘UPND Zealots’.

19. BAG OF FERTILIZER EACH

Bally promised that in the fertilizer support program peasant farmers would be receiving full bags of fertilizer each.

Jean Chisenga has lined up hundreds of thousands peasant farmers who were made to take only a meda out of the bags of fertilizer that were distributed.

Hakainde and his promises would make Pinocchio, if he heard them, feel inadequate and want to retire.

20. RAINDROPS
Bally has been on CNN and BBC claiming that Zambia has not had a drop of rain in two months.

Jean Chisenga would call some people from Muchinga, Northern and Luapula Provinces to tell us why raindrops keep falling on their heads when the President has declared to the world that there has not been a drop of rain in Zambia for two months. He further claimed that this was the worst drought experienced by Zambia in a hundred years.

Even the weather reporters and forecasters from both CNN and BBC could be subpoenaed to produce the weather reports for Zambia over the past three months.

These witnesses will show that the “worst drought in a hundred years of Zambia’s history”, is only in Bally’s head.

21. JOBS FOR THE YOUTH

Bally made the youths get up as early in the morning as 0400 hours to queue up to cast their votes. This arose from his promise that once elected, Jobs for the youth would be provided to them all.

Two and a half years later and the youths are now lining up in their tens of thousands when job adverts go out for a few jobs like that of enumerators. Another example is that in 2023 government budgeted to recruit 4,500 teachers and 69,000 applied. Of the 137,129 people who applied as health workers in 2022 less than ten percent got jobs.

The minister of Education Douglas Syakalima can be subpoenaed to give evidence on behalf of Jean Chisenga.

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo will also be called to confirm that only 11,276 were recruited in 2022 meaning that the promise to give jobs to all the youths is yet another unfulfilled promise.

These are but a few of the long lines of lies.

That is why the youth have woken up early (Ba UKA) and an endless line of witnesses, winding throughout our country, is being formed by six million youth ready to give evidence for Jean Chisenga.

President Hichilema’s Extends Easter Greetings From His Working Holiday at Naminwe Ranch

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In a heartfelt Easter message to the nation, President Hakainde Hichilema, accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs. Mutinta Hichilema, extended warm holiday greetings. The President conveyed his wishes as they embarked on a weekend retreat to their Naminwe Ranch in Namwala, Southern Zambia. President Hichilema’s message encapsulated the spirit of Easter, emphasizing its significance beyond the narrative of death, but as a beacon of hope, reconciliation, and eternal life.

“With my wife, the First Lady, Mrs. Mutinta Hichilema, we send you all Easter holiday greetings full of love and peace,” expressed President Hichilema. “We also wish to inform you that we have since left Lusaka to spend the weekend at our Naminwe Ranch in Namwala, Southern Zambia.”

“The essence of Easter transcends the narrative of death, embodying instead the promise of eternal life, the triumph over defeat, and the illumination of hope and joy over despair and sorrow,” remarked President Hichilema.

The significance of Easter was further underscored as President Hichilema called for unity and diligence in building a prosperous nation. “Together, we embrace the spirit of Easter, welcoming its teachings of gratitude, reconciliation, hope, and love into our hearts and loyalty to our nation,” affirmed the President.

As the nation observed Easter, President Hichilema commenced a working holiday, retreating to Naminwe ranch in Namwala district, Southern Province. Accompanied by the First Lady, the President arrived at their farm around noon, signaling the start of a six-day working holiday until April 3, 2024.

Southern Province Minister, Credo Nanjuwa, confirmed the President’s presence in the province, highlighting the importance of his visit in reinforcing various developmental initiatives. Mr. Nanjuwa disclosed the President’s concerns over rampant bushfires along the Kafue River plains, which pose a threat to livestock and agricultural activities in the region.

“The President has expressed concerns over the wild bush fires being ignited in the plains along the Kafue River which have become rampant in the province,” stated Mr. Nanjuwa. “If the fires in the plains continue, livestock will be affected and will cause farmers to start buying hay for their animals which will be expensive for them.”

In response to these concerns, President Hichilema directed the provincial administration to take immediate action to curb the spread of fires and protect the plains for livestock. “The President has given fresh instruction to the provincial administration to ensure that the fishermen putting up fires along the Kafue plains are stopped to protect the plains for livestock,” Mr. Nanjuwa elucidated.

The provincial administration, in collaboration with traditional leaders, pledged to work tirelessly to halt the rampant fires and safeguard the livelihoods of farmers in the region. “Provincial administration will work hand in hand with the traditional leaders to stop the rampant fires in the plains,” assured Mr. Nanjuwa.

YES….. ECL alebwelelapo slogan is infuriating us

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Former president, Edgar Lungu’s political advisor Dr. Chris Zimba claims that, “the alelebwelelapo anthem that has finally hit every corner of the country has invoked the spirit of anger and bitterness in the UPND and its entire leadership….”

Zimba further insinuates that in sensing the clear sign of losing to his main rival in the 2026 elections, the UPND and its leadership has officially introduced politics of imingalato meant to annihilate the opposition by creating factions in political parties which are threats to their hold on power.

What does Lungu and his cronies take us for….. dimwits?

It’s not only President Hichilema and his leadership that are irritated by the annoying slogans of “alebwelelapo” of course, from the rented mobs; it’s actually the entire nation!

How can we afford not to be annoyed when the previous regime deliberately borrowed money to roll-out infrastructure development in order to award themselves contracts to undertake subsidiary works or indeed get kick backs from the main contractors?

How can we elect to remain silent when we were ‘suffocated’ in our houses at the height of the gassing incident occasioned on us by those in authority?

How can we fail to get angry when certain regions were neglected and denied development, including CDF!

How can we celebrate their possible return when one had to be a cadre or related to those in government to be considered for employment in the civil service?

How do you expect us to remain ‘ndwi’ when unruly party cadres took over control of public facilities – markets and bus stations?

Who is responsible for the death of Grazier Mutapa, Lawrence Banda, UNZA student Chipenzi, Mr. Nsama among others….. surely, you expect us to be happy?

Who separated couples from each other, and in the process destablised families by transferring spouses to far-flung areas therefore denying them conjugal rights?

Who retired qualified career civil servants with many productive years ahead of them in so- called national interest?

Who’s responsible for zero production at Mopani or indeed, liquidation of KCM?

Who caused the closure of our once credible and favourite sources of information – The Post Newspapers, Prime TV, Muvi TV and Komboni Radio?

We must be harebrained to welcome you with a red carpet when we are still hurting from hearing your ministers bragging that K100, 000 is nothing to them but pocket money for their children; seeing your party cadres burning collasal amounts of money on mbabula and watching most of you miraculously transform from paupers to multimillionaires, overnight.

Get out of town, man!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Government calls for collaborative efforts against Tuberculosis

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Government has called for collaborative efforts to identify people living with Tuberculosis (TB) but are not on treatment.

Northern Province Permanent Secretary Bernard Mpundu says the province still faces a high burden of Tuberculosis (TB) cases.

Mr. Mpundu noted this despite making progress in TB prevention through attaining a TB treatment success rate of 97.1 percent, where more patients were identified and treated early in the past years.

The permanent secretary made these remarks in a speech read on his behalf by Northern Province Health Director, Dr. Ernest Mutale, during the commemoration of the 2024 World TB Day in Mporokoso District.

He reminded the community that the Government will continue to ensure anti-TB medicines are fully integrated into the national supply chain mechanism and provided free of charge in public health facilities.

“Persons with Tuberculosis disease should be suspected early, tested, diagnosed, and treated fully to get cured. The disease is curable; once cured, their livelihood and economic productivity will improve, and they will also stop spreading the disease to other people,” Mr. Mpundu said.

Mporokoso District Commissioner Brian Mayuni, represented by Administrative Officer Lucy Nakatali, urged the community to help end TB by 2030.

Mr. Mayuni also assured the people of Mporokoso that the Government prioritizes the health sector.

TB is an airborne disease that can be passed from one person to another by spitting, coughing, and sneezing of the infected person.

USAID Tuberculosis Local Organization Network (TBLON) Regional TB Technical Leader Richmond Muleya revealed that cooperating partners are working with the Ministry of Health to ensure proper TB diagnosis.

Dr. Muleya emphasized that early diagnosis is key as it ensures patients are put on treatment promptly.

“The theme is timely, and health practitioners are striving to end TB by 2030,” Dr. Muleya stated.

Chief Mumporokoso’s representative, Fube Musawa, thanked the Government for giving full support to the people living with TB in the district.

He promised to continue sensitizing people on disease prevention.

Art needs undivided support – Samukolo

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A Livingstone City based artist Olive Samukolo has advised the general public to regard art as a decent career like any other vocation.

Mrs. Samukolo, an arts and design teacher at Twaabane Creative Centre in Simoonga, Livingstone, says art enables one to acquire important and long-lasting skills to earn a fulfilling and gratifying livelihood.

She said this during an interactive event involving for pupils from selected schools and artists at Livingstone Museum.

“We have adult literacy programs for those that might have dropped out of school, skills training, agro business and the natural dance, we make sure we leave no one behind.

“Our vision as Twaabane Creative Centre is to be self-sufficient, while our mission is to contribute to social and economic development for the Simoonga community, and the country at large,” said Mrs. Samukolo.

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Meanwhile, as guest of honor at the event, Tourism and Arts Minister Rodney Sikumba encouraged pupils to continue to work hard in their academics even as they hope to have a career in arts in a bid to improve the sector.

“What we realize as Government, is that we need to give you the opportunity as learners to express yourselves through art so that we know exactly what you think of doing.

“With the hardships of finding a job, it becomes increasingly important that over and above what you will be trained in, you need to become entrepreneurs, masters of your own destiny ,” said Mr. Sikumba..

The minister, accompanied by his permanent Secretary Evans Muwanga and other government officials are in the Tourist capital for the Livingstone International Cultural Arts Festival which is expected to last three days.

Zambia deserves a factory on every street corner, not a temple!

We reside along a street leading to one of the mountains within our city. Everyday of the week, month of the year; we see them flocking to the mountain in their droves, 24/7. These are poor country folks who have been made to believe their “breakthrough” somehow remains domiciled at the mountain. Those that are yet to find the apple of their eyes; those afflicted with various infirmities; those about to write their exams; those in search of jobs…..they fast and shout out prayers to the skies robustly as if ours is a deaf God.

After prayers are said, of course followed by a sermon from the “man of God” who repeatedly punctuates it with assurances of “this is a year of wonders;” offering is collected and they walk back home the same way they came……. to nurse their hearts from whatever kettle of fish they may find themselves in.

What do we make of this?

We do not know about other life challenges, however, we are definitely convinced that what is going to extricate our people from absolute poverty is not by gathering in temples from January to December and waiting for miracles to happen, but rather finding something useful to do with our hands. Those that are privileged to occupy positions of authority must consider thinking outside the box and come up with innovations and initiatives that may encourage our people to set up factories in every city, establish hybrid farms in every village or extract fish ponds wherever water may be readily available.

59 years after independence, it’s quite sad that we still have to rely on toothpicks or earbuds from China; cheese or toilet paper from South Africa; potatoes or onions from Tanzania; panadol or condoms from India and indeed shoes or clothes from Italy! What do we have to show for our independence save for speaking English with exaggerated fake accents?! You can’t even manage to coach your own national football team apart from tired legs from Europe!

Isn’t it a paradox that the same countries we may want to dismiss as “unchristian” – India, China or Russia are the same countries we have to entirely depend upon for all our needs, including much hyped debt relief!

Why do their economies continue to grow leaps and bounds while ours remains stagnant or shrinking? There isn’t any witchcraft or magical formula involved other than utmost discipline and a rigorous working culture!

Unless we improve our work culture, we might as well continue waiting for Jesus Christ on top of the mountain to deliver us from poverty.

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

No immoral acts during Easter holiday – Clergy

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A clergyman in Zimba district of Southern Province has urged citizens against engaging in irresponsible behavior during the long Easter holiday.

Pilgrim Wesleyan Church Presiding Bishop Juden Siachitema says Christians and citizens should desist from reckless behavior such as alcohol abuse, violence, and immoral acts during the Easter holiday.

Bishop Siachitema said people must instead use the holiday to render a helping hand to needy people in society.

The clergyman said this in an interview with ZANIS in Zimba district ahead of Easter holiday.

“During this period, everyone from different walks of their lives should exercise maximum restraint by living in harmony, love, peace, and unity and will continue to do so especially in this time of drought,” he said.

And Zimba District Commissioner, Robson Mulamfu has urged Zambians to use the Easter holiday to spread messages of peace and avoid any behavior that promotes violence.

He also urged motorists and all road users in the district to exercise maximum care to avoid accidents due to dangerous driving induced by alcohol.

The DC has since directed the police and all other authorities tasked to enforce law and order on the roads to do their best to maintain safety during the Easter holiday.

“Motorists and other road users in Zimba district are strongly advised to be cautious and observe traffic rules as we celebrate the extraordinary life of the risen Christ,” he said.

Easter holiday which is observed by Christians annually starts Friday, March 29, 2024 and ends next Monday April 1st, 2024.

Students Pay President Hichilema a surprise visit at Community house

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Students rom various institutions of higher learning pay President Hichilema a surprise visit at Community House
Students rom various institutions of higher learning pay President Hichilema a surprise visit at Community House

Students from various institutions of higher learning paid a surprise visit to President Hakainde Hichilema at the Community House to congratulate him on the milestones of debt restructuring and Mopani re-opening.

In a heartening display of appreciation, students from various institutions of higher learning surprised President Hakainde Hichilema with a visit at the Community House yesterday. Their visit was aimed at congratulating the President on the significant milestones achieved in debt restructuring and the reopening of Mopani.
Approximately 1000 students representing several universities, including the University of Zambia, Copperbelt University, National Institute of Public Administration, Evelyn Hone College, and Natural Resource Development College, gathered to express their gratitude and support for the recent accomplishments.

Students rom various institutions of higher learning pay President Hichilema a surprise visit at Community House

Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, President Hichilema, expressed his appreciation for the surprise visit. He emphasized the commitment of his administration to serve the nation diligently, striving to address various challenges for the betterment of Zambia. He particularly highlighted the importance of economic growth, job creation, and business opportunities for the youth.

“We don’t want imwe ba Monk and Momas to graduate and there are no jobs, awe,” President Hichilema remarked, underlining the government’s dedication to ensuring employment opportunities for graduates.

The President also assured the students of continued support for education and social welfare programs, citing the recent debt relief as a means to bolster the education sector and enhance social services such as healthcare.

NACOSU Chairperson, Mr. Michelo Chizombe, commended the debt relief initiative, emphasizing its potential to catalyze further improvements in the education sector. Additionally, representatives from student unions, including Joseph Musonda from UNZASU and Vincent Sakala from NIPASU, praised the increased allocation to higher education.

During the event, President Hichilema engaged in discussions with the students, fostering a direct dialogue between the youth and the government. The students expressed their delight at having the opportunity to interact with the President, with one remarking on the historical significance of the visit.

“Let’s be honest, no president in the history of our nation has ever had people visit their home. This says a lot about the future of His Excellency,” commented one student.

Another student praised President Hichilema’s commitment to economic development and hailed him as a leader with genuine intentions for Zambia’s progress.

“The test of a visionary leader is what you are going through, Mr. President,” said one of the youth, expressing admiration for President Hichilema’s resilience in the face of economic challenges and crises.

“You inherited a collapsed economy in the presence of COVID-19, sooner than later, Cholera pandemic, as if it’s not enough, drought hit the country, but you stood firm to your true vision to arrest the the economic hardships through closing all the potholes of corruption, further cementing it with debt restructuring deal. My prayer to you sir is that you stay longer with good health, may God bless you sir. I can’t wait to see the re-designed Lusaka City in the next 10 years,” he said.

The visit by students underscores the growing optimism and support for President Hichilema’s administration, as he navigates the path towards economic recovery and social development in Zambia.