Saturday, May 3, 2025
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Boosting Law Enforcement: President Hichilema Hands Over 156 Police Vehicles Nationwide

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In a significant stride towards enhancing law enforcement capabilities, President Hakainde Hichilema handed over 156 police motor vehicles to constituencies across the country this afternoon. The vehicles, procured through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), mark a crucial step in addressing the logistical challenges faced by the police force.

Addressing the police officers during the handover, President Hichilema called upon them to respond effectively to security threats and concerns within their respective constituencies. He emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order, underscoring that individuals found breaking the law, whether through theft of private or public assets, would be dealt with within the confines of the law.

“There can never be development in an area where there is no law and order,” President Hichilema asserted, highlighting the pivotal role law enforcement plays in fostering a conducive environment for development.

Expressing gratitude to the police officers who tirelessly work around the clock to combat crimes in communities, President Hichilema extended his blessings and confidence in their dedication. He stressed the government’s commitment to supporting the police force and ensuring they have the necessary resources to carry out their duties effectively.

The handover of police vehicles aligns with the government’s broader efforts to strengthen security infrastructure and enhance the capacity of the police force, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being and progress of the nation.

President Hichilema Urges Acceleration of Compact 2 Components in Meeting with MCC Vice President

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President Hakainde Hichilema has emphasized the need for expeditious finalization of the components of Compact 2 under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC). During a meeting with MCC Vice President of Compact Operations, Cameron Alford, at State House today, President Hichilema highlighted the impor
tance of overcoming hurdles that may hinder the timely execution of the project.

Expressing Zambia’s readiness to collaborate with the Millennium Challenge Corporation, President Hichilema identified key issues such as infrastructure and access to markets as vital components of Compact 2. He underscored the Zambian Government’s commitment to working with the MCC to allocate resources efficiently to areas in need.

President Hichilema sought to explore the flexibility of the program to incorporate new areas of need that may have arisen since the initial design of Compact 2. He acknowledged the strong partnership between Zambia and the United States and expressed gratitude for the support received during Compact 1.

Meanwhile, the President voiced concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the Ukraine-Russia war. He reiterated Zambia’s commitment to peace and called for de-escalation of conflicts. President Hichilema recognized the impact of the Ukraine-Russia war on food shortages in many countries and highlighted Zambia’s potential to increase food production for local consumption and export within the region.

In response, Cameron Alford acknowledged considerable progress in planning Compact 2. He outlined the focus areas, including roads, improvements in the operations of the Food Reserve Agency, electricity, and irrigation, among others. Alford assured that the Millennium Challenge Corporation is aligned with President Hichilema’s vision to increase maize production to 10 million metric tonnes, emphasizing their commitment to complementing Zambia’s agricultural goals.

In a subsequent statement, President Hichilema expressed satisfaction with the meeting, emphasizing Zambia’s commitment to engaging in productive activities that drive economic development. He highlighted the importance of agriculture and road infrastructure for economic growth, positioning agriculture as a business, a source of empowerment, and a crucial element for food security. President Hichilema reiterated Zambia’s dedication to upholding partnerships, including those under the Millennium Challenge Corporation, fostering development for the benefit of all citizens.

Zambia Opens World Cup Qualifying Account with a Thrilling 4-2 Win over Congo

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The thrilling encounter between Zambia and Congo delivered a spectacle of goals and excitement, with Zambia emerging victorious with a final score of 4-2.

The first half began with a bang as Patson Daka of Zambia headed the ball into the high center of the goal from the center of the box, assisted by Emmanuel Banda, giving Zambia an early 1-0 lead in the 5th minute. However, Congo responded swiftly, with Silvere Ganvoula leveling the score at 1-1 in the 13th minute. Ganvoula’s right-footed shot from the center of the box found the back of the net, courtesy of an assist from Yhoan Andzouana.

Congo didn’t stop there and continued to apply pressure on Zambia’s defense. Mons Bassouamina of Congo made it 2-1 in their favor in the 15th minute, with a right-footed shot from the center of the box, assisted by Gaïus Makouta. The first half continued for an extended period with a surprising 2-1 in favour of Congo.

The drama continued in the 43rd minute when Lameck Banda of Zambia scored a left-footed shot from the center of the box, equalizing the score at 2-2. Kings Kangwa provided the crucial assist.

The second half began with a flurry of substitutions, as both teams looked to make tactical adjustments. Bradley Mazikou replaced Morgan Poaty for Congo, and Clatous Chama came on for Benson Sakala for Zambia in the 56th minute. Subsequently, Julfin Ondongo and Domi Massoumou entered the field for Congo, replacing Bradley Mazikou and Prestige Mboungou in the 56th minute as well.

The second half continued with high-intensity play, and both teams were eager to secure the win. In the 69th minute, Zambia took the lead once again as Junior Fashion Sakala found the back of the net with an attempt from the center of the box, assisted by Lameck Banda, making it 3-2 in favor of Zambia.

In the late stages of the match, Zambia made strategic substitutions, with Edward Chilufya coming on for Lameck Banda in the 83rd minute. Congo also made changes, as Gabriel Charpentier replaced Mons Bassouamina, and Chandrel Massanga replaced Gaïus Makouta in the 81st minute.

The match’s defining moment came in the 90+2nd minute when Patson Daka of Zambia scored his second goal of the game. Daka’s left-footed shot from the center of the box found the back of the net, securing Zambia’s victory with a final score of 4-2.

Tickets Flying Off the Shelves as Zambia Gears Up for FIFA World Cup Qualifier Against Congo Brazzaville

Excitement is building as Zambia prepares to face Congo Brazzaville in the 2026 Group E FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium this evening. The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) General Secretary, Reuben Kamanga, has confirmed the arrival of the Congo Brazzaville contingent at the Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport, ensuring that the stage is set for a thrilling match.

In a statement released today, Kamanga urged fans to secure their seats by purchasing tickets, emphasizing that they are still available across Shoprite outlets. He expressed gratitude to the supporters who have already purchased tickets and encouraged those who haven’t to join in and be part of the excitement at the stadium.

“We wish to thank fans that have been trooping to various Shoprite outlets to purchase tickets ahead of this evening’s match. We wish to encourage fans that have not yet purchased their tickets to get theirs now and be part of the fun at the stadium,” Kamanga stated.

Amid the fervor surrounding the match, Kamanga appealed to fans to maintain good behavior at the stadium, discouraging the throwing of objects onto the pitch. He emphasized the potential consequences, including heavy fines and damage to the country’s reputation as a host for international matches.

“We have also doubled up on security to ensure that fans sit in their designated areas,” Kamanga assured.

Calling on fans to rally behind the team, Kamanga urged them to fill up the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium and support the players on their journey to victory. The stadium, he noted, has become a fortress in recent games, and the association expects nothing different this time.

“All logistics are in place for the match tonight,” Kamanga assured, instilling confidence in the football community as Zambia gears up for a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier against Congo Brazzaville.

Is Edgar Lungu really back in active politics? Maybe not

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By Michael Chishala

Did you know that former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu is not in active politics? I know it sounds totally ridiculous and silly, but it is true. Sort of, provided that he actually truthfully resigned as PF President in August 2021.

Most Zambians seem to be unclear on what being in “active politics” means. The Benefits of Former Presidents Act (BOFPA) is very clear and unequivocal that holding office (or the express intention to do so) in a political party is what constitutes being in “active politics”. So let us ask this question:
Is Mr Lungu right now holding any position or office in PF that we are publicly aware of?

The answer is no. As things stand, he officially resigned in writing as PF president in 2021 and that is how he got his benefits. There is no way Cabinet Office would have given him his benefits if he was still the PF President according to the BOFPA. Why is all this important? Well, since Mr Lungu is not holding any position in PF as far as we know, nor has he stated an intention to contest for the PF Presidency, then he is NOT in active politics! That is what the BOFPA says in black and white. This of course raises some very interesting consequences.

Mr Lungu right now can write to Cabinet Office demanding for a restoration of his benefits as per BOFPA. Cabinet Office will have their hands tied because if they refuse, he can simply state the obvious; that he resigned as PF president in 2021 and the status quo remains. If they say “But you announced that you are in active politics”, he will simply refer them to the definition of “active politics” in the BOFPA.
Now, suppose Mr Lungu is adopted as PF candidate for 2026 while retaining the existing leadership structure in PF? He gets to do a “double tobela” by continuing to get his benefits whilst holding no position in PF and thus being able to run as Republican President at taxpayer expense. This was the “Bwezani Formula” established in 2015 by late president Rupiah Bwezani Banda. It may possibly require an amendment to the PF consitution, depending on what it says about who can be candidate for Republican president.
Every time he goes out to campaign, ECL can be getting 80% of what the current president gets paid every month, free fuel, workers, a nice fat rented house and other benefits while he is biting the hand that feeds him. He may possibly become president again to finish off his promise to arrest certain individuals and throw the keys away.

However, there is a chink in the armour of Mr Lungu. Did he actually really resign in 2021? This is where the waters get murky. The official records say so, but his public statements are facing the opposite direction. He recently boasted at a graveyard somewhere in Lusaka that “alebwelelapo” pali PF Presidency. He said it amidst loud cheers that he shall “continue” as PF president because his “mandate” runs until 2026.
There is debate in the public domain to suggest he made party appointments like party SG and Vice-President after he supposedly resigned as PF President in 2021. But wait a minute! How could he be making appointments if he resigned as PF President? How could he be getting a nice fat monthly pay and get a nice fat house built for him if he is still the Puppet Master in PF? Therein lies the rub.

Team Red seem not to realise that Mr Lungu still has aces up his sleeves. If he wants to get very antagonistic and spiteful, he can demand for his benefits and laugh in their faces whilst campaigning to remove them from power. If they try to squeeze him using the law on something, anything, they will play right into his hands as he will be made a martyr, increasing in popularity every day. Just ask Donald Trump. Never under-estimate the power of playing the victim.

As respected lawyer John Sangwa already noted, it is too late to go after Mr Lungu for any alleged crimes he did as president. That ship has sailed because of people sleeping at the wheel and playing with kid gloves by giving blanket immunity and publicly announcing that they have no intention of lifting his immunity. Well, let us see just how much Mr Kasaka ka Ndalama pokes the giant in the eye.

Michael Chishala is a Zambian analyst, blogger, and ICT Specialist. He has interests in Philosophy, Economics, Politics and Art. Email: michael [at] zambia [dot] co [dot] zm.

Mubanga Fit For Congo Clash

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Chipolopolo midfielder Kelvin Mubanga has been declared fit for tonights 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Congo Brazzaville at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

Mubanga of Zesco United has just recovered from a hamstring injury sustained some weeks ago.

The Chipolopolo Medical Team said Mubanga has been training and he is available for selection

Meanwhile, Captain Lubambo Musonda and China based striker Evans Kangwa are out of the match against Congo.

Zambia is seeking a maiden World Cup qualification.

Zambia Set For COSAFA Schools Cup

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Zambia is set to participate in the COSAFA Schools Football Championship to be staged in Zimbabwe from December 14-16.

The regional championship will be used as the qualifying competition for the 2024 CAF African Schools Football Championship.

In a media statement, COSAFA has announced that (11) Eleven COSAFA members will send boys and girls sides to compete in this Under-15 competition.

The second staging of the CAF African Schools Football Championship | COSAFA Qualifier, Zimbabwe 2023 will take place in Harare from December 14-16, with a slight tweak to the tournament this year as teams vie to represent the region on the continental stage.

“Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Zambia, and hosts Zimbabwe will all be represented, and teams this year can be made up of the best players from the national qualifiers, rather than single schools,” COSAFA stated.

The draw for both competitions will be made in Harare ahead of the event.

Grant Upbeat Ahead of Congo Clash

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Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant is upbeat ahead of Friday evening’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match against Congo Brazzaville at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

Zambia will launch the 2026 World Cup race with a home Group E match against the Red Devils.

In a pre-match comment, Grant branded the opening Group match as important.

“Very important game, qualification for the World Cup first game,” Grant said.

“We did two trainings until now. We will be ready for the match,” he said.

The Israeli trainer admitted that the World Cup qualification race would be tough while assuring that Zambia will do its best.

“Zambia has never qualified for the World Cup, it is a big challenge. Qualification will be tough but we will do our best. All the players must prove themselves,” Grant said.

The Chipolopolo Boys will also play against Morocco, Tanzania and Niger in this group.

Only one team from the group will qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Protecting Education: Northern Province Bans Use of School Desks in Public Gatherings

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In a bid to safeguard school furniture and ensure a conducive learning environment, the Northern Province Permanent Secretary, Bernard Mpundu, has issued a ban on the use of school desks for any public meetings within the province. Mpundu emphasized that these desks, procured by the government at considerable expense, are exclusively for the use of school children.

Addressing the community at Chinika Mpundu Primary School in Chilubi District, where he inaugurated a 1 by 2 classroom block constructed using the 2022 Constituency Development Fund (CDF), Mpundu expressed concerns about the misuse of school desks in outdoor public gatherings. He highlighted that the desks, which cost the government between K1000 and K1500 each, were at risk of damage when left unattended after such events.

“I have seen that we have gotten desks from classrooms, but if the rains were to come, no one would be bothered to take the desks back, thus exposing them to risks,” he remarked.

Mpundu urged education authorities to prevent the use of school desks at public gatherings, emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing a conducive learning environment for pupils. He also called on local authorities to ensure an adequate supply of desks to schools, especially those newly constructed.

The Permanent Secretary’s directive received support from Chilubi District Commissioner Risto Mushembe, who pledged to ensure its strict adherence across all schools in the district. Mushembe emphasized the government’s intention to provide desks for pupils, aiming not only to offer comfort but also to enhance their handwriting.

Chilubi Town Council Chairperson Rosemary Chimbini echoed the importance of supporting education and urged the public to rally behind the government’s efforts. She emphasized the role of the new classroom block in creating a conducive learning space for children and called for continued community support to facilitate further development initiatives.

The ban on using school desks in public gatherings aligns with the broader goal of preserving educational resources and ensuring that pupils have the necessary infrastructure for effective learning.

Vice President Nalumango Acts As President During President Hichilema’s Global trips

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Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa, clarified that Vice President Mutale Nalumango consistently assumes the role of President whenever President Hakainde Hichilema travels abroad. During a media briefing in Lusaka, Kangwa provided insights into the constitutional process that takes place when the President is away, ensuring that the Vice President is duly designated as the Acting President.

Kangwa explained that when President Hichilema travels, the Office of the Secretary to the Cabinet formally writes to the Head of State, requesting him to delegate his powers according to constitutional provisions. Following this request, a Statutory Instrument is issued, and a gazette notice is printed to inform the public about the delegation of presidential functions.

The Secretary to the Cabinet emphasized that Vice President Nalumango has been delegated the President’s functions on all foreign trips undertaken by President Hichilema. He urged journalists and the public to access these gazette notices at Government printers, highlighting that they are public documents.

Kangwa emphasized that the Zambian constitution permits the President to delegate his functions whenever he travels abroad. He further clarified that during such periods, Vice President Nalumango does not attend parliamentary sessions where she holds the position of Leader of Government Business. Instead, she assumes the role of Acting President until the return of President Hichilema.

The media briefing comes in response to a circulating video on social media alleging neglect and suffering on the part of Vice President Nalumango during the President’s foreign trips. Kangwa’s explanation aimed to provide clarity on the constitutional processes in place, assuring the public that the Vice President performs the duties of the Acting President responsibly and in accordance with the law.

The statement from the Secretary to the Cabinet serves to dispel misinformation and reaffirm the constitutional procedures followed in ensuring effective governance during the President’s temporary absence from the country.

ACC Advocates Mandatory Asset Declaration for Senior Government Officials to Combat Unjustified Wealth

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The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has called for a mandatory asset declaration for senior government officials as a crucial step in addressing the concerning trend of unjustified wealth. ACC Chairperson Musa Mwenye emphasized that it is imperative to compel Permanent Secretaries and other controlling officers to declare their assets, noting that the current lack of obligation raises concerns about accountability.

Speaking at the Law Development Commission’s Legal Seminar on the effectiveness of the Order on unjustified Wealth in Zambia held in Lusaka on Wednesday, Mwenye underscored the need for heightened efforts in the fight against corruption, aligning with the objectives outlined in the Eighth National Development Plan.

Mwenye also emphasized the urgency of recovering stolen government assets and national resources, highlighting the importance of robust measures to combat corruption effectively.

At the same seminar, Zambia Law Development Commission Chairperson Ruth Chibbabuka echoed the call for concerted efforts in the fight against corruption and money laundering. The joint emphasis from both ACC and the Law Development Commission reflects the shared commitment to strengthening legal frameworks and implementing measures to curb unjustified wealth and corruption in Zambia.

As discussions unfold around the effectiveness of the Order on unjustified Wealth, stakeholders are urged to actively engage in the collective efforts to address corruption and promote transparency within the government. The call for mandatory asset declaration serves as a significant step towards fostering accountability and integrity among senior government officials.

Access to Information Coalition Commends Government’s Progress on ATI Bill

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The Access to Information Coalition has lauded the government’s efforts in fostering transparency and citizen participation through the Access to Information Bill (ATI). Coalition Chairperson Alex Muyebe highlighted the positive steps taken by the government, particularly emphasizing section three of the ATI Bill, which mandates information holders to proactively publish information. This provision aims to empower citizens to promptly exercise their right to access information.

However, Fr. Muyebe acknowledged that despite these advancements, there is still work to be done to fully realize the potential of the ATI Bill in providing the public with freedom of access to information. During a media briefing in Lusaka, Fr. Muyebe expressed hope that stakeholders’ views would be carefully considered in shaping the final version of the ATI law in Zambia.

While commending the progress made, Southern Africa Centre for Constructive Resolution of Disputes (SACCORD) Executive Director Boniface Cheembe underscored that access to information is a fundamental human right that every democratic nation, including Zambia, must enact. As the nation moves forward in finalizing the ATI Bill, stakeholders are encouraged to actively contribute to the formulation of a robust law that ensures transparency, accountability, and active citizen engagement in the democratic process.

President Hichilema Officially Opens Sesheke Trades Training Institute, Emphasizes Skills Development

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In a step towards advancing the nation’s skills development agenda, President Hakainde Hichilema officially commissioned the Sesheke Trades Training Institute in the Sesheke District of Western Province. Recognizing the pivotal role of artisanal skills in driving economic growth, President Hichilema underscored the importance of skills training and called upon the people of Sesheke to cherish and support the newly established institution.

The President reiterated the government’s commitment to free education for all, emphasizing that resources were allocated to complete the Sesheke Trades Training Institute. He expressed the intention to replicate this initiative across the country to accommodate more students and promote widespread access to skill development services.

“With increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF), we want all our youths across the country to attain various skills which they can use to better their livelihoods and contribute to the economic growth of this nation,” President Hichilema stated.

President Hakainde Hichilema during the commissioning of Sesheke Trades Training Institute in Sesheke District of Western Province.

Furthermore, President Hichilema directed the Ministry of Technology and Science to expand the courses offered by trade institutions, emphasizing the importance of aligning courses with the labor needs of the districts in which these institutions are established. The move is aimed at ensuring that the skills acquired by the youth are not only comprehensive but also directly applicable to the employment needs of their respective regions.

President Hichilema stressed the government’s ongoing commitment to investing in facilities that enhance education and skills development throughout the country. He clarified that the government aims to provide quality education and skills to all youth without any form of segregation.

During the commissioning ceremony, President Hichilema urged the community to safeguard the infrastructure and equipment of the Sesheke Trades Training Institute, which was completed at a cost exceeding 38 million kwacha.

Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati lauded the completion of the Sesheke Trades Training Institute as a testament to the government’s determination to bring skills development closer to the people. Meanwhile, Western Province Minister Kapelwa Mbangweta expressed the satisfaction of the people in the region with the government’s ongoing efforts to improve their lives.

The Sesheke Trades Training Institute stands as a symbol of Zambia’s commitment to fostering a skilled and empowered workforce, crucial for the nation’s sustainable economic growth.

President Hakainde Hichilema during the commissioning of Sesheke Trades Training Institute in Sesheke District of Western Province.

State House Denies President Hichilema’s Involvement in Opposition Leaders’ Arrests

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In response to recent insinuations suggesting the involvement of President Hakainde Hichilema in the arrest of opposition leaders, State House has unequivocally distanced the President from these detentions. Chief Communication Specialist Clayson Hamasaka, speaking on behalf of State House, clarified that President Hichilema has no influence on the arrest of suspected lawbreakers and emphasized his commitment to national development and the restoration of the rule of law.

Hamasaka addressed the claims that opposition leaders were arrested based on their societal positions, asserting that no individual has been detained solely for being an opposition leader or belonging to specific regions. He emphasized that citizenship, regardless of political affiliation or regional background, subjects individuals to due process if suspected of violating the country’s laws.

“Being an opposition leader doesn’t grant immunity to lawlessness. This will not be accepted, now or in the future,” stated Hamasaka, highlighting the need for adherence to the rule of law even within the political sphere.

The Chief Communication Specialist urged Zambians to trust the Police Service to make arrests based on suspected lawbreaking, adhering to legal protocols. He called on citizens and stakeholders to condemn criminal activities that might be hiding behind opposition politics, emphasizing the importance of supporting the police in maintaining law and order.

Hamasaka also addressed the perception that being in opposition seemingly grants a license for lawlessness, noting that such a belief is flawed and delusional. He underscored the importance of civil language and urged citizens to avoid conflicts with the law, emphasizing that engaging in illegal activities does not increase one’s chances of ascending to the Presidency.

LAZ versus Political Party Matters

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Clearly, LAZ has dragged itself in party matters for the first time for reasons best known to them.
Ironically, LAZ seemed to have been out of Zambia when FIlex Mutati MMD group were recognised in Parliament as MMD even when they expelled and the MMD leadership case was still in court?

Was LAZ in the space then when Registrar of societies replaced Nevers Mumba Group details and changed details of officebearers for MMD following the Mutati convened Convention?

Wasn’t Nakacinda recognised by ECL as MMD and nominated him as MP and later Minister yet his faction was in court with elected MMD president Nevers Mumba?

Where was LAZ to move the Constitutional Court which they want to move now on behalf of PF?
Is it that PF are unable to move the court on their own for LAZ to help them?

Is it because most of the PF MPs and members e.g. George Chisanga, Brian Mundubile, Edgar Lungu, Makebi Zulu among others are members of LAZ while in active partisan politics hence LAZ’s desire to defend PF?

Where was LAZ when political parties were just nominating leaders of the opposition in Parliament through their SGs as opposed to electing them in line with Art 74 for it to become so awake on PF wrangles?
In the entire statement, LAZ has only quoted the law that establishes it and also the Art on the election of Leader of the Opposition which PF has also raised.

Being a party matter within PF, it is shocking how LAZ is now becoming an attache to PF issues.
LAZ is clearly displaying unhidden bias toward PF and it can do better than this.

Written by Anonymous