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Message For Today: Not by Your Strength

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Message For Today: Not by Your Strength

Today’s Scripture

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.”
Luke 1:38, NIV

Not by Your Strength

Friend, it would have been so easy for Mary to doubt the angel’s promise that she would give birth to Jesus without a man being involved. But consider Mary’s response: “I am the Lord’s child. I will accept whatever He wants. May everything you said come true.” Instead of focusing on how this was possible, she switched over to who she was. “I know who I am. I am the Lord’s child. I am favored. I am blessed. I am anointed.”

Why don’t you do as Mary did and leave the how up to God and just stay focused on who you are. “Lord, thank You that You’re my Father and You’re taking me where I can’t go on my own.” The dreams in your heart may seem impossible, but the how is not up to you. The power of the Most High is going to work it out. Take the pressure off yourself. Quit living worried and frustrated. It’s not going to be by your strength, but by the Spirit of the living God.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that Mary could believe Your promise because she knew she was Your servant and child. Thank You that no word from You has ever failed. I believe that I am Your child and servant as well, and Your words to me will be fulfilled. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Decision Pending on Sugilite Mining in Muombe Mine, Chembe District

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Decision Pending on Sugilite Mining in Muombe Mine, Chembe District

The government is on the verge of making a crucial decision regarding the potential mining of Sugilite at the Muombe mine in Chembe District, located in the Luapula Province. Luapula Province Minister Njavwa Simutowe revealed that the decision awaits the completion of final testing at the mine to determine the quantity of Sugilite available before mining activities can commence.

Speaking during an inspection visit with the Provincial Joint Operations Committee to oversee activities at the mine, Minister Simutowe provided insight into the current status of the testing process. He clarified that two separate tests have already been conducted, with a third and final examination underway. The government will base its decision on the findings of this comprehensive analysis.

“The government can only make a decision once a final report indicating the quantity of the mineral at Muombe is out,” Minister Simutowe emphasized.

Luapula Province Permanent Secretary Mighty Mumba echoed the sentiments of Minister Simutowe, urging residents to remain patient as the government awaits the conclusive report on the mine. Mr. Mumba assured the public that no illegal mining activities are taking place at Muombe. He highlighted that the testing is being conducted by geologists from the Ministry of Mines and Bayern, emphasizing the government’s commitment to a thorough and legal evaluation process.

“The government is committed to ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to determine the potential of the Muombe mine. We appreciate the cooperation of Chief Kalasa Lukangaba throughout this testing process,” Permanent Secretary Mumba stated.

ZNBTS Urges Collaboration to Dispel Myths and Promote Blood Donation

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ZNBTS Urges Collaboration to Dispel Myths and Promote Blood Donation

The Zambia National Blood Transfusion Services (ZNBTS) has called for increased collaboration with stakeholders and the government to dispel myths surrounding blood donation. Dia Kumwenda, the Donor Manager of ZNBTS, emphasized the crucial need for ongoing sensitization campaigns and education to address misconceptions that may discourage potential blood donors.

Ms. Kumwenda highlighted the significance of blood donation in saving lives, particularly in critical situations such as surgeries and chronic illnesses. During a courtesy call by a delegation from the Presidential Delivery Unit (PDU) on health in Solwezi, she stressed the importance of fostering a better understanding of the blood donation process among the public.

She urged the general public to recognize that blood donation is a voluntary act and emphasized that the blood bank relies entirely on individuals willing to contribute. “As a blood service, we remain committed to ensuring the public understands why blood donation is crucial. We call upon the media to assist us in dispelling myths and educating the masses that blood donation is not associated with ritual acts but is a lifeline in hospitals, saving countless lives,” Ms. Kumwenda stated.

The Donor Manager expressed gratitude to the government for providing vehicles to support community sensitization programs, enhancing ZNBTS’s efforts to encourage blood donation across the country.

In a positive example, Kashimba Kandumba, a student nurse at Solwezi Nursing School, shared her motivation for donating blood. “I decided to come here to donate blood because I have seen a lot of patients in hospitals suffering from various health conditions and need blood transfusions. This is my first time donating blood, and I believe that from now on, I will become a regular blood donor,” Kandumba said.

Encouraging her peers to join the cause, Ms. Kandumba urged them to dismiss myths surrounding blood transfusions and embrace the opportunity to contribute to saving lives. The efforts of individuals like Ms. Kandumba underscore the importance of continuous education and community engagement in fostering a culture of voluntary blood donation. As ZNBTS advocates for increased awareness, collaboration with stakeholders becomes pivotal in achieving their mission to ensure a steady and sufficient blood supply for those in need.

TD Jakes Denies Recent Sex-Based Allegations

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TD Jakes Denies Recent Sex-Based Allegations

Bishop T.D. Jakes, the renowned televangelist and leader of The Potter’s House megachurch in Dallas, Texas, finds himself at the center of controversy as unverified allegations circulate on social media. The accusations claim that Jakes has been a frequent participant in sex parties hosted by music mogul Sean Combs, commonly known as Diddy.

These sensational claims, however, have been vehemently denied by a representative for Bishop T.D. Jakes. Jordan A. Hora, the executive director of public relations and communications for the T.D. Jakes Group, T.D. Jakes Ministries, and The Potter’s House, released an exclusive statement to The Christian Post, categorically dismissing the allegations as “unequivocally false and baseless.”

Quoting the late Pastor Charles H. Spurgeon, Hora emphasized the challenge of combating falsehoods in the age of social media. “If you want the truth to go round the world you must hire an express train to pull it; but if you want a lie to go round the world, it will fly; it is as light as a feather, and a breath will carry it,” he added.

The representative went on to clarify that the accusations against Bishop T.D. Jakes are rooted in false and sensationalized misrepresentations, including the use of deepfake photos. As these claims gained traction on social media platforms, a YouTube channel named Tuff News TV alleged that singer Cassie had turned over a burner phone belonging to the late model Kim Porter. Supposedly, this phone contained recordings of Diddy’s alleged “sex parties” attended by Jakes. However, the source of these allegations remains unverified, and Tuff News TV has yet to respond to requests for comment from The Christian Post.

Despite the unverified nature of the accusations, the controversy has prompted a response from Jakes’ team, underlining their commitment to creating positive change globally through compassion, service, and ministry. The team also highlighted Jakes’ longstanding reputation as a prominent figure in the Christian community, recognized for his books and philanthropic work.

Derrick Williams, executive vice president of TD Jakes Entertainment, provided additional context, explaining that Bishop Jakes, in his role as CEO of T.D. Jakes Entertainment, had attended an event celebrating Diddy’s birthday. Williams clarified that Jakes’ appearance was a brief and respectful acknowledgment, and any suggestion of impropriety is “wholly unsubstantiated, unverified, and false.”

Williams emphasized that Bishop Jakes will continue to break down barriers and find meaningful ways to share faith-based and value-based stories, reaffirming this as their guiding principle.

As these unverified allegations continue to circulate, Christians are reminded to approach such claims with caution and seek the truth. The Bible teaches the importance of compassion and care for others, urging believers to exercise discernment and withhold judgment until verified information is available. Spreading unverified information, especially of such a sensitive nature, can be harmful, and the pursuit of truth remains paramount in addressing any allegations.

Two Suspected Wizards Face Court Charges for Graveyard Trespass

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Two Suspected Wizards Face Court Charges for Graveyard Trespass

Two individuals, Mary Katongo (56) and Dismas Mulobela (67), found themselves before the Luwingu Subordinate Court on a charge of trespassing into a graveyard, a violation of Zambia’s penal code. The accused allegedly performed rituals at the burial site, even claiming to have raised a person who had passed away 15 months ago.

The proceedings, presided over by Magistrate Maybin Kapaya, unfolded on December 22, where the duo faced accusations of criminal trespass under section 130 of the penal code chapter 87.

The bizarre incident came to light when three young boys, out hunting for wild rodents known locally as “bakateka,” stumbled upon Katongo and Mulobela engaged in mysterious activities at the graveyard. According to witness Maggie Musonda, the boys reported that the accused had exhumed Musonda’s late grandfather and purportedly resurrected him.

Musonda, after consulting with a local pastor and Chief Tungati, reported the matter to the authorities. Chief Tungati, in an effort to ward off potential demonic attacks on the young witnesses, reportedly ordered the accused to administer traditional medicine to the boys.

Agnes Chomba, another witness, corroborated the story, stating that her son had reported seeing Katongo and Mulobela conducting rituals at the graveyard. The witnesses testified before the court, describing the surreal scene where the accused allegedly raised the deceased man from the grave.

During cross-examination, Katongo and Mulobela failed to challenge the minors’ accounts effectively, leaving the court to adjourn the proceedings to December 26, 2023, for the commencement of the defense. The accused are currently on police bond.

The Luwingu community awaits further developments in this mystifying case, as the accused prepare to present their side of the story in the upcoming court session.

President Hichilema signs Access to Information bill into Law

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President Hichilema signs Access to Information bill into Law

President Hakainde Hichilema has signed the long awaited Access to Information Bill (ATI) into law to the excitement of the media personnel and other stakeholders in the country.

President Hichilema says the signing of ATI into law is a major milestone in the media sector and the country at large as it will promote access to information by the media and other players.

President Hichilema signed the  ATI Bill during the press conference in Lusaka today, making it historical considering the many years that have passed for the piece of legislation to be signed into law.

The historical signing of the ATI will also promote human rights and democracy in the country as people will freely approach government agencies and other institutions to get vital information on any issue.

And Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana said the signing of the Bill will remove limitations that people face in search of vital information.

He observed that it has taken over two decades for the country to arrive at the stage where the President has signed the much awaited ATI Bill.

Sometime this year the Minister of Information and Media, Cornelius Mweetwa presented the ATI Bill to parliament for consideration and was passed by it before closing business.

Napsa gives K4 million cleaning contract to a foreign company

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Napsa gives K4 million cleaning contract to a foreign company

Zambia’s largest pension fund NAPSA has awarded a K4 million contract for cleaning services to a foreign owned firm that is under investigations by the Anti Corruption Commission for corruption, tax evasion and money laundering.

Tender documents seen confirm that the firm was recently awarded the lucrative contract to clean Napsa owned properties including Levy Mall, Napsa Headquarters including regional offices.

The award of the contract has infuriated the Cleaning Association of Zambia and have since called for its cancellation.

Association President Lawrence Makumbi stated that awarding such a huge contract to a foreign entity abrogates the law that stipulates that the cleaning sector is a preserve of local companies.

Mr Makumbi wondered why Napsa can proceed to do business with an entity which had had its accounts frozen by the ACC for corruption related offenses.

“We know that the ACC has found some very damaging issues at this company and its mind boggling that Napsa has ignored all those and awarded the contract,” he said.

Mr Makumbi believes that awarding such a huge contract to a locally indigenous owned company would have gone a long way in growing the cleaning sector.

“Imagine 4 million given to a local coming, even splitting the order so that more companies participate. That would help grow our industry,” he stated.

Mr Makumbi has since implored President Hakainde Hichilema to take a keen interest at the happenings in some parastatals.

“Our appeal is that the procurement team at Napsa be disbanded, some people there have overstated and they are acting not in the interest of the organisation and are facilitating corruption,” he said.

Mr. Makumbi insisted that local cleaning firms have the capacity to clean all major establishments in the country.

“Who is cleaning these places? It’s the same Zambian men and women. The foreign company owners just come here to get the contracts and they ask our people to clean the places. So Zambians can clean and clean very well.”

International Holdings Resources new owners of Mopani mine

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International Holdings Resources new owners of Mopani mine

 International Holdings Resources (IHR) is the new investor in Mopani Copper Mine and is expected to pump in US$1.1 billion dollars in the mining operation.

 President Hakainde Hichilema announced the completion of the Mopani Copper mine transaction during a press conference at Mulungushi International Conference centre in Lusaka.

The Head of State disclosed that the investment will be split between equity and debt.

President Hichilema explained that about US$400 million dollars will be provided as a shareholder loan to Mopani Copper Mine as part of the consideration to settle the original Glencore debt of US$1.5 billion dollars.

The president said that this is the first time that a transaction has been able to agree a new equity capital with a share factor of 51 percent stake in Mopani copper mines and 49 percent to the government through ZCCM-IH.

President Hichilema stated that there was need to amend the wrong transactions

, and pointed out that in the near future, transactions should not take longer because it costs money and time.

President Hichilema reiterated the government’s commitment to serving the interests of citizens to the best of the State’s ability, stressing the need for private sector skills to be engaged in future mining transaction negotiations.

And President Hichilema said that the government will continue driving the necessary changes in the mining sector in an effort to achieve the three million tonnes production target.

Mr Hichilema thanked the committee of ministers and other stakeholders for the successful conclusion of the Mopani transaction.

Nitrogen Chemicals to build US$ 6 million blended fertilizer plant

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Nitrogen Chemicals to build US$ 6 million blended fertilizer plant

Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia (NCZ) will next year embark on the construction of a fertiliser blending plant at an estimated cost of US$6 million.

 Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Kafue district, NCZ Technical Manager, Simon Mwape said the project is expected to start in the first quarter of 2024.

 Mr Mwape said the plant is expected to produce about 400 metric tons of blended fertiliser per day.

“The proposed project will be developed on approximately 0.5 hectares of land. It is expected to have a production capacity of 400 metric tons of blended fertilizer per day,” said Mr. Mwape

Mr. Mwape said the construction of the plant has been necessitated by the high demand for blended fertiliser in the country following an increase in the population and agricultural activities.

“The increase in population and farming activities in Zambia has led to a high demand for fertilizer hence we need to increase production and meet the demand for the current market,” said Mr. Mwape.

He added that the project seeks to alleviate the existing fertiliser shortages in Zambia and to create a new local blended fertiliser capable of meeting the market demands.

Mr. Mwape said that the blended fertiliser will be tailor-made to meet the needs of individual customers.

“The blended fertiliser will be tailor-made, and soil assessment will be done to determine the exact fertilizer needed for the customer,” said Mr. Mwape.

 Mr. Mwape stated that the project will also create employment opportunities for local people and respond to the Government’s call for investment which will complement the commercial growth currently taking place in the agriculture sector and the district.

He added that the company will not neglect the old fertiliser production plant but an investment of K4 million will be made to boost its production level from 35 metric tonnes to 65 metric tons of ordinary fertilizer.

Meanwhile, Kafue District Commissioner Maurice Hikapulwe is happy with the fertiliser-blending plant venture.

 He said the project will create employment opportunities for the local people and enhance the economy of the district.

Mr. Hikapulwe said the fertiliser blending plant will produce tailor-made fertilizer according to the needs of individual customers.

“We are happy with the project because clients will be able to get the right fertilizer for their crops,” said Mr. Hikapulwe.

Nkana FC Executive Committee Dissolved

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Mopani Copper Mines has dissolved the Nkana Football Club Executive Committee which was led by Chikusi Banda.

Mopani has appointed an interim executive committee to be led by Joseph Silwamba, the immediate past Nkana President.

Other members of the interim executive committee include Joseph Khunga, David Phiri, Mulenga Chisunka, Lillian Musenge and Prince Sinkala.

“Mopani Copper Mines PLC has announced the dissolution of the current Nkana Executive Committee headed by Mopani Tax Manager Chikusi Banda with immediate effect,” the statement from Nkana read.

Struggling Nkana are currently second from the bottom of the FAZ Super Division table with 13 points in 16 matches and have lost nine games.

Zambias Access to Information Bill: Navigating the Path to Transparency Amidst Potential Challenges

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Zambias Access to Information Bill: Navigating the Path to Transparency Amidst Potential Challenges

Zambia’s recent passage of the Access to Information (ATI) bill stands as a significant leap towards fostering transparency and accountability within governance. Yet, beneath this positive stride, critical concerns emerge that warrant immediate attention. Foremost among these is the assignment of oversight to the Human Rights Commission (HRC) for the ATIs execution. However, the HRC faces inherent challenges,notably resource constraints, which could impede its effective enforcement of this pivotal role.

Insufficient funding and staffing shortages might compromise the commission's capacity to robustly implement the ATI,posing a concern for its efficacy.

The language within Section 23(2)(a) of the bill, specifically addressing third-party consent, raises alarm about inadvertent consent instances, where individuals might unknowingly grant consent, such as when signing contracts without a comprehensive understanding of implications. To fortify this, a rephrasing emphasizing informed consent becomes imperative to ensure individuals fully comprehend the consequences of their actions.
Crucially, harmonizing the ATI bill with the Data Protection Act assumes paramount significance. This synchronization acts as a shield against potential misuse of personal information obtained through the ATI process. Ensuring coherence between these laws is essential to avoid contradictions and safeguard citizens privacy rights effectively. Granting prosecutorial powers to the HRC emerges as an indispensable step for the ATIs effective enforcement. Presently lacking these powers, empowering the HRC to prosecute would significantly enhance its ability to ensure compliance and address violations, thereby strengthening the bills implementation.

I hold a view that as compared to using the same model with south Africa, we would have given the oversight institution role to parliament and allow parliament to be an oversight institution for the implementation of the Act, this is through an assigned parliamentary officer.

Furthermore, an independent officer could be appointed by the legislature or parliament. The role of the officer would be to run an open desk to investigate complaints from individuals, against government agencies or public institutions. They must be empowered with their team to have powers to receive complaints, mediate disputes, ensure compliance with the law, work with the judiciary to facilitate for prosecution and educate the public about their rights regarding access to information. Instituting a comprehensive review and rigorous enforcement strategy for the bill is imperative, drawing from past challenges during political transitions. Addressing ambiguities and potential loopholes becomes a proactive measure to prevent selective enforcement or misuse of the Act.

The officer and the team at parliament must run an open-door policy of involving civil society organizations,legal bodies, and educational institutions, to allow them to amplify the bill's actualization through submissions for improvement. Also, facilitate for easy phone access to the public for submissions on challenges and guidance on the individual rights to information.

The UPND government commitment to enacting the bill into law is commendable. However, it is imperative to engage in deliberations and revisions to address concerns before enactment. This meticulous approach fortifies the laws efficacy, ensuring it actively serves its core purpose of promoting transparency and accountability in Zambias governance landscape.

Misheck Kakonde is a legal scholar and comparative politics specialist (MA). Email: [email protected]

India bans Cough mixture for children under 4 after deaths

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India bans Cough mixture for children under 4 after deaths

In response to global concerns and reported child deaths linked to Indian-made cough syrups, India’s top drug controller has banned an anti-cold drug combination for use in children below the age of four. The ban follows a spate of child deaths in The Gambia and Uzbekistan, which were associated with Indian-made cough syrups in the previous year.

The banned combination includes – chlorpheniramine maleate and phenylephrin – and was approved in 2015 for use in cough syrups and tablets to treat symptoms of the common cold. At least 12 children in India reportedly died between 2019 and 2020 after consuming a similar medication, leading to increased scrutiny.

Manufacturers of the drugs have denied any wrongdoing, asserting that their products are safe for use. The order, made public on Wednesday, mandates drugmakers selling the combination to label their products with a warning against use in children below the age of four.

Last year, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a global warning about four India-made cough syrups allegedly linked to the deaths of 66 children in The Gambia. Lab analysis confirmed the presence of “unacceptable amounts” of diethylene glycol and another toxic alcohol called ethylene glycol in the samples.

Similar deaths were reported in Uzbekistan, where 18 children died till 2022 allegedly after consuming an Indian-manufactured cough syrup. In India’s Jammu region, at least 12 children between the ages of two months and six years died in 2019 after drinking an allegedly toxic cough syrup.

Indian regulators have maintained that the deaths reported in the country were isolated instances. While they claim that the four cough syrups linked to child deaths in The Gambia complied with specifications when tested at home, the WHO has contested this. The manufacturing license of the firm whose products allegedly led to fatalities in Uzbekistan was canceled.

Zambia Police Reintroduces Security Checkpoints Nationwide

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Zambia Police Reintroduces Security Checkpoints Nationwide

In response to the escalating challenges posed by criminal activities and to enhance public safety, the Zambia Police Service has announced the reintroduction of security checkpoints at strategic locations across the country. The decision is a proactive measure to address the rising concerns related to criminal incidents and ensure the well-being of citizens.

The security checkpoints will be strategically placed in various provinces, with the primary focus on deterring criminal activities, enhancing community safety, and creating a secure environment for residents and visitors. The Zambia Police Service emphasizes that the checkpoints will be manned by officers from the Criminal Investigations Department and uniformed officers. Additionally, traffic officers will conduct motorized and foot patrols on the roads to enforce compliance among motorists, rather than remaining stationary at the security checkpoints.

Key Objectives of the Security Checkpoints:

Crime Deterrence: The reintroduction of security checkpoints is part of a comprehensive strategy to deter criminal elements from engaging in unlawful activities. Visible law enforcement presence is a powerful tool in discouraging criminal behavior.

Community Safety: The Zambia Police Service is committed to creating a safe and secure environment for all members of the community. The checkpoints will serve as a means to actively engage with the public, gather information, and address any concerns that residents may have.

Emergency Response Enhancement: The strategic placement of checkpoints will facilitate rapid response to emergencies, ensuring that law enforcement can swiftly attend to incidents, minimizing potential harm and damage.

Collaborative Approach: The Zambia Police Service encourages collaboration with the community to foster a sense of shared responsibility in maintaining public safety. By working together, law enforcement and the public can effectively address and prevent criminal activities.

Inspector General of Police, Mr. Graphel Musamba, stated, “The reintroduction of security checkpoints is a proactive measure aimed at addressing the challenges posed by criminal activities in our country. We are committed to working closely with the community to ensure a safer living environment for everyone.”

The Zambia Police Service reassures the public that these security measures are implemented with the utmost consideration for human rights and will be conducted professionally and respectfully. Citizens are encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement officers at these security checkpoints and report any suspicious activities promptly. The success of these security measures relies on the collaboration between the police and the community.

Chikotesha is Zambia’s Ref at 2023 AFCON

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Lusaka based FIFA referee Diana Chikotesha has been selected to officiate at next month’s Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire 2023.

The AFCON will kick off on 13 January, 2024.

Accordinh to FAZ Media, Chikotesha is among two female referees that have been named alongside 28 assistant referees for the Africa Cup.

Carine Atezambong of Cameroon is the other female assistant referee.

“The Lusaka-based referee (Chikotesha) has risen through the ranks and recently officiated at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand and the CAF Women’s Champions League in Côte d’Ivoire,” FAZ media wrote.

Meanwhile, Chipolopolo returns to the AFCON for the first time since 2015.

President Hakainde Hichilema Vows to Safeguard National Boundaries Amid Border Concerns

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President Hakainde Hichilema Vows to Safeguard National Boundaries Amid Border Concerns

In response to growing concerns over international boundaries, particularly between Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), President Hakainde Hichilema has pledged to protect the country’s borders. President Hichilema emphasized the importance of revisiting the issue of international boundaries, addressing the specific concerns raised by residents in Luapula Province.

The President expressed his commitment to reviewing the matter after the upcoming General Election in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This assurance came during a meeting with Senior Chief Puta of Chienge district at the Community House in Lusaka.

Senior Chief Puta highlighted the evolving nature of the demarcation between Zambia and the DRC, noting that the beacons marking the boundary have been displaced towards the Zambian side. Concerned about this development, Chief Puta appealed to President Hichilema to engage with his Congolese counterpart to discuss and address the border-related issues post the DRC’s elections.

In acknowledging the concerns brought forth by Chief Puta, President Hichilema reiterated his commitment to safeguarding Zambia’s territorial integrity. He assured the traditional leader and the people of Luapula Province that the matter would be given due attention and addressed through diplomatic channels.

In a separate note, Senior Chief Puta expressed gratitude to President Hichilema for the recent pardon extended to former Finance Minister Katele Kalumba. The Traditional Leader appreciated the President’s decision to grant clemency to Kalumba, demonstrating a spirit of reconciliation and unity.

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