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ZICTA Directs Airtel Zambia to Compensate Subscribers for Network Outages

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ZICTA Directs Airtel Zambia to Compensate Subscribers for Network Outages

The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) has issued a directive to Airtel Zambia, instructing the telecommunications provider to compensate all subscribers affected by the intermittent network and service outages experienced on Thursday evening. ZICTA further mandated Airtel Zambia to engage with the public, providing assurance of a swift resolution to the network issues.

Hanford Chaaba, the Manager of Corporate Communications at ZICTA, expressed the Authority’s concern over the disruptions to Airtel’s network services. In a statement released on Friday afternoon, Mr. Chaaba announced that Airtel Zambia is expected to compensate affected subscribers in accordance with the approved compensation policy within five days, starting from December 8, 2023.

“The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) is deeply concerned with the recent intermittent network and service outages on the Airtel network,” stated Mr. Chaaba.

He emphasized the Authority’s commitment to ensuring that service providers adhere strictly to quality service guidelines. ZICTA will actively monitor the situation to verify that Airtel Zambia takes necessary measures to prevent future intermittent network and service outages.

Additionally, Mr. Chaaba encouraged the public to continue reporting any issues related to the unavailability and quality of network or service to ZICTA, underlining the importance of user feedback in maintaining industry standards.

In response to the directive, Airtel Zambia has assured subscribers that compensation will be provided for the inconvenience caused by the network disruptions experienced on Thursday evening. The telecom company pledged to address the issues promptly and work towards ensuring a seamless and reliable network experience for its users.

Government Urges Northern Farmers to Plant Despite Erratic Rains

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Government Urges Northern Farmers to Plant Despite Erratic Rains

The government is advising farmers in the northern part of the country to proceed with planting, despite the erratic rains experienced in some areas between November and December. Mpika District Commissioner, David Siame, announced that agriculture experts have assessed the soil conditions in Muchinga, Luapula, and Northern Provinces and found sufficient moisture to support planting.

Mr. Siame emphasized the importance of farmers not hesitating to commence planting, as the northern regions have received some rainfall that is deemed adequate for supporting new plant growth. Speaking after witnessing the fish harvesting activities of the Bulimi Cooperative in Chiponya Village, Mpika District, he conveyed the advice from agricultural experts to the local community.

“We have been told by experts that farmers can start planting. Muchinga, Luapula, and Northern Provinces have experienced some rains which are good enough to support new plants,” stated Mr. Siame, addressing the residents of Chiponya Village.

The announcement comes at a time when some farmers have been hesitant to start planting due to the unpredictable rainfall patterns observed in various parts of the country. The instability in rainfall is being attributed to climate change, a global phenomenon affecting weather patterns.

The government’s advice aims to ensure that farmers make the most of the available moisture to optimize crop yields. Agricultural sustainability is a critical concern, and early planting can be crucial for the success of the upcoming farming season.

As the nation grapples with the effects of climate change, government officials, including District Commissioners like Mr. Siame, are actively engaging with local communities to provide timely information and guidance to farmers. The focus remains on mitigating the impact of changing weather patterns on the agricultural sector, which plays a central role in Zambia’s economy.

Senseli Mine Disaster Update: Two More Bodies Retrieved, Total Rises to 7

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Senseli Mine Disaster Update: Two More Bodies Retrieved, Total Rises to 7

Two additional bodies were recovered by the Search, Rescue, and Recovery Operations Team, bringing the total to seven casualties. Over 30 small-scale miners were believed to have been trapped after a landslide at the open pit mine.

The Minister of Mines, Hon. Paul Kabuswe, made the announcement on Saturday following his visit to the site in Chingola. The challenging rescue operation has been underway since the initial incident occurred.

The Small-Scale Miners Association of Zambia expressed deep concern over the escalating death toll. They assured that, once the operation concludes, they will initiate awareness campaigns and sensitization programs for small-scale miners.

The association urged people not to engage in speculation and misinformation during this difficult time. Instead, they encouraged the public to await official updates from the authorities involved in the rescue operation.

Standing in solidarity with the government, the Small-Scale Miners Association of Zambia is actively contributing to relief efforts. They announced their commitment to supporting the affected families and communities by providing donations and assistance where needed.

The Search, Rescue, and Recovery Operations Team continue their efforts to locate and rescue the remaining trapped miners. The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as the operation progresses. The mining community and the nation as a whole are holding their breath, hoping for a swift and successful resolution to this tragic event.

Leaders Zesco Held in Ndola Derby

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Leaders Zesco United rallied to force a home draw against city rivals Forest Rangers in the Ndola derby at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Saturday.

Zesco and Forest settled for a 1-1 draw in this round 15 match of the FAZ Super Division.

Benson Kolala put Forest in front after 28 minutes and Lazarus Kambole’s equaliser only came 16 minutes from full time.

Meanwhile, Zesco have opened a five point lead at the top of the table for at least 24 hours.

Third placed Red Arrows can cut Zesco’s lead to three points with victory over Lusaka City rivals Zanaco away at Sunset Stadium on Sunday.

Zesco have 29 points, while 11th placed Forest have 19 points after 15 matches played.

FAZ SUPER LEAGUE WEEK 15

Nkwazi 0-2 NAPSA Stars

Green Buffaloes 1-1 FC MUZA

ZESCO United 1-1 Forest Rangers

Power Dynamos 0-0 Trident FC

Konkola Blades 2-0 Mufulira Wanderers

Green Eagles 4-0 Prison Leopards

Kabwe Warriors 0-2 Mutondo Stars

Sunday, 10 December 2023

Kansanshi Dynamos Vs Nkana | Nchanga Stadium

ZANACO Vs Red Arrows | Sunset

Patson Scores in Leicester Victory

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Chipolopolo striker Patson Daka scored one goal as his English Championship side Leicester City beat Plymouth Argyle 4-0 on Saturday.

This was the first game Daka was starting for Leicester this season.

Daka scored the second goal and assisted Wilfred Ndidi for Leicester’s fourth goal of the game.

He played 63 minutes and was rested for Thomas Cannon.

Daka sought a move away from Leicester after the team was relegated from the Premier League at the end of the 2022/23 season.

Meanwhile, Daka has enjoyed impressive form in the Zambia jersey- scoring crucial goals in the Africa Cup and World Cup qualifiers.

Steven Chungu Dismisses Miles Sampa’s Faction, Calls Expulsion of PF MPs Vague

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Steven Chungu Dismisses Miles Sampa’s Faction, Calls Expulsion of PF MPs Vague

Former Government Chief Whip and Luanshya Member of Parliament, Steven Chungu, has expressed skepticism over the expulsion of nine Patriotic Front (PF) Members of Parliament by the Miles Sampa faction. Chungu dismissed the move as vague and labeled it an exercise in futility.

The members reportedly expelled include Ronald Chitotela (Pambashe MP), Nickson Chilangwa (Kawambwa MP), Mutototwe Kafwaya (Lunte MP), Steven Kampyongo (Shiwa Ng’andu MP), Remember Mutale (Chitambo MP), Brian Mundubile (Mporokoso MP), Christopher Kang’ombe (Kamfinsa MP), Mulenga Fube (Chilubi), and Musonda Mpankata (Lupososhi MP).

Chungu criticized Miles Sampa’s attempts to assert control over the PF, stating, “Mr. Sampa’s attempt to grab PF won’t work.” He questioned the validity of the expulsions and highlighted the inappropriate nature of the PF faction secretary general writing exculpation letters while the matter of PF leadership is still in court.

The former Chief Whip suggested that without external political forces, the internal conflicts within the PF would not have escalated to this extent.

Expressing concern, Chungu noted the similarity in actions between the PF and the United Party for National Development (UPND). He urged the UPND to focus on delivering on their promises related to economic improvement rather than engaging in actions resembling those of their predecessors.

In a related development, UNZA Political Science Lecturer Alex Ng’oma has petitioned the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, not to accept Miles Sampa’s expulsion of the nine PF members of parliament. Ng’oma condemned Sampa’s decision, calling it an extension of the country’s lawlessness that should not be condoned.

Dr. Ng’oma advocated for parliament to defer any rulings related to the PF until the courts of law conclude all cases, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic principles and due process.

Meanwhile, Dr. Nevers Mumba, the MMD president, expressed deep concern about the expulsions and their implications on democracy. He emphasized that expulsions should be a last resort after exhausting all other options. As political tensions continue, the country watches closely for the resolution of internal party conflicts within the PF.

UPND has no intention of removing Christian nation clause from constitution-Veep

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UPND has no intention of removing Christian nation clause from constitution-Veep

Vice President Mutale Nalumango has reiterated the government’s commitment to a consultative and inclusive approach in constitutional amendments, dismissing speculations of removing specific clauses without the involvement of stakeholders.

During the Vice President’s question time in the National Assembly, Nalumango responded to concerns raised by Bwacha Member of Parliament Sydney Mushanga, who questioned the government’s alleged intentions to tamper with constitutional provisions without engaging stakeholders.

Vice President Nalumango clarified that the government has no plans to remove clauses such as the Christian nation clause, emphasizing that the principles the government upholds are deeply rooted in Christian values. She urged an end to debates on unfounded assertions, stating, “Government espouses Christian values, and we want to make that clear. Our principles are anchored on Christianity.”

Addressing the process of constitutional amendments, Nalumango affirmed the government’s commitment to consultative decision-making. She stated, “Government has made it clear that it will first amend non-contentious clauses of the constitution in consultation with the stakeholders.” Furthermore, she assured that any constitutional changes would be presented before the National Assembly for scrutiny.

In her response to Mushanga, Vice President Nalumango underscored the government’s dedication to improving the lives of the people. She highlighted the pro-poor focus of the National Budget, emphasizing the allocation of resources to uplift communities.

Nalumango shared positive developments, noting that every constituency now possesses two new vehicles for monitoring Constituency Development Fund projects and for the police to maintain law and order. This initiative aims to enhance governance and transparency at the grassroots level.

Addressing concerns about roadblocks on highways, Vice President Nalumango revealed that the government is actively reconsidering the implementation of roadblocks to ensure minimal disruption to traffic flow while maintaining effective law enforcement.

Appointment with miracles at the Synagogue

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Appointment with miracles at the Synagogue

They flock to the Synagogue in their droves……..senior citizens, the barren, the blind, the malnourished, the crippled, the indisposed, students waiting to write their exams, those aspiring for higher offices, owners of cows dying of anthrax, those grappling with matters of the heart etc!

They’ve to do this every other day, 24/7…… It doesn’t matter how many times or years they’ve to do this….As far as they were concerned, their miracles were buried within the five walls of the Synagogue.

They had used all manner of transport to get there – ox carts, bicycles, trains, SUVs, buses…..and those that couldn’t afford a bus fare had to do it the Jesus way!

In the meantime, they sung their lungs out; stomped their feet, and danced boisterously as they awaited the arrival of Papa General, in a manner that would have left Angels above impressed. Immediately they perambulated through the imposing Mahogany doors of the Synagogue, all their burdens – fear of accumulating zeros in their exams, failure to conceive, desperation for jobs, excruciating hunger in their homes, dying cattle, earthly desire for marriages, sorcery in the family were deposited outside the Synagogue!

After what seemed to be singing and dancing for eternity, the motorcade of Papa General rolled in, in grand style. 12 skinny lads in oversized, double breasted gray woolen suits ardoned with yellow shirts and green neckties dutifully trotted alongside the limo; the sweltering October heat taking its toll, no doubt. Two groups of women; one forcing a faster pace to avoid being ran over and another in hot pursuit of the vehicle, looked resplendent in their colourful sarongs and head gears!

The women prostrated themselves flat on the ground immediately one of the hangers-on flew open the door, oblivious of thorns and other sharp objects on the ground. Papa General was considered too holy to set his bare feet on the soil which was of course contaminated with their multiple sins. As he exited his 12 doors limousine, he had to choose carefully where to lay his feet…..on the more prominent buttocks!

Congregants immediately became spellbound and transfixed as Papa General swept into the Synagogue.

“Hallelujah, church!” he suddenly shrieked as he waved his hands around, dramatically.

“Amen!!!!” His holy voice had brought them back to life……

All of a sudden, there was a fantastic display of various acts…….not a single soul was spared by the indomitable presence of Papa General! As the youths tore off their shirts and engaged in sammersaults across the pews, women were literally flying to touch the fine robes of Papa General while the men were cowering in the corners as the children crawled and rolled on the shiny marble floor!

After delivering a short sermon without even bothering to make any particular reference to the Scriptures, the moment they all had eagerly been waiting for had come.

“I shall neither leave you nor forsake you,” he paced up and about the pulpit energetically. “Today is your day of salvation!”

“We receive it Papa General!!!!!” They answered in unison.

After guzzling a bottle of chilled water, he invited all those ‘yoked’ with various burdens to walk to the front.

“Remember…….God’s time is not your time!” He reminded them as he did every other day. “Ask, and it shall be given to you…..”

In the meantime, a winding line had formed in front of Papa General flanked by the ever smiling coterie of boys in snow white overflowing robes with Angelic faces.

“What brings you to the Synagogue?” he licked his lips ravenously as his eyes strayed to the two mounds that provokedly stood erect on the chest of the attractive girl with dimples, upturned button nose and thin lips.

“It’s your grandmother on your father’s side…..” he pronounced as he fondled her breasts, toyfully. The girl was in no position to protest, of course. It was Papa General touching her after all. He could do whatever he wanted to do with her body if God allowed it.

“I decree and declare!” he squeezed the breasts harder. “You shall soon find the right man the Almighty God has ordained for you!”

She suddenly found herself sprawled on the floor. Her legs couldn’t withstand the good news! Some ushers quickly stepped forward…..they covered her well shaped brown thighs which were now a source of distraction for Papa General, and took her away.

“We’ve been married for 20 years and yet we don’t have kids…..” the couple was almost in tears.

“Spirit of barrenness,” he said as he slapped the man on his manhood while he pushed his other hand underneath the dress of the woman and sprayed annointing oil on her. “I command you to leave this couple, right now!”

“Pray for us that we should pass our exams Papa General,” a couple of youths with wobbly legs beseeched him.

He did not have much time for such. He unleashed savage slaps on them which sent them crushing hard on the floor.

“All my cows are dying,” an old farmer wiped his tears. “Please man of God, pray for my deliverance…..”

“I pray that your farm shall no longer play host to pestilence,” he didn’t want to waste much time on the old man; his focus was on a man in a pinstriped business suit. “Sacrifice 10 percent of your stockhead to the Synagogue and it shall be well with you!”

The man in a business suit collapsed on his knees in obedience and handed Papa General a thick brown envelope before he could even say anything. He was sweating profusely and trembling spasmodically. He was keen to learn the revelation Papa General had for him this time around.

“It shall be well you, thus saith the Lord,” his eyes glittered as he examined the tycoon from head to toe like a newly born baby. “I’m seeing you perched on the throne, sirens whirring……. it’s just a matter of time, now!”

The renowned business executive and philanthropist produced another thick wad of green bucks which he had set aside for a charity event and surrendered it to him. He quickly grabbed it whilst congregants were hypnotised in prayer and shoved it inside his robes.

As he progressed to the other end of the queue, his eyes shifted to the usual suspects…….the senior citizens, the crippled, the paupers, the terminally ill, the widows and orphans! Of course, he didn’t have the luxury of time to waste on such. Moreover he stood to benefit little if nothing from such lowlives.

“You’re delivered from whatever situation is bogging you down…..Amen!” He uttered a pop corn prayer and handed over the programme to the church secretary.

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

FDA Approves Revolutionary Cell-Based Gene Therapies for Sickle Cell Disease

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FDA Approves Revolutionary Cell-Based Gene Therapies for Sickle Cell Disease

In a groundbreaking development, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for two pioneering treatments, Casgevy and Lyfgenia, as the first cell-based gene therapies for sickle cell disease (SCD) in patients aged 12 and older. Notably, Casgevy represents a significant leap in innovation, being the first FDA-approved treatment to incorporate CRISPR/Cas9, a revolutionary genome editing technology.

Sickle cell disease is a hereditary blood disorder affecting around 7·74 million individuals globally with a higher prevalence among those of African descent. The condition stems from a mutation in hemoglobin, the protein responsible for oxygen transport in red blood cells. This mutation results in the distinctive crescent or “sickle” shape of red blood cells, causing vaso-occlusive events (VOEs) or vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), leading to severe pain and organ damage.

Director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Nicole Verdun, M.D., expressed excitement about advancing treatments for sickle cell disease. “Gene therapy holds the promise of delivering more targeted and effective treatments, especially for individuals with rare diseases where the current treatment options are limited,” she said.

Casgevy, one of the approved therapies, employs CRISPR/Cas9 technology to modify patients’ hematopoietic stem cells. This genome editing technique precisely targets and alters DNA, enhancing the production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in the modified cells. Elevated levels of HbF prevent the sickling of red blood cells in individuals with sickle cell disease.

Lyfgenia, the second approved therapy, utilizes a lentiviral vector for genetic modification, resulting in the production of HbAT87Q—a gene-therapy derived hemoglobin that mimics normal adult hemoglobin A. Red blood cells containing HbAT87Q have a reduced risk of sickling and obstructing blood flow.

Both Casgevy and Lyfgenia involve a one-time, single-dose infusion of modified blood stem cells, collected from the patient before undergoing myeloablative conditioning, a process that facilitates the engraftment of modified cells within the bone marrow.

Peter Marks, M.D., Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, emphasized the rigorous evaluation process, stating, “These approvals represent an important medical advance with the use of innovative cell-based gene therapies to target potentially devastating diseases and improve public health.”

South African Woman Sentenced to 50 Years for Stealing $28 million from Employer

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South African Woman Sentenced to 50 Years for Stealing $28 million from Employer

A shocking case of embezzlement came to a close on Friday as Hildegard Antoinette Steenkamp, a former accountant at Medtronic (Pty) Ltd, was sentenced to an effective 50 years in prison by the Johannesburg Commercial Crimes Court in Palm Ridge. The 50-year-old woman had been found guilty of an astonishing 336 charges related to the theft of R537 million ($28 million)over a 13-year period.

Steenkamp’s elaborate plan involved making fraudulent Value Added Tax (VAT) claims from the South African Revenue Service in an attempt to cover up her theft. The court heard that she operated alone, despite her claims that her late husband, Mathys Steenkamp, had forced her into the criminal activities.

In delivering the sentence, Magistrate Phillip Venter expressed his shock at the magnitude of the theft, stating that it was the highest amount seen by the court in cases involving an individual perpetrator. He emphasized that Steenkamp had meticulously executed a well-thought-out criminal plan, engaging in transactions larger than the average salary of a middle-class person and even exceeding pension amounts received upon retirement.

Venter highlighted a concerning trend in commercial crime courts, noting an increase in criminals with profiles similar to Steenkamp’s—individuals in positions of trust, such as accountants or bookkeepers, who exploit their access to commit financial crimes.

The magistrate explained, “It’s the profile of the most trusted individual, in a position of trust, like an accountant or bookkeeper. They usually never take leave, and someone who never allows anyone access to their system would go to the length of taking their laptops with them while they are on holiday so that they can continue working. They are usually caught in the moment of forced absence from work.”

Steenkamp’s defense argued against a direct imprisonment term, citing poor living conditions and overcrowding in prisons. However, Venter dismissed these arguments, stating, “A considerable long-term imprisonment is the only appropriate sentence. The court can’t be regarding the issue of overcrowding in prisons.”

The imposed sentence was double what the State had requested. During closing arguments, State advocate Tilas Chabalala had proposed a 25-year imprisonment term due to the severity of the crimes committed.

Steenkamp’s fraudulent activities were revealed when forensic investigators discovered that she funded a lavish lifestyle, including gambling, jewelry purchases, and frequent international travel, with the stolen funds. She resigned from Medtronic in 2017 and handed herself over to the authorities in 2018. Steenkamp pleaded guilty earlier this year, and her sentence serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences for those who abuse positions of trust for personal gain.

Zambia’s Fiscal Dilemma, State Compensation Ethics and Treasury Stability

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Zambia’s Fiscal Dilemma, State Compensation Ethics and Treasury Stability

By Misheck Kakonde

The recent judgments overseen by the Attorney General in compensating individuals like Hon. Mwaliteta, Hon. Frank Tayali, Mr. William Banda, and the late Mapenzi a case that should be treated separately raise pertinent concerns. These compensations, while important to acknowledge, have led to substantial payouts from the state treasury, prompting a critical evaluation of their judiciousness.
It is essential to recognize that these compensations do not originate from personal accounts, be it President Hakainde Hichilema’s savings or those of the Attorney General and associated lawyers. They derive from public funds, necessitating prudent management to safeguard the state’s financial health. President Hichilema’s prior observation regarding the nation’s empty coffers adds weight to the significance of responsible fiscal governance.

The present scenario demands intervention from the President to prevent an unchecked depletion of the state treasury. While acknowledging the importance of compensations, there’s a call for the Attorney General to negotiate more reasonable amounts in these consent judgments. The substantial sums being awarded arguably exceeding what’s reasonable ought to be revised downwards, ideally to around K200,000 or lower. Unless in the loss of less of mapenzi, Vespers and many more, their life has no amount to be attached and it is hard even for me to attach a price, may their souls continue resting in peace and those involved are investigated and prosecuted. Such a move would prevent the disproportionate drain of state funds due to payments to a select few individuals.

The Attorney General holds the crucial responsibility of representing Zambian interests and should not succumb to undue pressure from a minority seeking exorbitant compensations. Their role necessitates negotiations for fair consent agreements that safeguard the nation’s fiscal stability.
However, within the confines of consent judgments, wherein both parties cannot appeal, the flexibility for direct alteration is limited. Yet, there exists a possibility for future generations to revisit these decisions through legal means, reassessing their impact on the Zambian treasury. Therefore, the Attorney general and President Hichilema should appreciate this truth.

This situation emphasizes the need for checks and balances to ensure the judicious use of state funds. The Attorney General’s role should extend beyond mere legal representation, incorporating a broader responsibility of safeguarding the nation’s financial interests. President Hichilema’s intervention can steer a course correction, addressing the trend of excessively high compensations that strain the state treasury.
Ultimately, this scenario underscores the delicate balance between honoring just compensations and ensuring responsible fiscal management a balance that requires prudent negotiation and oversight to protect the interests of all Zambians.

The author is a legal scholar, comparative politics specialist, History and Cultural Studies, expertise in international relations, negotiation, and protocol (ZIDIS). Author of the book “peering into Zambian Cultures, Ceremonies” and contributor in the book “Young Zambia between poverty and abundant resources”. Email: [email protected]

Update on Chingola Mine Accident

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Update on Chingola Mine Accident

Rescue workers in Chingola successfully pulled a survivor from the debris of the collapsed Senseli Mine in Chingola, nearly a week after the devastating landslide trapped numerous miners. The survivor, identified as Mwanshe Mukoko, is currently undergoing treatment at Nchanga South Hospital in Chingola.

Mukoko, aged 49 and a resident of Chingola Township, shared his harrowing ordeal from his hospital bed, describing the five days he spent struggling for survival in the collapsed slug mine pit. The rescue team managed to reach him, offering a glimmer of hope amid the ongoing search and rescue operation coordinated by the government.

The operation has faced numerous challenges.The unfavorable weather conditions, soft ground, and continuous rain have added complexity to the operation with only one person so far been rescued alive while 2 bodies have been retrieved.

The Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit reported that the search and rescue team has been working tirelessly around the clock since the accident occurred, with the aim of retrieving all trapped miners. The collaboration involves various stakeholders, including government agencies, military personnel, and representatives from large-scale mining companies.

The Chingola mine accident occurred on December 1, inundating the open-pit copper mine and trapping a significant number of miners who were reportedly working without proper permits. Conflicting reports about the exact number of trapped miners have surfaced, with government officials estimating over 30 individuals, while the district commissioner mentioned at least 36.

Illegal mining is suspected to be a contributing factor to the accident, as artisanal miners are known to enter mines without the knowledge of the owners. Authorities are focused on the rescue operation, prioritizing the safety and well-being of those trapped underground.

President Hakainde Hichilema visited the site on Tuesday, expressing hope for survivors. He emphasized the commitment to saving lives, stating, Here there is no illegal miner. Our job is to take our people out of the pit,” he said. “Our commitment is to do everything to save the lives that are down there.”

Senseli mine rescue operation

Information Minister is on fire while UPND media team is ndwii!

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Information Minister is on fire while UPND media team is ndwii!

The other day in parliament, former Health Minister Dr Chitalu Chilufya characterised Cornelius Mweetwa, the Chief Government Spokesperson as ‘Chemical Ali’ for his exceptional skills of at disseminating information! We’re so delighted with what Mweetwa is doing at this strategic Ministry. We’re equally so proud that we noticed his skills much earlier and tirelessly lobbied for his relocation to his current work station.

It’s not the job of a Minister to sit “ndwi” and enjoy Cappuccino while government is suffering a constant barrage of attacks from the usual suspects…….abena M’membe, Tembo, Nakachinda, Mwenda, Saboi, Kalaba and Kateka. Their job is to take a fire brigade approach to every situation or indeed jump on the roller skates and dash to every radio station, TV outlets and Newspaper offices and diffuse the lies or debunk the propaganda before it spreads like wild fire and consumes the very good work the New Dawn Administration is doing.

While Mweetwa has impressively matched the ‘fox cunning’ as Chinua Achebe says in one of his books; unfortunately, the Secretariat and the Ruth Dante led UPND media team remains on holiday. Apart from the party National Youth Chairman Gilbert Liswaniso who is tirelessly traversing the breadth and width of this nation mobilizing and defending the party from incessant attacks, we don’t hear much from the others. At least madam Chivube who is also putting in much.

Take for instance the scrapping of static security check points and road blocks on our highways…..this is a fabulous Christmas bonus for some of us! The day before yesterday, I set off from Lusaka around 15:00 hours. There wasn’t unnecessary congestions in places such as Kabangwe, Kafulafuta or ZAMTAN as is usually the case. I was already home by 20:00 hours enjoying mataamba and Kakeya while catching up with news and current affairs. And just last night, it took me 40 minutes to drive from Chingola to Kitwe; there wasn’t the usual clogging of traffic at the Mufulira turn-off which holds up traffic several hours on end.

Instead of popping bottles of Champagne and celebrating this feat, the likes of M’membe and Mwamba have chosen to mislead the public by conjuring up conspiracy theories.

Take for instance what Mwamba wrote on his Facebook page, “Shortly after road blocks and static security check points were removed country-wide, accident reveals truck was carrying logs from the endangered hardwood specie Mukula.” As a former diplomat, we don’t expect Mwamba to make a living peddling lies! Where was the UPND media team to take him on?

Bowman Lusambo who has a challenge analysing issues has also weighed in and challenged government to reveal “core reasons” why roadblocks have been removed. What other reasons can be there apart from the congestion and corruption imwe ba former Minister! Ba UPND, a finished politician is throwing weak pouches and you can’t show him his place?

If you analyse those photos carefully, you will establish that it wasn’t Mukula as Mwamba wants us to believe, but actually Rosewood! Mwamba couldn’t of course escape being lambasted and roasted by the public who equally ‘educated’ him that while containers are used to transport Mukula for preservation purposes, Rosewood is transported on low bed trucks.

Ba UPND don’t leave the job of damage control to Mweetwa alone, you must equally play your part!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Politica/Social Analyst

Director of Public Prosecutions Appeals Kambwili’s 5-Month Sentence

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Director of Public Prosecutions Appeals Kambwili’s 5-Month Sentence

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Gilbert Phiri SC, has officially lodged an appeal against the five-month sentence handed down to Patriotic Front Member of the Central Committee, Dr. Chishimba Kambwili. The appeal comes in the wake of Kambwili’s conviction by Kasama Magistrate Senior Resident Magistrate, Samson Mumba, for violating Section 70(1) of the Penal Code by expressing or showing hatred, ridicule, or contempt for persons based on their name or place of origin.

Dr. Kambwili, a prominent figure in Zambian politics, swiftly appealed against both the conviction and the sentence following the Kasama Magistrate’s ruling.

In a surprising turn of events, the DPP, alongside the appeal, filed a cross-appeal requesting a higher sentence for Kambwili. This move has added a layer of complexity to the legal proceedings, raising eyebrows among various stakeholders.

The DPP, in a Notice of Appeal against Sentence, emphasized the desire to be personally present during the appeal hearing in Kasama.

However, the conviction of Dr. Kambwili has sparked criticism from several quarters, with accusations of selective prosecution echoing through public discourse. Critics point to instances where individuals, such as Bumba Malambo and Minister of Education, Douglas Siakalima, have made strong tribal remarks without facing legal consequences.

PF Expels Ten Members for Indiscipline and Discrediting Leadership

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PF Expels Ten Members for Indiscipline and Discrediting Leadership

The Patriotic Front (PF) has announced the immediate expulsion of ten of its members, including notable figures such as Pambashe MP Ronald Chitotela, Nixon Chilangwa of Kawambwa, Christopher Kang’ombe of Kamfinsa, and Remember Mutale of Chitambo. Other expellees include Brian Mundubile of Mporokoso, Stephen Kampyongo of Shiwangandu, Mulenga Fube of Chilubi, Mutotwe Kafwaya of Lunte, and PF faction Chairperson for Information and Publicity Emmanuel Mwamba.

The expulsions come on the grounds of gross indiscipline, insubordination, and allegedly tarnishing the party’s reputation by holding unauthorized meetings with non-PF members to undermine the current leadership.

PF Deputy Media Director Yosi Miti released a statement to ZNBC News in Lusaka, confirming the expulsion and outlining the reasons behind the party’s decision. The statement highlights that the expelled members were engaged in activities that go against the principles and integrity of the PF, leading to their removal from the party.

The PF has formally communicated this development to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti.

However, Emmanuel Mwamba, responding to the announcement, contested the expulsions, deeming them unwarranted. Mwamba emphasized that there are ongoing court cases against Miles Sampa’s leadership, and therefore, the expulsions lack legitimacy.

Mwamba asserted that Miles Sampa does not possess the political mandate to conduct activities in the name of the Patriotic Front. He further labeled Sampa’s letters and actions as a potential case of forgery, adding another layer of complexity to the internal disputes within the PF.

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