Advertisement Banner
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Subscribe
Advertisement Banner
Home Blog Page 196

Miles Sampa Enjoys Nshima at Lilanda Market After Church Service

Chief Editor
-
50
Miles Sampa Enjoys Nshima at Lilanda Market After Church Service

Miles Sampa, President of the Patriotic Front (PF), took a casual stop at Lilanda market after attending a church service in Matero on Sunday. Despite the ongoing heatwave, Sampa opted for a local eatery inside the market, showcasing his down-to-earth approach.

The small restaurant, lacking proper ventilation with minimal windows, did not deter Sampa from relishing a traditional Zambian meal of nshima. In a light-hearted manner, Sampa expressed that the heat was a minor inconvenience compared to the enjoyment of the meal.

“After attending church service in Matero today, we stopped to eat nshima at a small restaurant inside Lilanda market. It hardly had windows, and in this heat wave, twachipiba panono. This did not bother us from enjoying the ka nshima with all we found present,” Sampa shared on social media.

The PF President continued his interaction with the community by exploring Lilanda market, engaging with micro-scale traders, and purchasing vegetables. Sampa’s impromptu visit aimed at connecting with local traders and fostering a sense of community engagement.

“This morning, for our Sunday service, we congregated at the Bread of Life Blessings Centre in Matero,” Sampa mentioned, highlighting the church service that preceded his visit to Lilanda market.

Miles Sampa’s approach to grassroots engagement aligns with his commitment to connecting with the people at a personal level. By participating in everyday activities such as sharing a meal at a local market, he seeks to reinforce a sense of relatability and accessibility with the community.

The PF President’s unscripted visit adds a touch of informality to his public image, resonating with a broader audience and showcasing a leader willing to immerse himself in the daily experiences of ordinary citizens.

Miles Sampa attendiing a church service at Bread of Life
Miles Sampa at Lilanda market
Miles Sampa enjoying Nshima at Lilanda market
Miles Sampa at Lilanda market

Death at the Slag Dumps!

Chief Editor
-
10
Death at the Slag Dumps!

Editors note: Submitted for publication in October

They were sound asleep in one of the corridors within the central business district shielding themselves from the blistering wind with cardboards when they became aware of heavy boots tapping them.

“Wake up! Wake up! Wake up!” guttural voices echoed in their ears, frantically.

Their immediate instinct was to jump up and run for their lives; obviously assuming it was the cops in their usual routine of rounding up urchins and whisking them away to orphanages or detention facilities depending on their age groups, of course. Reading their thoughts perhaps; a voice added quickly, “the commander wants to have a word with you….” It was a band of the dreaded gang – the Jerabos! They were known to instill dread and fear in the community for their dastardly deeds.

The commander was slouched in the back seat of his impressive Toyota Landcruiser, double cab. The dimly lit interior light revealed glittering rings adorned on all of his fingers while his neck was yoked in bulky gold chains with massive pendants which seemed to weigh him down.

“Ba guy…….do you wish to make some quick bucks?”

The lads exchanged glances, surreptitiously. The commander didn’t even bother looking up. He seemed preoccupied with his Rubik’s Cube which he twisted and turned, dexterously.

“Come with us if you do…….moreover, you’ll get to enjoy succulent meals,”

It was a command rather than a request. The driver reversed the SUV and whipped it onto the main road. In no time, the truck was cruising north west of the city of Kitwe. There were 10 abductees altogether. The truck raced at a breakneck speed which made their hearts get extracted from their chest cavities and deposited into their throats! They had to hold tight to the fenders to avoid being jettisoned.

It was therefore such a relief when the truck drew to a screeching halt at what looked like a slag dump. They found a couple of other street kids from whom they gleaned information they were actually in Chingola; a mining town home to the second largest open pit mine in the world. A creepy and eerie stillness pervaded the atmosphere. Owls could be heard howling and making mournful sounds from a distance.

The new arrivals and the other street kids were invited to a meal. They huddled on a tarpaulin for what they considered a feast……well, nshima, chicken stew and vegetables! They were hardly done with their food when a sharp voice pierced into the quiet night.

“Get cracking chaps; we aren’t here for a picnic!”

Oddly, the tone of their voices had changed, suddenly. While the other kids promptly gathered their sacks and darted off into the tunnels, the new arrivals had to be subjected to screening and a pep talk of some kind. The much older kids were separated from the younger ones and ordered to join those already crouching in the tunnels extracting the copper ore. On the other hand, the younger ones were assigned the task of hauling the bags of ore to the waiting tipper trucks outside the mine dumps. The daily rate for those taking the risk of going underground to “mine copper” is K150 while those shifting it get K50…..there’s no room for negotiations!

Those delving deep into the bowels of the earth to find copper were further divided into groups of two and had to share a flash light between them to enhance visibility. As they hoisted the bags of ore to the fore, the other group promptly got hold of it as one of the Jerabos standing akimbo on a heap of stones kept shouting instructions and egging them on.

“We catch you lazing about,” he bellowed. “You don’t get paid!”

The kids had to run back and forth unceasingly, like headless chickens, gasping for breath, as they attempted to haul as much load as possible to satisfaction of the Jerabos! As the intermittent cockcrows came alive, yonder, announcing the break of dawn, the commander systematically blew a whistle. They took a 30 minutes break to replenish their energy.

No sooner had they resumed work than a patrol vehicle swung-by and packed at a distance. The commander promptly walked to the vehicle. After briefly liaising with the officers, he fished-out a thick envelope from one of the inner pockets of his coat and handed it to the man sitting behind the wheel.

The first few days went according to plan…..well, without any incidents. As misfortune would have it though; one night, they were engaged in the usual activity when disaster struck!

They had just offloaded the ore onto the truck and were trying to outrun each other when they felt the ground begin to shift. It was moving slowly initially, and suddenly increased speed. Before long, the slag was curving in furiously! A couple of kids managed to come out unscathed. Unfortunately, about 3 of them couldn’t make it…….they had been buried in the tunnel!

At this point in time, the commander was busy making phone calls as he paced about. After a while, he ordered everyone to pack their belongings and decamp from the place.

Prince Bill M Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Israel-Gaza war: Half of Gaza’s population is starving, warns UN

Chief Editor
-
13
Israel-Gaza war: Half of Gaza’s population is starving, warns UN

A senior UN aid official has warned that half of Gaza’s population is starving, as fighting there continues.

Carl Skau, deputy director of the UN World Food Programme, said only a fraction of supplies needed have been able to enter the Strip – and nine out of 10 people cannot eat everyday.

Conditions in Gaza have made deliveries “almost impossible”, Mr Skau said.

Israel says it must continue air strikes on Gaza to eliminate Hamas and bring Israeli hostages home.

Israel Defence Forces spokesman Lt Col Richard Hecht told the BBC on Saturday that “any death and pain to a civilian is painful, but we don’t have an alternative”.

“We are doing everything we can to get as much as possible inside the Gaza Strip,” he said.

Herzi Halevi, chief of staff of the IDF, was filmed telling soldiers the army has to “press harder” because “we’re seeing terrorists surrendering… a sign their network is collapsing”.

Meanwhile, the Biden administration has used an emergency law to bypass Congress and authorise the sale of some 14,000 rounds of tank ammunition worth more than $106m (£85m) to Israel.

Movement in and out of Gaza has been heavily restricted since 7 October, when Hamas fighters broke through Israel’s heavily-guarded perimeter fence – killing 1,200 people and taking 240 hostages.

In response, Israel closed its borders with Gaza and began launching air strikes on the territory, restricting aid deliveries which Gazans heavily relied on.
The Hamas-run health ministry says Israel has killed more than 17,700 Gazans in its retaliatory campaign, including more than 7,000 children.

Only the Rafah crossing bordering Egypt has been open, allowing limited quantities of aid to reach Gaza. This week Israel agreed to open the Kerem Shalom crossing from Israel into Gaza in the next few days – but only for the inspection of aid lorries. The trucks would then go to Rafah to cross into Gaza.

Mr Skau said nothing had prepared him for the “fear, the chaos, and the despair” he and his WFP team encountered during their trip to Gaza this week.

They witnessed “confusion at warehouses, distribution points with thousands of desperate hungry people, supermarkets with bare shelves, and overcrowded shelters with bursting bathrooms,” he said.

International pressure and a temporary seven-day ceasefire last month had allowed some badly-needed aid to enter the Gaza Strip, but the WFP insists a second border crossing is now needed to meet demand.
Nine out of 10 families in some areas are spending “a full day and night without any food at all”, according to Mr Skau.

People in Khan Younis in the south of Gaza, a city now surrounded on two fronts by Israeli tanks, say the situation there is dire.

Dr Ahmed Moghrabi, head of the plastic surgery and burns unit in the city’s only remaining health facility, Nasser hospital, fought back tears as he spoke to the BBC about the lack of food.

“I have a daughter, three years old, always she ask me (for) some sweets, some apple, some fruits. I can’t provide. I feel helpless,” he said.

“There is not enough food, there is not enough food, only rice, only rice can you believe? We eat once, once a day, only.”
Khan Younis has been the focus of heavy air strikes in recent days and the boss of Nasser hospital there said his team had “lost control” over the numbers of dead and wounded arriving at the facility.

Israel says Hamas leaders are hiding in Khan Younis, possibly in an underground network of tunnels, and that it is fighting house to house and “shaft to shaft” to destroy the group’s military capabilities.

Source:BBC News

Mass Burial Planned for Chingola Miners as Death Toll Rises to Eleven

Chief Editor
-
25
Mass Burial Planned for Chingola Miners as Death Toll Rises to Eleven

The government has announced plans to hold a mass burial on Monday for the miners who lost their lives in the tragic accident at Senseli open pit mine in Chingola. Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo provided updates on the ongoing rescue mission, revealing that five additional bodies have been recovered, bringing the total number of fatalities to eleven, while one person has been found alive.

Matambo, in a media briefing, stated that President Hakainde Hichilema may be present for the burial ceremony, pending confirmation. The victims, aged between 21 and 35, will be laid to rest on Monday, with two of the deceased yet to be identified.

The Mines Minister, Paul Kabuswe, shared additional details, explaining that all the bodies retrieved so far were located in a single tunnel. The rescue team suspects that the number of retrieved bodies may represent the total count for that specific tunnel, indicating that the search efforts may soon conclude in that area.

Kabuswe emphasized that the government’s primary focus is on the retrieval of bodies, dismissing any political commentary surrounding the incident. The tragic accident has sparked discussions, with political commentators offering various perspectives on the situation.

In response to the unfolding events, UPND Copperbelt Youth Chairperson Warren Hinyama called for the non-politicization of the mine accident in Chingola. Hinyama emphasized the need for unity and collective mourning, urging individuals and groups to prioritize support for the affected families and communities over political considerations.

The mass burial is expected to be a somber occasion, drawing attention to the importance of prioritizing safety measures in mining operations to prevent future tragedies. The government’s commitment to the rescue mission and support for the affected families remains a focal point as the nation grapples with the aftermath of the mining accident.

Understanding the New 2023 Curriculum Framework: A Call for Informed Discussion

Chief Editor
-
27
Understanding the New 2023 Curriculum Framework: A Call for Informed Discussion

The recent unveiling of the new 2023 Curriculum Framework for Zambia has sparked a range of reactions from the public, with some expressing astonishment and concern. Notably, MMD President and former Vice President Nevers Mumba has taken the opportunity to shed light on the process of curriculum development, urging Zambians to understand the comprehensive steps involved.

In a statement addressing initial reactions to the new curriculum, Mumba highlighted the misconception that the President and/or his Cabinet directly create the curriculum. He emphasized the need for the public, including notable leaders, to recognize the intricate process led by the Ministry of General Education through the Curriculum Development Centre.

Mumba clarified that, before receiving approval, a thorough curriculum development process is undertaken by the Ministry. The Curriculum Development Centre plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the curriculum is meticulously designed and aligns with the needs of the education system. Importantly, teachers are actively involved in the process to ensure their input and ownership of the curriculum that will be implemented in schools.

“The Ministry of General Education, through the Curriculum Development Centre, spearheads the development of the Zambian curriculum. It’s crucial to understand that the President and the Cabinet are not directly involved in creating the curriculum,” Mumba stated.

He urged the public to appreciate the efforts made to involve teachers in the curriculum design process, emphasizing the importance of their ownership and understanding of the curriculum they will implement in schools.

“As we discuss the new curriculum, it’s essential to be informed about the process that precedes its approval. This understanding will contribute to more constructive and informed discussions surrounding the 2023 Curriculum Framework,” Mumba added.

Mumba concluded by inviting the public to share their initial reactions to the new curriculum framework, fostering a dialogue that is based on a comprehensive understanding of the development process. This call for informed discussion seeks to dispel misconceptions and encourage a more nuanced and insightful evaluation of the recently unveiled curriculum.

Message for Today: Name Your Future

Chief Editor
-
0
Message for Today: Name Your Future

Today’s Scripture

She named the child Ichabod (which means “Where is the glory?”), for she said, “Israel’s glory is gone.” She named him this because the Ark of God had been captured.
1 Samuel 4:21, NLT

Name Your Future

Friend, in the Scripture, an Israelite lady was about to give birth when she heard that the ark of the covenant had been stolen. The ark signified the presence of God with the Israelites. When she gave birth, she was so distraught that she named her son, Ichabod, which means “the glory has departed.” She named her future based on her past. She could have just as easily named him “the glory will return.” But she was so caught up in the disappointment and heartache that it soured her future.

We may be doing the same thing today. We can be so focused on what didn’t work out, on who hurt us, or on what we lost that we don’t think it’s ever going to change. Don’t name your future based on your past. Get that Ichabod spirit off you. This is a new day. God is doing a new thing. Name your future “blessed, prosperous, victorious, healthy, strong, wise, and talented.” The weight of the negative is going to pale in comparison to the weight of glory.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that Your plans for me are for good to give me a bright future and hope. Thank You that the difficulties I face are temporary and pale in comparison to the weight of glory that is coming. I declare that I will not name my future based upon my past. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

[Joel Osteen Ministries]

Silavwe Questions Police Role in Canceling Tutwa Ngulube’s Memorial Service

Chief Editor
-
26
Silavwe Questions Police Role in Canceling Tutwa Ngulube’s Memorial Service

Jackson Silavwe, President of the Golden Party of Zambia, has raised concerns about the decision by the police to cancel the memorial service for former Kabwe Central Member of Parliament, Tutwa Ngulube. The service, scheduled to take place in Kabwe, was abruptly halted as a heavy armed battalion of police officers surrounded Ngulube’s residence, citing concerns about public safety.

Silavwe, while speaking on Yours FM in Mufulira, questioned the police’s role in canceling the memorial service on what he deemed as flimsy grounds. He expressed the belief that even in death, Tutwa Ngulube remains a perceived threat to the United Party for National Development (UPND) government.

“Since when did the police become undertakers? They are being unfair to Tutwa’s family. It is the duty of the police to ensure a peaceful procession and not interfere with the family memorial service,” Silavwe stated, criticizing the UPND government and President Hakainde Hichilema for what he perceived as mistreatment of the late Tutwa Ngulube’s family and associates.

Silavwe further suggested that the cancellation might be politically motivated, asserting that President Hichilema does not want opposition gatherings as he perceives them as a threat. He urged the government to treat people with fairness and avoid vindictiveness.

“If the actual funeral was peaceful, what more the memorial service? The real intention here is that President Hichilema does not want us, the opposition, to meet because he feels threatened. If he can mistreat the dead, what about us who are alive?” Silavwe questioned.

Emmanuel Mwamba, Member of the Central Committee and Chairperson of Information and Publicity for the Patriotic Front, expressed dismay at the cancellation of Tutwa Ngulube’s memorial. He revealed that the family faced immense pressure to cancel the event, citing the confirmed attendance of former President Edgar Lungu as a reason for the decision.

Meanwhile, former President Lungu, addressing the situation in a speech that was intended for the memorial service, called on well-meaning Zambians to defend the constitution and democracy in honor of Tutwa Ngulube’s memory. Lungu condemned what he perceived as attempts by the government to provoke reactions and suppress citizens, pledging that Zambians would resist any attempt to impose dictatorship.

“As I conclude, I say to Tutwa, continue to rest in peace, my dear lawyer and brother. You ran your race with honor, dignity, and integrity,” President Lungu expressed in his speech.

ZICTA Directs Airtel Zambia to Compensate Subscribers for Network Outages

Chief Editor
-
3
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

Chief Editor
-
3
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

Chief Editor
-
10
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

sports
-
0

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

sports
-
5

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

Chief Editor
-
11
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

Chief Editor
-
38
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

Chief Editor
-
7
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

1...195196197...5,650Page 196 of 5,650

Company

Trending

Categories

© Lusaka Times