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Why Colonialism Was Actually Good for Africa – Part 4

Lusaka Times Editor
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Why Colonialism Was Actually Good for Africa – Part 4

By Michael Chishala,

In my opinion, the biggest single benefit of colonialism which is hardly discussed was the introduction of codified law with property rights, plus representative democracy with the 3 arms of modern governments. Before the colonialists, all land essentially belonged to the chief or king and he was the law. At a whim, he or she could give or take away land or confiscate property. There was no concept of title deeds or even just basic human rights codified into a Constitutional Bill of Rights with the right to life, liberty, movement, association or freedom of speech. You could not say anything against the chief, nor could you legally resist confiscation of property.

European nations in the 17th and 18th Century underwent a very strong Philosophical enlightenment period where many things that we take for granted today like human rights were vigorously debated and codified into law in Parliaments. The unchecked power of monarchies was curtailed and representative Republican government introduced. These things today look obvious in hindsight, but tyrannical despotic monarchies were the norm at that time and Africa was no exception.

These colonial reforms introduced more stability and certainty as people were able to trade more freely and invest into new business ventures which led to greater productivity and higher incomes. This period saw the adoption of banking, insurance, pensions, commodity exchanges and stock exchanges which made things more predictable and encouraged investment and entrepreneurship which led to better living standards.

The judicial system with presumption of innocence, due process, and well defined court rules was perhaps the most important component of these colonial legal systems which were alien to Africa. People violating others’ rights, including government officials and even the President or Prime Minister could be punished. Disputes between citizens could now be settled fairly with impartial adjudication and strong deterrence for bad behaviour. One cannot overstate the importance of a strong legal system to development and rapid economic growth.

The Europeans drew from earlier traditions (Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks and Romans) and did the hard work of thinking through and debating all the various aspects of modern nations. Slavery for example was taken for granted everywhere in the world until it was challenged on moral grounds by Christians in Europe and lobbied against until it was abolished by law after public opinion turned against it. The lobbying was successful because there existed Parliaments with elected representatives.

Imagine if there was no Parliament but just a monarchy. There was zero chance slavery could have been abolished because the slave plantation owners could have easily paid off the king or queen to turn a blind eye and ignore the slavery abolitionists. Public pressure would have not come to bear, but because Parliament had elected representatives who could be thrown out, they had to listen to the people who demanded the end of slavery which benefited Africans as explained earlier.

The introduction of rule of law in Africa brought significant development and the establishment of mining, industry, commerce and agriculture. Large scale mining which takes decades to bring returns to the shareholders is only possible in stable nations with a good legal framework and friendly taxation policies run by a strong central government. Chiefdoms are unreliable for executing large scale development projects.

Another critical benefit of colonialism was infrastructure. The colonialists wanted to exploit African minerals so they built railways to make the movement of goods and people in large quantities easy and fast. A single train wagon could carry a load equivalent to what hundreds of men could carry and a train could traverse long distances within days as opposed to months by walking. A typical steam engine train in the 1920s could move 500km in one day. Sub-Saharan Africa particularly benefited because tropical diseases made the keeping of animals for transportation impossible.

After railways came roads and bridges with the adoption of motor vehicles, motor cycles and bicycles. The main roads in Zambia were built by the 1940s and made national administration possible. This was great for Africans as they could use the same roads and railways and access more markets for goods and services as well as travel for work or higher education further away in other colonies. All this was not possible before as Africa was undeveloped with only bush paths for movement and no proper bridges.

There are many other important benefits I could enumerate, but that would make this series go into ten parts and I believe the few I have highlighted shall suffice. Hopefully, this admittedly controversial series has been enlightening to the readers and led to a more holistic view of colonialism. Let’s keep the discussion going!

THE END

Michael Chishala is a Zambian analyst with interests in Philosophy, Law, Economics and History. Email: [email protected]

Kafwaya Questions UPND’s Alliance Integrity Over Chabinga Diplomatic Saga

Lusaka Times Editor
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Kafwaya Questions UPND’s Alliance Integrity Over Chabinga Diplomatic Saga

Lunte Member of Parliament Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya has expressed deep concern and confusion over what he describes as a “new standard” in governance under the United Party for National Development (UPND), following the recent statement by Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe distancing the government from remarks made by Hon. Chabinga on foreign policy.

Reacting to the government’s attempt to separate itself from Chabinga’s position on diplomatic appointments,remarks made during a press briefing that was broadcast on state television, Kafwaya said the development raises serious questions about consistency, alliance discipline, and the motives behind strategic political partnerships.

“The position of government to distance itself from Chabinga’s foreign policy has confused me,” Kafwaya remarked, pointing out that Haimbe’s official statement acknowledges Chabinga as the Leader of the Opposition in the Patriotic Front (PF), despite a court ruling that handed leadership of the PF to Miles Sampa.

Kafwaya noted that Chabinga, despite contesting the 2021 elections under the PF ticket, is now an open ally of the UPND and has publicly endorsed President Hakainde Hichilema for the 2026 elections. This political closeness, he argues, makes the government’s public disavowal of Chabinga’s diplomatic stance suspicious and politically convenient.

“Why then has UPND distanced itself from Chabinga’s views?” Kafwaya questioned. “Could this imply that Chabinga is being applied conveniently?”

Kafwaya went further to question the internal discipline of the UPND alliance. “Why would Chabinga, a UPND alliance partner, issue a policy statement on diplomats which is not cleared by the anchor alliance partner UPND? What is the level of discipline in the UPND alliance in that regard?”

He also cast doubt on the role of state institutions in amplifying political messaging, wondering why Chabinga’s statement was given airtime on ZNBC if it lacked official endorsement from UPND leadership. “Why has it taken so long for the UPND government to distance itself from his statement? Has Chabinga’s view on diplomats become undesirable only after the public outcry?”

Kafwaya used the moment to revisit what he sees as hypocrisy in UPND’s stance toward PF members. “Let me remind UPND that Chabinga contested the 2021 elections on the Patriotic Front ticket. It bothers me that UPND, who have gone everywhere claiming that PF members are criminals, can admit Chabinga and other PF MPs into their alliance, just because they support HH.”

He then turned to President Hichilema’s recent call for dialogue with the opposition, questioning its sincerity. “Today, HH is calling loudly for dialogue with the opposition, yet the person they call Leader of the Opposition, PF is their alliance partner,” Kafwaya said. “Which opposition does HH want to dialogue with?”

The Lunte MP concluded with a critical reflection: “Perhaps what problems does HH want to solve with those opposition leaders, which he and his current alliance partners have failed to solve?”

Kafwaya’s statement adds a new layer of scrutiny to the internal contradictions within the ruling party’s alliances and may intensify debate about transparency, inclusion, and political strategy as the country heads towards the next general election.

UPND Assists Bereaved Family with Funeral Support After Tragic House Fire That Killed 3 Children

Chief Editor
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UPND Assists Bereaved Family with Funeral Support After Tragic House Fire That Killed 3 Children

The United Party for National Development (UPND) has pledged logistical and material support to the family of three children who tragically died in a house fire in Kabanana Ward, Mandevu Constituency.

During a visit to the funeral house at Chipata SDA Church, UPND Lusaka Province Vice Youth Chairperson Mr. Godfrey Chitanga, accompanied by UPND Mandevu Constituency Chairperson Mr. Ndhovu and other party leaders, announced the donation of 60 buses and three caskets to assist with the children’s burial.

Mr. Chitanga, speaking on behalf of the UPND leadership, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, describing the incident as shocking. He conveyed condolences from President Hakainde Hichilema and emphasized that the President mourns with the family, the constituency, and the nation.

“This is an unbearable moment for all of us. The President has sent me as a messenger of comfort, and the Party will stand by the family through this difficult time,” said Mr. Chitanga.

Meanwhile, Mr. Ndhovu noted that the entire Mandevu Constituency is engulfed in sorrow, describing the event as “a darkness we cannot explain.” He encouraged the bereaved family to find strength and solace in faith.

UPND aspiring candidate Mr. Ross Josphat Kasikili echoed these sentiments, saying the loss is not only for the family or constituency but a national tragedy. “Only the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob can comfort us now,” he said.

Another UPND hopeful, Mr. Aaron Mulope, reminded the gathering of the fragility of life, urging the community to remain spiritually prepared at all times.

The UPND delegation also delivered food items to the family as part of their support.

The funeral continues at Chipata SDA Church in Chipata Compound, where mourners are gathered to pay their final respects.

Investors Dangerously Underestimating Dollar’s Decline

Chief Editor
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Investors Dangerously Underestimating Dollar’s Decline

Investors are underestimating the scale and trajectory of the US dollar’s decline—both in value and in its long-standing role as the world’s unrivalled reserve currency—warns the CEO of one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory and asset management organizations.

The greenback has had its weakest start to a year since 2008, down more than 4% on the Dollar Index (DXY), as markets begin to digest interest rate cut expectations, a revival of protectionist trade policies, and rising geopolitical friction under the Trump administration.

But despite these signals, investor reaction remains muted.

“We don’t believe this is a short-term wobble. It’s the opening phase of a steady but far-reaching shift,” says Nigel Green, chief executive of deVere Group.

“Dollar supremacy isn’t vanishing overnight, but its era of unquestioned dominance is fading. This carries enormous consequences for global portfolios, pricing, and capital allocation.

“This decline is not a crash—it’s erosion.”

Central banks around the world are gradually unwinding their reliance on the dollar. The currency now accounts for just under 59% of global reserves, according to the IMF, down from more than 70% at the start of the century.

“Part of this trend is structural, with emerging economies building out their financial systems. But increasingly, it’s a strategic shift. There’s growing discomfort with the idea of the dollar being used as a political instrument,” adds Nigel Green.

The euro has emerged as one of the clearest alternatives. It has surged more than 4% against the dollar in the past fortnight alone, buoyed by Europe’s moves toward fiscal coordination, collective defence investment, and economic resilience. Reserve managers are responding.

“The euro is repositioning itself not just as a regional anchor, but as a serious global stabiliser,” explains Nigel Green.

“That doesn’t mean it will replace the dollar, instead it’ll be part of a broader mosaic of major currencies taking on more influence.”

Across Asia, shifts are accelerating too. Japan’s yen has found fresh strength on safe-haven flows. The South Korean won is showing renewed resilience. China’s yuan continues its climb as Beijing signs cross-border trade agreements that sidestep the dollar entirely.

“We don’t think any single currency is about to take the dollar’s place,” says Nigel Green.

“Instead, we expect a more fragmented system—one where influence is shared across a handful of credible currencies. This evolution is gradual, but it’s no less profound.”

At the same time, policies that once would have supported the dollar are now feeding its weakness. New tariffs have triggered a counterintuitive surge in the Canadian dollar and Mexican peso—signalling that investors now see these measures as signs of instability rather than economic strength.

Meanwhile, in the US, the rationale for a strong dollar is weakening. Markets now expect the Federal Reserve to deliver up to three rate cuts by year-end. That erodes the yield premium that has long underpinned global appetite for dollar-denominated assets.

“This shrinking rate gap makes US debt less attractive. And when demand for Treasuries softens, so does demand for dollars,” adds Nigel Green.

While a softer dollar may temporarily lift exports and benefit US companies with foreign earnings, there are limits.

Nearly half of US goods are imported. A weaker currency means higher prices for inputs, more inflation pressure, and greater strain on consumers. With America’s manufacturing base hollowed out, there’s no fast route to self-sufficiency.

“Investors must stop assuming the dollar will always rebound. That thinking is dangerously outdated,” says Nigel Green.

“The shift to dominant currency plurality is underway. Those clinging to the old model risk being blindsided.”

As capital begins to rotate into assets tied to other major currencies, governments, institutions, and global businesses will need to recalibrate. Trade terms will be redrawn. Price strategies will adjust. And markets that prepare now will gain first-mover advantage.

“Dollar dominance isn’t over—but it’s being critically diluted,” concludes Nigel Green.

“Those who act early will be best placed to capitalize on the next phase of global finance.”

Government Distances Itself from Chabinga’s Anti-Diplomat Remarks

Lusaka Times Editor
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Government Distances Itself from Chabinga’s Anti-Diplomat Remarks

The government has publicly distanced itself from controversial statements made by Mafinga Member of Parliament and opposition Patriotic Front leader, Mr. Robert Chabinga, during a press conference held on 2nd May 2025. Chabinga’s remarks, perceived as inflammatory and targeted at members of the diplomatic community, have triggered concern from both local observers and foreign missions.

In a prompt and strongly worded response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation clarified that Mr. Chabinga’s views do not reflect the Government’s official stance, nor do they align with Zambia’s foreign policy principles. The Government emphasized its commitment to the Vienna Convention and to the respectful, rules-based engagement with international partners.

Below is the full official statement from the Government:

Lusaka, 5th May 2025 — The Government of the Republic of Zambia, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has issued a formal clarification regarding recent statements made by Mr. Robert Chabinga, Member of Parliament for Mafinga and leader of the opposition Patriotic Front, during a press conference held on 2nd May 2025.
In a strongly worded press statement, the Ministry unequivocally distanced the Government from Mr. Chabinga’s remarks, noting that his views do not represent the official position, policy, or diplomatic posture of the Republic of Zambia. The Government reiterated Zambia’s unwavering commitment to its sovereign foreign policy, grounded in constructive bilateral and multilateral engagement.
Zambia reaffirmed its status as a responsible and active member of the international community, upholding the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961). The Convention provides a vital framework for the conduct of diplomats and emphasises mutual respect between host and sending states. In line with this, the Government expressed appreciation for the vital role played by the diplomatic corps in supporting Zambia’s development agenda.
Furthermore, the Ministry stressed its full commitment to ensuring that diplomats serving in Zambia enjoy their privileges and immunities without fear or undue interference. Equally, it was acknowledged that diplomats are expected to respect the laws and regulations of the host state, including the principle of non-interference in domestic affairs.
The Ministry also took the opportunity to remind political leaders and stakeholders that matters relating to diplomatic accreditation and conduct fall exclusively under its jurisdiction. No individual or political entity is authorised to speak or act on behalf of the Government in such matters.
While Zambia welcomes robust political dialogue, the Ministry cautioned that inflammatory rhetoric, particularly in matters of foreign relations, can compromise the nation’s diplomatic integrity and standing within the global community.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of Zambia’s dedication to fostering cordial, respectful, and mutually beneficial international relationships.

(Original signed)
Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, S.C., M.P.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
Lusaka
5th May, 2025

ZMD Warns of Cooler Weather and Strong Winds from May 5–10

Chief Editor
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ZMD Warns of Cooler Weather and Strong Winds from May 5–10

The Zambia Meteorological Department (ZMD) has issued a weather advisory forecasting cooler temperatures, stronger winds, and cloudy skies across much of the country from May 5th to 10th, 2025.

According to ZMD, the anticipated shift in weather conditions is due to a strong high-pressure system forming over the southeast coast of South Africa, which will push a moist and cool airflow into Zambia.

“From May 5th to May 10th, 2025, a strong high-pressure system over the Southeast Coast of South Africa will drive a moist, cool airflow across most parts of Zambia resulting in stronger winds, lower temperatures and cloudy skies,’’ the advisory reads.

In response, the department has urged farmers to secure any harvested crops to protect them from possible rain damage during the period.

Additionally, ZMD has advised those using water transport to temporarily suspend activities on lakes and rivers, as strong winds could pose safety risks.

The public is encouraged to stay updated with local weather bulletins and take necessary precautions to ensure safety and prevent losses.

Minister Sialubalo Urges Kasama Council Realignment on CDF Projects

Chief Editor
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Minister Sialubalo Urges Kasama Council Realignment on CDF Projects

The Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Hon. Gift Sialubalo, MP, has called for the immediate realignment of the Kasama Municipal Council following a monitoring tour of various Constituency Development Fund (CDF) projects in Kasama Central Constituency.

During the visit, Hon. Sialubalo expressed grave concern over the substandard quality and questionable pricing of some projects being implemented under the CDF. He stated that the state of some projects did not reflect value for money, despite government’s substantial investment in decentralised development.

“I am extremely disappointed with the quality of some of the projects being implemented under the CDF in Kasama. It is clear that there are serious lapses in supervision and accountability. Some projects are not only overpriced but have also been poorly executed. This is a disservice to the people of Kasama,” Hon. Sialubalo said.

He stressed that government has made decentralisation a cornerstone of its development agenda by increasing allocations to the CDF in order to empower communities, address local needs, and improve service delivery at the grassroots level.
“The people of Kasama deserve better. Public funds must be used responsibly and must bring about tangible improvements in people’s lives. We cannot afford to allow inefficiencies or mismanagement to undermine this important programme,” he said.
The Minister directed that the performance of the Kasama Municipal Council be reviewed as a matter of urgency, and that corrective measures be instituted to ensure the proper management and execution of CDF projects moving forward. He added that officers responsible for overseeing these projects will be held accountable in accordance with established government procedures.

Hon. Sialubalo also urged local stakeholders including Ward Development Committees, councillors, and the general public to actively participate in monitoring projects and reporting irregularities, stating that community involvement is critical to ensuring transparency and achieving meaningful development outcomes.

Issued by:
Liseli Kanyanga (Ms)
Principal Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development

Chabinga’s Diplomatic Outburst Raises Questions Over Foreign Policy Discipline

Lusaka Times Editor
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Chabinga’s Diplomatic Outburst Raises Questions Over Foreign Policy Discipline
Chabinga’s Diplomatic Outburst Raises Questions Over Foreign Policy Discipline

In the wake of controversial remarks made by Mafinga Member of Parliament Robert Chabinga, concerns have emerged regarding Zambia’s diplomatic posture and the apparent silence from the highest offices in response to what some have termed a “grave act of diplomatic indiscipline.”

Chabinga, who has openly aligned himself with the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) despite holding a seat under the Patriotic Front (PF), shocked the nation during a recent press conference in which he openly castigated members of the diplomatic corps. His statements, broadcast on state television, have since ignited a firestorm of public and political debate.

Observers say such actions could have far-reaching implications for Zambia’s image on the global stage. “Our country has benefited immensely from diplomatic goodwill,” one commentator noted. “From USAID to DFID and even China’s gift of the Kenneth Kaunda Wing at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, Zambia’s partnerships with the international community have been pivotal to its development agenda.”

Zambia recently saw international solidarity during its declaration of a national drought disaster, with donations flowing in from countries like the United States and Burundi, among others. Critics argue that undermining this goodwill through unrestrained public remarks can jeopardize crucial diplomatic relationships.

The broader concern, however, appears to be institutional. According to some voices within the governance and policy space, Chabinga’s statements reflect a deeper issue — the blurring of boundaries between legislative conduct and executive diplomacy. “In any well-functioning democracy, members of parliament are not permitted to independently conduct or pronounce foreign policy, particularly outside the parameters of inter-parliamentary engagement,” an analyst said.

The development is seen as an embarrassment not only to the leadership of the National Assembly, whose members are expected to understand diplomatic norms, but also to the presidency. “If any lawmaker can take it upon themselves to issue what sounds like foreign policy, and the state remains mute, what precedent does that set for governance?”

While Chabinga’s support for President Hakainde Hichilema is well documented  from public endorsements to reports of visible coordination during past political events  some argue that such proximity should not grant impunity, especially in areas as sensitive as foreign relations.

The silence from State House following Chabinga’s outburst has only deepened the controversy. “It is not just about public relations. The president must clear the air. The world is watching,” said one political observer. “Our systems must function beyond individuals. If Zambia is to continue receiving international support, it must reaffirm its commitment to diplomatic etiquette.”

The prevailing sentiment is that the nation must protect its hard-earned international credibility. “Zambia is bigger than any individual. Let systems work, and let discipline in foreign engagement be enforced.”

Economist Warns Liquidity Crisis Threatens Zambia’s Economic Growth

Lusaka Times Editor
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Economist Warns Liquidity Crisis Threatens Zambia’s Economic Growth

Economist Warns Liquidity Crisis Threatens Zambia’s Economic Growth

Lusaka – Economist Trevor Hambayi has raised alarm over Zambia’s persistent liquidity challenges, warning that the prolonged cash flow constraints are significantly impeding the country’s economic growth prospects.

Speaking in a business news interview, Mr. Hambayi noted that since 2015, government monetary policies aimed at curbing inflation have inadvertently restricted liquidity in the economy. While acknowledging the necessity of controlling inflation, he emphasized that the limited availability of funds has had unintended consequences.

“These policies, though well-intended, have squeezed liquidity to a point where the private sector is struggling to access capital needed for reinvestment and expansion,” Hambayi said. “This undermines the private sector’s ability to play its pivotal role in driving sustainable economic growth.”

He further highlighted that Zambia’s long-standing dependence on foreign direct investment (FDI) as the main economic driver is unsustainable. According to Hambayi, a more balanced approach is needed one that empowers local businesses and supports domestic investment through improved financial flows.

“The over-reliance on FDI puts us in a vulnerable position. We must stimulate internal economic activity by addressing liquidity issues to foster genuine, homegrown growth,” he said.

Mr. Hambayi warned that if the current liquidity constraints persist, Zambia risks facing prolonged stagnation in private sector productivity and broader national development.

CSPR Calls for Stronger, Sustainable Social Protection Systems

Lusaka Times Editor
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CSPR Calls for Stronger, Sustainable Social Protection Systems

Lusaka – The Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR) has called on the government to adopt robust and sustainable strategies aimed at strengthening Zambia’s social protection systems.

CSPR Executive Director Isabel Mukelebai raised concern over the country’s continued dependence on donor funding to support key social protection programs, cautioning that such reliance jeopardizes the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of these initiatives.

“There is an urgent need for government to put in place mechanisms that ensure social protection becomes more self-reliant and sustainable,” said Ms Mukelebai. “We cannot continue to rely heavily on external support if we want to build a resilient safety net for our people.”

She further stressed the importance of a well-defined framework to guide the graduation of beneficiaries from the Social Cash Transfer program. Mukelebai noted that the absence of structured exit strategies undermines the long-term impact of the program and may lead to dependency rather than empowerment.

“A clear and comprehensive graduation framework is essential. Without it, we risk missing the goal of empowering households to lift themselves out of poverty,” she added.

Ms Mukelebai concluded by urging the government to focus on building a more inclusive and resilient social protection system,one capable of providing meaningful support to the most vulnerable members of society, particularly in times of economic and social shocks.

NCC Raises Alarm Over Delayed Contractor Payments

Lusaka Times Editor
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NCC Raises Alarm Over Delayed Contractor Payments

The National Council for Construction (NCC) has expressed concern over the continued delay and prolonged disbursement of payments to contractors, warning that the situation is negatively affecting the delivery of infrastructure projects across the country.

Speaking during an engagement with stakeholders, NCC Director of Registration and Regulation Chance Kaonga said the delays are undermining the smooth execution of works, particularly among local contractors who often lack access to capital to absorb payment gaps.

“These payment delays are hampering operations for contractors nationwide. Many small and medium-scale contractors are struggling to meet their obligations due to late payments, which in turn affects project timelines and delivery standards,” Mr. Kaonga said.

He explained that delayed payments disrupt planning, reduce contractor confidence, and can lead to project abandonment, especially in cases where contractors rely solely on project funds to manage labor, procure materials, and maintain equipment.

Despite these challenges, Mr. Kaonga noted some improvements in the sector, particularly with the increased allocation and usage of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). He said the CDF has created a more predictable payment system that is benefiting contractors engaged at community level.

“We have seen that with the increased CDF, the government is less likely to accumulate additional debt in the construction sector. Payments under the CDF are generally more timely and readily available, which is a positive shift,” he said.

Mr. Kaonga commended the government’s continued commitment to empowering local contractors through decentralised project implementation. He said the timely disbursement of CDF funds has helped many small contractors improve cash flow and deliver projects more efficiently.

However, he called for a broader reform across the public construction sector to ensure that all government-funded projects follow the same model of financial discipline and prompt payment.

“What is working under the CDF model should be replicated across all government institutions to improve contractor performance and infrastructure quality,” Mr. Kaonga said.

The NCC has continued to advocate for a stable and well-regulated construction environment, including timely contract awards, equitable access to projects, and reliable financing systems.

Mr. Kaonga concluded by urging implementing agencies to honor contractual payment timelines to strengthen contractor performance and ensure the sustainable development of Zambia’s infrastructure sector.

A Call for Sincerity and Clean Hands during dialogue

Chief Editor
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A Call for Sincerity and Clean Hands during dialogue

The Republican Progressive Party (RPP), a UPND Alliance, wishes to reaffirm that President Hakainde Hichilema has consistently demonstrated his readiness to engage in dialogue with opposition political parties, provided such engagement is rooted in
sincerity and national interest.

However, the dismissive stance taken by some opposition leaders towards the President’s invitation for dialogue regrettable. For dialogue to be meaningful and productive, all political players must approach the table with clean hands, free from personal agendas, inflammatory rhetoric, or attempts to undermine peace and progress.

The RPP strongly echoes that Political dialogue in a democratic dispensation is not optional; it is essential. It strengthens national cohesion, fosters inclusive governance, and ensures that every citizen’s voice can find representation in a peaceful and constructive manner. Dialogue allows political differences to be managed without conflict and ensures that governance reflects collective wisdom rather than partisan division.

As a member of the UPND Alliance, the Republican Progressive Party believes that Zambia’s democratic future depends on mature, honest, and patriotic engagement among all political stakeholders. We therefore urge our colleagues in the opposition to respond to the President’s open hand with equal goodwill and integrity.

The RPP remains fully committed to fostering a political culture anchored in dialogue, civility,
and shared responsibility for national development.

Issued by:
Issued by Leslie Chikuse
RPP President

Swedish Embassy Accused of Fueling Division in Zambian Media Sector

Chief Editor
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Swedish Embassy Accused of Fueling Division in Zambian Media Sector

The Media Liaison Committee (MLC) has accused the Swedish Embassy of sponsoring confusion within the Zambian media landscape during this year’s World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) celebrations held under the theme “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.”

Traditionally, journalists in Lusaka march together and gather for official speeches from government representatives, the United Nations, and other key stakeholders to reflect on the state of press freedom in Zambia. However, this year saw an unusual development — two separate marches taking place in the capital city.

According to the MLC, one march was organised by the committee itself in collaboration with the national WPFD organising team composed of Zambian media institutions. A second, parallel march was reportedly supported by the Swedish Embassy and BBC Media Action, and involved freelance journalists and Swedish-funded media NGOs. This group voiced opposition to statutory media self-regulation — a stance that contradicts consensus previously reached by the Zambian media sector.

The MLC noted that in 2019, journalists across Zambia convened during two “Insaka” conferences where they unanimously agreed to be regulated by a statutory self-regulatory framework — one developed by journalists for journalists. This led to the creation of a draft bill, initially known as the Zambia Media Council (ZAMEC) Bill, now renamed the Zambia Institute of Journalism (ZIJ) Bill following legal guidance from the Ministry of Justice.

The MLC alleges that the Swedish Embassy, in partnership with BBC Media Action, is now backing opposition to this bill, causing unnecessary division in the media fraternity. The organisation expressed concern over the presence of the Swedish Ambassador, Johan Hallenborg, on the podium during the alternate WPFD event, alongside representatives of Swedish-funded NGOs.

In a statement issued by MLC Chairperson Ms. Felistus Chipako, the committee announced its intention to formally write to the Swedish Government, copying Zambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, to raise alarm over what it describes as “foreign-sponsored divisions” in the local media space.

The MLC also plans to write to the Department of Immigration and the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, questioning the activities of BBC Media Action’s Country Director, Soren Johansen, who operates in Zambia under a work permit.

Furthermore, the committee accused BBC Media Action of engaging in destabilising activities since its entry into Zambia, including diverting donor funding away from established media umbrella bodies such as MISA Zambia, Panos Institute Southern Africa, and the Zambia Community Media Forum (ZaCoMeF), thereby weakening their influence.

The MLC reaffirmed its openness to continued internal dialogue with stakeholders who wish to offer further input on the ZIJ Bill. However, it strongly condemned any attempts by foreign entities to sow discord within Zambia’s media fraternity.

“The Zambian media has always demonstrated unity in upholding press freedom and professionalism, regardless of ownership divides. We will not stand by while foreign influence undermines this unity,” Ms. Chipako said.

UPND Faces Uphill Battle Ahead of 2026 as Analyst Warns Against Overreliance on Lungu’s Legal Disqualification

Lusaka Times Editor
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UPND Faces Uphill Battle Ahead of 2026 as Analyst Warns Against Overreliance on Lungu’s Legal Disqualification

UPND Faces Uphill Battle Ahead of 2026 as Analyst Warns Against Overreliance on Lungu’s Legal Disqualification

As Zambia moves steadily toward the 2026 general elections, political tensions and public expectations are mounting. At the center of the conversation is the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), which faces growing doubts over its ability to secure the constitutionally required 50% plus one vote in the first round.

Political analyst and former Board Chairperson of the Centre for Policy Dialogue, Neo Simutanyi, has cautioned the ruling party against relying on legal maneuvers to block former President Edgar Lungu from contesting. While UPND supporters see Lungu’s disqualification as a path to an easier victory, Simutanyi argues this view is dangerously simplistic and politically short-sighted.

“Removing Lungu from the ballot may not work in UPND’s favor as expected,” Simutanyi observed. “His support base remains significant, and eliminating him does not automatically translate into public approval for the ruling party.”

The analyst noted that UPND’s focus on the former president may be distracting it from more urgent matters. Instead of building its strategy solely around sidelining opposition figures, Simutanyi advised the party to concentrate on resolving real issues affecting Zambians soaring inflation, persistent unemployment, energy shortages, and unmet campaign promises. He warned that the electorate may not be swayed by courtroom victories if their daily struggles continue unresolved.

Since assuming office in 2021, the UPND has faced mounting criticism over its economic management and delivery on key pledges. Public discontent is visible in both urban and rural areas, with citizens calling for concrete action over political rhetoric. This growing frustration could pose a serious threat to the party’s chances of achieving a first-round victory in 2026.

Simutanyi’s warning is timely: it underscores that political success will require more than eliminating rivals; it demands a proactive, results-driven approach to governance. As the countdown to 2026 continues, the UPND must now confront the dual challenge of restoring public trust and proving that its promises can translate into real progress.

In a democracy where public sentiment shifts rapidly, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether the UPND can reconnect with the electorate, or risk facing a divided and skeptical vote at the polls.

Increased Number Of Street Kids Worry Parliamentary Committee

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Increased Number Of Street Kids Worry Parliamentary Committee

The Parliamentary Committee on Youth, Sports and Child Matters has stressed the need for strengthened family bonds to help address the increase in the number of children living on the streets.

Committee Acting Chairperson, Dr Alex Katakwe said the Street kids are a scourge that is negatively affecting the country hence the need for urgent interventions.

Dr Katakwe attributed the increase in street kids to poverty and weak family bonds, stating that if not addressed, the country will lose its vibrant youths due to illicit activities young people are engaging in on the streets.

“It is sad that when a parent fails to provide for the family children are forced to live on the streets with the hope of survival,” he noted.

Dr Katakwe said this when the Committee paid a courtesy call on North-Western Province Minister Robert Lihefu. He revealed that a total number of 210 children were removed from the streets of North-Western last year.Dr Katakwe charged that the government alone cannot remove children from the streets and has since called on stakeholders to join in the fight.

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