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Ruling Patriotic Front Secretary General Mr Davies Mwila has described late Minister of Gender and PF Member of Parliament for Kasenengwa Constituency as a fighter.
“The Patriotic Front knew Hon Victoria Kalima as a fighter. She fought so many battles and overcame. Even when her health started failing her, she remained extremely dedicated to duty, giving all of us hope that she would pull through. She was a critical voice in the Patriotic Front. Sadly the cold hand of death has robbed her from our midst”, Mr. Mwial said.
Mr. Mwila has mentioned that late Hon Kalima will be missed as a strong voice for the people of Kasenengwa Constituency and Patriotic Front in general.
“As Minister of Gender, she ensured that her Ministry occupied its rightful place in fast-tracking the place of the Zambian women in the country’s development aspirations,” he said.
The Patriotic Front Secretary General has since sent a message of condolences to the deceased family and is calling on all members of the Party to join in mourning late Hon Kalima with a sense of unity of purpose.
Ms. Kalima was Minister of Gender and PF Member of Parliament for Kasenengwa Constituency in Eastern Province. She passed away this evening, 11th June 2018, at Maina Soko Hospital in Lusaka.
This is according to a statement issued by PF Media Director Sunday Chanda.
Zambia’s US Dollar-denominated bonds continue to weaken, as the government has still not clarified the debt situation or its fiscal and borrowing plans, according to Exotix Capital.
Stuart Culverhouse, Head of Sovereign and Fixed Income Research at Exotix, said: “Until it does, absent a credible fiscal anchor, we think there is little to stop the bonds falling further. Indeed, the macro situation may get worse before it gets better as domestic financing difficulties mount and inflation risks are skewed to the upside.”
The firm has downgraded its recommendation on Zambia 2027 bonds to Sell from Hold (yield 11.5%).
“Market yields that have now reached 11.5% show the market has lost faith in Zambia and, if there was any confidence back in October that an IMF programme was still possible, this has now all but disappeared,” commented Culverhouse.
“As the government has relied increasingly on issuing domestic securities for financing, absent a Eurobond and an IMF programme, we think non-resident outflows present a further risk to financing and macro-stability, amid already low reserves,” he said.
Culverhouse thinks that a key risk stems from the significant presence of non-resident investors in government securities, who are less stable than domestic investors, and any outflows would put additional strain on reserves and the financing outlook.
Non-resident investors had been attracted by Zambia’s relatively high real yields (carry trade) and have helped the government to cover its domestic financing needs.
Non-resident holdings of domestic government securities were 17.1% at end- March, according to the central bank’s May Monetary Policy Committee statement.
“While not the highest share in SSA (Ghana is nearly 40%), it is significant in absolute terms. It equates to cUS$860mn (at today’s exchange rate), which is c46% of reserves (gross reserves stood at $1.8bn in March, according to the central bank). We are not aware of any signs of non-residents rushing for the exit (either through outright sales or unwillingness to roll over maturities), but if they did, accommodating any outflows, given low reserves (reserves/import cover was c2.1 months in March, according to the central bank), would pose a significant risk to the currency (with echoes of Argentina’s recent LEBAC woes),” Culverhouse said.
“And expectations of a weaker currency (as part of the adjustment process) could lead to non-resident outflows. Lack of further foreign inflows would also strain future financing. It is not obvious that the domestic market could absorb the difference, while resorting to central bank financing would be a negative signal and inflationary,” he added.
Culverhouse said that a crucial test of investor confidence will come at the next scheduled government bond auction on June 29.
“If the auction is undersubscribed (as has been seen in recent T-bill auctions) and/or yields go higher this could signal problems ahead for financing the deficit. Ultimately, this could force the government’s hand, either to take remedial action itself, or return to the Fund for help,” he said.
Mukula Logs
A report published by Centre for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) Mukula production and trade in Zambia shows that an estimated US$1.7 million bribes were paid to government officials to facilitate the export of Mukula logs.
The report is entitled the ’Informality, global capital, rural development and the environment: Mukula (rosewood) trade between China and Zambia and the study took 18 months and covered four districts namely Luangwa, Mansa, Mkushi and Kaoma.
It shows that recent Mukula production in Zambia could have amounted to about 110,000 cubic metres (m3) per annum, with revenue losses of about US$3.2 million.
Results of the study also show that rural villagers are increasingly forging direct links with foreign investors, producing innovative business models that accelerate the rate of small-scale production and extraction of resources, all the while still embedded in the rural economic system characterized by legal ambiguity and limited government oversight.
It says as a consequence, such models repeat historical patterns of exploitation with local cutters receiving an average price of about US$23 per cubic metre of timber harvested while manufacturers in China pay about US$1,000–1,100 per cubic metre to importers, before any further processing is done on the exported logs.
The report also observes that across time and along the chain, politics, vested interests and elite capture have left little space for environmental concerns regarding the sustainability of Mukula production or any other species, for that matter.
It shows that in Zambia’s case, the search for Mukula and rosewood more generally has spread across neighbouring countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique and Malawi over a short period of time, causing havoc in those countries’ natural capital.
It says power hierarchies at all levels of the state and across borders try to benefit as much and as quickly as possible, ultimately hampering the establishment of sustainable businesses.
The report has recommended that the Zambian government must step up its efforts in protecting the Zambian forests and its people’s long-term livelihoods by implementing the innovative measures included in the Forests Act of 2015 regarding community, joint and private forest management.
Tullow Oil
The Centre for Trade Policy and Development has appealed to the Ministry of Mines and Natural Resource Development to give an update on the ongoing Oil and Gas explorations by Britain’s Tullow exploration company.
CTPD Lead on Extractives and Development Mrs. Natalie Kaunda said the Think Tank has noted that since the exploration company was engaged, there has been very limited information flowing through in terms of progress made in this area.
Mrs. Kaunda said CTPD remains keen on finding out how far the Ministry has gone with regards the revision and development of the Act that governs the Oil and Gas sector.
“While we do understand the complexity and nature of the explorations in terms of timings, we think that it would be wise to work around ensuring that the legislation is finalized in a timely manner so as to allow the public and all relevant stakeholders contribute towards shaping the legislation before we get in a phase where we might be talking of extraction possibilities. Admittedly by then Minster of Mines, Mr. Christopher Yaluma when he gave an update on the floor of Parliament, this sector is a new area for this country for which we do not have much capacity,” Mrs. Kaunda said.
She said there is need to develop relevant skills and build the capacity of both the Government and the private sector if Zambia is to develop this sector in a manner that will contribute to the development of the country.
Mrs. Kaunda said this will require more resources and learning from what other countries such as Ghana that has fairly progressive pieces of legislation in place.
“CTPD would like to further appeal to the Ministry responsible for mining to broaden its consultation base if we are to get much from the extractives sector, there is need to improve on the dissemination of information, especially to local communities that are likely to host these extractives investments. We have noted with deep concern from the projects we have been implementing targeting local communities that host mining investments that most of them are left behind when it comes to information in terms exploration activities taking place in their communities, a case in point would include Zambezi and Chavuma Districts, we have learnt that there are a number of exploration activities going on in the districts for various minerals, but few of the local people know.”
She added, “If we are to develop without leaving any one behind as espoused in the 7th National Development Plan, it begins with ensuring that everyone is on the same page information wise.”
JOINT STATEMENT BY CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS ON ALLEGATIONS AGAINST SOME JUDGES IN THE SAVENDA Vs. STANBIC BANK CASE AT A PRESS CONFERENCE HELD AT THE FOUR PILLARS LODGE, LUSAKA MONDAY 11TH JUNE 2018
LEADERS OF THE VARIOUS NGOS REPRESENTED,
FRIENDS FROM THE PRESS,
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN,
May I begin by thanking you all, especially you our colleagues from the media for honouring our invitation to attend this very important press conference.
We have called this press conference in view of the serious allegations that have been reported about the conduct of some Supreme Court Judges in the matter of Savenda Vs. Stanbic Bank Zambia. You will note our interest in this matter that as the National Empowerment Forum (NEF), we were created to among other things champion the empowerment of local enterprises.
Our vision is to promote the empowerment of Zambian owned businesses that can generate wealth for the country and create the much needed employment opportunities for the youths. It is against this background that we have in this consortium, youths that are equally adding their voices. Today, our youths are unable to get employment opportunities because the country has basically exported these opportunities in the name of foreign investment.
It is our duty as an organisation to defend and promote local entrepreneurs who are trying hard under very difficult conditions to contribute to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
As NEF, we have taken keen interest in the recent Supreme Court judgement involving one local enterprise.
As you may be aware the Supreme Court overturned a decision by the High Court that had ordered that Stanbic Bank pays Savenda K192.5 million. In September 2016, High Court Judge, Justin Chashi ordered Stanbic Bank to pay Savenda K192.5 million for loss of business and vital contracts after Stanbic wrongly and negligently reported Savenda to the Credit Reference Bureau for defaulting on instalments. Stanbic appealed the decision to the Court of Appeals which decided that the damage suffered by Savenda was only nominal.
In March 2018, three Supreme Court Judges, Nigel Mutuna, Michael Musonda and Evans Hamaundu dismissed the appeal by Savenda. The Judges did not only dismiss the appeal but also ordered Savenda to pay Stanbic costs for all expenses the bank incurred from the High Court to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court said Savenda did not suffer even nominal damages and that Stanbic did not breach any of its duties to Savenda.
While we respect the Judgement of the Supreme Court, we are concerned about the recent reports suggesting impropriate against the Honourable men on the bench.
As a consortium, we are deeply saddened at these media reports as they speak to the country’s justice system. It is in the interest of the Judges and indeed the judiciary to ensure that they come clean against these allegations that have been raised and are playing out in the public.
We do not want to delve into the substantive allegations; however we challenge the Chief Justice Madam IREEN MAMBILIMA to save the Judiciary from an impending embarrassment.
In view of the serious allegations that have been raised against some named Judges, we demand the following;
1. That President Edgar Lungu immediately suspends the named Judges to pave way for the setting up of a Tribunal to investigate the serious allegations.
2. The Chief Justice to immediately constitute a Tribunal to probe the named judges without any further delay.
Any imputation of impropriate, especially corruption has the potential to seriously undermine the credibility of the Judiciary. Zambians have reposed their faith and trust in the Courts to resolve any conflicts and differences, and thus must always be above board. It is only fair that the named Judges should be given the opportunity to defend themselves in the face of the allegations so that this very important arm of Government can maintain its integrity.
We also appeal to the Judges themselves to do the right thing by stepping down to allow for a full investigation.
The Judiciary cannot afford to bury its head in the sand against the damming allegations that have been made against the Judges.
NEF and the consortium members will be writing to President Edgar Lungu to suspend the Judges in accordance with the Constitution so that a Tribunal is set up to probe the named Judges so that they are cleared of the allegations.
As an organisation we will also be writing to the Chief Justice to set up a Tribunal.
Soccer legend Christopher Katongo celebrates the launch of the Castle 5s football league, with Zambian Breweries Country Director Jose Moran.
Chipolopolo legend Christopher Katongo has advised young players to match their talent with passion and hard-work in order to excel in the sport.
Katongo noted that talent alone cannot make a footballer succeed.
The ex-Zambia captain said he was not a very talented player but his passion for the game made him shine.
“Talent alone is not enough in football. You need the inner thing to propel you and that is passion,” Katongo said at Kitwe Playing Field during the Shield/Chelsea talent search.
He is the ambassador for Unilever Shield/Chelsea talent search programme in which one Zambian footballer will be picked to be part of a team that will train and face the Chelsea legends side in London.
“Someone has to be passionate about football. Like myself I don’t think I was that talented but I used passion and hard-work,” he said.
Besides winning the Africa Cup with Zambia in 2012, Katongo starred for Danish side Brøndby, Armenia Bielefeld of German, Skoda Xanthi in Greece, Chinese club Henan Construction and South Africa’s Jomos Cosmos.
“You need to listen to what coaches want and follow instructions regarding tactics and discipline. We had talented players but they never reached the level Zambia wanted,” the Green Buffaloes assistant coach said.
Mufulira Wanderers tumbled from the top to fourth place on the FAZ Division One Zone Two table after suffering their first loss of the season when losing 1-0 to Kansanshi Dynamos at home.
Forward Lloyd Alufonso scored the game at Shinde Stadium that saw Kansanshi move to 18 points after 10 matches played.
Wanderers remain on 19 points.
Meanwhile, Indeni displaced Mighty from the top after thumping Kalulushi Modern Stars 3-1 away in Kalulushi at the weekend.
Indeni’s fifth consecutive win under new coach Mathews Ndhlovu pushed them to 21 points, one above second placed Konkola Blades, after 10 matches played.
Konkola moved into second place following a 2-0 win over FQM Roads thanks to goals from Eric Chisala and Christian Mpoyi.
Chambishi are third on the table after a 1-1 draw at home against Gomes.
Chambishi have 20 points and sixth placed Gomes sit on 16 points.
In Luanshya, Garry Mwelwa and Raphael Lungu scored as Roan United beat promoted side Trident of Kalumbila 2-0 at Kafubu Stadium.
Roan are 9th on the table with 14 points from 10 matches played.
FAZ DIVISION ONE – WEEK 11 RESULTS
ZONE ONE
Lundazi United 0-0 Happy Hearts
Lusaka Tigers 1-2 Chipata City Council
Paramilitary 3-0 Wonderful (Walk Over)
Katete Rangers 1-1 Kafue Celtic
City Of Lusaka 0-0 Zesco Malaiti Rangers
Young Green Buffaloes 0-0 Lusaka City Council
Riflemen 0-0 Police College
Circuit City 3-0 Petauke United
ZONE TWO
Mufulira Wanderers 0-1 Kansanshi Dynamos
Roan United 2-0 Trident
Chambishi 1-1 Gomes
Ndola United 2-1 ZNS Lwamfumu
Konkola Blades 2-0 FQMO Roads
Mufulira Blackpool 0-1 Kashikishi Warriors
Kalulushi Modern Stars 1-3 Indeni
FQMO Mining Operation 1-0 Mining Rangers
ZONE THREE
Real Nakonde Fc 1-0 Kateshi Coffee Bullets
Mpulungu harbour 1-0 Prison Leopards
Tazara Express 2-1 Riverside United
Tazara Rangers 2-1 Zambeef
Chindwin Sentries 3-0 Isoka Young Stars walkover
Muchinga Blue Eagles 2-2 Mpande Youth Academy
Malalo Police 3-0 Intersport Youth (Walkover)
Kasama Young Fighters 0-0 Kasama United Youth Academy
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has given the University of Zambia US$340,000 to develop a Degree Programme to train students in witchcraft.
The training in what is referred to as Intangible Cultural Heritage will commence with the first intake comprising of 20 students.
The Zambia National Commission for UNESCO has explained that Intangible Heritage comprises of practices such as Witchcraft, Social Practices such as expression through music, Knowledge, skills-as well as the instruments, objects, artifacts and rituals.
Zambia National Commission for UNESCO Secretary General Dr. Charles Ndakala said despite efforts in safeguarding cultural heritage, there are cases of destruction of priceless culture heritage in certain countries which threatens traditions and customs.
Dr. Charles Ndakala was speaking to Journalists on the sidelines of a five days’ workshop for the orientation of UNZA Lecturers on Intangible Culture Heritage.
In November last year, Higher Education Minister Professor Nkandu Luo announced that Zambia should consider research and the study of witchcraft as a science that can be used productively for the benefit of the country.
Professor Luo said Zambian scientists can learn from the South African counterparts who have commenced studies in witchcraft in some universities.
“I could not help but think of witchcraft when I saw a mobile phone put into a box and it turned into a lady’s pant!” she said during the commemoration of the World Science Day for Peace and Development dubbed: ‘Recreating interest in science, technology and innovation’.
But then Government Spokesperson Kampamba Mulenga said Government was disappointed with media reports suggesting that it will consider research on witchcraft as a science that can be used productively for the benefit of the country.
Ms. Mulenga said the allegations are blatant falsehoods coming from people who have nothing good to offer to the nation.
She said government is aware that there is a group of people that is spreading malicious statements through various media platforms, bent on destroying government’s image.
She added that contrary to the allegations, President Lungu’s administration has and will always uphold Zambia’s status as a Christian nation as enshrined in the preamble of the constitution.
Ms. Mulenga said it is common knowledge that Christianity and witchcraft are poles apart and cannot co-exist.
But in December last year, the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage which falls under UNESCO approved two International Assistance requests at the intergovernmental Committee for the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage held at the International Convention Centre (ICC), Jeju Province, Republic of Korea.
In a statement that was issued by the Zambian Embassy in Paris, France, Uganda was granted US$ 232, 000 and the Committee selected two projects in Bulgaria and Uzbekistan for the Register of Good Safeguarding Practices, which allows communities to share successful safeguarding programmes and activities.
Zambia’s project aims to strengthen the capacity for the safeguarding and management of intangible cultural heritage.
This project intended to develop and implement a degree programme in intangible cultural heritage at the University of Zambia.
Zambia was represented by the Country’s expert to the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, Mr. Munukayumbwa Munyima at the intergovernmental Committee for the ICHin Jeju Province.
During the conference, Zambia shared its experience in implementing the project supported by intangible cultural heritage Fund having successfully completed its International Assistance project and timely submitted its final report to the intergovernmental Committee for the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage.
Afrimax, the company that has run a number of mobile operations in Africa under the Vodafone brand, says Vodafone Zambia will have “new ownership”.
The company said in a brief statement that it will announce a new CEO in succession to Lars Henrik Stork, who is retiring – and “other structural changes including new ownership of Vodafone Zambia”.
Vodafone’s corporate headquarters in the UK shrugged off an enquiry from Capacity by saying: “This is a former partner market that we no longer have an association with.”
But Afrimax appears to have been unwinding a lot of activities across Africa – some using the Vodafone brand – over recent months.
In February Afrimax Uganda lost the right to trade as Vodafone Uganda after going into creditor protection, with debts said in local media to be almost 300 billion Uganda shillings ($78 million).
That followed months after Afrimax’s operation in Cameroun, also branded as Vodafone closed down after a licensing dispute.
Those two closures left only Zambia in the Afrimax portfolio, also operating until now as Vodafone under the UK-based group’s Partner Markets scheme.
Now the Zambian business appears to be about to change.
Gilbert Temba, chair of the Afrimax board, gave no hint about the “structural changes” that face Vodafone/Afrimax Zambia.
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But Afrimax has also been selling off its non-Vodafone-branded businesses.
In February it sold Busy Internet Ghana to a local company, AI Technologies.
It told local media at the time that this was part of its “strategy aimed at reorganising its corporate structure with a view to enabling continued improvement in the delivery of its strategic goals, thereby allowing it to focus on key commercial and financial priorities in its focus markets”.
Three years ago Afrimax said it had raised $120 million from Mitsui, International Finance Corporation, and others to build 4G networks in 12 Africa markets, where it had licences to build TD-LTE networks – the version of 4G that is said to be more suitable for fixed internet access.
Stork was group COO of Afrimax, though his role has changed as the group has closed down a number of operations.
He said in February: “The successful sale of our business in Ghana is in line with our restructuring strategy aimed at building a next-generation 4G business in Africa.”
Stork has worked in African telecoms since 2005, when he was VP of operations of Celtel International – the Amsterdam-based African group that was later bought by Zain and subsequently sold to Airtel.
Orlando Pirates have their eye on another Zambian striker in the shape of Zesco United hitman Lazarous Kambole.
Pirates have been tracking Kambole for quite some time, having met with officials from his club in February with a view to bringing him to Mayfair.
Kambole did his prospects of a PSL move no harm by hitting a brace in Chipolopolo’s COSAFA Cup final loss to Zimbabwe at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.
According to a source, Bucs official Floyd Mbele was in attendance at the regional showpiece in Polokwane last week.
“There was a discussion between the club [Zesco] and Orlando Pirates in February after the CHAN tournament regarding the player,” says the informant.
“There has never been any update since then. I believe Floyd Mbele was in Polokwane but I am not sure if it was regarding the deal with Kambole.”
Pirates, who currently have Zambian attackers Justin Shonga and Augustine Mulenga on their books, are expected to announce their new signings this week.
Meshack Maphangule, Paseko Mako, Abel Mabaso, Linda Mntambo and Ben Motshwari are among those in contention to don the Buccaneers jersey.
Last Tuesday, the ruling Patriotic Front (PF) scooped the Chilanga parliamentary by-election, defeating three other opposition parties: the United Party for National Development (UPND), National Restoration Party (NAREP) and United Prosperous and Peaceful Zambia (UPPZ). Previously held by the UPND’s Keith Mukata, the Chilanga seat fell vacant after the Lusaka High Court convicted Mukata for the murder of Namakambwa Kalila Kwenda, a security guard who was shot dead in unclear circumstances at Mukata’s law firm last year. PF candidate Maria Langa polled 7,226 votes and was followed by the UPND’s Charmaine Mehl Musonda who obtained 6,410 ballots. UPPZ’s Francis Kope was third with 204 votes while NAREP’s Charlie Mazabuka earned his position at the bottom with 92 votes. The low voter turnout that characterised the Chilanga poll is typical of by-elections – of the constituency’s 49,614 registered voters, only 14,121 (representing 28.46 per cent) turned up to cast their vote – but the violence that reportedly marred the campaign may also have dissuaded many to stay away.
The ruling party has since seized upon this favourable outcome as evidence of the PF’s electoral ascendance and the UPND’s gradual decline. PF Media Director Sunday Chanda argued that the result of the Chilanga poll indicates that the main opposition “is losing ground everyday and with every election. UPND bases and members are fatigued with the leadership of Hakainde Hichilema [in contrast to] President Edgar Lungu [who] is gaining popularity with every single election”. For its part, the UPND attributed its defeat to the ‘warfare-like violence’ that took place on polling day, which, according to party Secretary General Stephen Katuka, prevented many of its supporters from voting. Other commentators have argued that the UPND gifted the seat to the PF because of the opposition party’s adoption of a morally compromised candidate. Musonda, who was in the company of Mukata at the time when the shooting of Kalila Kwenda occurred, was arrested alongside the then Chilanga lawmaker, with whom she had an affair, but was ultimately acquitted by the High Court. Traditional UPND supporters, critics argue, may have either stayed away from voting or switched to the PF in protest against the adoption of a candidate who was fresh from a murder charge and had an affair with a married man.
Neither of these perspectives tells us the full story. While the PF’s effective campaign strategy in Chilanga should be commended, any attempts to draw broader conclusions from the result would be misleading not least because the area is a multiethnic peri-urban constituency whose voting patterns can neither be transferred nor generalised to the rest of Lusaka or indeed the country. It is equally an exercise in self-deception to consider the outcome of the Chilanga poll as evidence of UPND members’ dissatisfaction with Hichilema’s leadership of the party. Similarly, attempts by the UPND to explain its defeat in Chilanga as a result of violence amount to self-deceit and overlook the possibility that many of those disfranchised may have been PF supporters since, according to media reports, UPND cadres also engaged in violent conduct and even brandished guns.
Finally, those suggesting that the UPND may have lost the seat because of the choice of its candidate, a supposedly morally repulsive one, are undermining the effectiveness of the PF campaign strategy, ignoring the fact that Musonda was the grassroots’ preferred candidate during the primary poll and are arguably projecting their own notions of moral integrity onto Chilanga voters. The truth is that moral considerations have never weighed heavily on the electoral scale of concerns of many Zambian voters and there is no evidence that the electorate in Chilanga is an exception to this general norm. Our recent political history is awash with examples of individuals with dilapidated moral infrastructure who ascended to elective public office at various levels. In fact, if morality was an important factor in our electoral politics, Rupiah Banda, Michael Sata and Lungu would never have come anywhere near State House. It is also worth noting that the top four of the nine candidates that Musonda, a Bemba, defeated with wide margins in the primary, were all Tongas. Had the UPND central leadership imposed any of them on Chilanga, critics may have seized on this move as further evidence of the party’s commitment to Tonga ethnic particularism. Such a move could have also alienated the grassroots. What this picture demonstrates is the need to seek other explanations for the Chilanga result beyond the existing narratives.
In my view, broadly speaking, the outcome of the Chilanga parliamentary by-election should be understood as a consequence of two factors.
First, Chilanga, historically speaking, is a swing constituency that was not a stronghold for any of the competing parties and where voters have demonstrated particular affinity to individuals rather than political parties. Although many, including some in the UPND, have hitherto presented Chilanga as a stronghold for the main opposition party, history tells us otherwise, at least at parliamentary level, showing that for a long time the constituency was a traditional power base for the former ruling party, the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD). In the 2001 general elections, Chilanga was won by the UPND’s Cosmas Moono, who was defeated by the MMD’s Ng’andu Magande five years later. Following Magande’s expulsion from the then ruling party, the UPND won the seat in the subsequent by-election in October 2010 after Moono, who was fronted as a PF-UPND pact candidate, closely defeated the MMD contender, Keith Mukata. At the 2011 general elections, the MMD recaptured the seat through Mukata who trounced the UPND’s Moono.
In the run-up to the 2016 general elections, Mukata, then serving as Deputy Minister of Justice in Lungu’s PF administration, defected to the UPND, on whose ticket he later retained the seat until his conviction. This abbreviated electoral history of Chilanga constituency demonstrates two features: that Chilanga was largely an MMD stronghold between 2006 and 2016 and that the party’s electoral appeal in the area was closely tied to the popularity of Mukata. Contrary to the UPND’s repeated claims that Chilanga was its stronghold, the opposition party probably won the seat in 2016 on the strength of Mukata’s individual attributes and political clout. Of particular importance is that the PF candidates, in all the previous parliamentary elections held in Chilanga since 2006, consistently came a close third or second even when the party was still in opposition. A victory for the PF this time was therefore as likely as a win for the UPND, especially since both parties adopted candidates who could not be differentiated on gender and were popular with grassroots supporters. Langa, a low-profile figure whom Chilanga residents affectionately call ‘Amama’, is a well-established community entrepreneur who has greatly promoted the cause of women in the area. What made the decisive difference is not the character or individual qualities of either candidate but a factor that I discuss next.
Second, the PF’s victory in Chilanga was secured by the advantages of incumbency. Nearly all Cabinet ministers and several PF MPs from Lusaka and elsewhere camped in Chilanga to campaign for Langa. Vast amounts of state resources were poured into the area and deployed for partisan use. Some voters were reportedly bribed with cash and other luxurious goods to vote for the PF candidate – a strategy that has proved effective in securing the support of impoverished electors, especially those deprived of the enlightening knowledge of ‘Don’t Kubeba’. (A similar strategy of extensive vote buying was successfully deployed by the PF in the Lubansenshi parliamentary by-election in September 2015.) In addition, a number of previously unattended roads were suddenly either tarred or paved. One elderly Chilanga resident who voted for NAREP’s candidate told me that he hoped ‘there would be another by-election in the constituency soon so that the remaining roads can also be tarred’. To crown it all, President Lungu, campaigning in the area a few days before polling day, warned Chilanga residents that they will not receive development or tangible benefits from the State if they voted for the opposition, especially the UPND. (In a country with a functioning judiciary, such careless utterances by the President provide sufficient basis for invalidating the results of the Chilanga poll if petitioned. The problem is that even if the High Court disposes of the case within 90 days, as per the law, the Constitutional Court may take up to 2021 to conclude a possible appeal arising from the ruling of the lower court, as ably demonstrated by its snail-paced movement in the now ancient appeal cases of Munali and Lusaka Central constituencies.) Outspent and unable to match the PF’s bottomless financial muscle, the opposition tumbled.
I congratulate the PF for winning Chilanga and wish the newly elected MP all the best as she now turns her attention to fulfilling the promises that she made to voters such as the launch of a Disney World theme park or resort. I also commend the UPND for sticking to or respecting the choice of the grassroots, a move that represents a victory for internal party democracy and the voice of the rank and file.
Delegates at the Political Party CEOs meetings taking a group photo
The much anticipated Secretary Generals’ meeting has officially began in Siavonga at the Kariba Inn with all invited parties including the PF and UPND in attendance.
The meeting started with an assurance from the UPND represantantives that they carry the full mandate of the party after participants raised an issue with the opposition party’s sending of proxies to the meeting without a clear explanation from the party as to why their principal office bearers were unavailable.
The UPND have sent their Head of Policy and Research Dr Choolwe Beyani, National Trustee Collins Maoma and their Legal Counsel Mukambo Haimbe in place of their party secretary general Stephen Katuka, his Deputy Patrick Mucheleka and Garry Nkombo who had earlier confirmed their participation.
The move to send proxies by the UPND to the Secretary General’s meeting infuriated participants from other political parties as they described it as “lack of seriousness and disregard for the national dialogue process on the part of UPND.
First Chairperson for the Zambia Centre for Interparty Dialogue-ZCID Dr Katele Kalumba said it was important for all participants to accommodate one another and that it was important for those representing their parties to ensure that the adequate mandate to “whip” their Presidents on issues relating to national dialogue.
Dr Kalumba noted that when the level was not adequate it would be difficulty for the representatives to impress on their presidents on what would be agreed during the meetings.
“I hope the representation from UPND reflects an adequate and highest possible level for whiping their president on issues relating to this summit.
“Previous experience suggest that when the level is not adequate it is difficult to push the agenda within the party but I have heard from the subbmission from our colleagues from the UPND that they have enough authority and mandate to execute that task and I hope that in the interest of our nation and I can tell you all eyes are here in Siavonga as far as Zambians are concerned they know that this meeting is taking place, that there is a meeting of secretary generals and that they will come up with an agenda to start the process of dialogue and reconciliation so I hope that we don’t miss this opportunity.
“We need to give and take a little bit. We understand the handcups of our friends and we accept the assurance that they are here with the full mandate of their party. Its sad that I take my heart out for you the secretary general of the PF who had to leave just after burring his Sister had to come here because he felt this meeting was important for the nation, I really take my heart off to you honourable Mwila. It takes patriotism to do that, a great deal of patriotism,” he said.
And PF Secretary General Davis Mwila expressed concern that the move to send proxies to the meeting would set a bad precedence for the forth coming ‘Presidents Summit’ where others would want to send representatives.
Mwila said the UPND should be categorical and assure the people in the meeting that they will send their president to the presidents summit as it hinges on the continued peace of the country.
He said he had travelled to Siavonga because his party understands the magnitude of what ZCID was trying to achieve and that the process was a cost to the country not to be taken seriously.
Meanwhile a University of Zambia Don Dr Alex N’goma implored the UPND to take matters of national dialogue seriously.
Dr N’goma said there is time for institutions to send proxies but that when time for those in positions are invited they should be honourable enough to avail themselves.
The MMD through their National Secretary Raphael Nakacinda submmited that UPND representatives should assure the nation that they would not be disowned by their party after resolutions have been made.
He said the meeting was for Secretary Generals hence principal office bearers should have been the ones attending and not their proxies hence the need for an assurance from the UPND that they would not be abandoned by their party.
In response Dr Beyani assured the delegates to the meeting that he and his team were equal to the task.
“I carry the wit and mantle of the secretary general of the UPND. The decision I will make here represent the decision and the weight of the secretary general of the UPND so let’s make that very clear,” he said.
The Secretary Generals’ meeting is a prelude to the presidents summit which is expected to take place soon.
The meeting is expected to deliberate on the submissions from the previous ZCID led dialogue process which started with consultations with former Republican presidents, political party presidents as well as eminent persons.
Further ZCID engaged stakeholders from different sectors of society at the National Democracy Stakeholders Summit before holding a one day meeting with political parties outside parliament. ZCID also engaged the Church Mother Bodies on the dialogue process.
PF Secretary general Davies MwilaPF Deputy Secretary general Mumbi PhiriFirst Chairperson for the Zambia Centre for Interparty Dialogue-ZCID Dr Katele KalumbaThe Delegates at the Secretary Generals’s MeetingThe Delegates at the Secretary Generals’s Meeting
Director National Water Supply and Sanitation Council Kelvin Chitumbo stress a point to Vice President Inonge Wina during the tour of stands shortly after the official opening of Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition at Government Complex yesterday 11-06-2018. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
Vice President, Inonge Wina says with Africa’s projected growth over the next decades, water, food and energy will become one of the key economic mix for meeting the needs of growing cities and food requirements of large populations.
The Vice President notes that this calls for innovative and sustainable ways of water usage as part of Africa’s economic development.
Mrs Wina was speaking when she officiated at the Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition which is looking at harnessing water for social and economic benefits.
And Minister of Water Development, Dennis Wanchinga has called on the water sector to work with Government to ensure 100 hundred percent domestic water supply and sanitation coverage in both rural and urban areas.
Dr. Wanchinga says this is in a bid to improve the livelihood of Zambians and avert outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as cholera.
Meanwhile, German Ambassador, Achim Burkart underscored the importance of water as a human right and a prerequisite for many crucial economic activities.
And Chairperson of Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition, IMASIKU NYAMBE asked the Vice President to be patron of the Forum citing the importance she attaches to challenges of water.
Vice President Inonge Wina confers with Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition (ZAWAFE) Exhibitors during the tour of stands shortly after the official opening of Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition at Government Complex yesterday 11-06-2018. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANISVice President Inonge Wina receive the present from Chairperson of Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition (ZAWAFE) Prof. Imasiku Nyambe shortly after the official opening of Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition at Government Complex yesterday 11-06-2018. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS Vice President Inonge Wina receive the present from Chairperson of Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition (ZAWAFE) Prof. Imasiku Nyambe shortly after the official opening of Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition at Government Complex yesterday 11-06-2018. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS Chairperson of Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition (ZAWAFE) Prof. Imasiku Nyambe presenting a documentation to Vice President Inonge Wina during the official opening of Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition at Government Complex yesterday 11-06-2018. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
FILE: Minister of Gender Victoria Kalima confers with His Excellency President Edgar Lungu whilst other Ministers looks on shortly after State of the Nation address at Parliament Buildings
Gender Minister and Kasenegwa Member of Parliament Victoria Victoria Kalima has died. Hon Kalima died last evening at Maina Soko Military hospital where she had been admitted.
Hon Kalima, born in October 1972, first came into parliament in 2011 on the Movement for Multi-party Democracy ticket as Kasenegwa member of parliament.
In 2016, Kalima staunchly advocated for an alliance between PF and MMD and later defected to the Patriotic Front and stood on the PF ticket and won.
Hon. Kalima was subsequently appointed as Gender Minister by y President Edgar Lungu a position she has held till her death.
Hon Kalima has steered change that many will remember her for. In 2012 she defended the rights of journalists who got detained and who’s cameras were confiscated.
In 2017 she became an activist against gender inequality and child marriages. The same year she also proposed a revised version of Marriage Bill which will ban any marriages between a man and a woman until both are at least 21 years of age.
Details for her funeral and burial are yet to be communicated.
