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Controversy Arises as Kenyan Parliament Bans Kaunda Suits

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Controversy Arises as Kenyan Parliament Bans Kaunda Suits

Kenya’s parliament has sparked controversy by instituting a ban on the iconic Kaunda suit, named after the late Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda, within its premises. Speaker of Parliament Moses Wetangula announced that both Kaunda suits and traditional African attire were no longer permissible.

The Kaunda suit, distinguished by a safari jacket and matching trousers, owes its name to President Kaunda, who played a pivotal role in making it a fashion statement. The attire has gained popularity among the political elite, with Kenyan President William Ruto often choosing it for official events.

Speaker Wetangula justified the ban by citing emerging fashion trends that posed a challenge to the established parliamentary dress code. He outlined a prescribed dress code for men, including a coat, collar, tie, long-sleeved shirt, long trousers, socks, shoes, or service uniform. Women were advised to adhere to business, formal, or smart casual wear, with skirts and dresses below knee-length and sleeveless blouses prohibited.

While acknowledging past tolerance of the Kaunda suit in parliament, Wetangula emphasized the need to halt this practice to preserve the parliamentary dress code. The recent attention garnered by the Kaunda suit on Kenyan social media, especially due to President Ruto’s frequent appearances in it during official functions, adds an extra layer to the controversy.

The ban has triggered mixed reactions on social media, with some questioning the prohibition of an African attire in an African parliament. Others express support for maintaining a specified dress code. The controversy surrounding the Kaunda suit ban reflects the intersection of cultural expression, fashion, and political symbolism, sparking discussions about the significance of attire within the context of parliamentary proceedings.

Hon. Kafwaya Raises Concerns Over Alleged Corruption and Collapse of Debt Restructuring Deal

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Hon. Kafwaya Raises Concerns Over Alleged Corruption and Collapse of Debt Restructuring Deal

Lunte Member of Parliament, Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya, has expressed grave concerns over the alleged collapse of the government’s debt restructuring deal, citing corruption and dishonesty as major contributors to the deal’s demise.

Hon. Kafwaya asserted that the debt restructuring deal, a key initiative pursued by the government, is now “as good as dead” due to what he claims is a lack of transparency and questionable practices in its execution.

Among the highlighted issues, Hon. Kafwaya pointed to the revelation that the government had purportedly agreed to pay $2.5 billion between 2024 and 2025 to bondholders. This decision, according to him, has reportedly angered the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He emphasized that committing to such a substantial amount contradicts the ongoing $1.3 billion program with the IMF and raises concerns about the financial feasibility of such an agreement.

Furthermore, Hon. Kafwaya criticized the government for agreeing to an 18% haircut instead of the 40% demanded from other creditors, deviating from the G20 Common Framework’s principle of equal debt treatment. He disclosed that the face value of the new bonds was increased to $3.135 billion in both scenarios, exceeding the original $3 billion face value of the old notes.

The Member of Parliament expressed his dismay, stating, “The agreement announced on 26th October 2023 with the External Bondholder Steering Committee is so absurd that it has shocked the IMF, Official Creditor Committee headed by China and France.”

In response to these concerns, Hon. Kafwaya urged the government to provide an explanation for the alleged scandalous clauses in the debt restructuring deal, which has reportedly been renounced. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, indicating that an announcement about the renouncement had been directed to the London Stock Exchange.

Hon. Kafwaya concluded by asserting that the reported carelessness in dealing with such matters is now costing the nation and could potentially lead Zambia back into a state of debt distress. He called for increased honesty in governance matters to avoid economic hardship and soaring living costs.

The government has not yet officially responded to these allegations, and the situation is likely to draw further scrutiny in the coming days.

GBM’s nephew Adolphus Mubanga convicted for possession of assets deemed proceeds of crime

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GBM’s nephew Adolphus Mubanga convicted for possession of assets deemed proceeds of crime

Adolphus Mubanga, a Lusaka businessman and the country representative of CURZON Global Limited, has been convicted and sentenced to two years of imprisonment with hard labor for the possession of properties considered proceeds of crime. The judgment was delivered by Lusaka Principal Magistrate Irene Wishimanga.

Adolphus Mubanga had initially faced joint accusations alongside former Defence Minister Geoffrey Mwamba. However, they were later separated from the indictment, and Mubanga faced independent charges related to the possession of assets believed to be derived from criminal activities.

The charges against Mubanga specified that between June 1 and August 30, 2021, he was found in possession of four million and 50 thousand units of currency in a named bank, deemed to be proceeds of crime. Additionally, on August 30, 2015, he allegedly possessed K980 000 held at a specific bank, and on November 30, 2015, he held K525 954 in another bank, both amounts considered proceeds of crime.

Lusaka Principal Magistrate Irene Wishimanga handed down the verdict, sentencing Mr. Mubanga to a two-year prison term with hard labor after finding him guilty of the charges. The judgment marks a significant development in the legal proceedings surrounding the alleged possession of assets derived from criminal activities.

Mr. Mubanga’s association with CURZON Global Limited, a company where Geoffrey Mwamba reportedly expressed interest for business dealings in 2011 during his tenure as Defence Minister, adds an additional layer of complexity to the case.

It is noteworthy that Geoffrey Mwamba, the former Defence Minister, remains a separate entity in the legal proceedings, and the verdict pertains solely to Adolphus Mubanga’s charges.

President Hichilema Engages U.S. CDC Delegation to Strengthen Health Collaboration

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President Hichilema Engages U.S. CDC Delegation to Strengthen Health Collaboration

President Hakainde Hichilema welcomed a delegation from the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at State House, led by Principal Deputy Director, Dr. Nirav Shah. The meeting marked a significant engagement to reinforce the collaboration between Zambia and the CDC in various health programs.

Expressing gratitude for the CDC’s longstanding cooperation, President Hichilema highlighted the organization’s pivotal role in supporting health initiatives in Zambia, ranging from HIV/AIDS to Tuberculosis prevention. Through the President’s Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the CDC has played a crucial role in supporting Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) and preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV across the country.

The productive dialogue between President Hichilema and the CDC delegation included an acknowledgment of the CDC’s technical and financial assistance to Zambia, ensuring the highest quality health outcomes for the Zambian people.

In line with Zambia’s strategic shift towards a private sector-led economy, President Hichilema urged the CDC to explore opportunities for local manufacturing of medicines and medical consumables. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader agenda of job creation, economic growth, and enhancing the capacity of the local workforce.

President Hichilema stated, “We thank the CDC for their unwavering support and collaboration in addressing critical health issues in Zambia. As we transition towards a private sector-led economy, we see great potential in localizing the production of medicines, contributing to both economic growth and workforce development.”

The discussions emphasized the shared commitment to advancing healthcare in Zambia and exploring innovative solutions to meet the evolving health challenges facing the nation.

The visit concluded with President Hichilema expressing optimism about the future of the partnership, emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration to achieve robust health outcomes and economic growth for Zambia.

President Hakainde Hichilema and U.S Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Principal Deputy Director, Dr Nirav Shah.

Former Barclays Boss Accused of Fabricating Conflict of Interest in Zambian Bank Takeover

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Former Barclays Boss Accused of Fabricating Conflict of Interest in Zambian Bank Takeover

London, November 28, 2023 — The High Court in London heard explosive allegations against former Barclays boss Bob Diamond, claiming that he fabricated a conflict of interest to obstruct Zambian businessman Dr. Rajan Mahtani from benefiting from the sale of Finance Bank Zambia (FBZ).

Dr. Mahtani, who founded FBZ in 1986 and agreed to a takeover by Diamond’s Atlas Mara company, accuses the latter of breaching the terms of the acquisition agreement, leading to a lawsuit seeking up to $100 million (£80m) in damages.

In his testimony on Tuesday, Dr. Mahtani refuted claims of a conflict of interest linked to the appointment of Faber Capital as a fundraising agent for the sale of FBZ and its subsidiaries. He alleged that the conflict was a pretext for delaying Faber’s appointment, hindering the raising of funds to achieve an ‘earn out’ target by the deadline of December 31, 2016.

The alleged conflict arose as Faber Capital was also mandated to work for Crane Bank, a Ugandan bank that Atlas Mara was considering for purchase. Dr. Mahtani dismissed the conflict as a ‘fiasco,’ stating that none of the involved parties, including Faber Capital and Crane, saw any problem.

During cross-examination, Atlas Mara’s representative, Anna Boase KC, cited correspondence indicating the company’s cooperation until the identification of the conflict on August 5, 2016. Boase argued that Atlas Mara resumed working with Faber once the conflict was resolved on September 27, as Faber dropped its Ugandan client.

Dr. Mahtani countered that none of the parties involved agreed on the existence of a conflict during that period. He claimed that the conflict issue soured relations between Atlas Mara and Faber, pointing to an internal email from Faber on September 24, expressing frustration with Atlas Mara’s reluctance to work with them.

Despite the email, Faber continued to work with FBZ, emailing Dr. Mahtani on October 9, outlining conditions for becoming the official fundraising agent. Dr. Mahtani blamed Atlas Mara for preventing the funds from being raised, emphasizing that it was the company’s lack of cooperation.

The ongoing trial raises serious allegations against Bob Diamond, whose past controversies include a forced exit from Barclays in a 2012 interbank rate-fixing scandal. Barclays was fined a record £290 million for manipulating rates determining mortgage payments.

The trial continues, promising further revelations and insights into the intricate web surrounding the FBZ takeover.

Source: Nick Forbes
Central News, Press Room, Central Criminal Court

Beyond deception ,UPND Political Campaign promises are 1000 ways to die

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Beyond deception ,UPND Political Campaign promises are 1000 ways to die

By Misheck Kakonde

In the wake of the UPND’s governance, the stark contrast between promised pledges and stark realities has shattered public trust. The failure to deliver on commitments, along with the misleading depiction of achievements such as the IMF deal, has left citizens disheartened, yearning for the anticipated change. The timeless adage that “lies have short legs” stands evident, exposing the limitations of deceit in the face of tangible outcomes.

Winston Churchill’s said “the price of greatness is responsibility” resonates deeply. The current UPND administration shoulders the burden of being held accountable for veering away from the assurances extended to the Zambian people. Drawing from Theodore Roosevelt’s words, urging courageous endeavors despite setbacks, emphasizes the imperative for action over passive acceptance.

Furthermore, those staunchly supporting the government will soon awaken from their political slumber. Hunger and hardship do not discriminate based on political loyalty, the consequences of governmental actions impact all citizens, irrespective of party affiliations. Thus, it is crucial for Zambians to transcend partisan divides and embrace a profound sense of patriotism for the nation’s collective welfare.

In the realm of governance, the role of the Speaker of the National Assembly assumes paramount importance. Upholding impartiality and exemplifying honorable conduct are imperative in this position. Taking inspiration from former speakers like Amusa Mwanamwambwa could serve as a guiding light for the current Speaker in steering parliamentary affairs with integrity, transcending political biases for the greater good of Zambia.

The UPND leaders in government Plutocratic behavior is worrying, the administration should learn from leaders like Kenneth Kaunda who echoed a call for unity and collective progress, than the weekly arrests of opposition members, people with different views without evidence for arresting in trying to excite the unsuspecting Zambian citizens. Kaunda’s emphasis on unity in diversity and a shared vision for a better future can serve as a beacon for Zambians in transcending political differences for the nation’s prosperity.

Enough with the deception, it is time to for the Hakainde led administration to be honest and seek a national indaba to discuss the economic status of Zambia and find solutions to avoid this political hallucination we are witnessing.

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

Government urged to consider making Agricultural science a compulsory subject in schools

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Government urged to consider making Agricultural science a compulsory subject in schools

The Kalumbila District Administrative Officer, Frank Siatwinda, has urged the government to consider making Agricultural Science a compulsory subject in schools to engage children in agricultural activities from an early age.

Speaking at the launch of the distribution of the Food Security Pack (FSP) 2023/2024 farming inputs under the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services at Mutanda Community Hall in Mumena chiefdom, Mr. Siatwinda emphasized the potential of the agricultural sector to provide employment opportunities for school leavers.

“Allow me to encourage the government to make agriculture compulsory in our school curriculum so that our children can be engaged in agriculture production at an early stage. The agriculture sector is capable of employing a large number of school leavers who are currently roaming the streets,” said Mr. Siatwinda.

The Food Security Pack (FSP) is a social safety net program identified in the National Social Protection Policy, targeting poor and vulnerable but viable farmer households, especially those headed by females, providing them with agricultural inputs and accompanying services.

“The 2023/2024 farming season has targeted 1,062 beneficiaries in all the 12 wards of Kalumbila district,” added Mr. Siatwinda.

The overall objective of the FSP program is to empower poor and vulnerable households with agricultural inputs and livelihood skills, enhancing productivity, nutrition, food security, and incomes for self-sustainability and poverty reduction.

Encouraging beneficiaries to utilize the inputs effectively, Mr. Siatwinda advised them to join cooperatives or farmer and savings groups. The distribution includes compound D fertilizer, urea fertilizer, groundnut seed, maize seed, and beans.

Acting District Community Development Officer Louis Mulale explained that the majority of FSP beneficiaries in the district are women, emphasizing that the target groups include female-headed households, the aged, disabled, child-aided households, and unemployed youth.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the government’s support, emphasizing the positive impact on their ability to cater for their families’ food needs. Bridget Kangala, a first-time beneficiary, praised the program, highlighting its importance in assisting vulnerable individuals and families.

FAZ Urges Fans to Uphold Fair Play and Avoid Hooliganism

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FAZ Urges Fans to Uphold Fair Play and Avoid Hooliganism

Sydney Mungala, the Communications Manager of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), has called on football fans to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and resorting to hooliganism, emphasizing the importance of following established procedures to address grievances.

In an interview with ZANIS sports, Mungala highlighted that football matches have specific procedures in place, and decisions made by referees are based on careful observations. He urged players, officials, and fans who may be dissatisfied with refereeing decisions to follow the proper channels rather than engaging in unruly behavior.

Mungala emphasized the presence of well-trained referees in Zambia and encouraged stakeholders to trust the established procedures for addressing concerns. He stated that decisions should not be based solely on individual mistakes, and the football community should collectively uphold fair play.

Responding to allegations about the quality of Zambian referee officiating, Mungala dismissed such claims, pointing out that Zambia has received recognition from both the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) to officiate international games. He further noted that Zambia was well-represented in the recently concluded COSAFA women’s game, with five women referees, demonstrating the country’s commitment to maintaining high standards in officiating.

As football continues to be a source of passion for many Zambians, FAZ emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive and respectful atmosphere during matches, ensuring that disputes are resolved through proper channels and in adherence to established procedures.

Fake Medical Doctor Apprehended for Impersonation and Fraud in Chawama Hospital Scam

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Fake Medical Doctor Apprehended for Impersonation and Fraud in Chawama Hospital Scam

The Kabwata police have successfully arrested an individual impersonating a medical doctor in connection with a fraudulent operation at Chawama Hospital. The suspect, identified as Dr. John Mulenga, was apprehended on November 24, 2023, at East Park Mall, and is currently in custody pending a court appearance.

The arrest follows a report filed by Irene Njovu, a 25-year-old resident of an unmarked house in Chilenje. Njovu reported the impersonation after experiencing gynecological complications and being introduced to the suspect by her husband, Joseph Mwale, aged 29.

According to the report, the suspect claimed to be Dr. John Mulenga, associated with an unknown residence in Chipata Compound. The imposter convinced Njovu to make an appointment for a medical operation, allegedly scheduled for November 24, 2023, at Chawama Hospital.

Before the supposed operation, the suspect collected K650 from Njovu for the medical procedure. However, suspicions arose just before the operation, leading to the discovery that the alleged medical practitioner was, in fact, an impersonator with no medical qualifications.

The police were alerted, and the suspect was swiftly apprehended at East Park Mall around 18:30 hours on the same day. The suspect is currently in police custody, awaiting formal charges and a court appearance.

Rae Hamoonga, the Police Public Relations Officer, emphasized the commitment of law enforcement to ensuring the safety and well-being of the public. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police promptly.

The case serves as a stark reminder for individuals to verify the credentials of healthcare professionals and seek medical services from recognized and authorized institutions to safeguard their health and well-being.

President Hichilema salutes USA

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President Hichilema salutes USA

President Hakainde Hichilema has thanked the United States government through the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (US-CDC) for the continued support to the country’s health care services delivery.

President Hichilema says Zambia has continued to benefit from the support from (CDC) which has helped the   reduced disease burden, thereby improving the welfare of the people in the country.

The President cited the support towards the fight against HIV and AIDS and Tuberculosis as some of the successes that the country has scored in addressing the disease burden through the support from the Presidential Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

President Hichilema said this at the State House in Lusaka today, when a delegation from US-CDC led by its Principal Deputy Director Dr Nirv Shah paid a courtesy call on him.

The Head of State further underscored the partnership between the two countries in improving the health care provision for the benefit of the vulnerable people.

He noted that this is why there is need for strengthened collaboration between the two government’s in other public health care services and emergencies in order for Zambia to achieve the target on universal health coverage for all.

President Hichilema has also thanked the CDC team for attending the ongoing International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA) which is currently underway in Lusaka from 27 to 30 November.

And Dr Shah has praised Zambia for the various strides it has recorded in improving the health care services and facilities across the country.

He said this is why the US CDC will continue to partner with the Zambian government in building critical global health security capacities necessary to prevent,detect,and respond to many health threats.

He explained that since 2015 CDC has supported the Zambian government to establish the Zambia National Public Health Institute, and the training of 250 disease detectives to respond to health threats.

Abandoned Mbala baby reunited with mother

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Abandoned Mbala baby reunited with mother

The 17-year-old woman who allegedly abandoned her child immediately after giving birth at Tulemane Clinic in Mbala has been found.

ZANIS reports that Mbala District Commissioner Annie Paul confirmed the development and named the woman as Leya Nanyangwe , after she was found in Kompompo compound.

Mrs Paul indicated that Ms. Nanyangwe, however, claimed that she did not know that the baby was still alive.

She said the woman in question, who was taken to the clinic to see the child, was shocked to find that the baby was still alive.

According to the District Commissioner, Ms Nanyangwe refuted claims that she abandoned the child but only left her at the hospital after suspecting that it was dead.

She has since been given back the baby, who was being kept at the clinic.

On November 11, the woman in question was reported to have abandoned a baby boy at Tulemane Clinic after giving birth.

A search was then instituted to find the mother.

Third International Conference on Public Health in Africa Addresses Global Health Challenges

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Third International Conference on Public Health in Africa Addresses Global Health Challenges

Yesterday marked the commencement of the Third International Conference on Public Health in Africa 2023, inaugurated at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka. Themed ‘Breaking Barriers: Repositioning Africa in the Global Health Architecture,’ the conference provided a vital platform for African leaders to collectively address common health challenges, with a focus on pandemic preparedness for the continent.

President Hakainde Hichilema, in attendance at the opening ceremony, emphasized the critical need for a continental approach to public health, particularly in disease control, prevention, and detection. The interconnected nature of the modern world underscores the absence of territorial boundaries in health, as underscored by the global impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Encouraging collaborative efforts, President Hichilema highlighted the importance of fostering equity and fairness in health outcomes, especially in the realms of research and development, diagnostics, and vaccines. The President noted Africa’s progress in producing Covid-19 vaccines, reinforcing the significance of continental disease preparedness for collective health security.

Delegates and stakeholders from across Africa and even as far as the Caribbean Islands attended the conference, a testament to the global collaboration required to address pressing health issues collectively. President Hichilema warmly welcomed the international participants to Zambia.

On the sidelines of the conference, President Hichilema engaged in bilateral talks with Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO). The discussions covered key topics ranging from access to safe water and sanitation to support for local manufacturing of medicines and vaccines in Zambia.

President Hichilema also took a moment to celebrate Dr. Tedros for being awarded the Africa CDC Lifetime Achievement in Public Health. Describing him as a true champion of global health, President Hichilema extended his congratulations to Dr. Tedros for his significant contributions.

The Third International Conference on Public Health in Africa 2023 aims to be a catalyst for collaborative efforts, paving the way for comprehensive and sustainable solutions to global health challenges.

Government on course to resolve energy crisis – Mumba

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Government on course to resolve energy crisis – Mumba

Government says with the interventions being implemented through the Presidential Delivery Unit on Energy challenges in the country’s energy sector will be resolved soon.

Energy Permanent Secretary Peter Mumba said the energy sector is faced with a lot of challenges that are affecting energy delivery to the people especially rural areas.

Mr. Mumba noted that the challenges affecting the energy sector includes low water levels, poor rainfall, and poor access to power by a substantial section of the population.

The Permanent Secretary , who was speaking during the official opening of the Energy Lab in Lusaka, added that the energy sector is also faced with the challenge of slow delivery of projects, unattractive tariffs and sector bottlenecks.

“ The Ministry of Energy is already working on addressing some of these challenges through the review and enhancement of regulations aimed at addressing the bottlenecks in the sector, increasing access to energy and access to alternative sources of energy among others, “ he said.

Mr. Mumba expressed optimism that the initiatives will guarantee energy safety in the country and further that the PDU will unlock the sector and Improve energy delivery projects.

And speaking at the same event, Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation ZESCO Managing Director Victor Mapani said hid Corporation will have to synchronize its activities in order to improve the infrastructure and thus increase access to power from the current 42%.

He said the corporation would like to get actionable tasks from the lab, which they can implement in order to bridge the power deficit in the country.

And represented by his Chief Executive Officer Linus Chanda, Rural Electrification Authority (REA ) Director Alex Buumba pledges his Authority’s support of any action plans emerging from the Lab.

Mr. Buumba hoped that the discussions from the Lab will result into actions that will improve the sector.

Meanwhile, Energy Regulations Board (ERB ) Director General Yohan Mukabe added that the Board is working hard to remove barriers to investment in the sector, including regulatory reviews, Streamlining the licensing processes and finalising tariff reviews among others.

And Head of the Presidential Delivery Unit Kusobile Kamwambi explained that the PDU has brought together key stakeholders in the sectors in order for them to discuss and come up with solutions that will help unlock the sector and Improve the availability and reliability of energy supply.

The Lab which started yesterday is expected to run for the rest of the week and has drawn participation from various players in the energy sector.

Attorney General Inaugurates Chipata Office to Advance Access to Justice

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Attorney General Inaugurates Chipata Office to Advance Access to Justice

Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha announced the official opening of the Attorney General’s office in Chipata as part of the ongoing decentralization efforts to strengthen the principle of justice as an inherent right for all citizens, regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic status.

Speaking at the inauguration, Kabesha highlighted that the establishment of the Chipata office aimed to streamline processes related to Constituency Development Funds (CDF) contracts. The provincial office would now handle these matters, facilitating quicker vetting and processing without the need for travel to Lusaka.

“Constituency Development Funds contracts will now be vetted and worked on from here in Chipata, thereby cutting down on transport and time that was spent traveling to Lusaka,” Kabesha explained.

He emphasized that the launch of the provincial office marked a significant step in the government’s commitment to ensuring equal access to justice. The move to bring legal aid services closer to communities reflects the government’s dedication to empowering marginalized populations and fostering inclusivity within the legal system.

Thandiwe Daka Oteng, the Ministry Permanent Secretary in charge of Administration, also spoke at the event. She expressed that the newly established office would actively engage with the local community to develop partnerships and programs promoting legal awareness, education, and conflict resolution.

“Our aim is not merely to adjudicate disputes but to prevent them from happening through legal advocacy and education,” Oteng stated.

Addressing legal practitioners associated with the office, she urged them to approach their roles with empathy, ensuring that justice is fair for all.

Paramount Chief Mpezeni, represented by Chief Mnukwa, expressed satisfaction with the development, emphasizing the government’s seriousness about improving and maintaining justice, law, and order. Chief Mnukwa also took the opportunity to call for national unity and peace.

Eastern Province Permanent Secretary Paul Thole and other officials attended the event, marking a significant stride in the government’s commitment to justice accessibility.

UPND will not shield law breakers- Banda

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UPND will not shield law breakers- Banda

William Banda, Special Assistant to the President of the United Party for National Development (UPND), reiterated the party’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, asserting that no party member involved in unlawful activities would be shielded. Banda emphasized that President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to eliminating cadreism also extended to ensuring that no member was protected if found guilty of breaking the law.

During a visit to Kabompo, Banda met with Kabompo District Commissioner Hubert Chinyanga. The purpose of the visit, according to Banda, was to instill and maintain discipline within party ranks while understanding the challenges faced in different regions.

Banda emphasized the government’s determination to prevent the recurrence of past wrongs, stating that even UPND members engaging in misconduct would not receive protection. He asserted that the party would not interfere with law enforcement and the judiciary, emphasizing that the law would take its course without bias.

Kabompo District Commissioner Chinyanga expressed gratitude for the visit, seeing it as a demonstration of the party and President Hichilema’s genuine concern for the people’s interests. He acknowledged the optimism in the region, especially regarding various developmental projects.

UPND Kabompo District Chair Lady Grace Mazaka expressed appreciation for the historic appointment of Kabompo Member of Parliament Ambrose Lufuma as Defense Minister. She highlighted the positive impact of increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which rose from K 1.6 million to K 28.3 million. Despite the successes, she appealed for monthly party funding, emphasizing its importance for organizational activities.

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