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President Hakainde Hichilema Attends Inaugural Saudi-Africa Summit

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President Hakainde Hichilema Attends Inaugural Saudi-Africa Summit

President Hakainde Hichilema has safely arrived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, ahead of the first Saudi-African Summit scheduled for Friday. In a statement President Hichilema expressed gratitude for the invitation from His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and outlined the purpose of Zambia’s representation at the summit.

In his message, President Hichilema underscored the importance of showcasing Zambia’s abundant natural and human resources at the summit. The aim is to illustrate the country’s commitment to turning around its economy through hard work and dedication. The President emphasized that every step taken during this diplomatic mission is focused on the development needs of the youth and women in various parts of Zambia, including Kashinakazhi, Chipulukusu, Shangombo, Chief Kambombo area, Egichickeni, and other areas requiring significant development.

“We are committed to ensuring that we bring this to fruition,” President Hichilema stated, highlighting his dedication to uplifting communities that are in need of development.

President Hichilema expressed appreciation to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for the invitation and thanked fellow Zambians for their prayers, concluding his message with a heartfelt wish for God’s blessings on the country.

Additionally, President Hichilema stated that the summit’s theme, “A Promising Partnership,” aligns seamlessly with Zambia’s vision of fostering development through sustainable alliances with foreign investors and the Zambian private sector. The President aims to leverage the nation’s resource endowment and prioritize value addition within the country, contributing significantly to economic growth and development.

On the sidelines of the summit, President Hichilema is expected to engage in bilateral discussions with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al, the Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These discussions are poised to further strengthen the diplomatic ties between Zambia and Saudi Arabia and explore opportunities for mutual cooperation.

Tinted cosmetics makes history at MTC Windhoek Fashion week

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Tinted cosmetics makes history at MTC Windhoek Fashion week

Tinted Cosmetics, the proudly Zambian makeup brand known for innovation and commitment to enhancing beauty, is proud to announce that it was the main makeup sponsor at the prestigious MTC Windhoek Fashion Week, which took place from November 1st to 4th, 2023, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s history.

Tinted Cosmetics was the first Zambian makeup brand to take center stage at the MTC Windhoek Fashion Week, one of the most anticipated and celebrated events in the fashion industry. This partnership showcases Tinted Cosmetics’ dedication to supporting African fashion and beauty on a global scale.

MTC Windhoek Fashion Week is a platform for emerging and established fashion designers from Namibia and across Africa, has gained international recognition for its commitment to showcasing African talent and creativity. The brand’s involvement in this prestigious event signifies a powerful collaboration between two leading forces in African beauty and fashion.

Tinted Cosmetics is widely renowned for its high-quality products that cater to diverse skin tones and types. Their mission is to celebrate and enhance the natural beauty of every individual. By taking on the role of the makeup sponsor at the MTC Windhoek Fashion Week, Tinted Cosmetics is not only highlighting the brand’s excellence but also promoting the message of inclusivity and empowerment in the beauty industry.

Founder and CEO, Christina Sakala, expressed her excitement about this historic moment, saying, “We are thrilled to be a part of the MTC Windhoek Fashion Week, and we are proud to represent Zambia on such a prominent stage. Our brand has always been about inclusion and we are just getting started; it’s both monumental and encouraging us to be able to showcase our brand on this stage. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to celebrating beauty in all its forms.”

As a makeup sponsor, Tinted Cosmetics provided the makeup products and expertise that were needed to create stunning looks that complemented the fashion designs on the runway. This partnership signifies a significant step forward in building bridges between countries within the African fashion and beauty industries.

“Sonder” unveiled : Tim’s 21-track debut album

Entertainment Editor
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“Sonder” unveiled : Tim’s 21-track debut album

Tim Sonder

Zambian rapper and songwriter Tim Chisenga, professionally known as ‘Tim’ has finally dropped his highly anticipated debut album, “Sonder.” With 21 tracks featuring a diverse lineup of artists spanning both seasoned and emerging talents in the Zambian music scene, Tim has curated a sonic masterpiece that transcends generational boundaries. The album, named after the concept of “sonder” – the realization that everyone has a complex and vivid life – offers a profound and diverse musical journey, exploring themes of love, pain, resilience, and the intricacies of the human experience.

Boasting a lineup of industry heavyweights like Chef 187, Pompi, Abel Musukwa Chungu, Tio Nason, Jae Cash, and more, this album showcases a convergence of distinct talents. The collaborative synergy among these artists elevates the album, ensuring it stands out and creates ripples in the music scene.

‘SONDER’ album out now:

applemusic:

Spotify:

Youtube:

 

Kabwe Warriors Fall But Remain Top of The ZPL Log

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Kabwe Warriors stayed on top of the FAZ Super Division despite losing 2-0 to Kansanshi Dynamos in the midweek fixture at Nchanga Stadium in Chingola.

Goals by Jimmy Mukeya and Justin Kang’ombe condemned Warriors to their first loss in more than seven games.

Warriors remained on 21 points, one ahead of second placed FC Muza, who lost to Nkwazi by 2-1 away in Lusaka.

The win moved now 12th placed Kansanshi out of relegation.

In other midweek games, Zesco United edged Red Arrows 1-0 in Ndola with Green Buffaloes edging Zanaco 1-0 as Nkana beat Konkola Blades 2-1 in Chililabombwe.

At Arthur Davies Stadium, defending champions Power Dynamos recorded their first win in five matches when beating Mutondo Stars 2-0 and Napsa Stars drew goalless against Trident.

FAZ Super Division – Week 11

Wednesday, 8th November, 2023

Green Buffaloes 1-0 Zanaco

Kansanshi Dynamos 2-0 Kabwe Warriors

Nkwazi 2-1 FC Muza

Prison Leopards 2-1 Forest Rangers

NAPSA stars 0-0 Trident

Konkola Blades 1-2 Nkana FC

Power Dynamos 2-0 Mutondo Stars

Zesco United 1-0 Red Arrows

Who is responsible for vetting who sees the President?

Chief Editor
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Who is responsible for vetting who sees the President?

A few days ago, a UPND aligned Social media platform, HH7 Gate Keepers Media – Zambia to be precise, asked a few fundamental questions that deserve immediate answers, and we quote; “Who is in charge of clearing of visitors at State House? And who are the organisers of the Presidential golf tournement?”

The outlet further observed that some people seem to be in a frenzy to pose for photos with the President not that they love him like the rest of us, but rather use them as collateral to cut some deals, whether genuine or not, locally or abroad.

What do we make of this?

As it’s not in our nature to easily jump to conclusions, we took it upon ourselves to analyse some of the photos emerging from the inaugural presidential golf tournament. Of course, it was interesting to see a coterie of individuals known to be PF sympathisers or supporters. At least there was a prominent Lusaka lawyer who applied to be adopted as PF parliamentary candidate in one of the constituencies in Lusaka. We also noted with dismay individuals who never missed a single State House function during the PF regime and financed PF big time!

Are the presidential handlers doing enough to shield the president from chancers or individuals with questionable characters who may try to use their connections to State House for financial gains?

Not so long ago, a “gold digger” was given a green light to come in closest proximity with the head of state; shortly, the individual in question found himself at the centre of controversy in the gold scam! Are you being fair to the president? Or indeed to the country?

It’s equally appalling to see “mosicians,” in the words of Lusambo, who openly decampaigned President Hichilema and continuously perforated our ears with the annoying “Alebwelelapo” song being cleared to see the president without any qualms at all!

Do you honestly think PF would have tolerated the Organised Family, artists who’ve always been loyal to HH and UPND, anywhere near State House had they still been in power? What about Kitwe based entrepreneur and hotelier, bayama ba Kaoma (may his soul rest in peace) whose businesses were crippled by the PF regime for supporting UPND; would they have been reasonable enough to give him any contracts? The answer is zero! PF was so evil that they even banned FAZ and all government departments from using his hotel for any of their functions!

What is good for the goose must equally be good for the gander! It’s high time the UPND leadership started investing in reward systems for individuals and organisations that sacrified or suffered for the party….. we’ve in mind those foot soldiers who’re patiently waiting for benefits of belonging to a ruling party in the shanty compounds or villages, and not those celebrities ranting or throwing tantrums on social media!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Minister of Information Addresses Press Briefing on Key National Issues

Chief Editor
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Minister of Information Addresses Press Briefing on Key National Issues

The Minister of Information and Media and Chief Government Spokesperson, Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, MP, conducted a press briefing to address various significant national issues. The briefing covered a range of topics, providing insights into the government’s actions and responses to current developments.

Here are the key highlights from the press briefing:

Access to Information Bill: Minister Mweetwa announced that the government has taken the Access to Information Bill to Parliament for further consideration. This move follows Cabinet approval in principle of the Access to Information draft Bill on August 30, 2023. The Minister called for support from stakeholders who may be invited to the National Assembly to contribute to the final outlook and content of the Access to Information Act.

Suspension of Members of Parliament: Minister Mweetwa clarified that the suspension of 19 Members of Parliament by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, is in line with the resolution of the Committee. He cited past instances, such as the suspension of 30 UPND Members of Parliament, as precedents. Contrary to some assertions, he explained that there was no heavy state police presence at Parliament.

Impeachment of the Speaker: Minister Mweetwa clarified the process for the impeachment of the Speaker of the National Assembly, stating that it requires a two-thirds majority or 110 Members of Parliament. He noted that the Patriotic Front Members of Parliament are currently below 60, which is less than 50% of the required number. He emphasized that no ruling party members support the impeachment.

Leadership Change in the Opposition: The Chief Government Spokesperson highlighted that after communication from Mr. Ngona, the registered Secretary General of the Patriotic Front, the Speaker was informed of the election of Mr. Robert Chabinga, MP, as Leader of the Opposition, replacing Mr. Brian Mundubile MP.

Allegations of Staged Confusion: Minister Mweetwa dismissed claims that the UPND government orchestrated the confusion within the Patriotic Front, deeming such allegations unreasonable.

Defense of Human Rights: Minister Mweetwa outlined President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to upholding human rights and civil liberties. He listed key principles, including the restoration of the rule of law, equality before the law, prevention of arbitrary actions by those in office, and respect for human rights.

Respect for John Sangwa SC: The Minister assured that the government respects and will continue to respect Mr. John Sangwa SC as he advocates for the voiceless. However, he called on him to be truthful and speak to the reality of the current government’s actions.

The press briefing provided comprehensive insights into the government’s stance on various critical issues, offering transparency and clarity on key developments in Zambia.

The people will win ….In the end, they always do – Sishuwa

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The people will win ….In the end, they always do – Sishuwa

EVEN if President Hakainde Hichilema tries to, he cannot stop the people’s will, historian Sishuwa Sishuwa has warned.

In an interview, Dr Sishuwa condemned the government for banning public rallies organised by opposition parties.

“I condemn in strongest possible terms the continued abuse of the public order Act by the police. Just like we condemned Edgar Lungu when the police used the same law to suppress the activities of the then main opposition UPND, it is only fair that we condemn President Hichilema for this abuse. But please tell him that no matter how powerful he may feel today, and regardless of the schemes or manoeuvres he may hatch or resort to, Hichilema can never defeat the people. The people will win, in the end. They always do. History has proved it.”

Dr Sishuwa said the greatest opposition that President Hichilema and the UPND face is a politically alert and informed citizenry.

“The biggest opposition that Hichilema faces is the people, particularly if he fails to lower the cost of living and tackle the huge unemployment outside the health and education sectors. They can stop opposition rallies like Edgar Lungu and the PF tried to do but if Zambians would have decided in a year or two that Hichilema must go at the next election, there is nothing that he can do to stop them,” said Dr Sishuwa.

“Even if Hichilema tries to, he cannot stop the people’s will. Even if he succeeds in killing the PF and in his manoeuvres to block his main political opponents from running in 2026, another platform and another candidate to serve as the outlet of opposition will be found. The voters will support any visionary patriot they see as better placed to be used as the vehicle for removing Hichilema just like they chose him as the vehicle for removing Lungu. Please tell him”.

Source: The Mast

Turkish Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Visits Zambia

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Turkish Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Visits Zambia

State House welcomed His Excellency Ambassador Ahmet Yildz, the Turkish Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, in a meeting that celebrated the enduring and cordial relationship between Turkey and Zambia. President Hakainde Hichilema, emphasized the mutual cooperation that forms the foundation of the diplomatic ties between the two nations.

During the meeting, President Hichilema reaffirmed Zambia’s foreign policy pillars of trade and investment, along with a commitment to promoting global peace, security, and stability. The leaders highlighted the need for increased bilateral cooperation and expressed gratitude for Turkey’s ongoing support to Zambia in various sectors, including health, infrastructure, technology, and tourism.

In pursuit of making Zambia a more connected and land-linked country, the President urged the Turkish delegation to advocate for an increase in the frequency of Turkish Airlines flights to Zambia.

Later in the day, President Hichilema hosted a Turkish Business delegation led by Selim Bora Summa, the President of the Summa Group of Companies. The President encouraged the delegation to explore and identify business opportunities that could lead to joint ventures with local enterprises. Zambia, he emphasized, is open for business, and the government is committed to creating a favorable operating environment for all.

The visit of the Turkish Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and the subsequent business delegation is seen as a significant step in furthering economic and diplomatic ties between Turkey and Zambia. The commitment to identifying collaborative opportunities underscores the shared vision of both nations in promoting development and prosperity.

Strengthening Ties: Swedish Ministerial Business Delegation Visits Zambia

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Strengthening Ties: Swedish Ministerial Business Delegation Visits Zambia

A delegation comprising 14 distinguished Swedish companies, led by His Excellency Mr. Mikael Lindvall, the Swedish Deputy Director-General of Foreign Affairs, Africa Department, visited Zambia as part of the Swedish Ministerial Business Delegation. The meeting, hosted with great enthusiasm, marked a significant milestone in the longstanding relations between the two nations.

During the gathering, President Hakainde Hichilema expressed gratitude to His Excellency Lindvall for organizing such a substantial business delegation, emphasizing the importance of strengthening connections between Zambia and Sweden. The visit highlighted the deepening ties between the two countries and their peoples.

Acknowledging Sweden’s support in debt restructuring talks, President Hichilema urged continued collaboration to advance Zambia’s economic transformation agenda. The President extended an invitation to Swedish companies to invest in Zambia, emphasizing the importance of not only extracting the country’s resource endowment but also processing them within Zambia. Collaborating with the Zambian private sector to add value aligns with Zambia’s focus on accelerating economic growth.

President Hichilema emphasized that inviting Swedish companies to invest in Zambia aligns with the country’s economic priorities. He highlighted the potential for collaboration in various sectors and encouraged the delegation to explore opportunities in Zambia.

Recognizing Sweden’s reputation for excellent technology and solutions, the President urged the Swedish companies to share information about their past global endeavors. This would allow Zambia to assess the suitability of their models for integration into the Zambian economy.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to fostering a robust economic partnership, capitalizing on the strengths and capabilities of both nations. The visit of the Swedish Ministerial Business Delegation is seen as a positive step toward enhancing economic cooperation and mutual development.

Former Vice President Godfrey Miyanda Appointed Head of SADC Electoral Observer Mission to Madagascar

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Former Vice President Godfrey Miyanda Appointed Head of SADC Electoral Observer Mission to Madagascar

President Hakainde Hichilema has appointed former Vice President Godfrey Miyanda as the Head of the SADC Electoral Observer Mission (SEOM) to the Republic of Madagascar. The appointment comes ahead of Madagascar’s Presidential Elections scheduled for November 16, 2023.

President Hichilema, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation, made the announcement, highlighting the importance of promoting electoral integrity, justice, good governance, and stability in the SADC region.

Article 4 of the Southern African Development Community’s Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections of 2021 mandates that SADC shall observe all general elections held in its member states. This commitment aims to ensure transparency and fairness in the electoral processes of SADC nations.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Stanley Kakubo, expressed confidence in Brigadier General Miyanda’s ability to fulfill the mission’s mandate in accordance with SADC principles and guidelines. He emphasized that the Head of Mission and his team would collaborate with relevant stakeholders in Madagascar, as well as other election observation missions, to contribute to credible, peaceful, free, and fair elections in the country.

Brigadier General Godfrey Miyanda, a former Republican Vice-President of Zambia, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His appointment aligns with Zambia’s obligation as the Chair of the SADC Organ to lead the SEOM to Madagascar.

As Head of Mission, Brigadier General Miyanda will work closely with representatives of the SADC Organ Troika, comprising Zambia, the United Republic of Tanzania, and the Republic of Namibia. The mission will operate with the full support and guidance of the SADC Secretariat and the SADC Electoral Advisory Council (SEAC).

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation assured the nation that the SEOM, under Brigadier General Miyanda’s leadership, will contribute to upholding democratic principles and fostering stability in the SADC region. The mission will play a crucial role in ensuring that Madagascar’s Presidential Elections are conducted in a credible and transparent manner, in line with international standards.

Accepting a government job would be like moving to a piggery-Sangwa

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Accepting a government job would be like moving to a piggery-Sangwa

Renowned Constitutional Lawyer says he does not have intentions of getting a government job because doing so would be like moving to a piggery.

Mr Sangwa said the public service lacks proper systems to allow anyone flourish at their job.

Mr. Sangwa reaveled that he has been approached atleast twice by the current administration with the intention of joining government but he has declined the offer.

Mr. Sangwa was speaking on Tuesday when he featured on Let the People Talk programme on Phoenix FM.

“Yes they have been offers, I have been approached atleast twice by the current team but I have often felt working in government is like moving to a piggery, you will get dirty there because systems don’t work,” he said.

Mr Sangwa said the current set up in Zambia does not respect and honour education.

He said one of the first things that Dr Kaunda’s administration was to take Zambians to university because it valued having an educated population.

“Today I can tell that the most intelligent and educated Zambians are not in government, they are outside and most don’t want to serve in government because nothing works there,” he said.

And Mr Sangwa has warned that Speaker of National Assembly Nelly Mutti is in breach of the Constitution for effecting changes with regards to Chief Parliamentary Whip and Leader of the Opposition.

Mr. Sangwa says Ms. Mutti is a sure candidate for jail looking at how she has breached the Constitution and abused her powers and authority.

He has condemned the warnings against MPs by Mutti.

And Sangwa has warned that President Hakainde Hichilema will be made answerable for refusing to move to State House.

And commenting on the ongoing leadership wrangles in PF, Mr. Sangwa says the Speaker as well as the Registrar of Societies are all going to have difficulties when UPND government leaves office because they are aiding criminality.

Mr. Sangwa says he still rates Hakainde Hichilema a failure for failing to honor campaign promises and making Zambia’s economy worse than it was during Edgar Lungu’s administration.

Sangwa has also condemned HH over the dubious KCM deal with Vedenta saying it smells of illegalities.

The renowned Constitutional lawyer has also said that the Constitution of Zambia remains the same and therefore, allows Edgar Lungu to run for office in 2026.

Sangwa has expressed disappointment the way government institutions such as the Police have been mobilised to kill democracy in Zambia. He says it is clear that Hichilema is busy fooling the people of Zambia saying he is tolerant yet the democratic space in shrinking in the country.

John Sangwa also says Hichilema has violated the law over the appointment of an Auditor General who is beyond the required age limit.

The PR GIRLS sparkle at the 2023 MTC Windhoek fashion week

Entertainment Editor
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The PR GIRLS sparkle at the 2023 MTC Windhoek fashion week

Namibia’s capital city was the fashion focus last weekend when over 30 African designers shared their creativity through impressive garments ranging from minimalistic fashion to avant-garde styles that had the audience completely mesmerized.

Managing Partners of PR Girl Media, Chishimba and Monde Nyambe were in attendance at the 8th annual MTC Windhoek Fashion Week as special guests. The sister-duo were dressed and styled by Zambian designers The 911 Closet By Faith and Harris Nation in 3 looks that embodied futuristic, glamour and chic styles.

The event sponsored by Namibia’s leading telecommunications company MTC Namibia, featured a variety of fashion designers from South Africa, Namibia, Angola, Mozambique and Botswana. PR Girl Media has commended MTC Namibia on its investment in the Arts industry and their continued efforts to empower the local creative industry. As a Pan African PR agency, PR Girl Media is committed to exploring more collaborative opportunities to highlight Africa’s Entertainment and Arts industry and the potential it holds to generate sustainable economic development.

Kansanshi Fire Boyd Mulwanda

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Struggling FAZ Super Division side Kansanshi Dynamos have fired Coach Boyd Mulwanda after a string of unconvincing results.

Kansanshi are in relegation with nine points from ten matches played.

The Solwezi outfits are winless at least in their last six matches.

“Kansanshi Dynamos Football Club has parted ways with Head Coach Boyd Mulwanda following a poor run of results since the beginning of the season,” the club announced on Wednesday morning.

The club has promoted Donwell Yobe as interim coach.

“The change has been done in the interest of both parties for future growth and achievements. Effective immediately, First Assistant Coach Donwell Yobe will assume an interim role as Head Coach in charge of the club,” Kansanshi stated.

Mulwanda joined Kansanshi in January 2022.

“The club extends its sincere gratitude to Mr. Mulwanda for his invaluable contributions to Kansanshi Dynamos FC during his tenure and wishes him the very best in his future endeavors.”

Frankie Musonda Out of Congo Brz , Niger Clash

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Injury has ruled out Scotland based Chipolopolo defender Frankie Musonda from this month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Congo Brazzaville and Niger

Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant on Wednesday morning unveiled a 25-member squad for the back to back encounters.

Zambia will host Congo Brazzaville at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on November 17 before travelling to Morocco for a match against Niger four days later.

Injured midfielder Kelvin Kapumbu and club-less defender Tandi Mwape have been left out of the squad too.

Lameck Banda, Brian Mwila, Fashion Sakala, Evans Kangwa and Patson Daka are the strikers Grant has picked.

The goalkeepers in the squad include Lawrence Mulenga, Francis Mwansa and Charles Kalumba.

The squad is expected to enter camp in Ndola on November 13.

FULL SQUAD

(DEFENDERS)

Benedict Chepeshi (Red Arrows), Killian Kanguluma (Kabwe Warriors), Stoppilla Sunzu (Jinan Xingzhou-China), Dominic Chanda (Power Dynamos), Luka Banda (Napsa Stars), Roderick Kabwe (Zakho SC-Iraq), Zephaniah Phiri (Prison Leopards)

(MIDFIELDERS)

Benson Sakala (FK Mlada-Czech), Andrew Mupande (Green Buffaloes), Golden Mafwenta (MFK Vyskov-Czech), Kings Kangwa (Crvena Zvezda-Serbia), Emanuel Banda (Club Rijeka-Croatia), Rally Bwalya (Sekhukhune-RSA), Clatous Chama (Simba-Tanzania), Lubambo Musonda (Silkeborg-Denmark), Edward Chilufya (BK Hacken-Sweden), Kelvin Kampamba (Zesco)

(STRIKERS)

Lameck Banda (Lecce-Italy), Brian Mwila (Zanaco), Fashion Sakala (Al Fayha-Saudi Arabia), Evans Kangwa (Quindao Hainiu-China), Patson Daka (Leicester-England)

National Assembly Suspends 17 Opposition Members of Parliament for 30 Days

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National Assembly Suspends 17 Opposition Members of Parliament for 30 Days

The National Assembly has taken the unprecedented step of suspending 17 Members of Parliament (MPs) from the opposition parties for a period of 30 days. The suspension, effective immediately, follows an alleged incident of misconduct that took place last week during a parliamentary session.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, announced the suspension, which she described as a response to “unparliamentary behavior” and a breach of the house’s decorum and integrity. The lawmakers’ actions were widely seen as a protest against the Speaker for purportedly denying them an opportunity to speak.

The incident that led to this suspension occurred after Kamfinsa MP Christopher Kang’ombe failed to adhere to the guidance provided by the Speaker on a point of order he had raised. The resulting protest disrupted the proceedings of the House.

Mutti, in her announcement, stressed that the suspension was not without legal basis. She cited the National Assembly Act, which provides clear guidelines regarding the conduct of individuals within the Assembly’s precincts during its sittings. According to the Act, those causing obstructions or disturbances within the Assembly Chamber or interrupting its proceedings could face penalties, including fines or imprisonment.

She further noted that defying the rulings or directions of a presiding officer, as outlined in the National Assembly’s Standing Orders, constituted an act of gross disorderly conduct.

The suspension applies to 17 MPs, including notable figures such as Brian Mundubile, the Leader of the Opposition in the House, and other members such as Binwell Mpundu, Munir Zulu, and Emmanuel Banda. Those suspended will not receive their salaries during this period, are barred from participating in parliamentary activities, and cannot visit the National Assembly Motel.

Mutti emphasized that lawlessness should not be confused with freedom of expression, and deliberately defying the Speaker or any presiding officer amounted to an assault on Zambia’s constitutional democracy.

The suspension period for most MPs is from Tuesday, November 7, to Wednesday, December 6, 2023. However, for Emmanuel Banda, the suspension will commence once his ongoing 14-day suspension concludes, starting from Saturday, November 25, to Sunday, December 26, 2023.

This development comes in the midst of a growing political climate, with the Clerk of the National Assembly receiving a petition from 58 Opposition MPs requesting the impeachment of Speaker Nelly Mutti for alleged breaches of the Constitution and inadequate management of parliamentary affairs. The situation in the National Assembly remains tense as both sides grapple with the aftermath of these events.

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