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Reply to Sishuwa Sishuwa : Justice must not be delayed but done to all without discrimination

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Reply to Sishuwa Sishuwa : Justice must not be delayed but done to all without discrimination
HIgh Court
HIgh Court

The intelligent article titled, “Munali and Lusaka Central: the appeal cases that reveal a court system in crisis” makes an interesting reading. It brings out issues, myths and conspiracy theories worth thinking about. It appears the nation’s anxiety has been raised over the long overdue decision in the Munali and Lusaka Central Parliamentary petitions by our Constitutional Court. In the final analysis, I make a reflection on the circumstances under which the two members of Parliament can be barred from re-contesting their seats if, by any chance, those seats are nullified. People should not be excited as yet in what may happen to any MP whose seat is nullified.

First comrade Sishuwa raises two issues pertaining to hearing and disposal of cases for Munali and Lusaka Central held by Ministers, Hon. Nkandu Luo, MP and Hon. Margaret Mwanakatwe, MP respectively by asserting that (1) the Constitution has gaps in its failure to set the time for hearing the case but also that (2) the procedure of appealing cases from the High Court to the Constitutional Court is a fundamental error in law.

Much as I agree with him on the first point that we should have set the time limit for disposal of appeals, I don’t agree with him on his second point that a fundamental error in law was made where an appeal in a Parliamentary petition lies to the Constitutional Court.

First, we ought to understand that the election of Councillors, MPs and President is a constitutional issue set by Article 47 of the Constitution of Zambia.

So while the local government petitions are heard by a Local Government Elections Tribunal and Parliamentary petitions are heard by the High Court as per Articles 159 and 73, respectively, the question of election of councillors, MPs and President, being a constitutional matter is required to be determined by the Constitutional Court.

This is fortified by provisions of Article 1(5) which states:

“1(5) A matter relating to this Constitution shall be heard by the Constitutional Court”.

To give the Supreme Court jurisdiction to hear a constitutional issue of electing councillors or an MP thorough an appeal from a Court of Appeal would have raised a constitutional problem on jurisdiction of courts.

By a similar reason above, the Court of appeal is estopped from hearing an appeal on a constitutional issue raised in any court below. The provisions of Article 128 (2) which read:

“128 (2) Subject to Article 28 (2), where a question relating to this Constitution arises in a court, the person presiding in that court shall refer the question to the Constitutional Court”

The authorities above must settle the question raised as to the alleged fundamental errors in law.Needless to mention that if we had a situation where a Local Government petition had to start from a Tribunal to the High Court and moved to the Court of Appeal and finally to the Supreme Court or constitutional court, how long would it really take to settle the petition? Wouldn’t the same people be accusing President Lungu and his Patriotic Front party, even more, that they are the ones delaying the disposal of these petitions?

On the issue of the petitions having taken long, comrade Sishuwa, appears to mix facts with both some mythical conclusion based on the conspiracy theory in which he seem to allege that the PF appear to have a hand in handling of appeals by the Constitutional Court.

Indeed, it is a good call by comrade Sishuwa that we must have timeframe for hearing these appeals by the ConCourt. However, issues that need to be pointed out and require our careful and sober reflection here is the need for this final court of appeal to arrive at a good, just and acceptable conclusion based on facts that were adduced before the trial court and also based on careful understanding of the new law that governs nullification of an election.

First, I seek to remind Zambians that our law entirely places the handling of a client’s case on advocates and if lawyers don’t exercise due diligence, urgency and vigilance, the courts can do only as much to remind lawyers that it won’t tolerate delays.

This is articulated in Rule 36 of The Legal Practitioners’ Practice Rules, 2002, Statutory Instrument No. 51) as quoted below:

“36. A practitioner when conducting proceedings at Court:

(a) Shall be personally responsible for the conduct and presentation of the client’s case and shall exercise personal judgment upon the substance and Purpose of statements made and question asked;

(b) shall ensure that the court is informed of all relevant decisions and legislative provisions of which the practitioner is aware whether the effective is favourable or unfavourable towards the contention for which the practitioner argues and shall bring any procedural irregularity to the attention of the court during the hearing and not reserve such matter to be raised on appeal”

From this Rule, one should easily tell about who and what could have been behind the failure by the Constitutional Court hearing the 2016 Presidential Petition of one Hakainde Hichilema and Godfrey Bwalya Mwamba. Yes, the Court had its own inconsistencies in interpreting the law and giving directions but that does not absolve the petitioners’ advocates from sharing in the blame by failing to handle their client’s petition. As officers of the Court, did they help the Court, as required by Rule 36(b), to read the 14 days correctly?

I know this is a bitter pill for most of my UPND friends and I don’t mind being insulted for bringing this out, but once some of them sober up, they get to realise it was the primary problem of their lawyers who failed to take charge of their client’s petition while the Court’s problem was a secondary one.

I always laugh when my best friend tells me, “for lawyers, the more time one spends on a client’s case, the better the balance sheet at the law firm.”

Secondly, it must be realised that the ConCourt decision in all appeals from electoral petition has far-reaching implication where an MP whose seat falls vacant by disqualification, as a result of a decision of the Constitutional Court, is not eligible to contest an election or hold public office by operation of Article 72(2)(h) as read with Article 72(4).

In light of the weight such a ConCourt decision carries, some myth and conspiracy theories must be discarded in our analysis of how the court handles these appeals. It is true that our Constitution, in Article 118 (2)(b), require that justice is not delayed. This principle require a careful balance found in Article 118 (2)(a) which states that “justice shall be done to all, without discrimination”

In doing justice to all, especially making decisions that will have an effect on the future of MPs in question to serve their country either in Parliament or public service, it is important that decisions are not hurriedly made but also that even the person being barred must appreciate the decision that barred them from serving again.

Finally and most controversial of this topic would be explore the legal discourse on the correct meaning of Article 72(2)(h) as read with Article 72(4).

In part, these articles read:

“72(2)(h): The office of Member of Parliament becomes vacant if the member is disqualified as a result of a decision of the Constitutional Court” 

“72(4)A person who causes a vacancy in the National Assembly due to the reasons specified under clause (2)(h) shall not, during the term of that Parliament-

(a) be eligible to contest an election; or

(b) hold public office.”

The plain reading of these articles suggest that once a seat is nullified, the person holding the seat is not eligible to stand and to be appointed to public office. However, there is a second meaning, which I think is more correct to these two articles.

These articles are different on the following grounds. The first one talks about how a member vacates his or her seat while the second one talks about what happens to the person who causes vacancy based on the decision of the ConCourt.

It is possible that the Court may nullify an election, say in Munali Constituency, based on the violence of supporters which made the election to fail the test of being free and fair but at the same time exonerate the incumbent as not having been the cause of the violence. This would fail the test of “A person who causes vacancy…”

I submit that for any Member of Parliament to come under the ambit of Article 72 (4), it would require the Constitutional Court pronounce itself that indeed, the incumbent is that “person who caused the vacancy” thereby going beyond the mere nullification of a seat to making a declaration that a member is “disqualified”. A vacancy caused by any other reason such as “other persons e.g. cadres involved in political violence” would not bar or stop an MP from contesting elections or getting an appointment to public office.

(The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent any institution I may be associated with and neither is it meant to offer a legal opinion. Those seeking a legal opinion can contact the Law Association of Zambia, which is an authority of legal matters)

By Isaac Mwanza

Hungry Lion distributes 10, 000 meals in Lusaka townships

Entertainment Editor
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Hungry Lion distributes 10, 000 meals in Lusaka townships

 

John Howard Township youth joined in on the free meals from Hungry Lion

Hungry Lion Country Manager, Busu Mpepo has said the company will continue to be a corporate citizen by responding to the needs of the people in Zambian communities. He said this is one way in which the company can give back to the community and help provide solutions where they are needed the most.

Mpepo said this after Hungry Lion concluded the distribution of 10, 000 meals for residents of communities that were hit the hardest by the Cholera outbreak.  

“Most of the people living in areas affected by Cholera faced setbacks in their daily income activities. Schools and businesses were affected in order to pave way for clean-ups in order to contain the disease and this resulted in people failing to conduct their businesses normally,” said Mpepo.

This prompted the company to commit 10, 000 free meal vouchers for members of the communities of Chawama, Matero and the communities where the outbreak had the biggest impact.

Mpepo thanked Hungry Lion‘s loyal customers for their insightful feedback on social media. Comments from the Hungry Lion fans identified some of the biggest needs that resulted from the cleanup of communities in Lusaka. As a result, the company pledged to donate 10, 000 meals in order to assist residents after a difficult few weeks in the communities.

He added that Hungry Lion remains committed to reaching out to local communities and contributing towards relief efforts.

Matero youth and school students were also part of the distribution drive of 10,000 meal vouchers.

Nc’wala traditional ceremony in pictures

Entertainment Editor
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Nc’wala traditional ceremony in pictures
A Catholic nun Ruth Tembo joins the Impis in dancing during the Ncwala ceremony at Laweni palace in Chipata
Catholic nun Ruth Tembo (m) joins the Impis dancing during Ncwala Ceremony at Laweni Palace in Chipata
Misheck Lungu the young Impis shows his prowess during Ncwala ceremony at Laweni palace in Chipata
The young Impis show their prowess during Ncwala ceremony at Laweni palace in Chipata
Young Impis perform during Ncwala ceremony at Laweni palace in Chipata
former Republican President, Rupiah Banda, talks to Chief Kapatamoyo of the Ngoni people at Laweni in Mtenguleni in Chipata shortly before the Nc’wala ceremony
Chief Sairi of the Ngoni people in Chipata, greets former Republican President, Rupiah Banda, at Laweni in Mtenguleni in Chipata. Mr. Banda was one of the invited guests at this year’s Nc’wala traditional ceremony
minister of Defense, Davies Mwila, officiates at this year’s Nc’wala traditional ceremony of the Ngoni speaking people in Chipata on Saturday
paramount Chief Mpezeni of the Ngoni people in Chipata dances at this year’s Nc’wala traditional ceremony in Chipata
paramount Chief Mpezeni of the Ngoni people in Chipata, receives a bowl of blood from a slaughtered black bull, from his Prime Minister, traditionally known as Mshamunye, at this year’s Nc’wala ceremony in Chipata
paramount Chief Mpezeni, drinks blood from a slaughtered black bull, to mark the climax of the Nc’wala traditional ceremony which was held at Mtengulen in Chipata on Saturday. On his left is Paramount Chief Mbelwa of the Ngoni people in Malawi.

In The Kitchen with Kanta: Vegetable curry

Entertainment Editor
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In The Kitchen with Kanta: Vegetable curry

In-The-Kitchen-With-Kanta-Logo (1)

 

layersofhappiness.com

 

Prep: 5min | Cook: 25min

Serves: 5  

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 2 tablespoons tomato purée
  • 1 (400g) tin chopped tomatoes
  • 1 vegetable stock cube
  • 285g frozen mixed vegetables (or fresh, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans)
  • 340ml water
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • chopped fresh coriander to garnish (optional)

Method

In a large saucepan over a medium high heat, heat oil and cook the onion and garlic until golden.

Stir in curry powder and tomato purée, cook for 2 to 3 minutes.

Stir in tomatoes, vegetable stock cube, mixed vegetables, water, salt and pepper to taste, and cook for approximately 20 to 30 minutes until vegetables are well done (not crunchy).

Serving

Sprinkle with fresh coriander before serving. Serve hot with rice, enjoy.

Kanta Temba is a Cake maker and decorator|Lusaka Times Food columnist|TV show host

Police used excessive force to arrest HH and five others-Amnesty International

Chief Editor
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Police used excessive force to arrest HH and five others-Amnesty International
Hakainde Hichilema with visiting Amnesty International Secretary General Salil Shetty
Hakainde Hichilema with visiting Amnesty International Secretary General Salil Shetty

The latest State of World’s Human Rights Report shows that police in Zambia used excessive force to arrest opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema and five others.

The report released last week details human rights abuses across the world for the period 2017 to 2018.

The report recounts that on 8 April, Hakainde Hichilema and other UPND members namely Lastone Mulilandumba, Muleya Haachenda, Wallace Chakwa, Pretorius Haloba and Hamusonde Hamaleka were arrested and charged with treason and disobeying a lawful order following an earlier incident in which Hakainde Hichilema’s motorcade refused to give way to President Lungu’s convoy.

It says Police raided Hakainde Hichilema’s house without a warrant, using tear gas against him and his family and that on 28 April, Mr Hichilema’s wife, Mutinta, was threatened with arrest after she reported the police’s use of excessive force.
The report notes that no charges had been brought against the police in connection with the incident by the end of 2017 but that on 15 August 2017, the Director of Public Prosecutions withdrew all charges against Hakainde Hichilema and the other UPND members.

The report also states that the Public Order Act was used to repress the rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly, particularly against critical civil society activists and opposition political party leaders.

“Police used excessive force against peaceful protesters while ignoring violence by ruling party loyalists against civil society activists. The authorities cracked down on critics, including human rights defenders, journalists and opposition political party members. The Public Order Act was used to repress rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly. The police used unnecessary and excessive force against peaceful protesters and failed to address violence by groups close to the government,” the report reads.

Amnesty also observes that the space for civil society, human rights defenders, journalists and opposition political parties was increasingly restricted in Zambia under the period under review.

“The authorities continued to use the Public Order Act to prevent political parties and civil society organizations from gathering. Section 5(4) of the Act provided that anyone those intending to assemble or convene a public meeting or demonstration were required to give the police seven days’ notice. However, the police interpreted the law as imposing a requirement to obtain prior authorization for any public assembly to proceed.”

It states, “On 24 August, police dispersed a prayer meeting convened to welcome Hakainde Hichilema’s release from Mukobeko Maximum Security Prison in Kabwe city where he had been held for four months on charges of treason, which were dropped. On 10 January, UK lawyer Oliver Holland was arrested and charged under the Public Order Act with unlawful assembly for meeting with a community in Chingola city who was challenging in court environmental pollution allegedly caused by a mining company. He was released the same day and charges against him were dropped; however, he was later charged with conduct likely to breach the peace and ordered to pay a USD5 fine.”

“In April, police stopped a UPND rally in Kanyama Township in the capital, Lusaka, on “security” grounds. Although the UPND had notified the police in advance of the rally, they unlawfully dispersed the rally, shooting 20 year old Stephen Kalipa, one of the protesters. He died later from gunshot wounds at the hospital. An investigation was opened, but no one had been arrested in connection with the incident by the end of the year. The police claimed that he died of knife stab wounds at the hands of an unidentified assailant,” it says.

It added, “On 23 June, police arrested senior UPND officials on charges of unlawful assembly alleging that they held a press briefing at the UPND’s secretariat offices without obtaining prior authorization. On 29 September, police arrested six human rights defenders who gathered outside Parliament and protested peacefully against the government’s purchase, at the inflated cost of USD42 million, of 42 fire engines; they were charged with refusing to obey police orders. The protesters were beaten during the protest by members of the ruling Patriotic Front.”

On Freedom of Expression, the report notes that security forces and political activists affiliated with the Patriotic Front subjected media workers, political activists and others who criticized the government to harassment and intimidation.

“Staff of the Law Association of Zambia were harassed and intimidated because of their work in defence of human rights. On 3 March, for example, Patriotic Front loyalists stormed the Association’s offices demanding the resignation of its president, Linda Kasonde,” it says.

“Later the same month, the Association joined a High Court petition to prevent the liquidation of Post Newspapers, known to be highly critical of the government, in proceedings in which the Zambia Revenue Authority, among others, sought the company’s liquidation, alleging that it had failed to pay taxes,” it read.

2On 3 August, police arrested Saviour Chishimba, president of the United Progressive People party on defamation charges after he criticized President Lungu for declaring a threatened state of emergency. Saviour Chishimba was detained Amnesty International Report 2017/18 405 for seven days, without being brought before a judge; he was released without charge. In October, the Independent Broadcasting Authority summoned Prime Television Zambia’s management to answer allegations that they had violated the provisions of their broadcasting licence when they covered a story about the UPND’s parliamentary candidate for Kalulushi town, Everisto Mwalilino, who had accused government officials of electoral corruption.”
The report also notes that the judiciary came under verbal attack from President Lungu.

“On 2 November, President Lungu warned judges against blocking him from running for President in 2021. In November, on a trip to Solwezi, he warned judges against following Kenyan judges who, in September, had ruled to annul the results of Kenya’s presidential elections.”

“The government verbally attacked the judiciary, which undermined the independence of the institution. At the same time, there was a growing public perception of the judiciary as a polarized institution in which some judges were not politically independent. In September, while on a visit to South Africa, Hakainde Hichilema accused the judiciary of corruption and of being under the control of the President,” it noted.

Lusambo’s transfer to Lusaka saddens Lamba Chiefs

Chief Editor
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Lusambo’s transfer to Lusaka saddens Lamba Chiefs
Mr Lusambo chatting with the Lamba Chiefs during a luncheon at his house in Ndola
Mr Lusambo chatting with the Lamba Chiefs during a luncheon at his house in Ndola

Traditional leaders on the Copperbelt have expressed sadness over the transfer of former Copperbelt Minister Bowman Lusambo to Lusaka in the same capacity.

Speaking on behalf of all the 15 Chiefs in the province, Chairperson of the Lamba Lima Royal Establishment Senior Chief Chiwala said the traditional leaders would have preferred that Mr Lusambo continues as Copperbelt Minister.

Senior Chief Chiwala however said that the Chiefs welcome President Edgar Lungu’s decision to appoint Mr Lusambo as Lusaka Province Minister saying the appointment demonstrates the confidence the Head of State has in the Kabushi lawmaker.

Senior Chief Chiwala was speaking during a luncheon hosted by Mr Lusambo at his Ndola residence on Sunday.

“We are really saddened that you are leaving us. When you were appointed, all of us were overjoyed because it was the first time since Independence that our own true son of the soil was heading the Province and we saw your true commitment to the province during your stay here. We have never had a Minister like you in this province,” Senior Chief Chiwala said.
He added, “However, we are still happy that you are moving to Lusaka to manage the number one province in the nation and we are elated that the President has recognised your leadership qualities and taken you to Lusaka.”

Senior Chief Chiwala said the Royal Establishment was happy that Mr Lusambo managed to unify all the Chiefs in the Province.

“The unity we have seen in this Province since you arrived is something wonderful. You worked tirelessly to unify all of us and fostered development in our province. Truly you are a son of the soil because your commitment spoke for itself,” he said.

Senior Chief Chiwala along with all the Chiefs took time to bless Mr Lusambo and wished him success as he starts his new tour of duty as Lusaka Province Minister.

“Go well our son and work for the nation. You did very well here although we are aware that some of your detractors here on the Copperbelt worked so hard to fight you and created a lot of lies but God will continue to shield you from your enemies as you go to Lusaka,” he said.

And Mr Lusambo thanked the traditional leaders for the wise counsel and support he received when he served as Minister for Copperbelt.

“I am highly indebted to you my Fathers and Mothers here for the wisdom you shared during my stay here. Remember, i am not going away, this is my village and from time to time i shall be calling on you for advice,” Mr Lusambo said.

Some political observers on the Copperbelt have credited Mr Lusambo for the resurgence of the ruling PF which saw the party scoop a Local Government seat in a by-election in Mpongwe’s Fungulwe area, a constituency held by the opposition UPND.

Mr Lusambo greets Senior Chief Chiwala after the end of the luncheon with Lamba Chiefs
Mr Lusambo greets Senior Chief Chiwala after the end of the luncheon with Lamba Chiefs
Mr Lusambo posing for a group photo with the Lamba Chiefs after the end of the luncheon held at his residence in Ndola
Mr Lusambo posing for a group photo with the Lamba Chiefs after the end of the luncheon held at his residence in Ndola
Senior Chief Chiwala (in white shirt) spoke on behalf of the Lamba Chiefs who gathered for a luncheon at Mr Lusambo's residence
Senior Chief Chiwala (in white shirt) spoke on behalf of the Lamba Chiefs who gathered for a luncheon at Mr Lusambo’s residence
Some Chiefs enjoying a light moment during the luncheon
Some Chiefs enjoying a light moment during the luncheon

Munali petition: High Court to view video evidence

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Munali petition: High Court to view video evidence
Nkandu Luo
Nkandu Luo

The Constitutional Court has ordered that a video should be reviewed by the Lusaka High Court before it is presented to it in the matter in which Munali Member of Parliament Prof. Nkandu Luo has challenged the nullification of her parliamentary seat.

There is a dispute over the video evidence and the viewing of the video will help determine whether it was the one which was submitted before the Court when the petition was first heard.

Justice Enock Mulembe sitting with Justices Annie Sitali and Mulenga Mungeni told the parties that the court can not dismiss the petition entirely without taking into consideration the circumstances that surround the missing videos evidence.

According to Justice Mulembe, since the issue in dispute is centered on the missing evidence, it was of importance for the parties in the presence of the trial court to determine whether or not the video apparently presented during the appeal is the one that was presented during the original case heard in the high court.

He said the lower court should make its findings to the Concourt by or before 29th March 2018

Its from there that the constitutional Court will make a final decision on whether or not to dismiss the appeal or to uphold the earlier decision.

The respondent, UPND’s Doreen Mwamba had applied that the court dismisses the appeal by Nkandu Luo as the records of appeal was both defective and incomplete.

She also contended that the Concourt has no jurisdiction to review it’s own ruling of 5th July 2017 in which it directed that the video be viewed by both parties and in an event of a disagreement,the trial court to view and ascertain its authenticity.

But on 18th July,2017, the Concourt ruled that it will go ahead to hear the matter even when there was no agreement on the video by both parties as well as the lack of a report from the trial court.

The respondent however argued that the Concourt lacks jurisdiction to review its own decision of July 5th 2017 and cannot therefore go ahead to determine the appeal in the absence of the video evidence.

She therefore applied that the matter be dismissed on grounds that the appeal is defective and incomplete.

The Concourt has now ruled that the trial judge reviews the authenticity of the video before proceeding to hearing the case.

The nullification or upholding of the nullification is yet to be decided.

Government forms ministerial clusters

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Government forms ministerial clusters
President Lungu during the Presentation of 4th Quartely Report by Ministry of Transport and Commuunication at State House on Monday, February 26,2018-Picture by THOMAS NSAMA

President Edgar Lungu says there is need to have a coherence and cohesion communication of government programmes to the public.

And President Edgar Lungu has directed that a special committee within the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) must meet to deliberate on the financial challenges facing the Times of Zambia.

President Lungu says it is for this reason that government has decided to form ministerial clusters aimed at promoting strong imperative public communication to the people and to regulate an open dialogue between Ministries.

Special Assistant to the President for Press and Public Relations Amos Chanda said this to ZANIS in an exclusive interview shortly after a cluster meeting comprising the Ministry of Communication and Transport which was represented by Former Minister of Finance and Works and Supply Minister Felix Mutati, Livestock and Fisheries, Tourism and Arts Ministry, presented a Ministerial economic cluster report at state house to President Lungu today.

“The ideal of clusters is that President Lungu hopes that it will follow budgetary provision implementation, the 7th National Development plan and within the flame work set out in the monitoring and evaluations,” Mr. Chanda explained.

And cluster Chairperson Micheal Katambo who is also Minister of Agriculture said the cluster has presented several programmes that Ministries under the cluster have implemented and challenges faced.

“We presented programmes which we have implemented and challenges we faced among them Communication and Transport, agriculture development and tourism,” Mr. Katambo said.

Mr. Katambo further explained that government will soon discuss the issues of fish restocking in the water bodies and wildlife restocking in the game reserves and the country’s national parks.

And Mr. Chanda disclosed that President Edgar Lungu has directed that a special committee within the Industrial Development Coperation (IDC) must meet to deliberate on the financial challenges facing the Times of Zambia.

“I will be joining that meeting myself to work out at both medium and long term plans of salvaging the Times of Zambia, particularly debts related to terminal benefits and salary areas,” he explained.

Times of Zambia has more than 200 workers and the print media is finding difficulties to meet monthly salaries and paying pension benefits.

Fishing community in Chiengi District unhappy with extended fish ban

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Fishing community in Chiengi District unhappy with extended fish ban
The kapenta fishing rigs that are parked on Sekula Island

Government’s announcement of the country-wide extension of the Fishing Ban has not been well received with the fishing community in Chienge District of Luapula Province.

The Fishermen for this reason staged a peaceful protest earlier today over the extension which has been necessitated by Cholera outbreaks in some parts of the Country.

Chienge District Administration which had a three hour meeting with representatives of the Fishers had a tough time to convince them that the move by Government is meant to save human lives.

Speaking to ZANIS in a walk-in interview, Chienge District Fishers Association appealed to Government to consider reviewing the announcement.

Ngonis beat Bembas in the annual N’cwala Golf Tournament

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Ngonis beat Bembas in the annual N’cwala Golf Tournament
NGONI warriors doing what they know best during 2016 Nc`wala traditional ceremony in Chipata
File:NGONI warriors doing what they know best during 2016 Nc`wala
traditional ceremony in Chipata

The Ngonis are this year’s Champions in the nt after they defeated their traditional cousins, the Bemba speaking people in the annual sporting event.

The tournament was held at Chipata Golf Coast, which is the oldest Golf Coast in Zambia and second oldest in Africa.Eastern Province Permanent Secretary Chanda Kasolo said the annual Golf tournament helps promote unity among Zambians.

Kasolo as guest of honour at the event stated that it hurts when some people talk ill of other tribes stressing that all the people are one regardless of which tribe they hail from, hence the need for the promotion of coexistence among all tribes in the country.

“ This is evident with the tournament although it is dubbed the Ngoni and Bemba Golf Tournament, it does not segregate other tribes, “ he said.

The tournament which was played on Sunday saw the two sides winning various awards in different individual categories where the Ngonis
emerged as overall winners.

Overall , the Bembas’ amassed 336 points against their traditional cousins’ 316 in the men’s category while in the ladies category the Ngonis got 194 points against the Bembas’ 164 points.

The individual champion was scooped by Christian Kombe from the Bembas’ side who got 42 points.

The tournament was also spiced by other golfers who were not either Ngoni or Bemba and were provided with Ngoni traditional head gear
popularly known as Vishutu in the Ngoni language as token of appreciation for their participation in the tournament.

Meanwhile, Chipata Golf Club president Charles Ntinda urged the golfers to consider assisting the vulnerable in society. Ntinda stated that there was need for those that are privileged to assist those that are poor to bridge the gap.

And Kasama Golf Club President Peter Sinkombe said his team was humbled with the hospitality it received in Eastern Province. MTN and Zambia National Commercial Bank (ZANACO) were the sponsors of the tournament.

Zambian scientist called upon to research in traditional medicine

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Zambian scientist called upon to research in traditional medicine
SEX BOOSTERS UP FOR SALE! Scores of men and women flocked to the stand where sex boosters were being sold to enquire about and buy the traditional medicines at the on-going Copperbelt Mining, Agriculture and Commercial Show in Kitwe
SEX BOOSTERS UP FOR SALE! Scores of men and women flocked to the stand where sex boosters were being sold to enquire about and buy the traditional medicines at the on-going Copperbelt Mining, Agriculture and Commercial Show in Kitwe

Luapula Province Permanent Secretary Dr Buleti Nsemukila has called on scientists in the country to continue doing research on Traditional Zambian Medicines.

The Permanent Secretary says Traditional Herbal Medicine is an important field which scientist should not be ashamed to research on saying countries like China has already taken Traditional Medicine as the centre for health provision in their country.

The Permanent Secretary said this when he met a team from the Tropical Diseases Research Centre in Nchelenge District during his tour of the district.

And Tropical Diseases Research Centre Board Secretary Martha Tembo has disclosed that plans are underway to set up a Traditional Medicine Research Center in Mununga Chiefdom in Nchelenge District.

Ms Tembo says her organization has already acquired 100 hectare of land in Chief Mununga’s Chiefdom and that all that the organization is waiting for is a conveyance for the land to start the project.

Meanwhile Tropical Diseases Research Centre Public Relations Officer Edna Simbayi disclosed that the organization will invest in research for both Zambian and Chinese Traditional Medicines

Zambia to embark on solid bamboo pilot project

Chief Editor
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Zambia to embark on solid bamboo pilot project

Minister of lands Jean Kapata
Minister of Lands Jean Kapata

Government will soon embark on a pilot project of planting solid bamboo to help curb deforestation in Kazungula district.

Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Jean Kapata disclosed this when she visited Nyawa Chiefdom in Kazungula district in Southern Province to secure land for the project.

Ms Kapata said her ministry earmarked Nyawa for the pilot project because of the high levels of deforestation in the area and the passion shown by the Chief in protecting the environment.

She added that once land is secured in Nyawa, the project will commence before the end of the 2017-2018 rainy season.

Ms Kapata said the project will be rolled out to all the other nine provinces in the country.

The Minister further explained that the solid bamboo plant which takes 4 years to mature can be used for several purposes which include charcoal, timber and stock feed.

She added that the plant can thereafter be harvested for 15 years.

“We are aware that some people earn their livelihoods through charcoal burning and therefore want to provide an alternative. It is only then that we can ban and stiffen laws against the cutting of trees for charcoal,” Ms Kapata stated.

Earlier, the minister led some officers from the Forestry Department and other government officials in planting trees as part of the implementation of the 2017/18 tree planting season under the theme ‘Plant Trees To Grow the Economy Sustainably.’

And Chief Nyawa of the Tonga people in Kazungula has pledged 200 hectares of land in each of the 500 villages of his chiefdom for the bamboo project.

The traditional leader said he is troubled with the levels of deforestation in his chiefdom hence has urged his subjects to embrace the development as it will bring several benefits.

“Let’s ensure we participate in this project, as we heard, we’ll be able to sell the seedlings to other districts thereby earning some income,” he advised.

Meanwhile, Southern Province Permanent Secretary, Mwangala Liomba has expressed happiness with the efforts by men in uniform to implement the Timber ban.

He was speaking earlier when Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Jean Kapata called on him at his office in Choma.

He disclosed that two trucks carrying Mukula logs were recently impounded and have since been handed over to the relevant Provincial Joint Operations Committee in Kazungula district.

Black Panther’s Angela Bassett dons outfit made by Zambian fashion designer Kapasa Musonda

Entertainment Editor
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Black Panther’s Angela Bassett dons outfit made by Zambian fashion designer Kapasa Musonda
Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett channeled the African queen she played in Black Panther to present an award at American Black Film Festival Honors in Beverly Hills on Sunday night.

The Oscar nominee easily defied her 59 years in a $169 Mangishi Doll Co. SS/18 ‘MD Marsha Pencil II’ dress featuring a Chitenge print from Zambia selected by stylist Jennifer Austin.

“Mangishi Doll (MD) is an Afro-Eclectic clothing line, inspired by bold prints and unique style. It is a contemporary line intentionally crafted for the Doll that dares to stand out!

The clothing line was established in 2014, founded by African Designer, Kapasa Musonda who was born and raised in Zambia. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, California U.S.A.  Since establishment, Mangishi Doll is steadily growing, with an online presence that has channelled exports to the U.S.A, Europe, Australia and Africa.”

Zambian fashion designer Kapasa Musonda

Follow Mangishi Doll on social media:

Instagram: MangishiDoll

Facebook: MangishiDoll

(Dailymail.co.uk)

By KAPA187

Rating Agency’s outcome is a confirmation that Zambia’s Economic Stabilization is producing positive results

Chief Editor
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Rating Agency’s outcome is a confirmation that Zambia’s Economic Stabilization is producing positive results
Minister of Finance Margaret Mwanakatwe
Minister of Finance Margaret Mwanakatwe

By Margaret Mwanakatwe, MP MINISTER OF FINANCE Ministry of Finance

STANDARD AND POORS on Friday, February, 23, 2018, AFFIRMED ZAMBIA’S RATING AT B WITH A STABLE OUTLOOK. This is a very important assessment of our economy.

The rating outcome is also a confirmation that Zambia’s Economic Stabilization and Growth Programme [ESGP] is firmly grounded and is producing positive results as recently confirmed by other independent agencies such as MOODY’S INVESTOR SERVICE and FITCH RATINGS.

The rating outcome by STANDARD AND POORS demonstrates the international community’s recognition of Government’s strong commitment to the implementation of the economic stabilization and growth reforms, which are targeted at continued macroeconomic stability, fiscal consolidation, and a corresponding accommodative monetary policy stance.

The affirmed rating is also a good signal and an assurance to domestic and external investors – crucial stakeholders in our quest to achieve higher economic growth rates – that we are committed to setting the right conditions for them to realize value from the Zambian economy.

As Government, we undertake to sustain this positive performance and will address the outstanding structural, quantitative, and policy reforms that are needed for the country to remain on the right track and consolidate the current gains in our economic stabilisation and growth journey.

To demonstrate the positive impact of our reform actions, the first bond auction on Government securities for 2018 was last week oversubscribed.

The nation may wish to know that the Government towards the end of last week went in the domestic market to raise K1.65 billion but, gladly, both domestic and foreign bond investors placed bids totaling K3.35 billion – leading to an over subscription of one-hundred-and-three percent.

More importantly and in line with Government’s resolve not to crowd out the private sector in Zambia, I am glad that the auction recorded substantial participation by foreign investors. This development underscores the confidence that the international community has with regard to our economy’s firm fundamentals and generally the positive prospects for business and growth.

The weighted yield rate at 18.63 percent, remained largely changed from the last Bond auction in 2017, signaling the high competition by investors.

With this positive performance, I wish to reassure citizens that the Government will move to address concerns around the rating of high risk of debt distress by implementing a number of institutional and legal reforms. These reforms will assure continued debt and fiscal sustainability going forward.

Further, the Ministry of Finance, working with the Bank of Zambia, will focus on addressing high lending rates as they are a binding constraint to economic growth. In response to this policy initiative, the Bank of Zambia at its last monetary policy committee meeting reduced the policy rate to 9.75% from 10.25% and the reserve ratio to 5% from 8%.

These actions action will begin to provide to the banking system the much-needed liquidity for lending to the economy that will in turn address high lending rates.

The results of the latest assessment conducted by STANDARD AND POORS is a welcome assurance to investors to remain steadfastly confident that Zambia is on track with economic stabilisation and growth.

As Government under the leadership of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, we will work diligently to ensure that the confidence of our people and that of investors in our good intentions to stabilize and grow the economy, are not taken for granted. We will endeavour to remain focused, firm, and committed to the implementation of the reform and transformational agenda so that the gains in economic stabilisation are protected through enhanced fiscal consolidation and sustained inclusive growth; without leaving anyone behind.

Movie review : Number 1 movie in the world – Black Panther

Entertainment Editor
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Movie review : Number 1 movie in the world – Black Panther

Black Panther

After the events of Captain America: Civil War, King T’Challa returns home to the reclusive, technologically advanced African nation of Wakanda to serve as his country’s new leader. However, T’Challa soon finds that he is challenged for the throne from factions within his own country. When two foes conspire to destroy Wakanda, the hero known as Black Panther must team up with C.I.A. agent Everett K. Ross and members of the Dora Milaje, Wakandan special forces, to prevent Wakanda from being dragged into a world war

PROS

  • Great performances by the entire cast, especially Micheal B. Jordan who,in my opinion, was the best character in the film. From the moment he shows up on the screen, you know you are in for a wild ride.
  • Excellent original storyline, which concentrated on telling T’Challa’s (Black Panther) story.
  • The positive portrayal of black woman in this movie was awesome.

FAVORITE QUOTES

museum curator: “I’m sorry ,these items are not for sale.”

Erik Killmonger: How you think your ancestors got it? You think they paid a fair price?”

 

King T’Chaka – “ You are a good man, with a good heart. Its hard for a good man to be King.”

 

T’Challa – “If you weren’t so stubborn, you would be a good queen”

Nakia– “ It is because I am so stubborn that I would be a good queen”

 

Okoye: “Guns…so primitive”

 

Shuri – “Don’t scare me like that, colonizer!”

 

Shuri –“ [about T’challa’s sandals] What are those?! ”

CONCLUSSION

After months and months of anticipation Black Panther is finally upon us. Many, me included, were skeptical whether it would live up to the massive hype that surrounded it. Not only did Black Panther live up to the hype, it turned out to be much better than most critics had expected. The movie has gone on to break numerous records such as being the highest grossing Marvel cinematic universe (MCU) movie in its first week, the biggest opening for an African-American director, highest rated superhero movie of all time (according Rotten Tomatoes movie review website) among many more records it continues to break.

But what makes Black Panther so good? You may ask. Well it is not your every day run-of-the–mill superhero movie, it is much deeper than that. It tackles real life issues such as loyalty, betrayal, and revenge. Black Panther is not your typical save-the-universe-from–impending-doom kind of superhero movie, rather it concentrates on T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) and the nation of Wakanda. What worked is not just because it was different in scale than other Marvel or DC super hero movies, but because the stakes were so incredibly personal.

The main thing that pulled people to the cinema is the fact that this is major, big budget superhero movie with an almost entirely black cast helmed by a black director, and set in a fictional African country called Wakanda. The radiant art, costumes, makeup and hairstyles were all inspired by real-world African traditions. The language and accents were on point for all the actors. Hollywood is often criticized for using ‘generic’ African accents in their movies, but in this case they got it right.

Another great thing about Black Panther is the way women are portrayed. They are not simply placed in the movie for their sex appeal or as ‘damsels in distress’, as is the case for many super hero movies. The women of Wakanda are strong, intelligent and powerful, they do not need to be rescued, sustained or lauded by men. They are entrusted with the technological advances and the protection of the nation. Black women are practically the mightiest heroes in the movie. Rarely do we ever witness women, black women for that matter, who are graceful and determined.

Even while in love, they are assertive and capable of independent thought. When faced with choosing between their dreams or the love of a man, they simply choose to follow their dreams. Women such as Shuri (Letitia Wright) and General Okoye (Danai Guirira) are scene-stealers. Those are characters one will not soon forget.

Black Panther has arguably the best villain I have ever come across in a superhero movie. Michael B. Jordan’s spellbinding performance as Erik Kilmonger will have you rooting for him to win, knowing full well that he is the bad guy. Killmonger uses the extreme pain from his childhood upbringing as fuel for his vengeful mission. Michael B. Jordan’s Killmonger is a multilayer character that one cannot help but get attached to during the course of the film.

Black Panther is movie that everyone needs to watch, preferably multiple times, whether you are a fan of superhero movies or not.

RATING

5 out of 5

 

BY KAPA KAUMBA

 

 

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