Advertisement Banner
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Subscribe
Home Blog Page 261

Government concerned with uncoordinated infrastructure projects

Chief Editor
-
6
Government concerned with uncoordinated infrastructure projects

The UPND government has expressed its growing concern over the lack of coordinated planning and implementation of infrastructure projects across the country. Infrastructure, Housing, and Urban Development Minister Charles Milupi emphasized that the absence of a comprehensive and integrated approach to infrastructure planning has resulted in the accumulation of unsustainable debt, subsequently leading to the suspension of critical infrastructure projects.

Minister Milupi’s remarks came during his address at the launch of the National Infrastructure Policy. The event aimed to shed light on the current challenges facing Zambia’s infrastructure development and outline the government’s plans to address them.

Albert Malama, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Infrastructure, represented Minister Milupi at the launch and emphasized the need for a more structured approach to infrastructure projects. The lack of coordination has not only affected the overall quality of the projects but also hindered their timely completion, contributing to rising national debt.

The European Union Delegation Head of Cooperation, Claudio Becigalupi, also highlighted the significance of infrastructure development in regional integration. He stressed that improving infrastructure remains one of the key challenges for promoting stronger regional ties and enhancing economic growth.

Additionally, Anne Wagner Mitchell, the German Ambassador to Zambia, underscored the importance of infrastructure development as the cornerstone of economic progress. She emphasized that a robust infrastructure network is vital for attracting investments, fostering economic development, and improving the overall quality of life for citizens.

Kaizer Zulu still at large

Chief Editor
-
31
Kaizer Zulu still at large

Lusaka Resident Magistrate Sylvia Munyinya has granted more time for the sureties of former Presidential Political Advisor Kaizer Zulu to locate him, as he remains at large. The development comes in the midst of a legal matter in which Mr. Zulu faces two charges, one for failing to surrender his Diplomatic Passport when he was no longer entitled to it, and another for failing to appear before the nearest Immigration Officer at the point of entry.

During the recent court hearing, Chilubi Member of Parliament Mulenga Fube revealed to the court that he had received four phone calls from Mr. Zulu since the previous court session, with the most recent call having taken place the evening before the hearing.

Mr. Fube promptly informed the arresting officer of these developments, shedding some light on the search for Mr. Zulu’s whereabouts.

Meanwhile, Lumezi Member of Parliament Munir Zulu informed the court that progress had been made in the ongoing efforts to determine Mr. Kaizer Zulu’s location.

In light of these updates, Magistrate Sylvia Munyinya granted an extension to the search period for Mr. Zulu, acknowledging the ongoing efforts to locate him. The case has now been adjourned to September 22nd, when a return of bench warrant will be considered.

Zambia: Minor Changes to the National Anthem Needed

Chief Editor
-
33
Zambia: Minor Changes to the National Anthem Needed

By Henry Kyambalesa

The National Anthems of Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe are based on a Christian hymn entitled “Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika” (or “Lord Bless Africa”) composed in 1897 by Enoch Sontonga, a Xhosa clergyman, at a Methodist mission school near Johannesburg in South Africa.

The purpose of this article is to suggest a few minor changes to the National Anthem of the Republic of Zambia, which became the country’s official Anthem upon the passage of the National Anthem Act by the National Assembly in September 1973.

The following are the lyrics of the current National Anthem of the Republic of Zambia:

“Stand and sing of Zambia, proud and free,
Land of work and joy in unity,
Victors in the struggle for the right,
We’ve won freedom’s fight.
All one, strong and free.

Africa is our own motherland,
Fashion’d with and blessed by God’s good hand,
Let us all her people join as one,
Brothers under the sun.
All one, strong and free.

One land and one nation is our cry,
Dignity and peace ‘neath Zambia’s sky,
Like our noble eagle in its flight,
Zambia, praise to thee.
All one, strong and free.

Chorus:

Praise be to God,
Praise be, praise be, praise be,
Bless our great nation,
Zambia, Zambia, Zambia.
Free men we stand
Under the flag of our land.
Zambia, praise to thee!
All one, strong and free.”

Firstly, we need to change “for the right” in Part I of the Anthem to “for our rights.” Secondly, we need to add the following soon after the “Brothers under the sun” line in Part II: “Si’ters under the sun,” where “Si’ters” would represent “Sisters.” Thirdly, we need to change the “is our cry” in the first line of Part III to “are our cry.”

And fourthly, we need to change the “Free men we stand” in the chorus to “Free ‘zens we stand,” where “‘zens” would represent “citizens.”

We need to seriously consider the prospect of making the foregoing minor changes to our beloved country’s National Anthem mainly to make it more gender-neutral. The new era National Anthem for the Republic of Zambia would, therefore, be read or sang as follows:

“Stand and sing of Zambia, proud and free,
Land of work and joy in unity,
Victors in the struggle for our rights,
We’ve won freedom’s fight.
All one, strong and free.

Africa is our own motherland,
Fashion’d with and blessed by God’s good hand,
Let us all her people join as one,
Brothers under the sun,
Si’ters under the sun,
All one, strong and free.

One land and one nation are our cry,
Dignity and peace ‘neath Zambia’s sky,
Like our noble eagle in its flight,
Zambia, praise to thee.
All one, strong and free.

Chorus:

Praise be to God,
Praise be, praise be, praise be,
Bless our great nation,
Zambia, Zambia, Zambia.
Free ‘zens we stand
Under the flag of our land.
Zambia, praise to thee!
All one, strong and free.”

In 2005, according to Wikipedia, women’s groups in the country fruitlessly petitioned for a number of the lyrics in “Stand and Sing of Zambia, Proud and Free” to be changed, because they felt that some of the lyrics were too male-orientated. And in 2012, Prof. Michelo Hansungule echoed the women’s concerns that the country’s Anthem was too masculine, and also argued that it might have intellectual property implications because it had the same tune as the National Anthem of the Republic of South Africa.

Malaria still a challenge in Mkushi

Support Editor
-
0
Malaria still a challenge in Mkushi

The Mkushi District Health Office recorded a total of 31,600 people who suffered from malaria in the second quarter of this year.

Mkushi District Health Director (DHD), Evaristo Miyoba, said 72,018 were examined for malaria between April and June this year but 31,600 were found positive.

Dr Miyoba said out of 31,600 who suffered from malaria during the period under review, eight died from the disease.

He said this during the health promotion technical working group (HPTWG) forum in Mkushi.

Dr Miyoba noted that malaria continues to be a major public health concern in the district.

 “Twelve deaths were recorded in the first quarter,” he said.

He stated that 64,997 tests of malaria were done at different health facilities out of which, 35,187 positive cases were recorded.

 Dr. Miyoba also revealed that there were 451 positive cases out of 6,910 HIV tests in the second quarter of this year.

 He stressed the need to make communities appreciate that prevention is less costly than the cure measures.

He said stakeholders need to strengthen collaboration to scale up prevention and mitigation of public health challenges.

Dr Miyoba said team work is important in ensuring success in health prevention activities.

He said the collective efforts will be directed towards encouraging people to have a sense of ownership over their own health as well as overturning negative attitudes that hinder the success of mitigating public health problems in the communities.

Kanchibiya man beats wife to death

Support Editor
-
5
Kanchibiya man beats wife to death

A 34-year-old woman of Chilimabwe area in Kanchibiya District in Muchinga Province has been beaten to death by her husband following a marital dispute.

Muchinga Province Deputy Police Commanding Officer Ronald Zambo has confirmed the incident  today and identified the deceased as Lydia Mulenga.

Mr Zambo said Mulenga was beaten by her husband Maybin Kabwe, 39, on Monday this week around 02.00 hours on suspicion that she was having an affair with another man.

“It has been alleged that after Kabwe had badly beaten his wife, he thought she had died, and so he rushed to his sister’s place Teresa Kabwe and lied that his wife had been badly beaten by unknown people,” Mr Zambo said in a statement.

However, when the sister to Kabwe in the company of other people rushed to the house of the couple, they found the now deceased was still alive but in a very bad condition, but fortunately managed to explain that she was beaten by her husband after having a marital dispute.

Mr Zambo explained that unfortunately a few minutes after explaining what transpired, the victim died.

He explained that, upon hearing the confession from the now deceased, the concerned people immediately reported to the Police who have since arrested Kabwe, who is now detained at Mpika Police Station waiting to appear in court soon.

“The couple have been having marital disputes for one year now,” Mr. Zambo said.

Meanwhile, Kanchibiya District Commissioner Chrispin Chilekwa has urged the community in Kanchibiya not to take the law into their own hands no matter the situation they are facing.

Mr Chilekwa said taking the law in their own hands has far-reaching regrettable consequences.

“It is sad that a life has been lost in such a horrible manner which could have been avoided,” Mr Chilekwa said.

Meanwhile, the body of the deceased has been deposited at Mpika Hospital Mortuary awaiting post-mortem.

Vice President Nalumango launches National Electronic Governance Plan

Support Editor
-
3
Vice President Nalumango launches National Electronic Governance Plan

Vice President, Mutale Nalumango has launched the national electronic governance plan aimed at embracing digital transformation for efficient and effective public service delivery.

Ms Nalumango says digital technology is a catalyst to transform national economies and the global economy at large.

Speaking during the launch of the national electronic government plan 2023-2026 in her virtual address today, Ms Nalumango said digital technology is the new normal for the country to foster economic development.

She said government must move quickly towards the full utilisation of the digital economy, in its ambitious journey to become a prosperous middle- income country as espoused in the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP).

The Vice President observed that the national electronic governance plan is earmarked to accelerate digital transactions and bring quality services closer to the people.

Ms Nalumango, further explained that the e-government agenda espoused in the plan embraces full digitalisation of vital government systems, processes and services to the business community and the citizenry.

She said driving the public sector digital transformation agenda will require close collaboration with multiple stakeholders ranging from public bodies, the business community, and the private sector among others.

Ms Nalumango also stated that the plan will transform and improve the issuance of digital national registration cards, which will in turn reduce duplication.

“Indeed, this launch of the national electronic government plan 2023-2026, will enhance service delivery to the public in every sector of the economy, this will make Zambia to become a prosperous middle- income country by 2030,” she said.

And Smart Zambia National Coordinator, Percy Chinyama said the launch of the national electronic government plan, will promote transparency, and accountability in the public sector and statutory bodies.

Mr Chinyama added that the launched electronic plan will provide an opportunity to the general public to monitor what government is doing for them through various digital platforms.

He has since urged the media to deepen their understanding in digital matters, for them to be able to educate the public on the myriad strides government is making.

Mr Chinyama, however, cautioned the media not to abuse the digital services that government has launched but highlight the positive impact it will bring to the people.

Fake contractors to be prosecuted-Nkombo

Support Editor
-
7
Fake contractors to be prosecuted-Nkombo

Local Government and Rural Development Minister, Garry Nkombo says all contractors who were fraudulently awarded road contracts during the Patriotic Front (PF) regime will be prosecuted.

And Mr Nkombo has advised Zambians to reject politicians who are championing tribal politics.

Mr Nkombo said the government is aware of some contractors including two PF candidates in the 2021 General elections who stood for Kapiri Mposhi Member of Parliament and Council Chairmanship respectively who were illegally awarded road contracts and did not fulfill contractual obligations.

Speaking in Kapiri Mposhi when he handed over CDF grants to 41 Marketeers, Mr Nkombo disclosed that he has documentation in his office indicating all fraudulently awarded contracts stating that those involved would soon be followed up.

He charged that the previous government illegally awarded most feeder road contracts in the country to contractors aligned to PF officials and who could unfortunately not deliver the projects even after being paid at inflated prices leading to the government losing huge sums of money.

The Minister revealed that most of these contracts have since been terminated and are being investigated.

“A certain parliamentary candidate here in Kapiri was given a contract to work on 23 kilometers of feeder roads, but they allowed him to indicate that it was 28 kilometers. Another PF official was given a contract to work on a road in Magoye in Southern Province. These road contracts were being awarded to PF aligned individuals in a fraudulent manner, ”Mr Nkombo said.

And Mr Nkombo has charged that no tribe in Zambia is superior to others stating that the UPND government will treat each tribe as equals in actualising its development agenda.

Mr Nkombo advised Zambians to reject politicians championing tribalism warning that tribalism should be entertained anymore as it is divisive and a danger to democracy.

“Be careful who is courting you. We are all one people. It is an abomination to exalt yourself based on your ethnic extraction. It is wrong simply put,” Mr Nkombo said.

The Minister charged that it was wrong for leaders like Socialist Party President, Fred M’membe to suggest that some tribes are superior to others and are more entitled to rule the country.

Reacting to recent comments by Socialist Party leader, Fred M’membe Mr Nkombo stated that no tribe should think it is more capable of governing the country.

“I am now addressing Fred M’membe. This Bemba courage, Lozi wisdom narrative should not be encouraged. And I am telling you people gathered here that you should reject such leaders. We have about 72 tribes in this country, and this narrative being propagated by Dr Fred M’membe is implying that only two tribes are capable of providing leadership in this country. The Bemba courage and Lozi wisdom will not take us anyway. This is divisive. And practicing tribal politics should not be encouraged in a modern democracy,” Nkombo said.

Meanwhile, Mr Nkombo said President Hakainde Hichilema has exceeded his own campaign promise of increasing CDF as he has increased the fund by over 1000 percent for it to have a greater impact on and coverage of various social and economic sectors.

“During campaigns Mr Hakainde Hichilema pledged to increase CDF to USD 1 million dollars he has exceeded and beaten his own promise now CDF is now about USD 1.5 million. Remember what it was before it was K 1.6 million kwacha,” Mr Nkombo said.

And Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Stanley Kakubo has said that the CDF has had a greater reach and impact since the new dawn administration assumed office.

Mr Kakubo who is also Kapiri Mposhi Member of Parliament said the current development through CDF being witnessed across the country can be attributed to quality leadership being exhibited by President Hakainde Hichilema.

“ All this development is a clear indication that when you choose quality leadership that has a vision development is guaranteed and 2021 you decided to vote for a leadership that has a vision and is committed to uplifting the living standards of people in the country,” Kakubo said.

Headman calls for equal promotion of girl, boy child education

Support Editor
-
2
Headman calls for equal promotion of girl, boy child education

A traditional leader in Mkushi district’s chief Chitina’s area, has warned against neglecting the promotion of the boy child education in preference for girl children’s education.

Senior headman, Jonas Kufwata of Fibanga village told ZANIS that there has been too much emphasis on promoting girl child education while that of boys has received little promotion.

Mr Kufwata observed that girl child education has been championed by government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) for some time now.

He, however, noted that the education of the boy child has received less attention.

He said this has negative social results in the present and near future.

Mr Kufwata explained that the rise in juvenile delinquency could partly be attributed to the boy child education not being supported by deliberate policies that have the same intensity as the girl child education campaign.

He noted that the manifestations of this social challenge is already evident as some boys from vulnerable households are resorting to violent criminal activities such assaults and robberies ,and have joined juvenile gangs.

“These are the violent youth gangs that are attacking and robbing people right now in some parts of this district, as they feel vindictive for being neglected at the expense of promoting the girl child,” he said.

Mr Kufwata further said there is need for government and NGOs to redirect the focus and promote gender equality in education for both boys and girls.
“There should not be any form of preference to accord more education campaigns for one gender at the expense of the other,” he said.

  In another development, Mr Kufwata praised the government for subsidising   tertiary education for learners coming from vulnerable households through the Constituency Development Fund education bursaries.

According to Mkushi District Council, 151 learners have benefitted from secondary and tertiary education support in the second phase of the 2022 CDF whilst 78 learners benefitted in the first phase of this empowerment.

Price Waterhouse Coopers Auditor Receives 20-Year Sentence for Wife’s Murder

Chief Editor
-
7
Price Waterhouse Coopers Auditor Receives 20-Year Sentence for Wife’s Murder

Tonderai Luwisi, an auditor and director at Price Waterhouse Coopers (PwC), has been sentenced to 20 years in prison by the Lusaka High Court for the murder of his wife, Pellegia Muligwi. The court’s ruling not only holds Luwisi accountable for his actions but also calls on him to conduct a behavioral audit and reflect on the reasons behind his wife’s tragic death.

High Court Judge Bonaventure Mbewe presided over the case and determined that Luwisi’s claim that he killed his wife in a fit of anger after she confessed that he was not the father of their two children was not a valid defense. The judge emphasized that Luwisi was fully aware that his actions, specifically stabbing his wife in the neck, would result in her death.

The incident took place on December 10, 2022, during a heated argument between Luwisi, a 45-year-old Zimbabwean national, and his 38-year-old wife, Muligwi. Their altercation erupted after Muligwi discovered her husband’s infidelity.

In his defense, Luwisi expressed feelings of betrayal and heartbreak upon learning that the children he had devoted 18 years of his life to were not biologically his. However, Judge Mbewe noted that Luwisi had other options, such as walking away from the situation or seeking a peaceful resolution.

The court also questioned the circumstances surrounding Luwisi’s injuries, suggesting that they may have been self-inflicted, possibly as a suicide attempt. Luwisi’s actions following the incident, including throwing himself onto a road near his workplace, raised suspicions about the true nature of the events that transpired.

While Luwisi had pleaded for the court’s mercy based on extenuating circumstances of provocation, Judge Mbewe ultimately ruled against this argument. The judge highlighted the severity of Luwisi’s actions and their consequences, not only in terms of his personal life but also his career.

Luwisi, who held a prominent position at PwC, saw his promising career come to an abrupt end due to the tragic events of December 10. Judge Mbewe expressed hope that Luwisi had learned a valuable lesson and would prioritize dialogue in resolving future disputes.

The case serves as a sobering reminder of the tragic consequences of domestic conflicts and the importance of seeking non-violent solutions to marital problems.

Lunda-Luvale Conflict Sparks Tensions in Zambezi District

Chief Editor
-
16
Lunda-Luvale Conflict Sparks Tensions in Zambezi District

ZAMBEZI, Zambia – Historical tensions between the Lunda and Luvale ethnic groups have once again flared up, causing unrest in Zambezi District, situated in the North Western province. The conflict dates back to pre-independence times, when the colonial government was forced to declare a State of Emergency in the Chavuma region due to escalating tribal clashes between the Lunda and Luvale communities.

The recent outbreak of violence has prompted police intervention in Zambezi District, where reports of destruction to property and injuries to individuals have emerged. According to local law enforcement, they have recorded 25 separate cases linked to the conflict, encompassing offenses such as Assault, Malicious Damage to Property, Arson, and Unlawful Wounding.

Two of the injured victims are currently receiving medical treatment at Zambezi District Hospital, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

As of now, no arrests have been made, as investigations into the incidents continue. To address the escalating tensions, the Inspector General of Police has taken action by dispatching paramilitary officers to the district. Their presence is intended to reinforce local law enforcement efforts and ensure the maintenance of law and order in the area.

Despite the underlying tensions, the situation in Zambezi District is currently reported to be calm, with police intensifying their patrols to deter further violence. However, the ongoing conflict between the Lunda and Luvale people remains a significant concern, and efforts will be made to resolve the root causes and prevent future outbreaks of violence.

Military coup declared in Gabon following presidential election

Chief Editor
-
14
Military coup declared in Gabon following presidential election

LIBREVILLE, Gabon – A group of senior military officers in Gabon has declared a coup following the controversial presidential election results. Appearing on the national television channel Gabon 24, nearly a dozen soldiers announced that they were seizing power in the Central African nation, citing concerns over the election outcome and the direction of the country.

In a startling announcement, the officers declared the cancellation of the election results, the closure of all borders until further notice, and the dissolution of state institutions. The soldiers asserted that their actions were undertaken in the name of the Gabonese people, with the aim of defending peace and ending the current regime.

The coup announcement was accompanied by reports of gunfire in the capital, Libreville, adding to the tension and uncertainty surrounding the situation.

The presidential election, which took place on Saturday, saw incumbent President Ali Bongo declared the winner with 64% of the vote. However, opposition groups raised concerns about the electoral process, alleging irregularities and fraud.

Gabon, a country with significant oil reserves and vast forested areas, has been ruled by the Bongo family for over five decades. Ali Bongo took office in 2009 following the death of his father, Omar Bongo, who had been in power since 1967.

Tensions had been mounting in Gabon in the lead-up to the election, with opposition candidate Albert Ondo Ossa and his coalition raising allegations of irregularities, including issues with the ballot papers. Additionally, foreign media had reported restrictions on covering the election, further raising concerns about transparency.

This coup marks a significant development in the political landscape of Gabon and could lead to a period of uncertainty and potential unrest. The government’s response and the international community’s reaction will be closely monitored as the situation unfolds.

President Hichilema Tours Chipata Level 1 Hospital, Addresses Community Concerns

Chief Editor
-
6
President Hichilema Tours Chipata Level 1 Hospital, Addresses Community Concerns

President Hakainde Hichilema visited Chipata Level 1 Hospital in Mandevu Constituency with the focus on familiarization of projects financed by the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) within the health sector. During the visit, President Hichilema interacted with medical staff and gained valuable insights into the hospital’s operations, highlighting the significant impact of CDF-funded initiatives on healthcare infrastructure and equipment.

One notable activity during the visit was the participation in a hospital cleaning exercise, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean and hygienic environment in a healthcare facility. President Hichilema and his team actively engaged in this activity to underscore the significance of cleanliness in promoting health.

The President expressed satisfaction with the positive outcomes of the employment of healthcare workers in the previous year, noting the improvement in staffing levels and the delivery of quality healthcare services.

Additionally, President Hichilema commissioned a water borehole, which will serve the residents of Mpulungu and Kabanana Wards in Mandevu Constituency. These areas have long faced challenges related to access to clean and safe drinking water. President Hichilema shared the commitment to extend this initiative to each constituency in Lusaka, recognizing the fundamental importance of water in sustaining life.

During the visit, the President and his team engaged with the community and received feedback on various matters, including free education. The community openly expressed their concerns about the high cost of mealie meal, and President Hichilema acknowledged their apprehensions. He affirmed the government’s commitment to resolving the issue by incentivizing farmers to increase maize production.

President Hichilema reiterated that his election was based on a promise of change, and his administration is dedicated to fulfilling this mandate relentlessly.

The President expressed gratitude to the people of Mandevu for their unwavering support and belief in his leadership.

Eleven Gold Scam Espionage Suspects Remain in Custody Following Court’s Decision

Chief Editor
-
15
Eleven Gold Scam Espionage Suspects Remain in Custody Following Court’s Decision

The eleven suspects implicated in both the Gold Scam and espionage case will continue to be held in custody until further notice, following a ruling by Chief Resident Magistrate Davies Chibwili at the Lusaka Magistrate Court. The court admitted the Certificate of Denial of bail issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Gilbert Phiri, thereby affirming the DPP’s authority to issue such a certificate in cases deemed prejudicial to the nation’s interests.

Magistrate Chibwili upheld the arguments presented by the DPP, asserting that granting bail to the suspects would be detrimental to Zambia’s interests. This decision follows objections by the defense lawyers, who questioned the validity of the Certificate of Denial of Bail, citing the Magistrate Court’s lack of jurisdiction to handle espionage cases.

However, Magistrate Chibwili clarified that the certificate was properly before the Lusaka Magistrate Court because the case record had been filed with it.

Furthermore, the Magistrate reserved a ruling for the following day regarding fresh arguments presented by defense lawyer Martha Mushipe. She argued that the DPP should provide reasons for issuing the Certificate of Denial of Bail, contending that the denial of bail for the suspects was unconstitutional since the espionage charge is bailable.

In response, the Magistrate directed the defense lawyers to file a summons for the Gold Scam suspects’ bail application, acknowledging the argument that their espionage case is bailable. The plea for the bail application had been submitted by defense lawyer Makebi Zulu.

This legal development stems from a case involving eleven suspects, including six Zambians and five Egyptians, charged with espionage due to their alleged connection to the Gold Scam that was uncovered at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) on August 13. Among the Zambian suspects are Kenneth Kaunda International Airport Police Commanding Officer Robson Moonga, State Security Officer Francis Mateyo, Commercial Pilot Patrick Kawanu, Accountant Oswald Diangamo, and businessmen Shadrick Kasanda and Dr. Jim Belemu. The five Egyptian suspects include Walid Botros, Mounir Awad, Mohamed Gooda, Yasser Abdelghafor, and Michael Botros.

The court’s rulings on bail and the overall progress of the case will be closely monitored by the public and legal experts.

Government Dismisses Accusations Made by Opposition Leader Harry Kalaba

Chief Editor
-
22
Government Dismisses Accusations Made by Opposition Leader Harry Kalaba

The Minister of Information and Media and Chief Government Spokesperson, Hon. Chushi Kasanda, MP, issued a press statement in response to accusations made by Mr. Harry Kalaba, the leader of the opposition Citizens First Party. The government categorically dismissed the accusations as baseless and emphasized its focus on national development and citizens’ well-being.

Mr. Kalaba had alleged that the government was involved in the production of a video that circulated on various media platforms. This video showed him being confronted by a Zimbabwean journalist regarding his alleged association with a notorious gold mafia.

In response, the government strongly refuted any involvement in the production of the video and expressed its disapproval of Mr. Kalaba’s statements in the media. The government took exception to Mr. Kalaba’s claims that it was engaging foreign nationals to humiliate citizens and damage his political image.

The press statement urged Mr. Kalaba to provide an explanation regarding how he came into contact and engaged in a conversation with the Zimbabwean journalist. While acknowledging every citizen’s right to interact with others freely, the government emphasized that Mr. Kalaba’s attempt to involve the government in a purely personal matter was inappropriate.

Hon. Chushi Kasanda, MP, reminded Mr. Kalaba of the importance of responsible political discourse and encouraged him to refrain from spreading unfounded accusations. The government reaffirmed its dedication to addressing matters of development and the welfare of the Zambian people, asserting its commitment to prioritizing national interests over petty issues raised by individuals.

SA Congratulates Zimbabwe President As Others Criticise the Election

Chief Editor
-
32
SA Congratulates Zimbabwe President As Others Criticise the Election

South Africa, Russia and China have congratulated Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa following his controversial election win over the weekend.

Meanwhile, the US added its voice to growing criticism of last week’s general election which the opposition described as a “fraud”.

The US government said there was systemic bias against the opposition and highlighted credible reports that monitors were forced to alter some election result forms. The electoral commission rejected these claims.

A statement from South Africa’s presidency said South Africa was conscious that the elections took place under a difficult economic environment because of sanctions against Zimbabwe.

It also acknowledged concerns from independent election observers about the legitimacy of the result.

Some monitors said the poll fell short of international standards and the requirements of Zimbabwe’s own constitution.

South Africa, Russia and China are key trade partners of Zimbabwe, and their backing of the poll is significant as Zimbabwe is facing the prospect of further Western isolation and sanctions after criticism of the poll.

The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change is still tallying its own results before deciding on a concrete plan of what to do next. But the congratulatory messages to President Mnangagwa are perhaps a reflection that Zimbabwe’s main allies are ready to move on and accept the results.

BBC

1...260261262...5,661Page 261 of 5,661

Company

Trending

Categories

© Lusaka Times