President Hakainde Hichilema is next week expected to commission the construction of the Solwezi -Kipushi and the Mutanda-Kasempa-Kaoma roads in North-Western Province.

North Western Province Minister, Robert Lihefu said the President is expected next week in the Province to commission the 109km Solwezi-Kipushi and the Mutanda -Kasempa- Kaoma road project that is being constructed under the public private partnership.

The media reports that Mr Lihefu said the construction of the two roads will accelerate regional integration and economic development in the province.

“These landmark projects will accelerate regional integration, reduce transport cost for producers, stimulate investments and directly improve the livelihoods of our people in the Province,” he said.

Mr Lihefu disclosed this when he graced the 61st Independence Anniversary celebrations held at Solwezi Independence Stadium yesterday.

He added that through Public Private Partnerships, four districts in the Province will benefit from the construction of township roads.

“Districts such as Mushindamo, Kalumbila, Solwezi and Kasempa will receive township roads from the same construction. Therefore, our four districts will have nice township roads,’’ Mr Lihefu added.

Mr Lihefu also highlighted some of the key developmental strides made by the UPND government in the past four years of its administration.

He cited the commissioning of the US$1.25 billion Kansanshi Mine S3 expansion project in August this year, noting that the expansion had extended the mine’s operational lifespan by nearly 20 years and has created a lot of employment opportunities.

 Mr Lihefu further revealed that over 900 teachers were recruited across the Province to improve on the teacher–pupil ratio in schools while 1,664 health workers were deployed to various health facilities to strengthen healthcare delivery services in the province.

“Under free education policies and targeted recruitment, 980 teachers have been posted to North western Province since 2022 and 1,664 health workers were deployed to various health facilities in the province,” Mr Lihefu said.

‘’In the agriculture sector, a total of 67,973 farmers benefited from the Farmers Input Support Programme (FISP), while an additional 400 farmers received support under the Sustainable Agriculture Finance Facility (SAFF),” he said.

He noted that these interventions contributed significantly to the bumper harvest recorded during the 2024/2025 farming season.

The Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving social services, citing the ongoing rehabilitation of Solwezi General Hospital and plans to construct another district hospital to better serve the residents.

The Provincial Minister urged citizens to continue upholding peace and unity while reflecting on the country’s development journey and achievements under the New Dawn Government.

Meanwhile, North-Western Province Freedom Fighters Association Chairperson, Eunice Sebele thanked the government for upholding the spirit of humanism and appealed for a National policy to safeguard the welfare of surviving freedom fighters.

And in his Message of solidarity during the celebrations, Fr Richard Mubanga of St Alban’s Anglican Church urged citizens to preserve Zambia’s legacy of peace and unity.

“As citizens we have a collective responsibility to safeguard these values through our actions, our works and commitments to national service,” Fr Mubanga.

This year’s Independence celebrations were held under the theme, “61 Years of Peace and Unity, Building Resilience and a Prosperous Zambia.”

Vice President Mutale Nalumango has called for renewed national unity and commitment to development as Zambia celebrates 61 years of independence.

Addressing a crowd at the Nkoloma Stadium during the Lusaka Province Independence Carnival, Ms Nalumango emphasised the importance of peace, cultural heritage, and unity in securing the country’s future prosperity.

The media reports that Mrs Nalumango also stressed the importance of cultural heritage as a vital aspect of the country’s socio-economic development.

She underscored that the preservation of Zambia’s diverse traditions, through music, dance, cuisine, and crafts, is crucial for strengthening national identity and attracting investment in arts and culture.

“In the spirit of our first President, Dr Kenneth Kaunda, who promoted unity through his song, ‘Tiyende Pamodzi ndi Mtima Umo,’ let us walk together with one heart,” she said.

Themed “61 Years of Peace and Unity: Building a Resilient and Prosperous Zambia,” the carnival commemorates Zambia’s independence and the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom.

“This carnival is a strategic and valuable event, it reminds us to love one another, regardless of where we come from, and to uphold peace and unity both at home and abroad. Our independence is not just a celebration, but a call to action,’’Mrs Nalumango said.

She urged citizens to continue working towards a resilient Zambia, focusing on creating opportunities, particularly for the youth and emphasised that national development requires the active participation of every Zambian and encouraged all citizens to contribute to the country’s economic and social growth.

Meanwhile, Lusaka Province Minister on Sheal Mulyata urged residents to uphold Zambia’s cultural heritage and work together for greater economic prosperity.

Mrs Mulyata emphasised that culture and music play a vital role in fostering unity and national identity, adding that Zambia’s diversity should continue to be a source of strength.

She further said that the carnival was also in line with UPND’s government efforts in promoting tourism as one of the pillars of economic development.

 “This carnival is not just about celebration, it is a reminder that development begins with each of us, in our communities, our families, and our daily work,” said Mrs Mulyata.

The event featured traditional performances, local cuisine, and exhibitions showcasing Zambia’s multiple ethnic backgrounds.

Hundreds of residents, cultural groups, and government officials attended the festivities.

PF is a “CULT” – Unchain it at Your Own Peril

By Kalunga Bwalya

Calling PF a “cult” may sound provocative, but it captures the intensity of loyalty that defines its membership. The party’s supporters, despite arrests, humiliation, and propaganda, have remained unshaken. PF’s identity has outgrown its leaders; it is now a movement defined by shared defiance.

A sober reflection on Zambia’s political landscape

This is not a defence of the Patriotic Front (PF). It is a sober reflection intended for those who wish to see Zambia’s politics beyond party colours. The truth, uncomfortable as it may be, is that the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) has spent much of its energy trying to contain, silence, and neutralise the opposition rather than proving its superiority through governance. In that process, the PF has been turned into both a scapegoat and a symbol of political suppression.

The tightening of political space

Under the current administration, Zambia’s political space has become increasingly narrow. Opposition figures have faced a cycle of arrests, prolonged court battles, and heavy-handed police restrictions on assembly. Freedom of association and expression principles that once defined Zambia’s democratic character are now shadowed by suspicion and state control.

A clear illustration lies in the disruption of the annual prayer meeting organised by Pastor Sunday Sinyangwe at the OYDC in Lusaka. What was meant to be a moment of spiritual reflection became a test case for civic freedom. Police halted the event on the eve of Independence Day, citing “procedural concerns,” yet the symbolism was unmistakable: even prayer, when not state-endorsed, could be treated as dissent.

This incident joins a long list of examples where opposition or independent gatherings have been blocked or violently dispersed, often without clear justification. It reveals a deep institutional anxiety within the ruling system a fear that public gatherings can quickly turn into political platforms.

The Parliament question and Speaker Nelly Mutti

The erosion of political tolerance is also visible within the National Assembly, where Speaker Nelly Mutti has earned a reputation for her uncompromising control of proceedings. Her decisions—often perceived as partisan have sparked debate about whether Parliament remains a neutral arena for ideas or a controlled theatre of compliance.

From the suspension of opposition MPs to the controversial rulings that limited debate on sensitive matters, Mutti’s tenure has been marked by tension and accusations of bias. Critics argue that her strict approach has undermined dialogue, silencing dissent rather than managing it. For many Zambians, the sight of elected representatives being marched out of Parliament has become symbolic of the country’s broader democratic fatigue.

The judiciary and selective justice

The judiciary has not escaped scrutiny either. Many opposition supporters see a pattern of selective justice, where politically exposed cases move swiftly if they involve government critics but stall indefinitely when the accused are linked to the ruling party.

The Patriotic Front’s ongoing leadership wrangles, still unresolved in court, have highlighted the perception that justice is not blind. The delays in settling the PF’s legal status have effectively paralysed the party, leaving it leaderless and easy to control.

Meanwhile, cases like that of Maria Zaloumis, which opponents cite as evidence of leniency for those aligned with the UPND, deepen the public’s sense that justice depends on political proximity. Whether or not that perception is fair, it exists and perception in politics often matters as much as reality.

The psychological strategy: keep PF chained

To understand Zambia’s current political equation, one must appreciate the strategy of containment. The ruling party appears determined to keep the PF entangled in internal conflict and legal paralysis. By propping up competing factions, encouraging endless litigation, and keeping the courts at the centre of the PF’s leadership dispute, the government maintains effective control over its strongest rival without openly banning it.

The result is a frozen opposition. The PF, though still popular in many areas, cannot operate coherently. Its structures remain functional, its base still loyal, but without a clear leader it is politically immobilised. This state of suspension benefits the ruling establishment it eliminates an organised challenger while preserving the illusion of a multiparty democracy.

Why PF remains the sleeping giant

Despite the internal chaos, PF’s organisational framework remains formidable. The party has deep roots across constituencies, a disciplined ground structure, and a memory of governance that still appeals to many voters nostalgic for its years in power.

While UPND holds the advantage of incumbency, it has not managed to replicate PF’s strong grassroots machinery. Beyond state power, the ruling party often struggles to connect emotionally with ordinary citizens in the townships and rural compounds where PF built its strength through tangible projects, mobilisation, and constant presence.

In the long term, should PF manage to resolve its leadership dispute and rally around a unifying figure, it could quickly reclaim the political ground it has lost. This is the scenario that worries those in government the most.

The moment of unity and the decisive turning point

If all opposition forces were to cohere strategically, and if smaller parties or independent groupings agreed to provide PF with a clear political vehicle and formal space to reorganise, the balance of power could shift swiftly. A unified opposition, one that concedes leadership to PF or permits PF to transfer organisational capacity into another small party while senior PF figures accept defined roles, would transform the current dynamic.

Allowing PF to operate openly and to lead a broad opposition coalition would do two things. First, it would restore coherence to long-standing voter networks that are currently fragmented. Second, it would present voters with a credible alternative to incumbency that combines PF’s mobilisation capability with complementary actors who might broaden its appeal.

Such a realignment would not be merely tactical. It would reconstitute the political battlefield. A reconciled and re-energised PF, operating within a united front, would be able to contest elections with clear leadership, coherent messaging, and a full complement of candidates in constituencies where UPND now relies on divided opposition. That scenario would be a major turning point for Zambian politics and one the current government would find difficult to counter purely through legal or procedural measures.

The cult analogy and its warning

Calling PF a “cult” may sound provocative, but it captures the intensity of loyalty that defines its membership. The party’s supporters, despite arrests, humiliation, and propaganda, have remained unshaken. PF’s identity has outgrown its leaders; it is now a movement defined by shared defiance.

The argument, therefore, is not that PF should be idolised or excused for its past mistakes. It is that continuing to suffocate it will only strengthen its narrative of persecution. Every arrest, every court delay, every disrupted meeting feeds into a growing sense of injustice among citizens who already feel excluded from national decision-making.

History shows that oppressed movements rarely die they reorganise. The more the UPND tries to bury PF, the more it fuels its resurrection.

The danger for UPND

For UPND, the current approach is short-sighted. Governance by suppression creates an illusion of stability but weakens democratic legitimacy. It fosters resentment even among neutral citizens who may not support PF but believe in fair play.

The government’s energy would be better spent on policy delivery jobs, the economy, and social welfare rather than chasing shadows of a former ruling party. When a government spends more time managing political rivals than managing the country, it risks losing both.

The inevitable reckoning

Sooner or later, PF will reorganise. Whether under its old name or through a new political banner, its structures and voters remain too entrenched to disappear. The day it settles its leadership question, the ruling party will face a formidable opponent.

If that day arrives while economic frustration remains high and public discontent deepens, the political tables could turn swiftly. UPND’s greatest miscalculation may be believing that keeping PF chained ensures long-term control. In reality, it merely delays the reckoning.

Final reflection

To unchain PF is not to endorse it, it is to restore Zambia’s democratic equilibrium. A confident ruling party should not fear competition; it should welcome it. For UPND, the message is simple: govern through performance, not persecution.

PF is not finished; it is paused. And every pause ends eventually. When it resumes its march, the same structures that once propelled it to power could again become the engine of change.

Those who continue to underestimate its resilience do so at their own peril.

Vice President Mutale Nalumango says the national flag reminds the Zambian people of their identity and freedom that they enjoy.

The media reports that Mrs Nalumango says the hoisting of the national flag is a symbolic representation of the end to an imperialist reign and subsequent triumph by indigenous people over an oppressive minority rule.

Mrs Nalumango said the colours on the flag evokes feelings and pride that people have to now govern themselves whilst maintaining peace.

The Vice President, who led hundreds of Zambians in hosting of the national flag said this at the Showgrounds in Lusaka last evening to mark Zambia’s 61st independence anniversary.

She says it is in this vein that the government embarked on uniting the nation to actualise the desired development in order to improve the livelihoods of the people.

She also paid tribute to former first republican President Dr Kenneth Kaunda for laying the foundation of “One Zambia, One Nation” which united all the 72 tribes.

“This remarkable moment, which resonates deeply with the nation’s history, commemorates the core values of freedom, peace, and unity that define Zambia,'” she said.

And speaking earlier, Defense Services Organising Committee Chairman, Likando Muyunda of the Zambia Army, said the fore fathers were selfless and put the interest of the people first.

Col Muyunda added that Dr Kaunda and his freedom fighters were patriotic.

Zambians clad in national colours filled the showgrounds to witness the ceremonial hoisting of the national flag.

Traditional dances and performances were exhibited showcasing Zambia’s historical emblems and were spiced up by Defense Choirs from various barracks across the country.

In a beautiful display of unity and patriotism, Zambians all across the country braved the dark of night in different locations to participate in the hoisting of the Zambian flag at midnight.

At 23:55 hours, Mrs Nalumango descended from her seat to the playing field to lead the jubilant crowd into a countdown of the hoisting of the flag.

President Hakainde Hichilema has bestowed honours and awards to several distinguished Zambia’s for there various contributions and outstanding service to the nation during the investiture ceremony held at State House today, to mark the independence commemoration which falls on 24th of October.

The media reports that Former Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) Director of Programmes, Charles Mando is among those who were honoured posthumously under the order of the eagle of Zambia – 3rd division.

Mr Mando was honoured for the contribution he made to the development of journalism.

And Speaking to the media in an interview, on behalf of the family, Kunda Mando said the family is indebted to the government for recognising the works of the late father.

Ms Mando said the family is grateful to the government for recognising the contribution of the late Mr Mando to the development of journalism.

She stressed that the award bestowed on the late Mr Mando means a lot to the family.

Ms Mando explained that their Father, Mr Mando was dedicated to his work hence the recognition.

She indicated that the late Mr Mando was the true definition of hard-work.

Ms Mando has since implored young journalists to emulate his father who was dedicated and committed to duty.

She said journalism is more than fame or personality but rather about selfless service.

And Sixtus Mulenga was bestowed with the order of distinguished service 1st division.

Dr Mulenga was recognised for the contribution he made to the mining sector both locally and internationally.

Speaking to the media in an interview shortly after receiving the award, Dr Mulenga thanked President Hichilema for recognising his humble contribution to the growth of the mining sector.

He said the recognition from the government is humbling and pleasing.

Dr Mulenga pledged to continue contributing to the thriving of the mining sector and collaborating with the government.

Meanwhile, former Copper Queens Coach, Bruce Mwape was bestowed with the president’s insignia for meritorious achievement, this was in honour of the contribution he has made to the development of women football and sports.

Mr Mwape thanked President Hichilema for recognising his contribution to soccer development in the country.

He implored young people to exercise patience and discipline if they are to succeed in their football career.

At the same event, a Power Tools driver Bellington Mwape who saved over 50 people when the bus caught fire was also honoured for his bravery under the president’s medal for gallantry.

The President of Mozambique Daniel Chapo has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to continue strengthening its partnership with Zambia and the spirit of solidarity and regional integration.

Speaking when he graced the investiture ceremony at State House, President Chapo indicated that celebrating Zambia’s 61st anniversary, is a reaffirmation of the hope of an Africa that moves forward, united and values its resources and the efforts of the freedom fighters.

The media reports that the Mozambican leader said that together with President Hakainde Hichilema firmly believe that through cooperation and unity of purpose will  build a future of shared prosperity and dignity for the people in the two countries.

He stated that Zambia has shown political maturity, social cohesion and resolve in its pathway to economic growth, with visible efforts for diversification and modernisation.

The President said that this has strengthened Zambia’s resilience and role as an example of stability and leadership in the continent.

“Mozambique and Zambia share an unbreakable friendship and commitment for peace and stability for the development of our people in a sustained manner,” President Chapo said.

He acknowledged and hailed Zambia for creating a pathway for his liberation against colonial struggles.

President Hichilema indicated the importance of peace, security and stability as essential for every country noting that it creates chances for sustainable development.

President Hichilema called on all nations to work to seek peace that will allow the continuation of the journey from where the freedom fighters left off to accelerate economic growth.

He noted that doing so will result into job creation, business opportunities for the youthful population, and raise treasury revenues to implement policies such as free education.

“They delivered political independence for us, the part of the relay that we perform is to deliver economic expansion and other things will fall in place,” President Hichilema said.

And President Hichilema announced plans to legislate free education, to make it a law for every child to be in school.

He reiterated that education is the best investment, inheritance and equalisation.

The Head of state also extended gratitude to Mozambique for the support by availing more electricity during the worst drought experienced in the country that kept the economy going.

President Hichilema stated plans to undertake a direct inter connector between Mozambique and Zambia to remain efficient in moving power to  and from the country.

He added that the two countries continue to compare notes for a shared vision of development in Mozambique.

President Hakainde Hichilema says Zambia is committed to strengthening bilateral ties with Mozambique, emphasising enhanced cooperation in energy, transport, and trade.

Speaking during a state banquet held in honour of visiting Mozambican President Daniel Chapo at the InterContinental Hotel in Lusaka last night, President Hichilema praised Mozambique’s role in regional stability and trade facilitation, noting that both countries are working to strengthen transport links through the Nacala and Beira corridors, which provide Zambia access to the Indian Ocean.

The media reports that President Hichilema highlighted ongoing and prospective areas of collaboration, including energy generation and sharing, transport corridors linking the two countries, and increased business partnerships.

“Zambia is deeply grateful that you have joined us as we celebrate our 61^st Independence anniversary, your presence demonstrates the strong bond and shared history between our two nations, which dates back to the liberation struggle,” said President Hichilema.

He thanked Mozambique for supporting Zambia during periods of power shortages and expressed optimism about expanding regional energy connectivity.

“We agreed that we will work together to improve transport corridors and energy interconnections, we want to see more Mozambican investments in Zambia, and vice versa. Our partnership must deliver tangible economic benefits for our people,” President Hichilema said.

He noted that the two countries share a common vision of transforming historical solidarity into modern economic cooperation.

“Our freedom fighters liberated us politically. Now it is our duty to deliver economic liberation through jobs, trade, and opportunities,” President Hichilema said.

He also encouraged greater people-to-people exchange between the two nations, stressing that borders should serve as bridges rather than barriers.

Meanwhile, Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo reaffirmed his country’s commitment to deepening economic and energy cooperation with Zambia.

President Chapo said Mozambique and Zambia shared historic bonds of brotherhood and mutual struggle that dates back to the colonial era and the liberation movements that led to Mozambique’s independence on 25 June 1975.

The Mozambican leader emphasised his government’s priority to expand energy cooperation proposing new projects to increase electricity generation and cross-border power connectivity between the two countries

“This year marks 50 years of our independence, half a century of friendship and solidarity, Zambia was our second home during the struggle, and today it remains our partner in building prosperity,” President Chapo said.

 “Mozambique can supply power and gas to Zambia, while Zambia’s growing economy opens new markets for our industries,” he said.

President Chapo suggested that the two governments sign a memorandum of understanding to reduce bureaucratic delays and accelerate joint investment projects.

He also invited Zambian investors to explore opportunities in Mozambique’s energy, agriculture, and infrastructure sectors.

“Our partnership must be nonstop, from energy to trade, from our generation to our grandchildren, we owe it to the future to transform our historic friendship into sustainable economic growth,” he said.

The state banquet was attended by, Senior government officials, diplomats, and business leaders from both Zambia and Mozambique.

The state banquet capped a day of high-level talks focused on energy, transport, and trade integration, part of President Chapo’s three-day state visit aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation between Mozambique and Zambia.

Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, today led dignitaries in a wreath laying ceremony at the Chipata cenotaph in Eastern Province.

The laying of wreaths is done in remembrance of the different fallen heroes that took part in the liberation struggle of the country.

And in his homily, Zambia Army Chaplain, Mwape Mwaba, emphasised the importance of Independence Day stating that the freedom being enjoyed came at a great cost.

“Guest of honour, this freedom that we have today as a nation, came at a great cost and it cannot be taken for granted because the struggle for freedom was recognized by bloodshed and loss of life as well as property,” he said.

Rev Mwaba explained that this year’s theme is a reminder to everyone to reflect on the country’s common history in the last 61 years, adding that there was need to remain determined and resilient.

He stated that unity will help in not only building a peaceful, but also a prosperous nation.

Rev Mwaba disclosed that the fight for freedom by the gallant soldiers has ensured that citizens in the country continue to enjoy peace.

“With gratitude, we continue to honour our fallen heroes for the patriotism and loyalty to mother Zambia which yielded the peace and unity we are enjoying today,” he said.

This year’s Independence Day celebrations are being commemorated under the theme “61 years of peace and unity, building a resilient and peaceful nation”.