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It’s scary when scores of defence force officers pursue an old woman with armoury vehicles.

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It’s scary when scores of defence force officers pursue an old woman with armoury vehicles.

Controversial Lusaka Catholic Archbishop Dr. Alick Banda has said it is scary when scores of defence force officers pursue an old woman with armoury vehicles.

Archbishop Banda said the scenario of scores of defence force officers pursuing an old woman with armoury vehicles raises questions on where society or a country is heading to.

He wondered how it would be and what the law enforcement officials would carry or go with when pursuing a male suspect.

In his sermon at Lusaka’s Holy Family Catholic Church in Linda Township, Archbishop Banda preached on overcoming fear by believing in God.

He said fear was irrational and it can result in the destruction of other people’s lives, their dignity, their integrity and their property.

Archbishop Banda based his sermon on John 14: 1-12 in which Jesus said to his disciples, “Let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And when I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way where I am going.”

“My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, Jesus says do not let your heart be troubled, believe in God and believe in me. This command is to cultivate a personal relationship with God and Jesus himself. This command does not come from a lack of challenges but it is derived from an immense thoughtfulness in the power of God, in the power of Jesus Christ himself. The gospel passage comes from the farewell speech of our Lord Jesus Christ before his passion. Jesus reveals that he was going away where he was going his disciples could not come and that one of his own disciples had become a mole, a spy and indeed the steward leader amongst them on the verge of collapse, on the verge of failure of loyalty. These information troubled the disciples and especially that Christ was about to pass on. However, Jesus calls them to believe in him and to believe in God. He said he is the way to the father. He is the truth that has been revealed in the scriptures and in his person as the Word made fresh, Emmanuel, God that was among us and indeed that Jesus himself is life because all that came to be, came to be in him hence their hearts should not be troubled,” he preached.

Archbishop Banda said it was normal to be fearful when people start experiencing promotion of death at the expense of life, promotion of cultures contrary to their own cultural values because of money.

“Don’t let your heart be troubled. It is easy to be fearful when challenges become definite. It is easy to be fearful when we experience organised crime in our communities and it is normal to be fearful when we start experiencing promotion of death at the expense of life, promotion of cultures contrary to our own cultural values because of money.Bacibusa muli Kristu kuti catuletela umwenso konse uko tuli ngatwamona abashilikale imitapashi ukukonkelafye nakulubantu na bamotoka ababa armoury ukukonkelafye nakulubantu catuletela umwenso. Calola kwi? Cilelola kwi? Ngakansha ekobakemina baye bamone umwaume munabo bakema nafinshi? (My brothers and sisters, it is normal to be fearful when we see scores of defence force pursuing one old woman with armoury vehicles pursuing an old lady.This brings us fear. Where is this leading to? Whatmore when they rise to go and pursue their male colleague, what will they go with or carry?)
This can bring fear, where are we heading to? Christ is cautioning each one of us not to be overwhelmed nor apprehensive for fear is irrational,” Archbishop Banda continued.

“Fear is irrational enough to be petty, fear is irrational to become so suspicious with everything and everyone. Fear is irrational to insinuate falsehood and inuendo. Fear is irrational, it destroy other people’s lives, their dignity, their integrity and their property. That is why Christ is saying don’t fear. Don’t let your hearts be troubled, you become irrational you won’t think things through. Take heart. Ati bola panshi,” said the former Bishop of Ndola and Solwezi Dioceses.

Rural Constituencies Call for More Equitable CDF Allocation

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Rural Constituencies Call for More Equitable CDF Allocation

Kanchibiya Member of Parliament Sunday Chilufya Chanda has said rural constituencies like Kanchibiya need more Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocation because they face unique challenges that are different from urban towns like Lusaka.

Chanda stated that there is a need for the Government to seriously consider using the equitable model of allocating CDF, as rural constituencies are lagging behind in terms of development activities compared to well-established and developed constituencies like Kabwata in Lusaka. He noted that to increase the rate of development activities in rural underdeveloped constituencies, there is a need for the equitable distribution of CDF, which will spur the rate of development and attract more people to come and work in these areas.

Chanda commended President Hakainde Hichilema for increasing the CDF allocation from K1.6 million to K28.3 million, stating that the increase in CDF allocation to constituencies is a milestone step that the Government has provided for its citizens. He also disclosed that his office would continue engaging the central Government to assist in implementing certain capital projects that cannot be done using CDF.

Meanwhile, Chief Mpepo of the Bemba people has commended the area Member of Parliament and Kanchibiya Town Council for prudent utilization and management of CDF. He said CDF has brought tangible positive significant change to the district, such as sponsorship of boarding secondary school bursaries and skills and trade development courses among other things.David Mwansa, Kanchibiya District Town Council Secretary, urged all contractors implementing CDF projects in the district to continue adhering to recommended set standards and guidelines for implementing CDF projects.

He further said that Kanchibiya will endeavor to implement all CDF projects with the spirit of excellence.Chanda toured selected projects being funded by CDF, where he concluded spot checks on the following project sites; Lokomwila road which is very important for the locals is in need of proper rehabilitation to make it motorable and all-weather, while the bridge which suffers perennial flooding needs to be replaced with an Acrow Bridge for safety and durability issues. T

he Lokomwila Rural Health Post has inadequate infrastructure in terms of staff houses, classroom space, and sanitary facilities. The incinerator at Lokomwila Rural Health Post is complete, serve for a few fixtures that need to be done.Chanda also stated that the inadequate infrastructure in terms of staff housing is noticeable in a cross-section of education and health facilities. On this score, he has had successful talks with key stakeholders to consider the construction of low-cost housing for public service workers and the general public. Chanda pledged to ensure all schools are catered for once they receive their 3,300 Desk Consignment for 2023. The team in charge of planning and works will revisit project sites in the next couple of days to do thorough assessments for planning purposes and timely fact-based intervention.

Coronation humour

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Coronation humour

 

President Hichilema meets with South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-Soo

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President Hichilema meets with South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-Soo

President Hakainde Hichilema recently met with the Prime Minister of the Republic of South Korea, Mr Han Duck-Soo, after the coronation of King Charles III in London. President Hichilema expressed his interest in learning from South Korea’s successful transformation into a high-income country in a short period of time. He believes that Zambia can benefit greatly from South Korea’s experience and expertise in areas such as technology, mechanisation, and minerals exploration.

During their meeting, President Hichilema and Prime Minister Han discussed the possibility of creating a centre for production, processing, and trade that would complement Zambia’s value addition agenda. They believe that this centre would be beneficial for both countries and would create opportunities for mutual cooperation.

President Hichilema emphasized the importance of private-public partnerships and expressed his optimism that these partnerships would lead to mutual benefits. He believes that such partnerships would create opportunities for Zambian citizens to position themselves for the economic benefits that are being created.

President Hichilema also highlighted the importance of Zambia’s democratic credentials. He noted that Zambia and South Korea recently co-hosted the Democracy Summit, where South Korea recognized Zambia’s efforts in turning around its country and promoting democracy. President Hichilema urged Zambian citizens to position themselves for the opportunities that are being created .

Message For Today :Who Do You Say You Are?

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Message For Today :Who Do You Say You Are?

Today’s Scripture

Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy.
Psalm 107:2, NKJV

Who Do You Say You Are?

Friend, there are a lot of voices in life trying to define us and tell us who we are. Some voices are uplifting, telling us that we’re talented and can do great things. Others are negative, telling us that there’s nothing special about us. Our own thoughts will try to label us with “you made too many mistakes and missed your chance.” It’s easy to wonder, “Who am I? Am I talented or ordinary? Am I strong and confident or weak and insecure? Do I have a bright future or have I blown it?”

Here’s the key: The only voice that matters is your voice. Who do you say you are? What you choose is what you will become. Instead of letting people or circumstances define you, you need to go back to what God says about you. God says, “You can do all things through Christ. You’re equipped and empowered.” Other voices will tell you, “The problem’s too big. You don’t have what it takes.” You have the final choice. Who do you say you are?

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that nothing anyone says about me can change what You have said about me. Thank You that I am who You say I am and I can say so. I believe that I am redeemed, a masterpiece, fearfully and wonderfully created in Your image. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Power Dynamos are Champions of Zambia

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Power Dynamos have won the 2022/23 FAZ Super League title with two matches left in the season after thumping Forest Rangers 2-0 away in Ndola on Saturday afternoon.

Forward Fredrick Mulambia and midfielder Owen Tembo scored the goals in this Week 32 match.

Power have moved to 62 points in 32 matches after victory over Forest at Dola Hill Grounds.

This is Power’s seventh (7th) league title.

The Arthur Davies side last won the Super League title in 2011.

Power will represent Zambia in the CAF Champions League next season.

It is an exciting moment for Power coach Mwenya Chipepo, who transformed the team from fighting relegation to winning the league title.

King Charles and Queen Camilla are crowned at Westminster Abbey ceremony

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King Charles and Queen Camilla are crowned at Westminster Abbey ceremony

On a glorious day filled with music and symbolism, Charles III and Camilla were crowned King and Queen in a grand ceremony held inside the historic Westminster Abbey. The coronation ceremony, steeped in centuries of tradition, was attended by around 2,200 people, including members of the Royal Family, celebrities, faith leaders, and heads of state.

As the ceremony began, King Charles appeared resplendent in his grandfather’s crimson velvet robe. He took the oath and was anointed with holy oil, symbolizing the divine right to rule. Moments later, the St Edward’s Crown was carefully placed on his head, marking the official start of his reign.

Camilla, the Queen Consort, was crowned shortly after with Queen Mary’s Crown in a similar ceremony, signifying her important role as the King’s partner and supporter.

The ceremony was filled with music, with the Westminster Abbey Choir providing a majestic backdrop of hymns and anthems. The ancient walls of the Abbey echoed with the sound of trumpets and drums as the coronation procession made its way through the Abbey.

The symbolism of the coronation was also evident in the presence of historic artifacts and regalia. The St Edward’s Crown, which has been used in coronations since the 13th century, was carefully carried to the Abbey from the Tower of London, where it is kept under heavy guard.

After the ceremony, the royal couple made their way back to Buckingham Palace in another lavish procession. Thousands of well-wishers lined the streets, cheering and waving flags as the King and Queen passed by. Upon their arrival at the Palace, the couple appeared on the balcony, greeting the ecstatic crowds below.

The coronation of Charles III and Camilla was a historic event, steeped in tradition and pageantry. It marked the beginning of a new era for the Royal Family, and for the United Kingdom as a whole.

Queen Camilla was crowned in a simpler ceremony with Queen Mary’s Crown. She did not take an oath. courtesy BBC
Earlier the King and Queen Consort left Buckingham Palace in a procession to Westminster Abbey in the Diamond Jubilee State Coach.
Courtesy BBC
Prince Harry arrived without his wife, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. courtesy BBC
Courtesy BBC

Corpses pile up after nearly 200 killed in Congo floods

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Corpses pile up after nearly 200 killed in Congo floods

At least 176 people have died in flash floods in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a regional governor said on Friday, as heavy rain destroyed buildings and forced aid workers to gather mud-clad corpses into piles.

The rainfall in Kalehe territory in South Kivu province caused rivers to overflow on Thursday, inundating the villages of Bushushu and Nyamukubi.

South Kivu governor Théo Ngwabidje Kasi put the death toll at 176 and said that others were still missing. A local civil society member, Kasole Martin, said 227 bodies had been found.

Meanwhile President Hakainde Hichilema has offered the deepest condolences to President Felix Tshisekedi, and the families who lost their loved ones in the floods.

 

Source: Reuters

Commonwealth leaders pledge continued unity and to empower youth

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Commonwealth leaders pledge continued unity and to empower youth

Ahead of the Coronation, Leaders of Commonwealth member states met with HM King Charles III at Marlborough House, the Headquarters of the Commonwealth Secretariat. After their meeting with the King, leaders from the Commonwealth’s 56 member states then met privately to discuss issues of mutual interest, including initiatives to support the empowerment of young people, as this year has been designated the Commonwealth Year of Youth.

The King has described the Commonwealth as a ‘cornerstone’ of his life, expressing his unwavering support for the values, people and countries of the Commonwealth. At their Heads of Government Meeting in 2018, Commonwealth Leaders decided that he would succeed Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as Head of the Commonwealth, and he acceded to the role upon her death in September 2022.

During Friday’s meeting, the King greeted the leaders warmly and posed with them for a commemorative family photograph. Later that day, leaders will also attend a reception at Buckingham Palace hosted by the King.

Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland KC, said:

“I can think of no stronger signal of His Majesty’s deep connection to our Family of Nations than taking time to meet with Commonwealth Leaders at Marlborough House ahead of his Coronation. Earlier this year, the King highlighted the Commonwealth’s ‘near-boundless potential as a force for good’.

During the meeting, leaders reaffirmed their unwavering and unified commitment to the continued strengthening of our Commonwealth family and assuring its future by investing in the 1.5 billion young people across our 56 nations.

The Secretary-General observed that the Commonwealth is growing in size, scale and influence, especially as the event also welcomed the leaders of Togo and Gabon, who attended their first meeting of Commonwealth Leaders today.

The President of Rwanda, His Excellency Paul Kagame, in his role as Chair-in-Office of the Commonwealth, also addressed the meeting. He welcomed the leaders of the two newest Commonwealth countries and paid tribute to the new Commonwealth Head. President Kagame also said, “We appreciate the King’s lifelong devotion to Commonwealth affairs, just as we remember the role of her late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, in giving the modern Commonwealth its shape and spirit.”

His Highness Tuimalealiifano Va’aleto’a Sualauvi II, the Head of State of Samoa also attended the event as the incoming Commonwealth Chair-in-Office. In 2024, Samoa will succeed Rwanda as chair at the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, the capital city.

Alongside the Leaders Meeting, the Commonwealth Secretariat also hosted a gathering of the spouses, partners and the invited guests of Commonwealth Heads of Government. The event, which was hosted by Mrs Jeannette Kagame, the First Lady of Rwanda, focused on the action needed to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer and tackle challenges impeding progress towards this goal across the Commonwealth. The spouses and partners in attendance pledged to champion advocacy and action in their respective countries.

The year also marks the tenth anniversary of the signing of the Commonwealth Charter, which reaffirms the values and principles of the Commonwealth as well as its aspirations. As well as being designated the Year of the Youth, 2023 is also being marked as the Commonwealth Year of Peace.

The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 independent and equal sovereign states with a combined population is 2.5 billion, of which more than 60 per cent is aged 29 or under. The Commonwealth Secretariat supports member countries to build democratic and inclusive institutions, strengthen governance and promote justice and human rights. Its work helps to grow economies and boost trade, deliver national resilience, empower young people, and address threats such as climate change, debt, and inequality.

ZNS commended for complementing Govt in improving infrastructure

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ZNS commended for complementing Govt in improving infrastructure

Minister of Defence Ambros Lufuma has commended the Zambia National Service for complementing government efforts of improving the country’s infrastructure in areas such as roads, dams, bridges and airstrip among others.

Mr Lufuma stated that the government is elated with the service for continuously implementing a robust programme of systematically replacing and rehabilitating their aging equipment for efficient operations.

Mr Lufuma said this during the unveiling and flagging off of the newly procured engines for ZNS bull dozers worth K 7.4 million kwacha at ZNS Land Development Branch in Chilanga.

The Minister was happy that the engines were purchased using internally mobilised resources which will speedily achieve the institution’s ambitious goals.

And Mr Lufuma explained that this will reposition the service’s engineering wing to become competitive enough to engage in commercial projects.

“The procurement of the engines will enable the engineering Branch to improve its efficiency in operations for both private and public works,” Mr Lufuma noted.

He thus urged the service to consider partnering with various local authorities countrywide to assist in opening up Land to put up vertical infrastructure using the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

The Minister further urged the Commander to continue replenishing aging equipment as the service waits for government funding.

Mr Lufuma also told the service personnel to guard the equipment jealously so that Zambian people benefit from the initiative.

Meanwhile ZNS Commander Maliti Solochi was happy that the engines procured from China were finally in the country.

Lieutenant General Solochi noted that the process might have taken long but that it was worth it.

Chief of Land Development Branch Brigadier General Japhen Mukanda received the two engines.

Judicial Reforms In Zambia: A Myth Or A Reality

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Judicial Reforms In Zambia: A Myth Or A Reality

By Isaac M. Mwanza

During a rare meeting last week, one of Zambia’s cooperating partners expressed serious concerns with regard to the pace of judicial reforms in Zambia.

The fishy role our superior courts played in the Kwacha and Kabushi Constituency by-elections continue to raise eyebrows among partners.

A major concern has been whether development assistance to the Judiciary would contribute towards desired reforms, increase public confidence in the Judiciary and make the institution more responsive.

Our Judiciary certainly needs adequate funding from government and assistance – both financial and technical – from our cooperating partners so as to make it efficient in the delivery of justice.

There are certain reforms that do not need serious financing but a proactive and internal commitment by the Judiciary itself to expeditiously hear and render judgements in a timely manner.

The delays in delivering judgments by the Supreme Court, now joined by the Constitutional Court, is more worrisome, especially in processes that affect citizens’ liberties, democracy and the country’s governance.

Our nation’s growth as a constitutional democracy requires that cases affecting our Constitution are attended to and determined in an expeditious manner.

Unfortunately, that has not been the case. The nation cannot afford to have such cases put on the back burner to simmer.

Prior to the 2016 constitutional amendments, we saw the 1996 presidential election petition drag on for 2 years while the 2001 presidential election petition dragged on for 4 years.

A case involving misconduct by one minister had also dragged for 3 years with the sanctioned minister staying in Parliament on a court order.

The affected parliamentarian was thus allowed to complete his parliamentary term without facing the sanctions stipulated in the Ministerial and Parliamentary Code of Conduct Act.

It was against this sad situation of inordinate and inexplicable delays in determination of electoral disputes and their deleterious effects on our nascent democracy that Zambians were compelled to put timelines in the Constitution.

It is this author’s opinion that, if the Judiciary had been proactive, Zambia did not need a constitutional review process to enshrine timelines for the courts to determine matters.

The Chief Justice of the Republic is empowered by law and can still make rules for disposing of cases in both the Supreme and Constitutional Courts.

This was recently done with revision of High Court Rules, providing timely disposal of cases by judges of the High Court.

Although the Constitution stipulate fixed periods within which a tribunal and court should dispose an electoral dispute, no such timelines exist for the Constitutional Court to dispose appeals.

Almost 2 years after the 2021 general election, some appeals remain undecided. In another constitutional case filed in February 2022, the decision – short as it was – was only delivered one year later.

In various courts, the country has seen cases involving political leaders or the government dragging on interminably as our adjudicators avoid rendering a “difficult” verdict.

The torment and anguish suffered by the suing parties who demand justice is completely ignored by our courts who seem to accept excuses tendered by government lawyers, and sometimes advocates to private litigants, to adjourn highly contentious matters interminably.

The stern warnings to enter judgment in default are never taken seriously: the government defendant or respondent rarely gets punished.

In one case in 1996, a High Court judge who had the courage to dismiss a dozen or so criminal cases for want of prosecution and freed accused persons faced a witch-hunt on mysterious charges until he stepped down.

Since then, no judge dares punish the government for its misconduct in matters before the courts.

During one meeting in Nairobi, civil society from selected African countries developed what is now a growing theory of “let time and not the court manage the case” to explain why judges would delay delivery of judgments in a contentious matter.

Under this theory, courts are said to deliberately delay judgments in order for the public and litigants to lose sight and memory of keys facts in those cases, or to lose interest such that when a judgment is finally delivered, there is less effect or discussion or public concern about the outcome.

In Kenya, superior courts have won the confidence and respect of the people of Kenya because of the timely manner in which they deliver judgments and the conclusive nature of their decisions.

In Zambia, the case of former Ministers under the Edgar Lungu administration which occurred shortly after amendments to the Constitution is a much-celebrated case for two reasons.

The first was the timeliness in the delivery of the decision by the Constitutional Court and the impact it had on jurisprudence.

The second was about the extraordinary courage the judges exhibited in holding an influential Republican President who appoints judges and his ministers accountable.

At that time, public sentiments were that Judges would not summon the courage against their appointing authority as they had just been appointed to the prestigious bench of the Constitutional Court.

There is of course another precedent in which the Court categorically held that were the Constitution does not provide for retraction of a resignation letter, a councillor who resigns cannot rescind his or her resignation.

These were certainly bold decisions by our Constitutional Court!

Freedom of expression and information remains a big issue with our court proceedings.
Chief Justice Malila had recently raised some now-dying hope that the courts would open their doors in 2023 to media houses who wish to give live courage to court proceedings.

This reform does not require much effort except engagement with the media on positioning of cameras and orienting them on how to preserve the decorum of the courts.

In South Africa, such live media coverage comes with it uncensored commentaries to ensure the public understand issues associated with a matter before court.

Our Judiciary in Zambia is ducking and weaving, to avoid implementation of the proposed reforms on media live coverage.

Nevertheless, the Judiciary must be commended for launching the office of Resident Judge at Provincial level.

If there are any lessons to be learnt though, it is how to not hastily establish courts so as to meet the political aspirations of the executive branch of government.

The establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Court (EFCC) in haste has created a perception – whether true or false – that the EFCC is nothing but a vessel for fixing political opponents while the economic and financial ills currently being committed are swept under the carpet.

The EFCC was established without any accompanying legislation to prescribe its jurisdiction, powers and sittings.

These court is said to be operating on the basis of jurisdictional decrees whose validity is contentious.

The Judiciary seem to have realised that it was wrong to first operationalise the EFCC and allow it to operate based on administrative decrees without enacting enabling legislation to govern its establishment.

Justice in Zambia can be a mockery especially when one is in litigation against the State, a most powerful party. Courts have a duty to protect communities from the powerful and politically correct.

[Published by the Daily Nation, May 2023]

About Crossing the Rubicon: A case of HAkainde Vs Lungu

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About Crossing the Rubicon: A case of HAkainde Vs Lungu

By Sean Tembo – PeP President

1. Ever since l decided to aspire for the Presidency of the Republic of Zambia, there are certain values and beliefs which l embraced, and which will define what kind of a President l am going to be, should the Zambia people be gracious enough to make me one at some point in future. One of these values, which l must admit is somewhat unpopular, is that l do not believe its a good idea to prosecute former Heads of State.

2. You see, when you look at Zambia as a nation, our democracy credentials are outstanding, in as far as they are measured by our ability to peacefully kick out one ruling party and replace with another. But what do we have to show for our outstanding democratic credentials? Nothing !!! The standards of living of our people have systematically deteriorated from the time of independence to date. It’s like whenever we change Government, we jump from the frying pan to the fire itself. Inarguably, UNIP was better than MMD, and MMD was better than PF, and PF was better than UPND.

3. There are many possible explanations why democracy has not borne the desired fruits in our case here in Zambia. But my considered view is that the primary reason is the nature of our politics which are premised on enemty and vengeance against one another. When a political party loses power and a new President is sworn into office, the focus is not to correct the mistakes of the previous administration and build on their successes, no. To the contrary, the focus of the new President has always been to completely erase the legacy of the previous administration, destroy the former ruling party so that it has zero chances of ever ascending to the leadership of the country again, and for good measure; lock up the former Republican President.

4. This cycle of events have been repeating itself since 1991. Every living former President of Zambia has been locked up by their successor. KK was locked up by Chiluba. Banda was locked up by Sata. And now we are seeing Hakainde harassing Lungu. It appears that the only sure way for a former President of Zambia not to be locked up by their successor is to die in office. Similarly, instead of Chiluba building on KK’s vision of industrializing Zambia by establishing a factory in every district, he instead got rid of almost all state enterprises through privatization, both those which were making profits as well as those which were making losses, with the end result that any young Zambian who finishes school in any corner of Zambia has to come to Lusaka to look for employment opportunities.

5. Fast forward to this day, instead of President Hakainde Hichilema completing the various infrastructure projects which the PF administration partially started and invested taxpayers’ money in, he is letting them rot and go to waste. Ostensibly because he is afraid that if he completes these partially constructed schools, hospitals, universities, roads etcetera, it might help cement people’s views that the PF had a solid infrastructure agenda. It’s always about politics and never about the people we are supposed to serve.

6. The above is why Zambia is today a beacon of democracy but with no corresponding economic prosperity to show for it. We are our own worst enemy. We hate one another with a passion, simply because of political affiliations. And the funny part is that our respective political parties are not even that ideologically opposed. In fact, apart from UNIP, Zambia’s other ruling parties have never had any ideology to speak home about. And yet, when we look at a person from a different political party, we don’t see a fellow Zambian who has a a slightly different approach to how we can develop our country, instead we see an enemy who must be destroyed at all costs.

7. If we as a nation are going to achieve economic development for ourselves, we need to change the way we do our politics. We need to reduce if not outrightly eliminate the toxicity in our political dispensation. When a new person ascends to the office of President of the Republic of Zambia like Mr. Hichilema did, the focus should cease to be the complete annihilation of the former ruling party and locking up of the former President. Instead, the focus should be about correcting the mistakes of the former ruling party and building on their successes.

8. No matter how bad a former ruling party might have been, there are certain things that they did well. Instead of destroying or erasing everything, let us learn to be humble enough to acknowledge the successes of our predecessors and build on them. The Presidency should never be about you the individual or your personal ego and insecurities. It should always be about the people your serve and what is best for them. Constantly reminding yourself that what is best for the people may not be what is best for your personal ego, but the people must prevail. Always.

9. President Hakainde Hichilema has an opportunity to break the current cycle where democracy has failed to pay the expected dividends to the people of Zambia. He has the means to reduce the political temperature in the country. Within a few days, we saw the attempted assassination of Mr. Chilufya Tayali at his house as well as the harassment of Former President Edgar Lungu, also at his house. I call it harassment because you cannot treat a former President like a common criminal while he still has his immunity in place. President Hakainde Hichilema himself will one day become a Former President, so the question he must constantly ask himself is how would he like to be treated in his retirement?

10. The President must be wary not to set lifelong precedents on the basis of short-term emotions that he might have from time to time. Additionally, President Hakainde Hichilema should not premise his dealings with Former President Edgar Lungu on the basis of how the later dealt with him while in office. Can you imagine how much of South Africa would be left today if upon rising to the Presidency, Nelson Mandela premised his dealings with the Boers on how the Boers dealt with him while in opposition? It is very much on record that while in opposition, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema was relentlessly harassed by the PF administration. But does that entitle President Hakainde Hichilema to now harass the PF at the expense of national building and development? The answer is a definite no!!! National building and politicking rarely go hand in hand. So far the President has been doing a lot of politicking since ascending to office. That is too much. If the only thing we talk about as a nation is politics, then at what point are we going to begin to conceive and implement ideas that will uplift the social-economic wellbeing of our people? How long should our people suffer while we the political leaders are preoccupied with settling petty political scores against one another? The 19 million of us are probably all related to one another, so why should we be expending so much energy to destroy one another on the basis of petty political difference, instead of using our energy to make Zambia a better place for ourselves and our children? My brothers and sisters, let us unite and focus our energy on defeating our common enemy which is hunger and poverty.

Politican Chikabala Laments Hometown Team Chambishi’s Looming Relegation

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Politican Chikabala Laments Hometown Team Chambishi’s Looming Relegation

Chambishi Township strongman Chikabala Kaleta has bemoaned the looming demotion of Chambishi Football Club from the FAZ Super Division.

With three matches left in the season, Chambishi are second from bottom of the table with 29 points from 31 matches played.

Chambishi have recorded 18 defeats, five draws and eight wins.

Kaleta said failure to manage players financially well has contributed to Chambishi’s poor performance this season.

“The team has tried its best but it is heartbreaking to see the team leaving the FAZ Super Division,” Kaleta said.

He said management and sponsors of Chambishi must learn from the team’s low performance ahead of next season.

“We have to learn from the mistakes made and ensure that Chambishi bounces back. As a community we will get involved and ensure that the team bounces back to the top league,” he said.

Chambishi are preparing to host Kansanshi Dynamos in Saturday’s Week 32 match at Chambishi Stadium.

FAZ Super Division – Week 32

06/05/2023

Forest Rangers – Power Dynamos

Nkwazi – FC Muza

Zanaco – Buildcon

Nkana – Napsa Stars

Red Arrows – Lumwana Radiants

Prison Leopards – Green Eagles

Nchanga Rangers – Zesco United

07/05/2023

Green Buffaloes – Kabwe Warriors

Sylvia Masebo officially closes the three-day national health financing dialogue

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Sylvia Masebo officially closes the three-day national health financing dialogue

Minister of Health Sylvia Masebo has officially closed the three-day national health financing dialogue in Chongwe with a call for prudent utilisation of the resources entrusted to the health sector.

The meeting attracted various stakeholders that included World Health Organisation, African Union, SADC Health Office, UNAIDS, Global Fund, Parliamentary Health Committee and Zambia Private Sector Alliance.

In her final speech at the forum, Ms. Masebo said good governance should be on top of the agenda to instill confidence from Stakeholders to achieve better health outcomes.

The Chongwe Member of Parliament said it was evident from the meeting that not only is it the amount of resources that matters but also measures put in place to promote the prudent utilization of the resources in the health sector.

“You may agree with me that we have had three days of fruitful discussions introspecting ourselves how we have performed with respect to resource mobilisation and the utilization thereof. It is evident from this meeting that not only is it the amount of resources that matters but also measures put in place to promote the prudent utilization of the resources entrusted to the health sector. Thus, Governance should be on top of the agenda to instill confidence from our Stakeholders to achieve better health outcomes. As we may be aware, the supplies required by the health sector come from the private sector, it is evident from this meeting that the local suppliers have not fully taken up the role they ought to play. We therefore need to deal with all bottlenecks that prevent their effective participation. We need to see ourselves progressing to have more medical supplies and equipment manufactured locally. Further, we need to promote more partnerships between international suppliers and our local suppliers. This will not only serve our forex but also create the much-needed employment locally,” Ms. Masebo said.

She said the resolve by the Parliamentary group to dedicate a component of the CDF resources for procurement of ambulances and construction of maternity wings will go a long way in addressing issues of High Maternal Mortality, Child and Neonatal Mortalities.

“I am impressed to note that the resolutions agreed upon by the various constituencies during the parallel session yesterday are well aligned and very supportive to resolving the challenges that the Ministry highlighted in the 2022-2026 National Health Strategic Plan. The resolution by the Parliamentary group to dedicate a component of the CDF resources for procurement of ambulances and construction of maternity wings will go a long way in addressing issues of High Maternal Mortality, Child and Neonatal Mortalities including inadequate infrastructure and medical equipment. I also note that the resolution of our cooperating partners hinge on coordination and strengthening the financial management systems. This will help us to do more with the resources entrusted in our hands,” Ms. Masebo said.

“The private sector came out strongly on the need to participate in the pharmaceutical industry and on the need to partner with international companies in the supply of medicines and medical equipment. This will help the Ministry provide pharmaceutical supplies at more cost effective prices. The Civil Society Organizations pledged to strengthen advocacy on health matters in several areas. This is very helpful to the health sector. We also would like to appeal to the Civil Society to help us in sensitizing the communities on issues that border on lifestyle and nutrition as this is the cause for the increase in non-communicable diseases. I also believe, ladies and gentlemen, that it is time that the Civil Society Organizations moved beyond their traditional realm of advocacy. I encourage you to explore the concept of Result Based Financing. This concept provides a platform where you could partner with the Government to provide certain services,” she continued.

Ms. Masebo highlighted the need for additional domestic financing from diverse sources if Zambia is to make progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

“I note that the key consensus across the thematic areas is that better health outcomes cannot be achieved with limited resources for health; we need additional domestic financing from diverse sources if Zambia is to make progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC); and that all resources we get need to be spent on mutually identified priorities.The Government through the Ministry of Health is committed to improve the health financing situation in order to improve health outcomes for all. I would therefore like to request My Fellow Honourable Minister and Members of Parliament to join me in this quest. I would also like to request our Cooperating Partners, Civil Society, the Private Sector, members of the media, Line Ministries, the academia and everyone else to continue supporting our health financing system as we can only achieve what we have set out through a multisectoral approach and not in isolation,” she stated.

Ms. Masebo further recognized the contributions that various Cooperating Partners and the Private Sector have continued to render to the Health Sector.

“As I conclude, allow me to acknowledge the contributions that various Cooperating Partners and the Private Sector have continued to render to the Health Sector. The Civil Society and Parliamentarians, you have also provided us with checks and balances as we provide health services. This indeed is cardinal if we are to offer quality health services. Academia has also been instrumental in ensuring that we make evidence-based decisions as we provide this noble cause through your research that has been very beneficial to the Health,” she concluded.

Lusemfwa Hydro strategic to energy sector – Nanjuwa

Chief Editor
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Lusemfwa Hydro strategic to energy sector – Nanjuwa

Central Province Minister, Credo Nanjuwa, has said Lunsemfwa Hydro Power Company (LHPC) Limited is a strategic investment that has potential to booster the power deficit in the country.

Mr Nanjuwa says the government is not going to allow any clandestine activities that will affect the operations of the power company.

ZANIS in Central Province reports that the minister said this through the Provincial Deputy Permanent Secretary (DPS), Godfrey Chitambala, during the familiarisation tour of the company’s infrastructure.

He has called for more engagements between LHPC Limited, the government and other stakeholders to foster mutually sustainable activities.

“Government is not going to allow any clandestine activities that may affect the operations of LHPC. There is need for more engagements between LHPC Limited, the government and other stakeholders to foster mutually sustainable activities,” Mr Nanjuwa said.

Meanwhile, LHPC Limited Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Alfa Mwale, has complained that the manganese mining activities have become a threat to the hydrological system.

“When they take the water to wash those minerals they can’t take it back hence disturbing the water flow. We have rejected a letter from the Water Resource Management Authority (WARMA) but we are aware that those activities are happening,” Mr Mwale said.

He said the power company will not stop industrialisation but it should not impinge on the operations of the company.

Mr Mwale observed that the permits that have already been issued to take water from the dam are enough.

And LHPC Senior Geologist, Chanda Chisha, said human activities have emerged as a threat to the water recharge areas.

Mr Chisha has appealed to the government through the provincial administration to inspire councils to stop allocating plots in the water recharge areas.

He said sand mining activities must also be controlled to ensure that the recharge areas are not compromised.

“Farming also requires control and management. There is need to control all the upstream activities to guarantee continued power supply. As we promote agriculture we must sensitise the communities on sustainable agriculture,” Mr Chisha said.

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