Chief Chikwanda of the Bemba people in Mpika District in Muchinga Province says the late Paramount Chief Mphezeni will be greatly remembered for his selfless leadership style he provided to Eastern Province and the nation at large.

Chief Chikwanda has described the paramount Chief as a distinguished traditional leader who made significant contributions towards promoting peace, unity and co-existence among all Zambians.

Chief Chikwanda said this in an interview with the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) at his palace in Mpika.

He said Mpika District has joined the rest of the nation in mourning the passing of Paramount Chief Mpezeni of the Ngoni people of Eastern Province, saying his demise is a great loss that has been deeply felt across provincial boundaries.

Chief Chikwanda said the country has lost a respected traditional leader whose dedication to national development, social cohesion and welfare of his subjects will be greatly missed by fellow chiefs, government and ordinary citizens.

He said Chief Mphezeni was a pillar of traditional governance who consistently used his position to champion the rights of his people while at the same time supporting national programmes aimed at improving the lives of all Zambians.

Chief Chikwanda further noted that the late Chief Mphezeni was particularly exemplary in the manner in which he collaborated with government institutions, civil society and fellow traditional leaders to resolve disputes and foster harmony among communities.

” In Eastern Province and beyond,

I call on all traditional leaders to draw inspiration from the late chief’s leadership.” He said,

And Mpika District Commissioner David Siame said the late Paramount Chief Mphezeni leaves behind a legacy worthy of emulation, adding that his passing marks a significant moment of loss for traditional leadership in Zambia.

Mr Siame said Chief Mphezeni greatly contributed to Zambia’s development in various areas, including agriculture, education and the promotion of cultural heritage.

 The DC expressed condolences on behalf of the people and administration of Mpika District to the Ngoni Royal Establishment and the people of Eastern Province and the nation as a whole.

Meanwhile, some residents of Mpika District who share tribal roots with the Ngoni people of Eastern Province highlighted the strong bond that exists between the Bemba and Ngoni people, noting that the two communities have long maintained ties of friendship, intermarriage and mutual respect that transcend geographic boundaries.

“We join our Ngoni friends in grief and expressed hope that the Ngoni Royal Establishment would identify a worthy successor to continue the great legacy that Paramount Chief Mphezeni has left behind,” he said

A passenger has died after falling from a moving motorbike in Lusangazi District.

Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba has confirmed and identified the deceased as 18- year-old Spanela Banda of Mudonsa Village, Sandwe Chiefdom.

The fatal road traffic accident occurred on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at around 15:30 hours.

According to Police, Banda was travelling as a pillion passenger on an unregistered Gatoma motorcycle ridden by Lottie Mwale of Pelekani Village.

The motorcycle was travelling from north to south when the accident occurred.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the victim fell from the moving motorcycle and sustained serious injuries while the rider escaped unhurt.

“The motorcycle did not sustain any visible damage, “Mr Mweemba said.

He added that the victim suffered a cut at the back of the head, bleeding from the nose and suspected internal injuries.

“Banda was rushed to Riverside Clinic in Lusangazi District before being referred to St. Francis Hospital for further treatment. However, he died while being transported to the said hospital,” he said.

The body has since been deposited at Petauke District Hospital Mortuary awaiting a postmortem examination to establish the exact cause of death.

Meanwhile, Lusangazi District Commissioner Margret Zulu has expressed sadness over the loss of life and urged motorcycle riders to exercise greater caution when carrying passengers.

Ms Zulu said the increasing number of motorcycle related accidents in the district was a source of concern and called on riders to strictly observe road safety regulations.

“This unfortunate incident is a reminder of the importance of adhering to road safety measures at all times. We appeal to motorcycle riders to prioritise the safety of their passengers and ensure they operate responsibly to prevent needless loss of life,” she said.

She further conveyed her condolences to the bereaved family and wished them strength during their period of mourning.

The Agriculture, Technical and Professional Staff Union of Zambia (ATPSUZ) has commended the government for the country’s anticipated bumper maize harvest of approximately five million metric tonnes (mt) for the 2025/2026 farming season.

ATPSUZ General Secretary Stephen Meleki has described the achievement as a major milestone towards strengthening national food security and economic growth.

In an interview with the media, Mr Meleki said the expected record harvest demonstrates that with the right policies, strategic investments and adequate support to farmers, Zambia can significantly increase agricultural productivity.

He added the ambitious target of producing 10 million metric tonnes of maize, three million metric tonnes of soybeans and one million metric tonnes of wheat, annually by 2030.

He expressed gratitude to the government and praised the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema for prioritising agriculture as a key driver of Zambia’s economy.

And the ATPSUZ General Secretary stressed that it remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that advance Zambia’s agricultural sector and contribute to long-term economic transformation.

“Together, we can build a food-secure and prosperous Zambia through enhanced agricultural mechanisms,” he said.

Last week, Zambia Statistics Agency Statistician General Sheila Mudenda projected a maize production for the 2025/2026 farming season to stand at 4.9 million metric tonnes, translating an increase of 27.8 percent from the previous farming season.

The Government has warned members of the public against creating, sharing, or distributing an alleged artificial intelligence (AI)-generated video purportedly showing former President Edgar Lungu undergoing a post-mortem examination.

Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana says authorities are aware of individuals allegedly producing and circulating the video in an attempt to provoke public emotions and influence the electoral process ahead of the August 13 General Elections.

Mr. Kawana urged those responsible to consider the feelings of the late former President’s family and close associates, describing the content as distressing, insensitive, and inappropriate.

He warned that the dissemination of false and manipulated content has the potential to mislead the public, fuel tensions, and undermine national unity during the election period.

Commenting on the ongoing political campaigns, Mr. Kawana said claims from some quarters that the campaigns appear dull are largely due to the absence of violence, illicit spending, and other activities often associated with the misuse of public resources.

He stated that opposition political parties have failed to present a clear message to voters or offer alternatives to government programmes and services currently being implemented across the country.

Mr. Kawana further attributed the peaceful political atmosphere to prudent management of national resources and what he described as strong and effective leadership under the current administration.

He added that the 2026 electoral period is likely to be among the most peaceful in Zambia’s history, urging all stakeholders to continue promoting peace, responsible conduct, and issue-based campaigns.

The Permanent Secretary also called on citizens to verify information before sharing it online and to avoid spreading content that could cause unnecessary distress or misinformation.

The body of Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV is expected to arrive in Chipata today as thousands of mourners gather to pay their last respects to the revered Ngoni monarch whose 44-year reign ended last week.

According to the Ngoni Royal Establishment, the late traditional leader’s remains will be flown from Lusaka and are expected to arrive in Chipata at approximately 12:00 hours. Upon arrival, the body will be transported to Ephendukeni Palace, where it will lie in state ahead of burial on Tuesday.

Speaking at Ephendukeni Palace, Gogo Madzimawe confirmed that the remains are currently under the custody of the Ngoni Royal Establishment through Chief Maguya and the royal indunas.

“It is going to be a one-hour flight into Chipata. From there, the body will be brought here at Ephendukeni Palace,” Madzimawe said.

He also urged the public to ignore false information circulating on social media regarding funeral arrangements and succession matters, describing such reports as malicious and misleading during a period of mourning.

Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV died in the early hours of Saturday at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka. His death was announced by Senior Chief Nzamane, who described the passing as a profound loss to the Ngoni people and the nation at large.

Born David Njengembazo Jele, Mpezeni IV ascended to the throne in 1982 following the death of his father, Mpezeni III. Before becoming king, he lived in Efeni Village in Chipata and worked in Livingstone, unaware that he would one day inherit one of Zambia’s most influential traditional leadership positions.

His coronation, attended by Zambia’s founding President Kenneth Kaunda, marked the beginning of a reign that would span more than four decades.

Throughout his leadership, Mpezeni IV became a respected custodian of Ngoni culture and traditions. He is widely remembered for strengthening the Ncwala Traditional Ceremony, transforming it into one of Zambia’s most celebrated traditional events that attracts visitors from across the region and beyond.

His influence extended beyond Zambia’s borders. He maintained strong ties with traditional and political leaders across Southern Africa and was among distinguished African traditional leaders invited to witness the coronation of Misuzulu kaZwelithini in South Africa in 2022. He also hosted prominent figures, including Jacob Zuma, during various Ncwala ceremonies.

The late Paramount Chief leaves behind a wife, a child, grandchildren, and a lasting legacy of cultural preservation, unity, and traditional leadership.

As the Ngoni nation prepares to lay him to rest, tributes continue to pour in from across Zambia and the wider region, reflecting the deep respect and admiration he commanded throughout his lifetime.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti has described the demise of the late Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV as a great loss not only to the Ngoni people but the nation as a whole.

Dr Mutti says late Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV dedicated his life to preserving the rich customs and identity of his people while promoting peace and unity across the country.

She said the late traditional leader focused on harmony and mutual respect regardless of tribe, region or political affiliation.

Dr Mutti said Paramount Chief Mpezeni leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations and remain deeply imprinted in the history of Zambia’s traditional leadership.

“I learnt of the passing of His Majesty Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV of the Ngoni people with profound sorrow and grief. Zambia has lost a revered traditional leader, a respected custodian of culture, heritage and a unifying figure whose leadership commanded admiration across the country,” she said.

Dr Mutti noted that Zambia has lost a revered traditional leader, who respected custodians of culture, heritage and a unifying figure whose leadership commanded admiration across the country.

She extended her condolences to the Ngoni Royal Establishment, bereaved family and the Ngoni people and nation at large during the difficult period of mourning.

This is according to a statement issued to the media today by National Assembly Deputy Clerk for Procedure, Stephen Kawimbe.

Paramount Chief Mpezeni died on Saturday, May 30, 2026, in Lusaka.

North-Western Province Police Commissioner, Brighton Siwale has directed Police Officers across the province to act firmly and professionally against perpetrators of political violence and public disorder.

Speaking during a media engagement meeting on election preparedness organised by the North-West Press Club in Solwezi, Mr Siwale said the Police Service in North-Western Province will not condone any form of lawlessness before, during and after the elections.

He emphasized that political violence poses a serious threat to the country’s democratic governance, national unity, economic stability and international reputation.

Mr Siwale noted that violence erodes public confidence in institutions, weakens democratic legitimacy and creates fear and instability within communities, a situation that could also discourage potential investors.

He further disclosed that Police in the province has developed and operationalised an electoral security plan aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.

Mr Siwale stated that the plan focuses on preventing electoral violence through proactive policing, intelligence gathering and timely interventions among other measures.

Meanwhile, Provincial Permanent Secretary, Grandson Katambi reaffirmed government’s commitment to protecting the rights and safety of journalists.

Col. Katambi (Rtd) urged media practitioners to uphold professionalism, ethics and accuracy in their reporting before, during and after the elections, warning against the spread of misinformation.

And North-West Press Club president, Chaibu Nkhoma said such engagements are vital in strengthening collaboration between the Zambia Police Service and the media in the province.

He said enhanced cooperation between the two institutions will contribute to peaceful and credible elections.

Former Office of the President (OP) Chief of Intelligence Xavier Chungu has been charged with 11 offences, including multiple counts of communication of classified information and seditious practices, following his arrest in Lusaka.

Police say Chungu was arrested on May 28, 2026, and has since been formally charged for allegedly disclosing sensitive information obtained during his official duties while appearing on a named podcast.

According to police spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi, the alleged offences occurred on May 24, 2026, between 16:00 and 18:00 hours in New Kasama, Lusaka, where Chungu is said to have revealed confidential information relating to state security operations.

Chungu has been slapped with seven counts of communication of certain information, contrary to Section 4(1) of the State Security Act, Chapter 111 of the Laws of Zambia. The offence relates to the unlawful disclosure of classified information obtained through official capacity.

Police further allege that he committed three counts of seditious practices under Section 57 of the Penal Code, Chapter 87, by making statements considered to be of a seditious nature during the same podcast appearance.

In addition, Chungu faces one count of prohibition of publication or disclosure of information to an unauthorised person under Section 11(1) of the Zambia Security Intelligence Service Act, Chapter 109, for allegedly revealing protective measures relating to a vital national installation.

Authorities say the offences carry severe penalties, with some charges attracting a minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of up to 25 years imprisonment if convicted.

Chungu remains in police custody and is expected to appear in court in the coming days as investigations continue.