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Planned impeachment motion against HH by the opposition will not succeed if tabled in Parliament

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Planned impeachment motion against HH by the opposition will not succeed if tabled in Parliament

The Governance, Elections, Advocacy, Research Services – GEARS Initiative Zambia says the planned impeachment motion against President Hakainde Hichilema by the opposition will not succeed if tabled in Parliament.

GEARS Initiative Zambia Executive Director McDonald Chipenzi disclosed that this is because the opposition like in the previous parliament does not enjoy the majority seat and that it is impossible for them to get support from members of parliament belonging to the ruling United Party for National Development – UPND.

Mr Chipenzi however explains that the opposition are exercising their constitutional rights though this aspiration is far-fetched, further urging the opposition to choose the kind of wars they should engage themselves in.

He observed that it is impossible for the opposition to censure Ministers as they stated yesterday as the process just like the impeachment motion has conditions which the current opposition parliament cannot meet.

And Chief Government Spokesperson Chushi Kasanda has dared the opposition to go ahead with their plans saying they will just be wasting their time to file a motion of impeachment against the president as people in the country are happy with the current government and the head of state.

At a media briefing yesterday, opposition political parties among them the Patriotic Front – PF, Economic Front – EF, National Democratic Congress – NDC, Citizens First – CF, Golden Party of Zambia – GPZ, and the Patriots for Economic Progress – PeP disclosed that they are in the process of issuing a motion of impeachment in Parliament against President Hakainde Hichilema for failing to govern the country to the expectations of Zambians.

Speaking on behalf of the other Political Parties, Patriotic Front Chairperson for Information and Publicity Raphael Nakachinda stated that competent lawyers are crafting the motion and it will be passed in the House by the leader of the opposition in parliament.

Mr Nakachinda added that a motion of Censure against Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane, his Agriculture counterpart Reuben Mtolo as well as Health Minister Sylvia Masebo will be issued for allegedly being incompetent in the execution of their duties.

At the same briefing, National Democratic Congress – NDC Leader Saboi Imboela has appealed to the international community and the general public to take interest in the alleged human rights violation going on in the country.

Ms Imboela has also vowed that the opposition in the country will never stop talking if all the rights violations are aimed at silencing them.

“We speak for the people out there and they should stop us as those are our Human Rights, and whether they feel comfortable with it or not, we are going to ensure that we stand our rights, integrity and everything that they think they will take away from us as they will not manage,” she said

“Why live for everything if you can’t die for something, and we are going to die for our country and our own Human Rights and we shall not stop talking whatever the consequences are because the Zambians need voices to speak for them now, more than ever before,” she added

Meanwhile, Golden Party of Zambia – GPZ President Jackson Silavwe disclosed that the issue of political violence is on the rise in the country, as the cadres under the New Dawn Administration are clad in jackets so that they are not easily recognized unlike those from the previous regime who wore political party regalia and militia attire and easily recognized, adding that the UPND cadres attack those from the opposition in full view of the Police.

“The rise of political violence in full view of the Police has happened in various places such as Mukushi, Rusangazi where UPND cadres attacked their opponents by throwing stones at them, and also in Lusaka’s Kabwata when I was attacked by UPND cadres after visiting the NDC leader Saboi Imboela who was believed to have been incarcerated there,” he mentioned

Chipolopolo Lose in Away Friendly to Israel

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Israel beat Zambia 4-2 on Thursday night in the two sides’ debut meeting in an international friendly match played at Petach Tikva.

Israel was cruising to a two-nil halftime lead thanks to goals from Tai Baribo and Din David in the 21st and 24th minutes respectively.

Kings Kangwa cut the deficit in the 55th minute and Rally Bwalya levelled matters in the 67th minute to score his debut Chipolopolo goal.

Bwalya had replaced compatriot and ex-Power Dynamos teammate Benson Sakala in the 30th minute.

But an Emmanuel Banda own-goal in the 89th minute restored Israel’s lead and Itamar Shviro’s stoppage-time goal saw Chipolopolo end 2023 on a losing note with their third successive loss heading into the New Year.

The match also marked interim coach and assistant trainer Moses Sichone’s final game in charge as FAZ prepares to name the next substantive boss.

Israeli Avram Grant is up against ex-Chipolopolo coaches Wedson Nyirenda and Honour Janza on the final three-man shortlist.

President Hichilema launches K171.5 million marketers’ loan

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President Hichilema launches K171.5 million marketers’ loan

President Hakainde Hichilema has launched the K171.5 million worth Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) booster loans for marketers countrywide.

The loan facility enables marketers to acquire credits from between K500 and K5,000 that are payable in six months at no interest.

Speaking during the launch at State House this afternoon, President Hichilema said the booster loans are another way of creating a revolving fund for the marketers.

Mr Hichilema said the loans are a demonstration of government’s enduring commitment to serve the Zambian people by creating tangible opportunities for economic empowerment.

The President said marketers have been neglected for a long time despite being instrumental in Zambia’s economy.

“We ignored for many years those that made the trade possible between the producers, farmers and other manufacturers through the market. Through those people we were able to feed our families every single day,” President Hichilema said.

President Hichilema also called for enhanced financial literacy to enable the recipients to be well vest in financial matters.

He said the loans will address the challenge of lack of financing for people in the informal sector such as the marketers.

The Head of State has since advised the recipients of the loans not to consume the money but instead use it to grow their businesses.

“But the important issue is now that this facility will allow the marketers not to extract payments such as school fees, costs such as examination fees, they can retain that money in their business as working capital and grow,” Mr Hichilema said.

Speaking at the same event, Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) Director General, Muwa Mungule, described the loan facility as a game changer.

Dr Mungule thanked government for entrusting CEEC with the task of handling such a programme that will improve the lives of the marketers.

And Zambia National Marketers Credit Association (ZANAMACA) President Mupila Kameya commended government for looking into the plight of marketeers.

Meanwhile, Zambia National Marketeers Association Chairman General, Eros Malinda, said the loan facility will go a long way towards improving the lives of marketers.

Fertilizer Supply and Distribution Disaster

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Fertilizer Supply and Distribution Disaster

By Fred M’membe President of the Socialist Party

It is very clear that Mr Hakainde Hichilema and his UPND government have failed to deliver Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) fertiliser before the on-set of the rains. This is after all the promises to our poor people that fertilisers were on the way.

On September 7 this year, agriculture minister Mtolo Phiri assured the nation that fertiliser distribution would start at the beginning of October, but by the end of October distribution had still not started in earnest.

Addressing a campaign rally for the November 4 Mkushi council chairperson by-election, Mr Hichilema announced that fertiliser was on the way. He emphasised that reports being circulated that there was no fertiliser in Mkushi were untrue because, “trucks of fertiliser are already on the way, and you will receive the fertiliser”, and he threatened to dismiss camp officers trying to mislead the farmers about fertiliser not being available or being delayed.

Despite growing cries from our poor people about delays in fertiliser distribution, we didn’t want to rush and start commenting on this issue or harangue Mr Hichilema and his UPND government. This is not an issue for lurid, sensational attacks on Mr Hichilema and his UPND government. It’s too serious an issue to play political njuka, insolo with. Socialists are patriots and we wish to see our country succeed and our people live better – with or without us. You will never see us gloat over national reserves, as Mr Hichilema and the UPND did when others were in government and they were in opposition. We wish to see the lives of our people improve, the economy grow and gain in strength. We do not look to defeat Mr Hichilema and the UPND in 2026 on the back of national failure, and agriculture collapse. There will be sufficient grounds without that to argue for their removal.

Today, Mr Hichilema and UPND may look very strong and confident, but very big problems lie ahead. Despite the excessive show of confidence, Mr Hichilema and his league don’t seem to know where they are headed and that is very dangerous. He appears to be in control, but no one knows where he is heading. He has not only failed to deliver fertiliser to our poor farmers but also medicines to our clinics and hospitals for our sick citizens. Our agriculture and health services are in shambles.

Clearly, Mr Hichilema has failed to define the purpose of his government. He will in be judged in the end, not on what he says, but on what he does.

They are too focused on becoming very rich, being the richest Zambians to really get a good appreciation of the fertiliser business in Zambia and get an in-depth understanding of the outlook with regard to fertiliser supply, given the current global geopolitical tensions, COVID-19 pandemic, and the domestic macro-economic environment and challenges that the business is facing.

If the factors that led to this failure to supply our poor people with fertilisers at the right time and in the needed quantities are not understood and resolved we will not see a reversal of fortunes in agriculture.

There are serious problems of lack of transparency and predictability in the whole fertiliser supply business. There was a very serious lack of information by the Ministry of Agriculture on tenders for the 2022/23 farming season, and this has, to a very large extent, led to the delay and the many serious hurdles in securing fertilisers, especially in the current environment where the suppliers are facing price volatility at source in the global market. At a minimum, suppliers need four months to secure and deliver fertiliser into the country. This government, without explanation, cancelled the open tenders at the end of August and “secretly” awarded tenders thereafter. Importers can only secure stocks of fertilisers after government determines its requirements and the financing arrangements governing the programme.

And offtake of fertiliser on the open market will be low this season given the prices – K1,200 for a 50 kg bag instead of the K250 per 50 kg bag they had promised our people – currently facing the users, and as such this speaks to lower procurement forecasts for the open market as well. The consequences of this don’t require much disquisition.

If decisions were made in good time and tenders were awarded accordingly, the procurement of Urea may not have been as problematic as that of securing D-Compound. This required the government to award FISP tenders no later than June.

There’s too much empty talk by Mr Hichilema and his league for one to really know where they stand and what they are up to. There have been endless and sometimes contradictory statements on FISP by government officials, who introduced some uncertainty in the fertiliser business, and this has not helped to instil confidence in the business community. For instance, there was no certainty on whether government was going to engage in business with existing fertiliser companies or not. The intentions of this government weren’t officially communicated to the suppliers. As a result of this, today we have fertiliser suppliers who haven’t been awarded tenders with stocks in their warehouses. What should they do with these stocks? Take them to DRC?

There’s a need for transparency and fairness. FISP financing arrangements and decisions by government should be availed to would-be suppliers so that all can plan, and suppliers can bring in the fertiliser in good time. Suppliers should be informed in advance whether the bids are open or closed tender, as the two have implications for the entire procurement process and the time it will take. More so for parastatal suppliers like NCZ, which will need to abide by the ZPPA processes and which take more time.

There’s also a need to broaden the fertiliser options beyond the use of Urea as a top dresser and D-Compound as the basal dresser. These are not the only good options available. There are other fertilisers that can be used as efficiently and effectively as these, or even better.
Again, to move forward and overcome the current inefficiencies, self-interest on the part of those leading government must disappear. They are not there to benefit themselves and their associates.

Agriculture is the major source of livelihood for the great majority of our people – 54.8% of our workforce is deployed in agriculture. It cannot be run in such a cavalier way, premised on personal basis and patronage.

Mr Hichilema and his league are creating the premise for food insecurity next year. More prudence and efficiency was expected from this government.

Calls to audit PF aspirant over K 200 000 is nonsensical-Kafwaya

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Calls to audit PF aspirant over K 200 000 is nonsensical-Kafwaya

PF hopeful presidential candidate Hon Mutotwe Kafwaya has blasted those calling for the PF aspirants to be probed over the K200,000 nomination fees.

The Lunte Lawmaker said it is nonsensical for people to make such suggestions when they were quite when UPND ministers were declaring assets.

Hon Kafwaya said such suggestions are triggered by hatred among other reasons.

He said this when he featured on Hot FM’s Hot Seat today.

“It’s childish to suggest that I should be probed regarding where I got the K200,000 for nomination from. When Ministers were declaring sums worth K60 million, did you hear anybody talking about the probe? No you didn’t. the reason is they are ministers,” he said.

“It’s very childish. What is a K200,000? Listen, I don’t have to be a politician to have a K200,000. And if in your thinking, you think that I am worth less than K200,000, you are joking, you are a joker. So for me that is foolishness, it is lack of thinking what priorities you must focus on, it is just hatred.”

Hon Kafwaya said he has no problem with being probed.

He however stated that he would still laugh at those probing and call the process foolish.

The hopeful PF presidential candidate said even the car he drives is worth not less than a K200,000.

“Listen even the car I drive is worth more than K200,000. If I didn’t have it, I could have sold one of my cars. Do you think I have one car? In the last Parliament, I got a loan from Parliament, I bought a Mitsubishi, it’s there at home. In this Parliament where I was chased for 90 days for having lost my seat for a while…I got another loan and I have another car,” he said.

“Before that, I had another car which I bought via FNB financing. So if I don’t have a K200,000 I can sell a car which is worth K200,000 and be able to do that. So it is not an issue for me… for an accountant like myself…. a graduate of many years and someone who has served various organizations up to the level of Auditing Manager, Chief Accountant…. I cannot be worth less than a K200,000.”

AVIC International Holding Corporation requests for K 33 million balance for Airport

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AVIC International Holding Corporation requests for K 33 million balance for Airport

Avic International Holding Corporation has urged government to pay the remaining balance of about K 33 million owed for designing and construction of Simon Mwansa International Airport.

Li Yongchao Vice Manager Contract Measurement Department at Avic International says his institution so far written to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure to intervene.

Mr. Yongachao during the a tour of his company’s project the new airport said because of the delay, his firm in un able to carry out its Community Social Reponse ( CSR ) projects in the area.

Construction of the airport has since been completed and is fully operational.

Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport constructed at a cost of K 8, 067, 348 ( current rate of US$520 ) houses a number of facilities in tandem with the required international aviation standards.

The facility has the capacity to accommodate 2 million passengers per annum with more room for expansion.

Cabinet approves six Bills and one Policy for publication and introduction in Parliament

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Cabinet approves six Bills and one Policy for publication and introduction in Parliament

Cabinet has deliberated and approved six (6) Bills and one (1) Policy for publication and introduction in Parliament in order to ensure that the delivery of services to the people is based on firm policy and legislative stance by the Government including all stakeholders involved in the developmental agenda.

During the 26th Cabinet Meeting held at State House on 14th November 2022, Chief Government Spokesperson Chushi Kasanda cited that Cabinet has approved the National Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Terrorism and Proliferation Financing (AML/CTPF) Policy and its Implementation Plan, adding that the decision by Cabinet to introduce such a National Policy is as a result of the prevalence of vices such as corruption, tax evasion, drug trafficking, theft and fraud, which, if not controlled in a more coordinated manner by the Government, would negatively affect the economic, political and social stability of the country.

Ms Kasanda explained that the approval National Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Terrorism and Proliferation Financing (AML/CTPF) Policy by Cabinet is premised on the fact that Zambia is a founder member of the Eastern and Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Group (ESAAMLG), and as such, it is important to comply with the standards set by the organization for member countries to have National Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Terrorism and Proliferation Financing Policies.

“Cabinet has a firm belief that the comprehensive implementation of this Policy will enhance coordination among various stakeholders to undertake targeted measures and allocate resources effectively in response to Money Laundering, Terrorism Financing and Proliferation Financing risks,” She added

Ms Kasanda who also the Minister of Information and Media highlighted that during the meeting Cabinet also deliberated on six (6) legislation issues following the approval by Cabinet at its 20th Meeting, held on 16th September 2022, of the 2023 National Budget, which is currently under consideration by Parliament, adding that Cabinet approved the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill of 2022, for publication and introduction in Parliament during the current sitting, and the objective of this Bill is to amend the Income Tax Act so as to deal with all income tax-related issues as addressed in the 2023 National Budget.

She noted that the implementation of the Bill, once enacted, will, among other things, mitigate the cost of living for the people in the country, increase disposable income for salaried households, attract public-private partnerships in infrastructure investment such as roads, increase revenue to support the implementation of the 2023 National Budget; and ease the tax burden for certain sectors of the economy which will invariably result in greater tax compliance.

The Minister cited that the Customs and Excise (Amendment) Bill of 2022 is another Bill that Cabinet has approved for publication and introduction in Parliament during the current sitting, and the objectives of the Bill, among others, are to revise the rates of customs and excise duty payable on certain goods, revise the list of goods to be subject to surtax at importation, provide for the use of electronic fiscal devices in the administration of excise duty, and in order to promote a clean and healthy environment, facilitate the importation into the country, of electric motor vehicles and cycles.

She said that Cabinet also approved the Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill of 2022 for publication and introduction in Parliament during the current sitting, and the objective of this Bill is to amend the Value Added Tax Act, so as to revise the definition of “commercial property;” provide clarity on crediting of input tax and revise the penalty for tax evasion.

“Cabinet has indicated that there is a need to provide clarity on the crediting of input tax and revise the penalty for tax evasion so as to stiffen the punishment in order to ensure greater tax compliance in the country. Further, it is envisaged that the implementation of the Bill will result in increased revenue mobilization and greater tax compliance by stiffening the punishment for tax evasion,” she said

The Minister mentioned that another Bill approved by Cabinet for publication and introduction in Parliament during the current sitting, is the Property Transfer Tax (Amendment) Bill of 2022, and like the other Bills deliberated upon by Cabinet, the Bill is intended to facilitate the smooth implementation of the 2023 National Budget.

During the same meeting, Ms Kasanda said that the Pension Scheme Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2022 was also approved by Cabinet for publication and introduction in Parliament, whose objective is to amend the Pension Scheme Regulation Act, 1996, so as to provide for the approval of pension scheme rules by the Pensions and Insurance Authority.

She disclosed that currently, the Act does not provide for the approval of pension scheme rules by the Pensions and Insurance Authority during the consideration of an application for registration to authorise an applicant to establish, manage and administer a pension scheme. Therefore, there is a need to provide for the approval of pension scheme rules by the Pensions and Insurance Authority to enhance coordination going forward.

Ms Kasanda highlighted that the Mines and Minerals Development (Amendment) Bill of 2022 was also approved by Cabinet for publication and introduction in Parliament, noting that the objective of this Bill is to amend the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2015, so as to restructure the taxation of mineral royalty.

She noted that currently, the mineral royalty regime, with respect to copper, does not support a conducive environment that attracts investment in the mining sector, therefore, there is a need to restructure the mineral royalty regime with respect to copper.

5G internet to be officially launched in Zambia

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5G internet to be officially launched in Zambia

Government has announced that the fifth Generation Mobile (5G) network will be officially launched in Zambia with MTN Zambia on November 24, 2022.

Technology and Science Minister, Felix Mutati, made this announcement in Lusaka today on the sidelines of the ongoing Innovation Africa Summit.

Mr Mutati said the move forms part of the government’s digital transformation agenda.

“Because of the positive things that we are doing, next week, working with MTN, we are going to launch 5G on the 24th of November. Creating a positive experience for customers, creating the necessary speed and making Zambia truly in the champions league,” he said.

The minister said the government is working on making mobile network services accessible by every Zambia and at an affordable price by ensuring that the cost of ICT infrastructure is reduced.

Mr Minister further said Zambia has great potential to compete with other countries in the technology sector.

He added that the country is attracting international recognition as evidenced by the hosting of international summits such as the Innovation Africa meeting.

Mr. Mutati said the government is aware of the challenges faced by young innovators.

The minister added that government has come up with initiatives aimed at alleviating these challenges with support from the private sector and other stakeholders.

“We are now working on a start-up bill, which we will present to parliament to be able to introduce a venture capital fund to deal with issues around funding,” he said.

Zambia is hosting the 10th edition of the Innovation Africa Summit which has attracted over 300 delegates from Africa and beyond.

Mayinga youth invents Mini Hydro Power Supply system

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Mayinga youth invents Mini Hydro Power Supply system

A local youth has invented a Mini Power Hydro System in Manyinga District in North- western Province.

Abel Mivanga 30 of Kuluyi Village in Senior Chief Sikufel’s area has invented the power supply system by making power turbines using locally sourced metallic material which are tapping and generating power from Manyinga Stream.

The exciting invention has caught the attention of several key stakeholders locally and outside the country including senior government officials in the district.

Elder brother to the inventor Joseph Mivanga says his young brother Abel Mivanga has commended government for showing interest and support in his young brother’s innovation.

Speaking to District Commissioner Brenda Mukwakwa and District Education Board Secretary Patrick Poho, Mr Mivanga said the current state of the turbine is able to supply power to a maximum of ten households, but was currently supplying his home.

And Abel Mivanga said the lack of power supply in his village for several years is one of the reasons which prompted him to come up with the innovation.

He said his invention is able to light domestic bulbs, stoves and television sets.

“As you can see, the turbine is running at the stream and it is able to light bulbs, T.Vs and stoves,” he said.

Mr Mivanga has since called on government and stakeholders to empower him so that the entire district and nation at large can benefit from the Mini Hydro Power project he has invented.

“All I need is support and empowerment, am sure this project can benefit the district, the province and nation at large,” he added

And a visibly inspired District Commissioner has pledged to explore all relevant government ministries and stakeholders to come to the aid of the local youth, to enable him propel his inventions further and ultimately sustain his family.

“On the part of government this touching, my office will work closely with relevant departments, ministries and stakeholders to ensure that Abel is empowered,” Ms Mukwakwa said.

Ms Mukwakwa added that it is government’s intention and core responsibility to ensure that youths like Abel are supported and empowered.

The District Education Board Secretary is encouraged to see an innovative youth in the community, whose innovation is able to give him self employment unlike other youths who always seek employment after completing their secondary school education.

“This is impressive, this boy is a Genius and a model to the local youths,” He said.

Mr Poho said such Innovations are welcome in his ministry especially in rural schools without power, which most teacher is crying in conducting practical lessons and sustaining their livelihoods.

“We shall see how we can incorporate this innovation in schools especially our teachers lacking power supply in their schools and also in Jets programmes,” the DEBS added.

Meanwhile, a Zambian and Manyinga born Philanthropist and Social Scientist Mike Sovi who is based in the United Kingdom has called for the preservation of copyrights and legal ownership of Mr Mivanga’s innovation to avoid other people from stealing his self initiated works.

Mr Sovi has since called on government and relevant authorities to assist the Mr Mivanga with his innovation.

Abel started his innovations at a tender age, when he was in grade seven and tried to invent a radio Antenna and also used to repair household electrical appliances.

ZESCO proposed electricity connection fees will hurt the poor more, HH has breached election promises

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ZESCO proposed electricity connection fees will hurt the poor more, HH has breached election promises

Patriotic Front Chairman for mobilization and aspiring candidate for the position of party president Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba, GBM, says President Hichilema has breached his electoral promise to lower the cost of living.

Mr. Mwamba says the proposed fees by the state-owned electricity company that will see new connection fees rise from K769 to K4,600, for instance, is a serious breach of electoral promises which motivated the voters to hand over their mandate to him.

The veteran politician says the willful failure to meet electoral promises is a flagrant display of disrespect and disregard for the voters and a threat to the integrity of politics. He says it is conduct of this kind that has brought the otherwise honorable practice of politics into disrepute earning the term “politics is dirty” and that “politicians cannot be trusted”.

It is clear, Mr. Mwamba says, that President Hichilema has failed to introduce the required public policies to improve the living standards of the majority poor and to reduce the cost of living. Instead, the former Member of Parliament says, the cost of living has eluded him as he helplessly watches prices of every essential commodity rising before his own eyes.

“This man boasted so much about his economic management credentials”, the businessman/politician says, adding, “he made most voters believe that indeed he held a magic wand in his hands which will, immediately following August 12, 2021, all prices will suddenly go down”.

“iF this man is not careful”, Mr. Mwamba has warned, “he will go down Zambia’s history as the greatest betrayal in public service that ever was”.

Access to electricity, affordable electricity for that matter, Mr. Mwamba says, is recognized globally by governments, international development institutions and development experts as foundational to improved living standards.

Electricity is not a luxury to be available only to the rich and a few middle-class families, Mr. Mwamba says, adding, “it must be the goal of every government to facilitate access by all”.

Using cost-reflectiveness as justification for the proposed increase in electricity connection fees, Mr. Mwamba says will leave more people in the dark who will be forced to turn to charcoal which in turn will perpetuate deforestation.

“Eventually, all the efforts being made in the context of climate change and decarbonization will be mere rhetoric”, the former Defense Minister has lamented.

Tayali accuse Zambia Police of torturing him during his recent detention in Lusaka

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Tayali accuse Zambia Police of torturing him during his recent detention in Lusaka

Economic and Equity Party (EEP) controversial President Chilufya Tayali has accused the Police of torturing him during his recent detention in Lusaka.

And Mr. Tayali has vowed that he is more resolved to continue speaking out on injustices, oppression and dictatorship of President Hakainde Hichilema’s Government.

The constitution prohibits cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment; however, no law addresses torture specifically in Zambia.

Acts of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment are a gross violation of human rights and absolutely prohibited and punishable under international human rights law.

Mr. Tayali has just been released from police custody after being detained for four days on charges of bringing the name of President Hakainde Hichilema into disrepute.

The EEP leader was brutally arrested on Sunday by police after he went on facebook live to verbally attack President Hichilema and the government.

Upon release from police detention, Mr. Tayali said he was badly beaten by one of the most senior officers at Police Headquarters.

He claimed Mwala Yuyi, senior assistant commissioner of police and intelligence officer tortured him at the Police Headquarters in Lusaka.

Mr. Tayali narrated that Mr. Mwala allegedly beat me mercilessly and incited his junior officer to join in the beating.

“Mother Mary saved me from the brutality of officer no. 2033 Mwala Yuyi. I want to tell my story of how badly I was beaten by one of the most senior officers at Force (Service) Headquarters in Room 45. According to him, he believes he is invisible and I could never identify him, because he was dead wrong, because he is a public officer and I take note of senior public officers like him.He was recently (In October 2022) promoted and given huge responsibilities. The notice of his promotion read as follows: No. 2033 Mr. Mwala Yuyi, senior assistant commissioner of police, service police intelligence officer, police service headquarters made to act as deputy commissioner of police and further appointed director, criminal investigations department, police service headquarters,” Mr. Tayali posted on facebook.

“As you can see, these are huge responsibilities so I took interest to check his background, not knowing that God was preparing me for the 13th November, 2022 when this man would come face to face with me, and he asked me, “Do you know me?. I did not respond to him, because I saw that he is not a reasonable man to engage with, which made him more comfortable to hit me as he pleaded. Surprisingly, he once served in Sudan on a peace mission, as can be seen by the beret and one would have thought he would be a professional and well behaved senior officer. In this operation, to forcibly arrest me, he was fully in-charge as Director of Criminal Investigations Department,” Mr. Tayali stated.

“He beat me mercilessly and incited his junior officer to join me but only a few succumbed to his unprofessional and brutal leading orders. I am actually worried that some of those junior orders will be punished for not joining him in the brutal party. I don’t know if that is what he learnt on his peace mission in Sudan.After beating me up, I was made to lay flat in a Toyota Hilux which they used to come and pick me up at home. It is also behind us in the picture when I was released at Kabwata Police Station. I could not tell where they were taking me, but I thought I was going to one of the secret locations I have heard (like in the case of Shabby Chilekwa) where they torture people,” he explained.

Mr. Tayali explained the ordeal he went through after his arrest on Sunday night while describing how he was slapped severally on his face and in the head.

“I was distressed, helpless and alone as my lawyers were chased away. I felt so vulnerable in the thick of the night as the Van drove around not knowing where I was or going and my fate. As a strong Catholic believer, I knew there was nothing I could do; I am at the mercy of this brutal man, who slapped me severally on my face and in the head, so I just started praying to Mother Mary. The moment I started praying, I became at peace and ready for anything. We drove for about 20 minutes and made two stops without me knowing where we were and what the police officers were looking for. Finally we ended up at Chilanga Police Station and I would only tell where we were after asking inmates who were packed like rotten bags of shelled maize. I spent the night at Chilanga, then moved to Musamba Police post within Chilanga district, then transferred to Ridgeway Police Post and I was released from Kabwata Police Station,” Mr. Tayali said.

Mr. Tayali has vowed that he is more resolved to continue speaking out on injustices, oppression and dictatorship of President Hakainde Hichilema’s Government.

“I will talk more later at 20:00hrs if (I will not be arrested again), for now, I just wanted to share my faith in how Mary saved me from this brutal man called Mwala Yuyi from Force Headquarters and we are pursuing the matter with my lawyers. This morning I went to Church and spent time in prayers, I am more resolved to continue speaking out (as I will do at 20:00hrs) on wrong things this Govt is going, as well as speak for the injustices, oppression and dictatorship of President Hichilema’s Govt,” he stated.

UK-Zambia green growth impressive – Woolley

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UK-Zambia green growth impressive – Woolley

British High Commissioner to Zambia Nicholas Woolley says the progress made so far under the UK-Zambia Green Growth Compact agreement between two countries is impressive.

Mr. Woolley says the agreement which resulted from the commitments set out to address issues of climate change during the COP 26 Summit last year has set out ambitious targets.

A number of pipeline investments such as support towards small and medium size enterprises to grow their businesses, doubling trade and investments in renewables and the green economy are all aimed to enhance and boost economic ties between the two countries.

Speaking at the one year anniversary in Lusaka on Wednesday evening, the British Envoy added issues of climate change in clean energy, renewables and green growth among supporting a range of other investments.

He noted the commitment between the Leadership of the two countries who have continued their pledges and cooperation in green growth hence the celebrations.

“The celebration we are having today is due to the progress, which at the time did not picture the possibilities of such headway a few months later,” Mr. Wooley stated.

And  Trade Commissioner for Africa John Humphrey  says he wants to ensure the promotion of Zambia and UK companies to grow in investments.

Mr. Humphrey highlighted some of the achievements which include interests by several UK mining companies who have announced plans to invest in Zambia.

The Commissioner disclosed First Quantum Minerals’ desire to invest 1.25 Billion United States Dollars for the expansion of its Kansanshi Copper Mines and USD10 million  for further investment in its Sentinel nickel extraction facilities.

Mr. Humphrey added that the UK’s focus has been on the energy sector reform, which is crucial for businesses to grow and uplift communities.

He disclosed that under the agreement, the UK investments in renewable energy have included a five million British Pounds in renewable energy buyer, supplier and trader, African GreenCo.

Additional renewable energy generation can be delivered whilst compensating ZESCO for use of African GreenCo’s infrastructure, he added.

“ Such private sector led innovations will play a critical role in catalyzing investment in new power generation while imposing far lower contingent obligations on national treasury compared with the single buyer model debt security structure, “Mr. Humphrey said.

Meanwhile, government  says it appreciates the UK-Zambia Green Growth Compact, stating that it is the framework for strengthening the two county’s economic partnerships.

Minister of Energy Peter Kapala noted at the same event that Zambia leads the way in terms of private sector led renewable energy development in the Southern Africa power pool.

Mr.  Kapala indicated the country’s plan requires the development of about four thousand megawatts of new grid connected renewable energy capacity over the next decade.“ An investment of approximately ten Billion United States Dollars in generation, transmission, distribution and access  is needed to meet the needs of the growing economy, “ stated the minister.

The minister encouraged more renewable energy producers to choose Zambia as their base in the Southern Africa power pool.

He further called for increased ambitions as the agreement enters the second year of green growth, while assuring the country’s commitment in the successful implementation.

President Hichilema pats Zambia Army for peace efforts

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President Hichilema pats Zambia Army for peace efforts

President Hakainde Hichilema has praised the Zambian Army for the continued active role it’s playing in ensuring that there is peace and stability at national and international level.

President Hichilema says he is proud of the role that the Zambian battalion deployed to the Central African Republic (CAR) by carrying out the national duty of making sure that they protect both lives and property.

He noted that the troops have shown unwavering dedication and commitment to duty which they were sent for, adding that government will continue to provide all the needed support to them.

“Firstly, I wish commend the command structures of the Zambia Army at national, regional and global levels for the continued dedication and hard work in carrying out your duties, I must say that we are proud of you and will support you all the time,” he said

The President was speaking at State House today when he addressed over 110 soldiers Zambia Battalion number eight (ZAMBAT 8) deployed to CAR under the United Nations (UN) Multi National Stabilisation Mission through a video conference call.

President Hichilema acknowledged that government is aware of the various challenges that the troops face ranging from resources, inadequate equipment and other logistics among others that are needed for them to discharge their duties efficiently.

He said these challenges should not disturb the focus of the mission, as government is putting measures in place to provide all the necessary support to alleviate the constraints for the troops to achieve their targeted mission.

The Head of State confirmed that government has executed the Statutory Instrument to allow full payment of all allowances for the soldiers that are saving at the mission, noting the move has been long over due.

” Even as we try to restructure and reconstruct the economy following a number of economic challenges like the conflict between Russia and Ukraine which has led to increased cost of fuel and farming, the coming of the global recession, government will work with other partners to support your good work all the time, I can once again confirm that just like we promised when we were in the opposition to review the allowances paid to you, am pleased to confirm that myself has executed the SI so that you are  paid full allowances,” said President Hichilema.

The President informed the soldiers that back home, government is also putting in place modalities to improve the living standards of all the people in the country.

He cited the provision of free education and the increase in the Constituency Development Funds (CDF), as some of the deliberate measures that government is implementing to make the lives of the people easy.

” We have continued to change things back home, we are providing free education, enhanced CDF to take development to localities were families are, this will reduce pressure on you, so that you can focus on your work and career,” he added.

President Hichilema further encouraged the soldiers to also ensure that peace, security and stability is maintained everywhere, saying instability in one country is instability everywhere.

He also urged them to continue working hard to protect each other and remain united and strong as the country also continues to pray for them as they execute their duties.

And Zambia Army Commander Sitali Alibuzwi thanked President Hichilema for engaging with the troops that are on a peace keeping mission in CAR.

Lieutenant General Alibuzwe said the engagement with the Head of State is a big motivation to the battalion, as it has never happened in the history of the country.

” Mr President I wish to thank for the interaction with the soldiers in the mission, this is gives great morale to battalion, it’s the first time this kind of address is been made to the troops on such a mission,” he said

Frequent arrest of opposition political party leaders is denting Zambia’s image to the international community

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Frequent arrest of opposition political party leaders is denting Zambia’s image to the international community

Patriotic Front (PF) Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa has warned that the frequent arrest of opposition political party leaders is denting Zambia’s image to the international community.

Several opposition political parties have been arrested in recent times on assorted charges that border on defamation of the President or corruption.

Economic and Equity Party President Chilufya Tayali has just been released from police custody after being detained for four days on charges of bringing the name of President Hakainde Hichilema into disrepute.

Mr. Tayali was brutally arrested on Sunday by police after he went on facebook live to verbally attack President Hichilema.

But Mr. Sampa has said no government has gained credit for arresting or intimidating opponents.

The PF Presidential aspirant said police are being overzealous and in the process are only making the Republican President extremely unpopular to ordinary non-partisan citizens especially the youths and women.

“Good news, one opposition leader (Mr Chilufya Tayali) out of incarceration but bad news another opposition leader (NDC faction President Saboi Imboela) taken into incarceration and both for expressing themselves I suppose. Our police service has suddenly become a police force and is acting extra overzealous but in the process only making the Republican President extremely unpopular to ordinary non partisan citizens especially the youths and women. I can hardly think of a President anywhere in the World that benefited from arresting Opposition leaders. In any case no opposition leader ever simmers after arrests. Records show that it only makes them even stronger and more popular. Records are there to show but guess those in power refuse to lead from history. They choose to repeat history,” Mr. Sampa stated.

“In fact, It’s those (Presidents & their governing party) that allow opposition leaders to speak freely that end up getting good local and international approval ratings. The police (arresting officers & IG) report to someone (Minister) who reports to the President and therefore the back stops at the Statehouse. ‘Revenge of the Ninja’ approach to opposition leaders is a setback to pre 2021 campaign promises that has already eroded most of the kudos on President HH that we have been reading from the international media in the last few months,” Mr. Sampa said.

“Whoever is getting knee jerk satisfaction from these constant arrests of opposition leaders needs to think twice? It’s embarrassing our Country to the international community (The West and IMF).Our governance record has been bruised and dented. The global community must be saying. ku Africa nako,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Mr. Sampa has condemned the recent detention of MUVI Television journalist Innocent Phiri and camera man Obvious Kaunda.

The two were picked up as they covered police raiding Chilufya Tayali’s House in Lusaka last Sunday and are also out after being charged with obstruction of the police.

“There is one unwritten rule on journalists for any leader and if broken, there begins maningi trouble. The rule is “Thou shall not harass, arrest and incarcerate journalists for doing the job they get paid for”. Even the worst dictators in the World have backed off intimidating and arresting journalists. If there was a man that mastered the art of using media to his advantage it was President HH before he became President last year. Journalists were his good buddies and mostly covered him on a voluntary basis without any ‘transport refund’. Today kaya what has gone wrong with now our republican President that covering the arrest of a political leader has become a crime? We would have begun to adopt the myth that living inside a state house tends to change people 360 degrees for the good or bad in some aspects. Well President HH does not live there,” Mr. Sampa said.

“The incarceration and charging of the Muvi journalist and camera man makes sad reading. The Police work under command from the IG and work under command from the Home affairs Minister. He too works under command from the President. The buck therefore stops with President HH. The guns the police hold have bullets and can scare, arrest and lead journalists to police cells or prisons. Journalists however have a more powerful gun. It’s called a Pen that uses ink and not bullets. It has brought down the world’s most powerful ever. Ink even used to run out those days but now, Journalists just need a Smartphone and ‘bando’ (phone data). ‘The power of a pen (phone data) is more dangerous than a gun’. Handle journalists with care,” Mr. Sampa warned.

Fred M’membe calls for the cancellation of a contract awarded to Grant Thornton

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Fred M’membe calls for the cancellation of a contract awarded to Grant Thornton

Socialist Party (SP) Leader Dr. Fred M’membe has called for the cancellation of a contract awarded to Grant Thornton to audit the country’s defence and security wings.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lusaka yesterday, Dr M’membe said the mentioned contract is neither in the best interest of good governance nor the security of the country.

And Dr M’membe has condemned the growing trend, where entities associated with the UPND top leadership seem to always get the favours, adding that the contract award, points to the emerging pattern of President Hakainde Hichilema’s government directing business to companies he has or has had relationships with and foreign companies being given preference over local ones.

“We must be reminded that Mr Hichilema was one of the Directors of Grant Thornton, the firm that was instrumental in the privatization of Zambian state-owned companies. And today, we see Grant Thornton being granted access to audit our Countries security wings.

“In the process, even critical national security concerns are blantantly being ignored. This is very dangerous and totally unacceptable,” Dr M’membe.

The Socialist Party leader said that the decision taken by the current Government is an act of mistrust in the capacity and integrity of the public audit system.
He says there is also a high cost associated with hiring international private audit firms.

Dr M’membe has therefore questioned the UPND Government if the local audit firms were overlooked because of being incompetent or it was the usual style of preferring foreign entities to the locals.

“Whatever the shortcomings of the current audit system are, the decision taken by Mr Hichilema and his UPND government does not help to strengthen the public audit system,” he said.

“The Zambian people would like to know, how much will this audit cost us? Are we saying that the Auditor General’s Office is incompetent? If so, was this contract floated to other local audit firms? Did our local audit firms not qualify? Or are they also incompetent? Or is this again about the UPND government’s insatiable appetite for foreign companies,’’ Dr M’membe stated.

He has since reminded the UPND Government that they are not in government to benefit themselves and their associates but to benefit all Zambians.

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