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Former Inspector General Francis Kabonde has been fired
President Michael Sata has fired all the Seventy three District Commissioners and appointed civil servants to take over the positions.
The President has since directed all the dismissed district commissioners to vacate office and government homes with immediate effect.
President Sata said that the District Commissioners should not be affiliated to any political party.
State House has produced a list of recommended civil servants to be appointed as District Commissioners.
The President also fired Inspector of Police Francis Kabonde. President Sata has appointed Copperbelt Commanding Officer, Dr Martin Malama as Inspector General of Police, taking over from Francis Kabonde.
President Sata has ordered newly appointed Inspector General of Police, Dr Martin Malama to sweep State House clean of corruption.
Mr Sata said that State House is full of corrupt officers who benefited from the previous government.
The President said that some Police officers at state house acquired canters which were corruptly obtained by the MMD government.
And President Sata has dissolved the boards of Zambia Revenue Authority, ZESCO and the National Pensions Scheme Authority -NAPSA.
Mr Sata has also retired ZESCO Managing Director, Ernest Mupwaya and has replaced him with the former chief Executive Officer Cyprian Chitundu.
President Sata says Mr Mupwaya was dubiously appointed as Managing Director of ZESCO.
Dr Rajan Mahtani (r), Defence minister Geoffrey Mwamba and former Munali MP Mumbia Phir at State House
Republican President Michael Sata has instructed Finance minister Alexander Chikwanda to with immediate effect return Finance Bank Zambia Limited to the rightful owners.
Finance bank had been sold to First Rand Bank of South Africa by the previous government for alleged breach of the Banking and Financial services Act
President Sata says after carrying out a research, he has noted that they are no proper documents for the sale of Finance bank.
The president was speaking at State house this morning during the swearing in ceremony of Amos Malupenga as new Information and Broadcasting services permanent secretary.
The Bank of Zambia, last year, seized Finance Bank from its shareholders for violating the law through unsound practices, including insider borrowing.
The Central Bank last month announced the sale of Finance bank to South Africa’s First Rand at a cost of $5.4 million, a move that raised a lot of concerns from various stakeholders.
And former Finance bank chairman Rajan Mahtani says the truth on the sale of the bank has finally prevailed.
Dr. Mahtani says Zambian investment has been restored to Zambians adding that at least a thousand jobs that were at stake have been secured.
Speaking to journalist at State house this morning, Dr. Mahtani said the sale of the bank was politically motivated by the previous MMD government for reasons known to themselves.
President Michael Sata welcomes First Republican President Kenneth Kaunda at State House
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President Michael Sata talks to First Republican President Kenneth Kaunda
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President Michael Sata talks to First Republican President Kenneth Kaunda
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President Michael Sata announces members of the new cabinet at State House in Lusaka
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President Michael Sata receives an affidavit from Vice President Guy Scott at the swearing-in ceremony at State House
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President Michael Sata shakes hands with Vice President Guy Scott at the swearing-in ceremony at State House
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Newly appointed Vice President Guy Scott shakes hands with a member of staff on his arrival at State House in Lusaka
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President Michael Sata receives an affidavit from the new Information Broadcasting and Tourism Minister Given Lubinda at the swearing-in ceremony at State House.
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President Michael Sata receives an affidavit from Local Government Minister Nkandu Luo at the swearing-in ceremony at State House
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President Michael Sata receives an affidavit from Defense Deputy Minister Panji Kaunda at the swearing-in ceremony at State House
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President Michael Sata shakes hands with newly appointed State House Special Assistant for Press and Pubic Relations George Chellah at State House
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President Michael Sata receives an affidavit from newly appointed Minister of Justice Sebastian Zulu at the swearing-in ceremony at State House
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President Michael Sata receives an affidavit from newly appointed Defense Minister Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba at the swearing-in ceremony at State House
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Members of the new Cabinet at the swearing in ceremony at State House
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Members of the new Cabinet at the swearing in ceremony at State House
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President Michael Sata is accompanied by the newly appointed State House Special Assistant for Press and Pubic Relations George Chellah (left) at State House
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Newly appointed Community Development, Mother and Child Health Deputy Minister Jean Kapata
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Newly appointed Minister of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs Inonge Wina celebrates her appointment at State House.
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Newly appointed Minister of Information, Broadcasting and Tourism Given Lubinda is interviewed by journalists after the announcement of members of the new cabinet at State House in Lusaka.
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Newly appointed Defense Minister Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba
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Newly appointed Finance Deputy Minister Alfreda Kansembe
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Newly appointed Lands, Energy and Water Development Minister Christopher Yaluma
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Newly appointed Transport, Works, Supply and Communications Minister Willie Nsanda is interviewed by journalists at State House.
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Newly appointed Foreign Affairs Minister Chishimba Kambwili
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Newly appointed Information, Broadcasting and Tourism Deputy Minister Forrie Tembo
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Newly appointed Commerce, trade and Industry Deputy Minister Keith Mukata
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Newly appointed Local Government and Housing Minister Nkandu Luo
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Newly appointed Finance Minister Alexander Chikwanda
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Newly appointed Labour, Sports, Youth and Gender Minister Fackson Shamenda is helped to wear his jacket properly on his arrival at State House
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Newly appointed Labour, Sports, Youth and Gender Minister Fackson Shamenda arrives at State House.
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New appointed ministers Geoffrey Mwamba (left), for Defense and Kennedy Sakeni for Home Affairs walk hand-in-hand after the announcement of members of the new cabinet at State House.
File: The driver of a light truck ponders his move in flooded roads in Libala township
By Nellow Simukonde (Civil Engineer)
In the last 10 years, Zambia has seen a huge influx of used vehicles from Japan. Many individuals and families are now able to afford one or two of these cheap used vehicles. Vehicles of different types flood the streets everyday, many being used for businesses as cabs and minibuses. While it is unarguably a pleasant change to be able to afford and own a vehicle for most individuals, there is a downside in our current economic climate that seriously needs attention in Zambia as traffic volumes continue to grow.
The increase in traffic volume without proportionate improvement in roadway capacity and quality and,consequently, it’s direct and indirect impacts on the economy should be a major concern for the government.
Bad roads have had a wider negative impact on the Zambian economy than just direct impact on businesses. Fuel in Zambia costs up to k10,000 per liter (approximately $7 a gallon), depending on where you are in the country. This is very expensive. If you have inadequate roads, businesses and individuals spend more time on the road. In Lusaka, in particular, motorists, including individuals, spend time every day idling in traffic jams from excess traffic volumes.[pullquote]firms and businesses will find it unfair for the government to ask them to pay higher wages when it has not created an environment that would enable better profitability to enable those firms to pay the higher wages[/pullquote]
There is a significant amount of money wasted everyday by people and businesses just sitting on the road, burning expensive fuel. More money is also
spent to maintain the quickly wearing vehicles as they are driven on trenchy unpaved roads, dust, potholes and jagged edges of pavement.
On a macroeconomic scale, billions of kwacha are wasted every year because of inadequate roads. This is money individuals could save, start businesses and employ people thereby, boosting demand in those businesses. The result is the same – those businesses do better,expand and employ/pay more.
This waste applies to government operations as well.An efficient road system – safe roads with good, smooth pavement, good geometric design and good traffic control devices – means that businesses spend less time on transportation. Less time spent on the road means less money spent on fuel and overtime payments to drivers.
Most importantly, a good paved road will result in lower rates of depreciation of capital (trucks, etc) and reduce lost production. A business that owns a truck for 20 years instead of 10, as a result of good roads, saves money for expansion, hiring more workers and better wages.
In Zambia, fuel has an inelastic demand for almost every one that owns a functional vehicle. Individuals will sacrifice other important necessities just to buy fuel and be able to drive. This inelastic demand helps to keep fuel prices up and increasing. This is strange given people can easily do without a vehicle, or at least drive only occasionally.
Public transportation is available everywhere. A new culture in which a car has become a necessity has overtaken the country right under the MMD government’s nose, otherwise government would have seen the need to invest in good, durable roads or at least control the influx of these cheap vehicles. And I do not consider the recent mediocre work on roads for purposes of swaying voters as improvement or sound investment. It is a complete waste of money.
The PF government has taken a zealous approach towards change and, in particular, improving labor conditions and creating employment. It is
important to note that while creating employment is a noble pursuit,we need to consider that jobs in the private sector are a result of long term initiatives and policy implementation. Job creation is a result of effective implementation of supply side policies -investment in good roads, lowering taxes, most important of all being the need to address the prohibitive interest rates.
The government’s effort to raise the minimum wage is cause for a lot of excitement for workers. However,it is important for the Ministry of Labor to consider the impact of suddenly raising the minimum wage, ahead of implementing policies that lower business costs, increase productivity and profitability;i.e.policies that will lower production costs for firms and lead to higher productivity from existing factors of production. Without these changes, raising the minimum wage may force many small businesses to lay off workers and we may accomplish the very opposite of what we seek in the short term.
It sounds good to many to hear that their wages will be increased, but not so good if it means that they will have to sacrifce their job so that a co-worker can be paid a higher wage as required by government. In other words, firms and businesses will find it unfair for the government to ask
them to pay higher wages when it has not created an environment that would enable better profitability to enable those firms to pay the higher wages. The latter must come before the former. If the cost of labor increases in the absence of the capacity to increase productivity otherwise, firms and businesses will likely downsize and unemployment will go up.
In some cases, the increased wages may increase the productivity of the remaining workers and maintain the firm’s production, but someone will still have lost a job and will hurt to feed his/her family. The current reality is that one would rather have a job earning k500,000 than not to have a job at all. The government must approach this issue cautiously because, for right now,it needs a wide tax base, and also has expectations to live up to by
December 22.
An unemployed citizen does not pay income taxes.It is comforting to see that our new government has turned an ear to the prohibitive interest rates that have also prevented businesses from borrowing soft loans, expanding and creating employment. However,high interest rates have mostly resulted from lack of lender confidence in businesses and you cannot blame the banks, because they are also businesses.
Businesses must be sound to qualify for soft business loans from banks. And if they are not sound enough for a bank, they are probably not sound enough even for government grants or subsidies. So, we come back to roads (or indirectly cutting production costs) because this is a one direct responsibility of government that could help businesses (farmers included) become sound in the first place.
I know the pressure is on for the new government to present a semblance of accomplishment in a very short time. However, I hope rush decisions will not be made on the supply side of the economy,especially decisions that reduce labor market flexibility beyond what it is right now, for the purpose of putting more money in people’s pockets. With this expectation in people’s minds, losing their job instead, would be disastrous.
The PF government must not only work to cushion businesses by helping them produce more by lowering their costs, but also tell them exactly what the government will do to accomplish this. This will create confidence and encourage those that already have the ability to pay more wages to do so even before they are required to.
My congratulations to President Sata on his election victory. I wish him a lot of success as president. His success is Zambia’s success.
The Foundations for Democratic process (FODEP) says the new government should ensure that the 50 percent plus one clause is enshrined in the new constitution.
FODEP executive Director McDonald Chipenzi told QFM that there is need for the country to have ambitious electoral reforms.
Mr. Chipenzi says this will enable the country to have leaders chosen by the majority of Zambians saying this is key in having stable governments that will be accepted by all.
And Mr. Chipenzi has also urged the opposition to take advantage of its majority representation in parliament and advocate for good and progressive laws.
The civil society leader notes that the previous government had taken advantage of its majority and saw to it that laws that were in its favor were enacted.
[QFM]
STANDARD Bank has provided a US$500m (K2.5 trillion) bridge finance facility to Konkola Copper Mines plc (KCM) that will be used to refinance shareholder loans from parent Vedanta Resources plc.
The bank which operates in Zambia as Stanbic is also mandated to arrange and underwrite a US$700m loan to fund investment that will turn the Zambian copper miner into one of the world’s leading copper producers, and provide further impetus for growth in the Zambian economy.
Standard Bank head of mining, energy and infrastructure finance at Brad Breetzke said in a statement at the weekend that the funding to KCM was the bank’s largest injunction into the Zambian copper roduction. “The investment made by Standard Bank is an illustration of our commitment to KCM and the broader copper region in Zambia.
“Standard Bank has full confidence in KCM management’s ability to drive the company’s growth towards becoming one of the world’s leading copper producers. We are proud to be KCM’s and its parent Vedanta’s financial partner in this process,” Mr Breetzke said. Investments in infrastructure will see KCM produce in excess of 400 000 tonnes of copper per year. The production target will rank KCM as the largest copper producer in Zambia and place it among the top 10 globally.
“This transaction reflects our confidence in the future of the mining industry in Zambia as well as Zambia’s future growth prospects. “In the last 5 years, real GDP in Zambia has expanded by an average of 6% per annum. Even during the Global downturn in 2009 the economy managed to expand by 6.3%, and we expect this trend of robust growth to continue over the next five years,” he said.Mr Breetzke noted that the copper mining was integral to the Zambian economy, although more than 75 per cent of the labourforce was in agriculture.
Despite that, he said, it was copper mining that drives growth noting that in 2009, 83 per cent of exports were accounted for by copper and cobalt, equating to almost 30 per cent of total GDP, an increase from 77 per cent in 2006. Standard Bank, a leading international natural resources bank, has been providing funding and investment support in the Copperbelt for the past decade. Notable transactions in Zambia include acting as lead arranger for funding the development of the Kansanshi Copper Mine in 2003 as wellas for the Lumwana copper mine in 2007.
It is also providing funding to ARM for the development of the Konkola North Copper Project as Stanbic Bank Zambia, its in-country operation, continues to provide the full spectrum of banking products to companies in Zambia. Standard Bank global head of mining & metals, Rajat Kohli concluded that: “This landmark financing event further demonstrates our commitment to natural resources and to Africa. With an outstanding track record of success, we are positioned to continue acting as the financial Ainstitution of choice to the sector on the continent.”
[Times of Zambia]
File: President Michael Sata greets children at St Ignatius Catholic Church
PRESIDENT Michael Sata yesterday surprised parishioners at Saint Ignatius Parish in Lusaka when he arrived with about four bodyguards and only two motor vehicles following his official car.
Mr Sata took a seat in the midst of parishioners and mingled with Church goers before the service started without heavy protection.
“He is really a simple president. Where do you find a Head of State who can just walk and sit right in the middle where ordinary people are?
“We were looking for vehicles when he came, only to see one small car in front and another one behind,” said a congregant, Lisa Mubita.
She said President Sata was driven into the Church like an ordinary citizen and walked to a pew in the middle of the Church.
When he arrived, he took time greeting his neighbours before he sat to follow the service that was presided over by Father Charles Chilinda.
Father Chilinda preached about love and care during the service that started at 08:00 hours.
“The things we do all the time must make people happy. We must be thankful for what we are and love must unite us,” he said.
VICE-PRESIDENT Guy Scott has said the on-going road construction projects will be reviewed as part of the new Government’s roadmap to track the levels of corruption and promote transparency in the governance of the country.
Dr Scott said in Lusaka yesterday that the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) was also on the list of institutions to be audited to determine the levels of transparency in paying farmers
He said contractors working on the roads should not be jittery if they did not engage in questionable contracts and urged Zambians to give the new Government chance to work on its promises.
Dr Scott said there were reports that some contractors were given jobs worth K2 billion per kilometre, which he described as irregular.
He said the Patriotic Front administration wanted all the matters dealt with so that in cases where irregularities were detected, the law should take its course.
The vice-president said the Government would not cancel any contract if there was no corruption involved in the process of awarding tenders.
He also said FRA would be audited to determine the levels of transparency in paying farmers.
“There will be a lot of inquiries as we go to work. We want to confirm how much FRA really owes the farmers and how the money for the farmers is generally being accounted for,” Dr Scott said.
Meanwhile, some MMD and United Party for National Development (UPND) members of Parliament (MPs) have rejected a scheme in which the two political parties want to launch an impeachment motion against President Michael Sata when Parliament resumes sittings.
Dr Scott said the Government had been receiving delegations of MPs who had made it clear that they would not support the motion if it was called.
He said the ruling party was receiving a lot of good will, adding that it was clear that the bills in Parliament would have support from independent MPs, MMD and UPND.
Dr Scott said the eight nominated MPs, some MMD MPs who had been appointed as deputy ministers and the ones he described as progressive would work with the ruling party to fend off attempts to frustrate the Government.
He said the Government wanted to fight corruption, reduce poverty and pass the Freedom of Information Bill in Parliament and wondered what sense it made to fight such efforts.
Dr Scott was commenting on the Post lead story yesterday that revealed that former president Rupiah Banda and UPND leader Hakainde Hichilema held a meeting to finalise their parties voting pact in Parliament.
Republican President Michael Chilufya Sata has with immediate effect, terminated the contracts of three former aides to immediate past president Rupiah Banda.
The three officers whose contracts have been terminated are Dr Richard Chembe (Special Assistant to the President for Economic and Development Affairs), Joseph Jalasi (Special Assistant to the President for Legal Affairs) and Dr Francis Chigunta (Special Assistant to the President for Political Affairs).
The President terminated the contracts in exercise of the powers vested in him pursuant to the provisions of Articles 44 (5) and 61 (2) of the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia.
President Sata has wished the three former aides well in their future endeavors.
This is according to a statement made available to the press by special assistant to the President for Press and Public Relations George Chellah.
The Zambia Rainbow Coalition (ZRC) has charged that Republican President Michael Sata has taken a path that raises alarm to the democratic aspirations of this country.
Coalition President Cleophas Phiri tells Qfm in a statement that the President’s actions so far appear unilateral, without any consultations adding that in many cases, they are breaching the law.
Mr. Phiri claims that the renaming of national airports and hospitals was done without any consultations to stakeholders and Zambians.
He further states that the dissolution of Energy Regulation Board, the dismissal of the Bank of Zambia Governor and the Anti Corruption Commission Director General all raises serious legal questions.
Mr. Phiri also states that the ACC Director General, because of the nature of the institutions and like judges of the High Court, enjoys security of tenure and can therefore not be fired in the manner President Sata has done without cause or justifiable reason.
He explains that powers of the presidency in Zambia, although extensive are exercised through institutions and his delegates such as Cabinet Ministers.
The ZRC leader says President Sata’s decision to dissolve the ERB Board should have been done by his Minister of Energy.
And Mr. Phiri has questioned the composition of cabinet stating that most ministers have been appointed on tribal lines.
He says tribalism is unacceptable and has to be fought as Zambia is diverse in tribe and its leadership and government should reflect the fabric of its society.
Meanwhile Mr Phiri has hailed President Sata for instituting a commission of inquiry to probe the Mongu saga adding that the move is long overdue.
Speaking in an interview, Mr. Phiri has expressed hope the commission will yield positive results.
Last week President Sata set up a commission to be headed by prominent Lusaka lawyer Roger Chongwe to investigate the Mongu fracas.
The rugby world cup is underway . To play rugby one needs to have a lot of strength and endurance . Rugby players have to be powerful and fast , you could call them the ultimate athletes . It takes a lot of work to get into the required shape. The workouts are not too hard , even if you are not a rugby player , doing them will still give you a lot of benefits.
THE WORKOUT
STEP 1: BUILD SPEED
Head to a park ,or even in your own backyard . Put on a weighted vest. Crouch and explode into a sprint for 8 secs. Rest 1 min. Repeat 4 times. You’ll get muscles for greater acceleration.
After that , simply run as fast as you can. Go for 5 secs, rest for 10, then repeat. Training like this will definetly increase your speed.
STEP 2: IMPROVE AGILITY
Place 10 cones or stones in a straight line, about 50cm apart. Sprint at them then sidestep in and out of each. Repeat 5 times. This will improve your agility and help you get passed opposing players.
Hang from a bar. Lift your legs up, keeping them as straight as possible , at a 90 degree angle. Tense your abs and lower slowly. Do 10 reps. This will help develop your core muscles.
STEP 3: INCREASE STRENTH
Deadlift
Deadlifts are the best exercise for this .Put the barbell on the ground ,then lift it , Push your hips forward to raise it. This will mainly work on your lower back and legs . This deadlift will prepare you to tackle your opponents.
Clean and jerk
Next is the Clean and jerk (also known as Olympic lift) .Put the barbell on the ground. Lift it to your waist and then ‘catch’ it at your chest. Push it overhead.Then back down. Do 3 sets of 4. This Olympic lift increases power output, fast.
These work outs done regularly will have you ready to join the rugby team.
Information, Broadcasting and Tourism Minister Given Lubinda
The Patriotic Front government has stated that it will not allow the public media to mislead the party.
PF spokesperson Given Lubinda says that the public media managed to mislead the people that the MMD government was popular, when in fact was not.
He says that the PF government will ensure that every person is covered, irrespective of the political affiliation.
He says that the party does not want to operate the way the MMD operated the public media, where it was decieved that it was very popular.
Mr. Lubinda added that the voiceless in the country should also be given the opportunity to air out their views.
Mr. Lubinda has stated that the PF government will ensure that professionalism and sanity is brought in the media.
And two Media bodies have commended newly-appointed Information, Broadcasting and Tourism Minister Given Lubinda’s pledge to prioritise the enactment of the Freedom of Information (FoI) Bill, saying it has been long overdue and it will enable journalists perform professionally.
Zambia Union of Journalists (ZUJ) president Anthony Mulowa said in an interview yesterday that his organisation welcomed the assurance by the new minister to enact the FOI Bill into law.
Mr Mulowa said once enacted into law, FOI Bill would not only enable journalists work efficiently but that it would also positively contribute to the country’s governance process.
“As ZUJ, we welcome the assurance by Mr Lubinda that the Government would enact the FOI Bill into law. This is a highly commendable move.
Our appeal is that its enactment should be expedited as it is one Bill that will enhance the country’s governance process by promoting transparency and accountability in the management of resources and thus contribute to national development.
“Journalists must embrace this opportunity and ensure that they perform to the expectation of the public,” he said.
He said it was therefore imperative that media personnel in public media should take advantage of the good will by the PF Government to exercise their talent to the fullest so that the public was well informed.
He noted also that there was need to improve the conditions of service for journalists from the public media to be motivated.
Press Association of Zambia (PAZA) president Andrew Sakala in welcoming Mr Lubinda’s sentiments said the move had been the media’s outcry for a long time.
“The enactment of the FOI Bill has been long overdue. Therefore, as PAZA, we welcome all measures aimed at promoting press freedom,” he
said.
Mr Sakala also appealed to Mr Lubinda to ensure that the Independent Broadcasting Act (IBA) and the ZNBC Act were operational as well by taking them back to Parliament for amendment and that that should be done through a public process.
He added that as the new Government revisits the Constitution making process, the Minister should consider and support the media recommendations in the Mung’omba draft Constitution.
National Sports Council of Zambia chairman Chifumu Banda
By Godfrey Chikumbi in Kawambwa
May I begin by congratulating His Excellency the President Mr. Michael Sata on his election as our Republican President and Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) patron.
The year 2010 was a dark year for the Zambian football family as confusion and lawlessness almost plunged us into serious problems that would have made FIFA crack a whip on our football.
Little did many of the Zambians realize that the football turmoil that we found ourselves into; was fueled by the heavy hand of politicians. It was sad to note that only people who are not important in our football made screaming headlines in our daily tabloids at the expense of the most important person in the game of football, the player.
I say this with great disappointment in light of the National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ)’s u-turn on the so called National Football League (NFL). There are more questions than answers asked by Zambians on why the u-turn. I join the rest in quizzing the NSCZ board to tell us what exactly happened. I should probably propose a commission of enquiry to enquire into the confusion at NASDEC.
I was called a cadre for Kalusha Bwalya because I together with a few friends and colleagues strongly opposed the toppling of a legitimately elected FAZ executive by a group of criminals and their cohorts who joined hands in trying to overthrow Kalu and his men. One of my uncles who is a police officer based on the Copperbelt warned me of an impending doom on me if I continued to openly support Kalu. He said this because he knew for sure that a very big fish in the country who wanted his children to take over FAZ was behind the confusion.
He said somebody’s child was interested in running the country’s FA as was evident by the imposition of the national team coach on FAZ. There were serious family ties that were involved in the whole FAZ fiasco.
You don’t need to sweat to point out that Chifumu Banda worked under instructions to demonize and lampoon Kalusha because some members of the executive in Emmanuel Munaile, Violet Bwalya, Henschel Chitembeya and Hilary Chipango had resigned. Following the quartet’s resignation, the media called Kalu ‘embattled’. Journalists did not realize that the FAZ constitution does provide for co-optation of new members in the event that some resign pending ratification by the council.
Simataa Simataa and his tandem of crooks at some point managed to convince the nation about the ‘sins’ of Kalu that guaranteed his crucifixion. Many were blindfolded including those who called themselves friends of Zambian football. Kalu appeared to be the most sinful football personality in Zambia. Some people were sponsored to parade themselves to speak and write what I would now commit to trash.
Some media houses went as far as South Africa to parade Danny Jordan to decampaign Kalusha when he vied for CAF executive committee member. He went against many people’s wishes to contest at CAF and had a resounding and emphatic victory. This shamed many.
Very few people amongst whom am saw through the thicket and were convinced that Kalu was innocent and never deserved to be attacked and provoked left, right and centre. We refused to associate ourselves with those who continuously insulted Kalu. Despite this, the man remained focused and clung to the FAZ top seat unshaken. I remember having chatted with Kalu on the eve of the Moba – turned Mubende FAZ AGM asking him whether he contemplated resigning to which he responded he was not ready to hand over power to some selfish and disgruntled individuals.
Having said this, it is now surprising that NSCZ chose to lie over telling the truth concerning the FAZ debacle. Am the happiest person today because Iam vindicated by my earlier write-ups in Kalu’s defence on this site. I didn’t defend the indefensible like some other people who put a barrel against their heads to defend lawlessness perpetrated by Chifumu Banda and his cohorts.
First of all, it was Chifumu Banda on record having opposed the registration of NFL saying that there was need for change of policy to accommodate the Kamanga –led NFL. It did not take time before we saw Chifumu Banda again making a u-turn by registering NFL. I wrote in one of my articles quizzing State Counsel Banda on what change of policy happened to register NFL. Today NSCZ has strongly told us through its spokesman, smart Mwitwa that NFL does not exist. What do they take us for? Do they think we are deaf to fail to hear what they told us. Is it not the same Mwitwa who told this nation that NFL had successifully been registered with the sports supreme body? Didn’t newspapers, radio, TV stations including blogs carry headlines concerning the registration of NFL? Somebody tell me please.
Those entrusted with the rare power to rule and preside over the affairs of national interest must not take us for granted. It is always bad to take people for granted. As we talk now, some people have learnt their political lessons as the nation transits into the new system. This nation witnessed the greatest deception and delusion by NSCZ. Who doesn’t know by now that Simataa Simataa had a wall against which he leaned? Government wasted our money on parallel FAZ AGMs. Who funded the two Mulungushi international conference centre meetings one of which was chaired by Hon. Luxon Kazabu? Who sponsored Simataa Simataa’s trip to Zurich? All the funds spent must be accounted for. Whoever spearheaded that nonsense must pay for it.
What was so surprising was that, even under extreme provocation, Kalu managed to forgive simataa Simataa amidst calls to ban him for life at the Mulungushi Rock of Authority in Kabwe. That is the man they have always give the arrogant tag. We all are regretting for not taming Simataa Simataa. Humility is a very rare commodity to come by. Kalu exhibited humility of the highest level by embracing his archenemies. However, the man together with his few faithfuls in Boniface Mwamelo, George kasengele, Erick Mwanza, Julio Chiluba and company could not manage to command public appealing. The media tried to delete the rich history at the back of the former African Footballer of the year of 1988.
In his keynote address to the delegates in Kabwe, Kalu made it clear that those who wanted to rid FAZ of him were to do so by way of the ballot. He wondered why people wanted to use the backdoor to enter FAZ. He was very right just like any other legitimately elected leadership cannot allow that.
We had information that the immediate past patron supported the Kamanga faction. Yes, NSCZ is a government wing that enjoys government funding; and so the body must bow to government’s pressure no matter what, which is wrong. Statutory bodies must try to be as neutral as possible so as to create a level playing field for everyone. There should not be influence of the slighetest from the powers that.
Now that everyone knows the truth about what happened a whip must crack at NSCZ. This will serve as a lesson to those who take people for granted. Culprits must be brought to book for Just to prevail. My appeal to FAZ is that they must now be preparing penalties to be meted out on the offenders.
Peace and reconciliation must now begin to reign at football house. It is time for fresh hair. Lastly, Iwish to wish the Chipolopolo boys good lucky as we take on Libya next weekend. Go Zambia go!!!
“…for when I am weak [in human strength], then am I [truly] strong (able, powerful in divine strength)”
(2 Corinthians 12:10, AMP)
TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria
No matter what weakness you think you may have, no matter what inadequacies or setbacks you’ve encountered, God wants to give you His divine strength. He wants to make up the difference and put you further ahead than you ever thought possible.
One time in the Old Testament, God simply multiplied the sound of four men’s footsteps and caused them to sound like a mighty army. When their enemies heard them, they took off running. There were thousands of enemy troops running for their lives, scared to death, thinking they were being attacked by a massive army when in fact, it was just four people! What happened? God made up the difference.
Friend, God can make you seem bigger than you really are. He can make you look more powerful. He knows how to multiply your influence, your strength, your talent and your income. Don’t just look at what you have in your hand; look at what Almighty God can do with it! You don’t have to figure it all out. All you have to do is put your trust in Him and let Him work because when you do, He will lead you and guide you into victory all the days of your life!
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Heavenly Father, today I commit every area of my life to You. I trust that You are working behind the scenes on my behalf. Use me for Your glory as I put my faith and hope in You in Jesus’ name. Amen.
I’m writing to congratulate you on your win. I think Zambia has proven without doubt that we are capable of running a country and hold elections for transitions or continuation of a government. Zambia has maintained peace and is doing a great amount of work to improve on social and economic issues. Our political culture is a comparative success and we are building on mechanisms to improve dialogue and discourse. But Mr. President I’m writing you this letter to express some of my concerns about my country and my apprehension about her future.
During elections every politician had promises of what they will do for Zambia if elected. They all listed their credentials for us to watch. Hakainde’s resume says ” Qualified Change Management Practitioner “. Of course even MMD made great efforts to show that we can continue on the MMD Highway and not make an exit; but the fact is the country did make an exit despite of the promises made and we made one onto PF Highway with you as the driver!! Im sure that you as well as I know that you face far much more scrutiny because you came to power on the platform for change. The PF slogan is ‘ “Yes, a better Zambia for all!”‘ Indeed, it is a better Zambia for all!!
Where do we go from here? As a Zambian citizen im writing you this letter because what you do will affect my children and grandchildren. The policies you implement, the language you use, the manner with which you approach global politics; all these will have an effect on Zambia in the coming 50 years. Thats why your election is not only historic because of change but because your govenment will be leading our country in the second half of the century since our independence!! My concerns range from your economic policy to women’s rights and education. Im certain the PF platform has mechanisms of addressing these issues.
1. Education
Mr. President, it does not make sense to run a country in which the majority of poor people are uneducated!! In my editorial “The Youth: Investing In Zambia’s Future” I pointed out to the fact that it is within our short term and long term interests that we fund free public education for young Zambians. This for the most part is an investment in our future as the returns from that investment is calculated by looking at the prospective contributions that Zambians will make. I think your government should start discussing the prospect of looking at our constitution and making a ” Free Public” education a constitutional right for every Zambian. If we make the need for a public education system a constitutional right for our country; our achivement is not political but Nationalistic!! Its the lack of financial resources that continue to prevent our citizens to gain the basic education .
2. Human Rights, Women’s Rights
Mr. President our record on human rights is horrible!! Our prison system is primitive in the treatment of prisoners, we have companies that use child labor, and of course you already know about our record on women’s rights. My concern is that we have yet to see the correlation between the treatment of people and our aggregated progress!! If we provide a platform for women to voice their concerns and for us to crack -down on the violations of human rights in private busineses and our prison system im certain we will see some progress on the conscience of our nation. A country with a government that is intent on building a better human rights record is a government that has an interest in the future of the nation; it is what we do now that will be the premise on which who we are in the future is based on!!
3. Economics
Mr. President for the sake of Zambia i suggest you find better language to address investors and foreigners. We live in a global economy and we cant be isolationists!! Politics, economics and culture all have suffered from globalization and the fact is the world is far much smaller than it was a few centuries ago. Technology has improved. Your language on Chinese investors , who bring their own money to Zambia, should be nationalistic but at the same time you need to look at the role that investors are playing in Zambia. Your politics are populist; but running a country is not a campaign speech it involves taxes, investors, education, health issues and we need to be practical about these issues. The progress of Zambia depends on relationships local, national and international. Investors create jobs, they build, and they also add cultural value to our country. We should however be aggressive on making sure that our tax, labor, and immigration laws are upheld to a greater standard than we are operating at the moment!! Im sure your government will implement the necessary mechanisms to get these things done.
Mr. President these are just some of the concerns I have as a Zambian Citizen. Iam proud of my country because we are able to operate our affairs and we can make transitions. However, your election is not just a Public Relations stunt to donors and the international community!! Zambians need results, Zambians need jobs, we need to end corruption, we need to address our public health concerns, we need to educate our citzens, and we need to develop an economy that is the hallmark of Africa and is indicative of where our continent is going!! Nelson Mandela once said ” It always seems impossible until its done.” Im sure the wisdom of Mr. Mandela resonates with the ferocity of the drums calling people for dance; the fact is until we do what we want to do and make greater effort to pursue our progressive agenda we will always be practicing theory! It is when theory is turned into reality, that the aloofness of a goal is rendered absurd. Dreams precede reality, ideals always encompass reality!! I believe in Zambia! Im certain everyone is in the boat; Just dont drown us we can reach the other side of the river and make another step in the progress of our country!! One Zambia One Nation!!
Congratulations Sir, My Hope is as you say : “Yes, a better Zambia for all!”
