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Trump’s Victory Reveals American Hypocrisy

Chief Editor
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Trump’s Victory Reveals American Hypocrisy

USA’s claim to exceptionalism debunked

By Mwansa Chalwe Snr
The 2016 election of Donald Trump was initially dismissed by some as a fluke, but his 2024 re-election reveals a more profound truth about American society. It’s astonishing that despite widespread awareness of Trump’s controversial actions and characteristics, including his racism, serial lying, criminal convictions, habitual dishonesty, misogyny, and an attempted coup, a significant portion of Americans still support him. The choice of Donald Trump over Vice President Kamala Harris has exposed deap-seated issues with American society such as systemic racism, xenophobia, and economic inequality.

Furthermore, the 2024 U.S. presidential election has once again cast doubt on the country’s self-proclaimed status as an exceptional nation and democracy, with Donald Trump’s re-election throwing many of America’s foundational values into question. The former president’s return to power, despite his legal challenges, controversial past, and divisive record, has ignited global debates about the legitimacy of U.S. claims to uphold the rule of law, gender equality, democracy, and peaceful power transitions. America’s exceptionalism has been a guiding narrative for decades, but Trump’s victory challenges this image in fundamental ways.

Rule of Law: A Convict Elected to the Presidency

One of the central pillars of American democracy is the rule of law, which asserts that no one is above it. However, Trump’s re-election, even while facing serious legal challenges and being convicted on 34 counts and awaiting sentencing, defies this notion and logic. In many democracies and professional settings, a person convicted of a crime would be barred from office or disqualified from jobs requiring trust and responsibility. Yet, here is a man who was indicted on multiple charges, now holding the highest office in the land. This sends a contradictory message that, in America, the elite can evade the consequences of their actions, rendering the rule of law selective.
If any other public figure with a similar history attempted to secure a leadership role in most modern democracies, they would be swiftly disqualified. The willingness of a significant portion of the electorate to ignore or excuse his misogynistic tendencies signals a deep hypocrisy in America’s professed commitment to gender equity.

Gender Equality and Women’s Rights

Trump’s re-election also casts a dark shadow over America’s commitment to gender equality and women’s rights. His track record of derogatory comments toward women, multiple allegations of sexual assault, and his disregard for gender equality fly in the face of a country that prides itself on advancing women’s rights.
In addition to this troubling history, the 2024 election occurred in the wake of the Supreme Court’s revocation of Roe v. Wade, which had guaranteed women’s constitutional right to abortion for nearly 50 years. This decision placed women’s reproductive rights on the ballot, with many voters seeing Trump’s victory as a continuation of policies that strip away women’s autonomy over their bodies. By electing a candidate who not only has a long-standing record of abusing and demeaning women but also supports the erosion of their reproductive freedoms, America has undermined its ability to claim leadership in the global fight for gender equality. It is a stark reminder that, despite progress, the U.S. still struggles to protect and promote women’s rights, especially when it comes to control over their own bodies. This outcome highlights the deep disconnect between America’s stated values and the political realities within its borders.

Democracy

American democracy is often presented as a model for the world. However, the re-election of a president who has consistently attacked the electoral process—calling the results of the 2020 election fraudulent without evidence—brings into question the integrity of the system. How can a country, whose leaders undermine the democratic process when it does not favour them, claim to be a beacon of democratic ideals? The election of a candidate who has disparaged the very framework of free and fair elections exposes deep cracks in the foundation of U.S. democratic values.

Peaceful Transfer of Power

One of the most critical components of any stable democracy is the peaceful transfer of power. Trump’s refusal to accept the results of the 2020 election, leading to the January 6th Capitol riots, shattered this principle. A president who actively sowed doubt in the electoral process and incited his supporters to challenge a lawful transition now reoccupies the Oval Office. This starkly contradicts America’s assertion that it stands as a model for democratic transitions. Trump’s return to power signifies that the U.S. has not fully reckoned with the damage done to this cornerstone of democracy.

Authoritarianism

Trump’s well-documented admiration for authoritarian leaders, including his reported praise of Hitler, raises alarming concerns about the direction of American leadership. Throughout his first presidency, Trump openly admired dictators like Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un, expressing admiration for their unchecked power. His return to the White House, after expressing admiration for autocratic figures, dilutes America’s long-standing position as a global opponent of dictatorship. How can a nation that prides itself on opposing authoritarian regimes continue to do so with a president who expresses admiration for those same regimes?

Racism

From the early days of his real estate career, Trump has faced accusations of racism, including refusing to rent apartments to Black tenants in New York. This history, coupled with his inflammatory remarks on immigrants and his response to the Charlottesville white supremacist rally, solidifies his legacy as a divisive and racially prejudiced figure. Despite America’s progress in civil rights, the election of a candidate with such a racially charged record undermines the country’s claims of racial equality and justice. The election result reflects not only Trump’s personal biases but also a troubling undercurrent of racial tension in the American electorate.

Conclusion

The re-election of Donald Trump in 2024 exposes the hypocrisy embedded in America’s claims to exceptionalism. A nation that prides itself on upholding the rule of law, championing gender equality, promoting democracy, and ensuring peaceful transitions of power has, once again, elected a deeply flawed candidate. Trump’s victory underscores the fragility of these values in the U.S., revealing that the very principles the country promotes abroad are compromised at home. Far from being a beacon of exceptionalism, America is now reckoning with the contradictions that this election has laid bare for the world to see.

The re-election of Donald Trump in 2024 exposes the hypocrisy embedded in America’s claims to exceptionalism. A nation that prides itself on upholding the rule of law, championing gender equality, promoting democracy, and ensuring peaceful transitions of power has, once again, elected a deeply flawed candidate. Trump’s victory not only underscores the fragility of these values in the U.S., but it also signals that the credibility of America preaching the very principles it claims to be built on has gone out of the window.
The U.S. can no longer convincingly promote democracy, human rights, and rule of law abroad when it fails to live up to these ideals at home. In fact, Trump’s return to power will likely embolden dictators and autocrats around the world, who will see this as validation of their own disregard for democratic norms. Far from being a beacon of exceptionalism, America is now reckoning with the contradictions that this election has laid bare for the world to see.

Finally, it should be noted that the leaders a nation elects are a reflection of its society, and a nation gets the leaders it deserves. Americans have made their choice, and they should remember that elections have consequences and they know what they have signed for. They have to be prepared for the consequences and drama.

The writer is a Chartered Accountant, Author and an independent financial analyst and Economic Commentator.

When it Comes to the Dance of Desire, Women are Just as Bold, Daring, and Impossible to Catch in the Act.

Lusaka Times Editor
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When it Comes to the Dance of Desire, Women are Just as Bold, Daring, and Impossible to Catch in the Act.

By Monica Nsemukila.

A Reminder that When it Comes to the Dance of Desire, Women are Just as Bold, Daring, and Impossible to Catch in the Act.

“it’s a wake-up call to every unsuspecting husband who might unknowingly be “handing his wife over to a legendary slaughter.”

They say some men are born great, others achieve greatness, and a select few are born legends. If there’s any doubt, let’s settle it here: Baltasar Ebang Engonga isn’t just a man. He’s a phenomenon, a magnetic force who leaves scorch marks in his wake, breathing life into what’s now known as the “Engonga Effect.” Ministers’ wives, young students, and even distant relatives couldn’t resist his charm, his undivided attention, and his rare gift for making each woman feel like she’s the only one on the planet. In his world, every woman was a spark, each encounter a wildfire she couldn’t forget or resist.

The Truth is Engonga’s legendary “tools”or “WOOD and Money” aren’t limited to charm. He had, as they say, “enough firewood to light up any heart,” and his stamina was unmatched. Like Chronixx says, “more wood for the fire” and Engonga never disappointed. Women flocked to him, each drawn into a private show tailored just for her. Engonga didn’t just indulge; he left a trail of mementos behind, each an undeniable mark of his escapades.

In his world, any woman in a skirt was fair game. The thrill lay in the chase, in those seductive glances and whispered promises. Ministers’ wives, prim and polished by day, couldn’t say no when night, day, riverside fell. Young students, full of innocence and curiosity, threw caution aside for one night in his orbit. Even distant relatives, cousins twice removed, pregnant felt his pull. maybe some women had just one request: “Light the fire, but no cameras, please!” Yet, he loved his cameras almost as much as his rendezvous, creating a legacy as tangible as it was unforgettable. accidentally plotting his downfall yet giving as the thrill of a secret life.

This isn’t just about his escapades. It reflects an often-hidden truth: men may have roving eyes, but women are every bit as daring, with plans just as meticulously crafted. These were no accidental romances; they were carefully curated escapes, each woman seizing her chance to taste a life without limits. Engonga wasn’t just an illicit thrill; he was the siren’s call they couldn’t resist, the scandal merely the price of admission.

But here’s the kicker: His allure doesn’t end with his audacity; it’s a wake-up call to every unsuspecting husband who might unknowingly be “handing his wife over to a legendary slaughter.” What fuels this desire? What makes so many women stray? Some would say it’s the lack of fire at home—the kindling absent, leaving a hollow space that someone like Engonga is all too eager to fill. Stuck in routines, surrounded by under performing partners, many of these wives, aching for that rush, find themselves unable to resist. It’s not that they’re entirely unhappy; it’s just that, now and then, they want to feel alive, seen, and wanted. And if that means stepping into Engonga’s world, then so be it.

In this twisted waltz of desire, there’s no clear villain. Who’s to blame, after all? The husbands, who perhaps let the fire die, passing the torch to a man with endless wood to spare? The wives, who defy societal norms to chase a taste of adventure? Or Engonga himself, a willing supplier to willing demand? Perhaps, in the end, the blame belongs to no one. It’s just life, as they say, and maybe we’re all dancing to a beat that’s far older than we care to admit.

The irony lies in the silence the unspoken envy among other women and the whispers among men wondering what he has that they don’t. The married ones, those bound by routine, can only dream of such a “legendary” reputation. Perhaps, somewhere, some husbands might wish for just a bit of that spark for themselves, wondering what it might take to keep the fire alive in their own homes. Yet, he stands as a tantalizing reminder: sometimes, even within commitment, people crave the thrill of the unexpected, the heat of a fire that can’t be contained.

Engonga’s story, his infamous escapades, are more than just a record of affairs. They’re a testament to the daring hearts who, for just a taste of that legendary fire, tossed caution to the wind. This isn’t just one man’s story; it’s a tale as old as time, a reminder that when it comes to the dance of desire, men and women are both willing participants and can be every bit as bold, daring, and impossible to catch in the act. So, give us the wood, light our fires, because sometimes, the scandal is just the spice of life a juicy reminder that maybe, just maybe, there’s a little Engonga in all of us, waiting for the chance to blaze.

monicansemukila
MonicaNsemukila

 

ZESCO Approves Multi-Million Tender for Wooden Poles Amid Heightened Scrutiny

Lusaka Times Editor
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ZESCO Approves Multi-Million Tender for Wooden Poles Amid Heightened Scrutiny

ZESCO Approves Multi-Million Tender for Wooden Poles Amid Heightened Scrutiny

At its recent Special Meeting Number 5 for the 2024 financial year, held on October 31, the ZESCO Procurement Committee approved contracts worth millions for the supply and delivery of wooden poles, set for a one-year term. The decision, guided by the Public Procurement Act No. 8 of 2020 and its 2023 amendment, represents one of ZESCO’s largest procurement initiatives this year, aimed at meeting the growing demands of the country’s power infrastructure.

According to ZESCO, contracts will be awarded to the named suppliers after a five-day notification period, in line with procurement regulations. The tendering process adhered to Open National Bidding (ONB) guidelines, which prioritize fully Zambian-owned firms in a bid to empower local businesses. However, among the successful bidders is a company that, while registered locally, has a mixed ownership structure involving two Zambian stakeholders and one Spanish shareholder. The inclusion of such a firm, potentially falling into the second-tier of local bidders as per the ONB guidelines, has piqued interest given that the first tier prioritizes fully citizen-owned entities.

The successful bidders include Inverter Energy Zambia, with awarded bids at R32 million, R29 million, and R22 million. While the criteria and assessments that informed ZESCO’s decision have not been fully disclosed, this partial foreign ownership is likely to draw the attention of local stakeholders keen on ensuring that ONB regulations strictly favor Zambian businesses first.

As the contracts proceed, scrutiny may intensify over how these legal provisions were applied, particularly as Zambia seeks to reinforce transparency and accountability in public procurement. For now, the awarded companies await final approval to begin their work, while the broader public watches closely, underscoring the delicate balance between foreign partnerships and empowering local businesses in Zambia’s energy sector.

Monica Nsondo

Click here Notice of Best Evaluated Bidder – ZESCO-ONB-045-2024
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Edgar Lungu Accepts 2026 Bid, Urges Opposition Unity Against Economic Crisis

Lusaka Times Editor
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Edgar Lungu Accepts 2026 Bid, Urges Opposition Unity Against Economic Crisis

In a passionate address at the Tonse Alliance launch, former President Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu formally accepted his adoption as the 2026 presidential candidate, emphasizing a united opposition to restore Zambia’s constitutional democracy, rule of law, and economic stability. Lungu called for broad-based collaboration among opposition parties, civil society, and citizens to counter what he described as economic and governance failures under the current administration, vowing to advocate for the wellbeing of ordinary Zambians.

Here is the Full Speech

SPEECH DELIVERED BY , THE 6TH PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF ZAMBIA, DR. EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU AT THE TONSE ALLIANCE LAUNCH TO ACCEPT HIS ADOPTION AS THE 2026 PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE OF THE ALLIANCE.

On 28th October, 2023, l Edgar Chagwa Lungu, Sixth President of the Republic of Zambia did officially announce my comeback into active politics during the 9th memorial ceremony of President Micheal Sata, the Founder of the Patriotic Front.

On that day, l mentioned that l came back into active politics to defend constitutional democracy, rule of law as well as help unite the Opposition to foster effective checks and balances and present a united front in the 2026 general elections.

Today, l want to repeat and emphasize my call for all opposition parties, civil society organizations and progressive citizens to come together and fight to rescue our country and restore constitutionalism, democracy and the rule of law.

I’ve repeatedly expressed willingness to work with members of the Opposition and other progressive social formations to save our country from the current ruinous path.

We should not encourage working in isolation and in boxes, but forge alliances driven by a unity of purpose in order to develop our country.

The Church, civil society, trade unions, academia and political parties must collaborate and identify common issues that must be promoted together to rescue our people and the country from the failures, mismanagement and misrule perpetuated by this incompetent government.

Yes, it is no longer a secret that the UPND has plunged the country into economic turmoils, engaged in bad governance, destroyed constitutionalism, oppressed citizens and lamentably failed to deliver public services and campaign promises.

Make no mistake, this fight is not merely about removing the UPND from Government. It is about restoring the wellbeing of the Zambian people.
We must recognize that our country is suffering from an economic meltdown, high cost of living, unprecedented loadshedding and other crises.

The fight is about that bus driver who had hoped for better income by reason of the promise of cheaper fuel but is now disappointed that the promise has not been fulfilled.
It is about that barber man in Mtendere, that hair dresser in Chiwempala, that welder in Mazabuka who hoped that loadshedding was behind us considering that, we, in the Patriotic Front ended loadshedding, but now such businesses are shutting down or going for several days without electricity in their work places.

It is about that marketeer who is struggling to make ends meet because of the hostile business environment.
It is about that street vendor whose hustling earns him income of hand-to-mouth but now cannot even find market or place to trade from.

It is about restoring an effective farmer in-put support program that delivered input at the farm gate and ensured that the small-holder farmer was food secure.

Ladies and gentlemen, fellow country men and women, the youth and all our children, I am thankful and honoured for this noble gesture by the Tonse Alliance Partners of adopting me as the 2026 Presidential Candidate.

I pledge that I will not let you down as your 2026 presidential candidate. With your support and the support of the collective Zambians, victory is certain.

My appeal to other political alliances such as the United Kwacha Alliance, People’s Pact, the Zambia We Want, and other political parties is that, let’s keep our doors wide open to work together to redeem this country especially that all political and economic parameters are clearly showing that this government and its leader will not save Zambia.

I thank you and may the Almighty God Bless our Country, Zambia.

Grant relishing second AFCON appearance as Chipolopolo coach

Chief Editor
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Grant relishing second AFCON appearance as Chipolopolo coach

By Benedict Tembo

Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant is looking forward to returning to the African Cup of Nations tournament.

Grant, who qualified the Chipolopolo to the 2023 Africa Cup in Ivory Coast after missing out three times on the trot, said he loves pressure because it pushes him to achieve.

During the unveiling of the 24-man squad for the upcoming back to back 2025 Morocco Group G Africa Cup qualifiers against Ivory Coast in Ndola next Friday and Sierra Leone on November 19, Grant also said there is still room for players who have not been invited for the two upcoming fixtures.

“I never ignore the pressure. I love pressure. Pressure will push you to achieve things,’’ Grant said.

The Israeli gaffer said he likes history and is looking forward to taking back the Chipolopolo to the Africa Cup.

‘’I like history. I hope to get a back to back Africa Cup qualification.’’

On the sidelined players, Grant said:‘’The door is still open to players who will show quality, passion and desire to play for the national team”.

With some key players sidelined by injuries, Grant said injuries are part of football and he has picked players who will help the Chipolopolo deliver.

‘’ I have always stated that I want players to give me a selection headache”he said

Missing from the team announced this morning include England-based striker Patson Daka of Leicester City.

Saudi Arabia domiciled Fashion Sakala is still not part of Grant’s team.

Conspicuously missing too is striker Kingston Mutandwa who plies his trade in Italy.

Lameck Banda who missed the back to back matches against Chad last month is back in the fold, so is defender Stophila Sunzu.

Zambia, the 2012 Africa Cup winners are lying second in Group G with seven points.

Defending champions Ivory Coast lead the group with nine points.

Sierra Leone are third on four points while Chad anchor the group on two points.

FULL SQUAD
Goalkeepers ;
Toaster Nsabata (ZESCO United), Lawrence Mulenga (Power Dynamos), Charles Kalumba (Red Arrows)

Defenders ;
Benedict Chepeshi, Tandi Mwape (Both ZESCO United), Gift Mpande (Hapoel Rishona Lezion- Israel ), Stophila Sunzu (Changchun Yatai FC – China ), Kabaso Chongo (Kabwe Warriors), Frankie Chisenga Musonda (AYR – Scotland), Obino Chisala (Costa Do Sol – Mozambique), Kebson Kamanga (Red Arrows).

Midfielders ;
Benson Sakala (Boleslav Mlada – Czech Republic), Golden Mafwenta (FC Metalist 1925- Czech Republic), Emmanuel Banda (Al Tai – FC Saudi Arabia), Klings Kangwa (Hapoel Be’er Sheva – Israel ), Joshua ‘Budo’ Mutale (Simba SC -Tanzania).

Strikers ;
Joseph Sabobo Banda (FC Zurich – Switzerland), Kelvin Mubanga Kampamba (Al Nasr SC -Libya ), Kennedy Musonda, Clatous Chota Chama (Both Young Africans), Lameck Banda (Lecce – Italy ), Songa Chipyoka (Petah Tikva -Israel ), Francisco Mwepu (Cadiz – Spain ), Ricky Banda (Red Arrows).

Activist Mulenga Demands Equal Opportunities For Local Suppliers

Chief Editor
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Activist Mulenga Demands Equal Opportunities For Local Suppliers

Copperbelt based good Governance activist Peter Mulenga has demanded equal opportunities for local entities at Mopani Copper Mines.

A group of local suppliers and contractors is threatening to stage a protest over alleged unfair awarding of contracts at Mopani.

In reaction, Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo says he has launched investigations into complaints from local suppliers and contractors alleging that they are being denied business opportunities at Mopani in preference to foreign firms.

Mr. Mulenga said he supports Minister Matambo’s decision to launch investigations into complaints from local suppliers that they are being denied business opportunities by Mopani Copper Mines.

Mr. Mulenga said local suppliers and contractors should not be discriminated against in their own country.

He called for equal supply and contracting opportunities for qualified local suppliers adding that marginalized groups should have equal access to all supply and contracting opportunities at the mine.

“We demand equal opportunities at Mopani Mine. The time has come for us to raise our voices against the systemic inequality at Mopani Mine, where local suppliers are still denied equal opportunities for contracts. When Glencore withdrew from Mopani, The Mine depended/benefited from the hard work and sacrifices of local suppliers, but those same suppliers—especially those from the Copperbelt—are still denied the equal opportunities they deserve. This is not just about supply and contracting; it is about justice, dignity, and the right to thrive,” Mr. Mulenga said.

“Suppliers wanted to Protest Because: Discrimination in Supply and Contracting: Local suppliers and historically disadvantaged groups are still being excluded from high-paying contracts at the mine, despite having the necessary experience and skills. Lack of Social Investment: The mine profits heavily from the resources beneath our feet, but the surrounding communities have seen little in terms of economic development or social support,” he said.

Mr. Mulenga has told reporters that local firms shouldn’t settle for anything less than equality, dignity, and justice at Mopani.

“We Demand: Equal Supply and Contracting Opportunities: Qualified local Suppliers and marginalized groups should have equal access to all supply and contracting opportunities at the mine Investment in Local Communities: A percentage of the mine’s profits should be reinvested into the local communities, improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Environmental Responsibility: Mopani Mine must take responsibility for its environmental impact and invest in measures to mitigate pollution and environmental damage in local communities. Transparency & Accountability: We demand transparency in how the mine is operating, with clear, public accountability for how workers are treated and how resources are allocated,” he said.

Mr. Mulenga noted that the resources that Mopani Mine extracts from Zambia belong to the local people.

“Why now? The time for change is long overdue. For too long, local suppliers have sacrificed their time, safety, and well-being, while seeing little improvement in their lives or the surrounding communities. The resources that Mopani Mine extracts from the land belong to the people—our people—and we will no longer stand by as those benefits are hoarded by foreign companies. Let’s Stand Together: For fair treatment. For equal opportunities. For sustainable development. For justice. Together, we will make our voices heard, and demand that Mopani Mine fulfill its responsibility to Local Suppliers and the people of Zambia. We will not settle for anything less than equality, dignity, and justice,” he concluded.

Matambo Takes Interest In Suppliers Grievances Against Mopani

Chief Editor
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Matambo Takes Interest In Suppliers Grievances Against Mopani

Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo says he has launched investigations into complaints from local suppliers and contractors alleging that they are being denied business opportunities at Mopani Copper Mines in preference to foreign firms.

A group of local suppliers and contractors is threatening to stage a protest over alleged unfair awarding of contracts at Mopani.

Mr. Matambo said he is aware about supplier’s grievances and their planned protests.

The Copperbelt Minister said there must be fairness in the manner contracts are awarded to contractors.

“I have decided to take it personal and carry out an investigation on what is happening at Mopani Copper Mines because I received a lot of complaints like you (Reporter) as asked about. Of course I saw an application where some suppliers were almost protesting so that Mopani can start giving more business to Zambians as compared to foreigners,” he said.

Mr. Matambo has told journalists at a media briefing in Ndola that Government policy requires that companies give preference to local firms over foreigners.

“It is the policy of the UPND Government to consider Zambians first. Mopani should give Zambians business first. They should not select the type of business to give to Zambians and the type of business contracts to give to foreigners. What used to happen in the past is that big business contracts were being given to foreigners and then they give small business contracts with no value to local companies. We are not going to allow that,” he said.

“The policy of the UPND Government under President Hakainde Hichilema is that Zambians must be given first priority. So I am trying to do investigations on how contracts are being awarded. The issue you have raised about Mopani I will investigate it and we won’t allow that,” Mr. Matambo concluded.

Trump’s Win in U.S. Election Offers Positive Prospects for Zambia

Chief Editor
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Trump’s Win in U.S. Election Offers Positive Prospects for Zambia

By Peter Taila

As Donald Trump begins his second term as U.S. president, Zambia and other developing nations are considering the potential benefits that his administration might bring. President Hakainde Hichilema extended congratulations to Trump, expressing optimism that the renewed U.S.-Zambia relationship could bring economic and diplomatic benefits. Trump’s return to power is stirring hope across Zambia, where leaders see his foreign policy as an opportunity to address pressing economic issues.

Prospect of Lower Fuel Prices and Economic Relief

One of the most anticipated benefits of Trump’s presidency for Zambia is a potential drop in fuel prices. Trump has previously shown an ability to negotiate with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, raising hopes that he might facilitate an end to the Ukraine conflict. The result could be a decrease in global oil prices, which would alleviate the high fuel costs currently affecting Zambia. For a country facing economic challenges, lower fuel prices would ease inflation and improve the cost of living, benefiting households and industries alike.

Zambia has been grappling with high living costs, and lower fuel prices would be a welcome relief. “This development could stabilize Zambia’s economy and provide more financial breathing room for Zambian citizens,” an economist explained. By fostering conditions for economic stability, Trump’s international diplomacy could indirectly support Zambia’s economic goals.

Renewed Opportunity for Peace in the Middle East

Trump’s positive relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also seen as a hopeful sign for ending the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Should he be successful in brokering peace, this would further stabilize global markets, which could be advantageous for developing economies reliant on steady trade and energy prices. For Zambia, a peaceful Middle East could mean fewer global disruptions, ultimately benefiting its import and export markets.

Stronger Trade Relations and Investment Opportunities for Zambia

Trump’s past approach to trade and economic growth is another promising factor for Zambia. His administration’s “America First” policy, when coupled with increased trade opportunities, could open doors for Zambian industries. Zambian officials hope Trump’s pragmatic approach to trade will lead him to view African countries, including Zambia, as strong partners in sectors like agriculture, mining, and infrastructure.

For Zambia, this could mean increased foreign investment and a stronger focus on trade relations that support job creation and infrastructure development. Trump’s potential policy shifts toward Africa might create an environment in which African economies can strengthen and diversify.

Encouraging Diplomatic Relations and Regional Peace

Trump’s stance on Africa during his first term was unpredictable, but analysts believe his second term could take a more engaged approach. A stronger focus on Africa as a trade and industry partner could directly benefit Zambia, aligning with President Hichilema’s vision of economic resilience and growth through international cooperation. In fact, a revitalized partnership with the U.S. could enhance Zambia’s global standing, creating new avenues for diplomatic support.

The possibility of Trump extending his diplomatic reach to address conflicts in regions like Sudan also resonates positively with Zambia, as regional stability is essential for economic growth and cross-border trade. Additionally, his ability to foster cooperation with China could open up new trade avenues, benefitting African economies as well as fostering balanced, multipolar partnerships across the continent.

Zambia’s Domestic Growth Agenda

President Hichilema has been focused on Zambia’s economic recovery, emphasizing anti-corruption efforts, unity, and sustainable growth. His administration has made strides in promoting economic resilience, and a supportive U.S. policy could provide crucial leverage for these goals. During recent speeches, Hichilema reiterated the importance of unity and resilience, aiming to create a stable environment for development. Stronger U.S.-Zambia relations could bolster Hichilema’s agenda, from economic reforms to trade relations.

Trump’s emphasis on trade and investment could bring a wave of optimism for Zambia, encouraging development initiatives that align with Hichilema’s vision for the nation. As Zambia navigates its domestic goals, Trump’s win may offer an opportunity for economic uplift and international support that could ease Zambia’s path toward prosperity.

In summary, Zambia sees Trump’s second term as a chance for growth, with positive expectations for economic cooperation, reduced fuel costs, and potential peace dividends on the global stage. As President Hichilema positions Zambia to strengthen its economy, Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency could be a key factor in turning Zambia’s challenges into opportunities.

Donald Trump wins 2024 US Election

Chief Editor
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Donald Trump wins 2024 US Election

Donald Trump has been elected the 47th president of the United States on Wednesday, an extraordinary comeback for a former U.S. president who refused to accept defeat four years ago, sparked a violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, was convicted of felony charges and survived two assassination attempts.
With a win in Wisconsin, Trump cleared the 270 electoral votes needed to clinch the presidency.

The victory validates his bare-knuckle approach to politics. He attacked his Democratic rival, Kamala Harris, in deeply personal – often misogynistic and racist – terms as he pushed an apocalyptic picture of a country overrun by violent migrants. The coarse rhetoric, paired with an image of hypermasculinity, resonated with angry voters – particularly men – in a deeply polarized nation.

“I want to thank the American people for the extraordinary honor of being elected your 47th president and your 45th president,” Trump told throngs of cheering supporters in Florida even before his victory was confirmed.

In state after state, Trump outperformed what he did in the 2020 election while Harris failed to do as well as Joe Biden did in winning the presidency four years ago. Upon taking office again, Trump also will work with a Senate that will now be in Republican hands, while control of the House hadn’t been determined.

“We’ve been through so much together, and today you showed up in record numbers to deliver a victory,” Trump said. “This was something special and we’re going to pay you back,” he said.

In his second term, Trump has vowed to pursue an agenda centered on dramatically reshaping the federal government and pursuing retribution against his perceived enemies.

The results cap a historically tumultuous and competitive election season that included two assassination attempts targeting Trump and a shift to a new Democratic nominee just a month before the party’s convention. Trump will inherit a range of challenges when he assumes office on Jan. 20, including heightened political polarization and global crises that are testing America’s influence abroad.

His win against Harris, the first woman of color to lead a major party ticket, marks the second time he has defeated a female rival in a general election. Harris, the current U.S. vice president, rose to the top of the ticket after Biden exited the race amid alarm about his advanced age. Despite an initial surge of energy around her campaign, she struggled during a compressed timeline to convince disillusioned voters that she represented a break from an unpopular administration.

The vice president has not publicly spoken since the race was called. Her campaign co-chair, Cedric Richmond, said she would speak Wednesday: “She will be back here tomorrow.”

Trump is the first former president to return to power since Grover Cleveland regained the White House in the 1892 election. He is the first person convicted of a felony to be elected president and, at 78, is the oldest person elected to the office. His vice president, 40-year-old Ohio Sen. JD Vance, will become the highest-ranking member of the millennial generation in the U.S. government.

Congratulations started pouring in from world leaders even before Trump’s victory was announced.

There will be far fewer checks on Trump when he returns to the White House. He has plans to swiftly enact a sweeping agenda that would transform nearly every aspect of American government. His GOP critics in Congress have largely been defeated or retired. Federal courts are now filled with judges he appointed. The U.S. Supreme Court, which includes three Trump-appointed justices, issued a ruling earlier this year affording presidents broad immunity from prosecution.

Trump’s language and behavior during the campaign sparked growing warnings from Democrats and some Republicans about shocks to democracy that his return to power would bring. He repeatedly praised strongman leaders, warned that he would deploy the military to target political opponents he labeled the “enemy from within,” threatened to take action against news organizations for unfavorable coverage and suggested suspending the Constitution.

Some who served in his first White House, including U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and John Kelly, Trump’s longest-serving chief of staff, either declined to endorse him or issued dire public warnings about his return to the presidency.

While Harris focused much of her initial message around themes of joy, Trump channeled a powerful sense of anger and resentment among voters.

He seized on frustrations over high prices and fears about crime and migrants who illegally entered the country on Biden’s watch. He also highlighted wars in the Middle East and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to cast Democrats as presiding over – and encouraging – a world in chaos.

It was a formula Trump perfected in 2016, when he cast himself as the only person who could fix the country’s problems, often borrowing language from dictators.

“In 2016, I declared I am your voice. Today I add: I am your warrior. I am your justice. And for those who have been wronged and betrayed, I am your retribution,” he said in March 2023.

This campaign often veered into the absurd, with Trump amplifying bizarre and disproven rumors that migrants were stealing and eating pet cats and dogs in an Ohio town. At one point, he kicked off a rally with a detailed story about the legendary golfer Arnold Palmer in which he praised his genitalia.

But perhaps the defining moment came in July when a gunman opened fire at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. A bullet grazed Trump’s ear and killed one of his supporters. His face streaked with blood, Trump stood and raised his fist in the air, shouting “Fight! Fight! Fight!” Weeks later, a second assassination attempt was thwarted after a Secret Service agent spotted the barrel of a gun poking through the greenery while Trump was playing golf.

Trump’s return to the White House seemed unlikely when he left Washington in early 2021 as a diminished figure whose lies about his defeat sparked a violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. He was so isolated at the time that few outside of his family bothered to attend the send-off he organized for himself at Andrews Air Force Base, complete with a 21-gun salute.

Democrats who controlled the U.S. House quickly impeached him for his role in the insurrection, making him the only president to be impeached twice. He was acquitted by the U.S. Senate, where many Republicans argued that he no longer posed a threat because he had left office.

But from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump – aided by some elected Republicans – worked to maintain his political relevance. Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the California Republican who at the time led his party in the U.S. House, visited Trump soon after he left office, essentially validating his continued role in the party.

As the 2022 midterm election approached, Trump used the power of his endorsement to assert himself as the unquestioned leader of the party. His preferred candidates almost always won their primaries, but some went on to defeat in elections that Republicans viewed as within their grasp. Those disappointing results were driven in part by a backlash to the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that revoked a woman’s constitutional right to an abortion, a decision that was aided by Trump-appointed justices. The midterm election prompted questions within the GOP about whether Trump should remain the party’s leader.

But if Trump’s future was in doubt, that changed in 2023 when he faced a wave of state and federal indictments for his role in the insurrection, his handling of classified information and election interference. He used the charges to portray himself as the victim of an overreaching government, an argument that resonated with a GOP base that was increasingly skeptical – if not outright hostile – to institutions and established power structures.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who challenged Trump for the Republican nomination, lamented that the indictments “sucked out all the oxygen” from this year’s GOP primary. Trump easily captured his party’s nomination without ever participating in a debate against DeSantis or other GOP candidates.

With Trump dominating the Republican contest, a New York jury found him guilty in May of 34 felony charges in a scheme to illegally influence the 2016 election through a hush money payment to a porn actor who said the two had sex. He faces sentencing later this month, though his victory poses serious questions about whether he will ever face punishment.

He also has been found liable in two other New York civil cases: one for inflating his assets and another for sexually abusing advice columnist E. Jean Carroll in 1996.

America Votes: Latest U.S. election news and analysis from a Canadian perspective(opens in a new tab)
Trump is subject to additional criminal charges in an election-interference case in Georgia that has become bogged down. On the federal level, he’s been indicted for his role in trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election and improperly handling classified material. When he becomes president on Jan. 20, Trump could appoint an attorney general who would erase the federal charges.

As he prepares to return to the White House, Trump has vowed to swiftly enact a radical agenda that would transform nearly every aspect of American government. That includes plans to launch the largest deportation effort in the nation’s history, to use the Justice Department to punish his enemies, to dramatically expand the use of tariffs and to again pursue a zero-sum approach to foreign policy that threatens to upend longstanding foreign alliances, including the NATO pact.

When he arrived in Washington 2017, Trump knew little about the levers of federal power. His agenda was stymied by Congress and the courts, as well as senior staff members who took it upon themselves to serve as guardrails.

This time, Trump has said he would surround himself with loyalists who will enact his agenda, no questions asked, and who will arrive with hundreds of draft executive orders, legislative proposals and in-depth policy papers in hand.

Source:CTV News

Why Zambia Must Support Hakainde Hichilema for a Second Term

Lusaka Times Editor
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Why Zambia Must Support Hakainde Hichilema for a Second Term

Why Zambia Must Support Hakainde Hichilema for a Second Term

By Dr. Catharine Frazha Benkele Mulaisho

When President Hakainde Hichilema took office, Zambia was standing on a precipice, burdened with an economy ravaged by years of mismanagement, corruption, and outright theft by the previous administration. The situation was so dire that many Zambians expected the economy to crumble entirely.

Yet here we are, standing on firmer ground. It is not luck but the fruit of HH’s deliberate policies and commitment to resuscitating this nation. Despite the monumental challenges inherited, HH has managed to stabilize our nation and steer us back toward growth, proving that he is the right leader for Zambia.

It’s true that in his role as an opposition leader, HH, like any other ambitious leader, made promises. What he didn’t know then were the shocking realities of the economic pit left by his predecessors. Upon assuming power, he came face-to-face with the devastating truth: years of debt accumulation with no visible or tangible returns, a broken economy, and a populace struggling under unbearable inflation and poverty.
Expectations were high, but let’s be clear—turning around a country doesn’t happen overnight.

Real investments take years to mature. Today, HH’s government has worked tirelessly to revive investor confidence. For the first time in years, we are seeing serious commitments in sectors that have long suffered—mines reopening, agricultural initiatives growing, and businesses finally finding the confidence to expand.

These are achievements that lay the groundwork for long-term economic stability, but Zambians must exercise patience. The progress we see today is only the beginning of a recovery process that will benefit future generations.

In these past two years, the most challenging period of HH’s presidency, he has delivered measurable stability. Inflation is being tamed, and while the kwacha may not have reached its ideal strength, it is far from the freefall we saw under the previous regime.

These are monumental feats considering the hurdles he inherited. If we abandon the UPND now, we risk seeing all these hard-won gains undone. We risk losing the stability that, though subtle, is holding our nation together.

Imagine a change in government at this critical juncture, a period when investments are beginning to bear fruit. Zambians must recognize that any sudden shift would derail the economy, crush investor confidence, and set us back by years, if not decades. Changing the leadership now would invite chaos and confusion, undoing everything HH has painstakingly worked to build.

Let us not ignore that HH has also had his fair share of lessons in leadership. Every leader matures with time, and HH has shown a willingness to adapt, learn, and recalibrate. His experiences in governance and economic management over the last two years have been invaluable.

This growth will surely enable him to approach his second term with the wisdom and understanding that Zambia’s economy demands. Unlike leaders who clung to power without evolving, HH has proven he’s willing to grow for Zambia’s sake.

Let’s not mince words: a return to the PF regime, or any similar government, would be a disaster for Zambia. These are the same individuals who not only looted the nation’s wealth but left Zambians grappling with unexplained, crippling debt. Even now, we still do not know where the billions of dollars in debt went—there are no infrastructural marvels or industries to show for it, only the bloated bank accounts of former officials who feasted on public funds.

A second term for HH is a step toward justice and accountability, ensuring that Zambia never again becomes a feeding ground for corrupt vultures.

The same hyenas that looted our resources now lurk in the shadows, hoping for a second chance to finish what they started. We can not allow that to happen. Zambians must reject the politics of the belly, the selfish ambitions of leaders who see government as a pathway to personal wealth rather than public service.

This is not the time to gamble with Zambia’s future by falling for sweet-talking opportunists. This is the time to stand firm, be patriotic, and support a leader who has proven he values this nation over personal gain.

The challenge we face as a nation now is not just about who will be president; it’s about what kind of Zambia we want to leave for future generations.

HH’s administration has planted the seeds of recovery, seeds that need time to grow. For this vision to bear fruit, Zambians must set aside political bickering and selfish interests. We must make a choice based on patriotism, a choice that says we will not sell our nation to the highest bidder.

We need stability, continuity, and a leader who understands the importance of laying a strong economic foundation. HH is that leader, and he deserves our support to continue what he has started.

A second term is not a favor to him but a vote for a stronger, self-sufficient Zambia. This is a call to every Zambian who believes in a future beyond corruption, beyond mediocrity, and beyond the politics of self-enrichment. It is a call to protect the Zambia we all deserve.

The decision in 2026 is not merely a political one; it is about safeguarding the very essence of Zambia’s future. A vote for HH and the UPND is a vote for continuity, stability, and growth.

The alternative is a return to the dark days, where our nation’s coffers were nothing but a piggy bank for a select few, where ordinary Zambians bore the brunt of financial mismanagement and corruption.

HH has brought us out of the depths of economic despair, and while the journey is far from over, we are moving in the right direction.

Zambians must look beyond the immediate challenges and focus on the bigger picture. With HH, we have a chance to build a Zambia where opportunity, prosperity, and justice are not privileges for the few but rights for all.

Let us stand united, let us be patriotic, and let us give HH the mandate to finish the work he has started. Our future, and the future of generations to come, depend on it.

Attorney General Confirms Existence of Kalundu Intelligence Facility in Sun Pharmaceuticals Abduction Case

Lusaka Times Editor
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Attorney General Confirms Existence of Kalundu Intelligence Facility in Sun Pharmaceuticals Abduction Case

Attorney General Confirms Existence of Kalundu Intelligence Facility in Sun Pharmaceuticals Abduction Case

In a significant turn of events regarding the abduction case of Sun Pharmaceuticals Ltd directors and owners Vinod and Uddit Sadhu, the Attorney General has been forced publicly to confirm the existence of a covert intelligence facility in Kalundu, Lusaka; and that the Sadhus were taken there during their abduction. For the first time, the Attorney General admits that the taking and detention of the Sadhus was a “joint operation” between police and the Office of the President.

Previously, the Attorney General’s defence claimed that the Sadhus were taken directly from the Department of Immigration to the Chelstone Police station. This volte-face by the Attorney General to admit the Sadhus were right to say they had been taken to a house in Kalundu comes after compelling evidence was presented to the High Court, including geolocation data pinpointing the site; an SOS message sent from within; and the identification of a supervising intelligence officer involved in the Sadhus abduction.

In the original defence, submitted in January 2024, the Attorney General claimed that the Sadhus voluntarily participated in police interviews and denied their confinement at the Kalundu facility and subsequent detention at Chelstone Police Station. It was then claimed by the Attorney General that the Sadhus departed from the police station at 17:20 hours on the same day. However, in the latest amended defence, the Attorney General now acknowledges that the Sadhus were taken from Immigration Headquarters to House No. 39, Lufubu Road, and later detained at Chelstone Police Station, citing a purported (and previously undisclosed) arrest warrant. It is the first time in two years that there has been any suggestion that an arrest warrant existed (it was entirely omitted from the AG’s original defence). It has not yet been submitted to the High Court.

The Sadhus vehemently deny ever being served any warrant, and the Attorney General has not provided proof of its existence or being served, in the amended defence filed last week. The Attorney General further claims in the amended defence that this detention was intended to secure a Warn and Caution statement, which the Sadhus vigorously deny, contending that any such documentation would likely be fabricated by colluding party affiliates and police personnel. The Attorney General has submitted no Warn and Caution statement to the High Court.

Furthermore, the Attorney General has amended his defence to concede that the Sadhus were invited to the Immigration Headquarters on 29 September 2022 by the Director General of Immigration, Dr Lishomwa (previously the Attorney General claimed not to know how the Sadhus came to be at the Immigration department). The defence now claims that this invitation was routine and resulted in the issuance of a residence permit to the second plaintiff, while the determination of the first plaintiff’s Certificate of Established Resident was concluded following the necessary internal processes.

It remains unknown how or why the Office of the President should consider it appropriate for it to be involved in a commercial matter already subject to protracted litigation over many years, with now multiple Judgments in favour of Sun Pharmaceuticals and its owners the Sadhus, from the High Court, Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

Adding to the complexity in this abduction trial brought by the Sadhus is the Attorney General’s decision to represent Rashid Munali, the first defendant in the case, and a purported cadre member of the ruling party. Munali is accused of leading the operation on the day in question.

There are suspicions that should the Attorney General cease to defend Munali or the other defendants, who were sued in their individual capacities, they may reveal the identities of State House or other government officials implicated in the targeting of the Sadhus and Sun Pharmaceuticals Ltd. Stunningly, Munali has been brought under the State’s umbrella and included in the witness list as an alleged officer of the Zambia Police.

Additionally, the Attorney General maintains the position from the original defence that members of the Kalenga family were not present at Chelstone when the Sadhus were hastily transported there following the discovery of the SOS message by their captors at the intelligence facility in Kalundu. However, reports indicate that the Kalenga family released photographs from Chelstone and engaged in media interactions, boasting of their presence on that day alongside Rashid Munali and his associates; evidence of which may now be submitted by the Sadhus to the court.

The Sadhus have presented photographic evidence of an unmarked vehicle and its driver associated with State House that was involved in their abduction. They have consistently stated that they were subjected to threats and coercion aimed at compelling them to sign documents under duress, a claim that the Attorney General has denied.

Notably, Zambia police claimed the Sadhus were under investigation after they alerted INTERPOL of Police Commissioner Mubita Nawa being wholly unsuitable for the position of Secretary General (for which he had been shortlisted).

The Court has granted the Sadhus the right to reply to the amended defence from the Attorney General.

By correspondent Pranab Rajan

IMF driven Petroleum Reforms pose Economic and Security risks

Chief Editor
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IMF driven Petroleum Reforms pose Economic and Security risks

Potential fuel Shortages probable in Future

By Mwansa Chalwe Snr
Zambia’s economic management has been plagued by two major weaknesses since independence: extreme shifts in policy and a lack of risk management strategies. The recent IMF driven fuel reforms, where the government has completely disengaged from fuel procurement and financing – effectively privatising the petroleum sector – is the latest case in point. This is likely to lead to disastrous consequences in the future like the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) did in the 1990s and 2000s. And there are already ominous signs in the market for petroleum products, with sporadic shortages from time to time.

Zambia Petroleum Industry reforms
Under the supervision of the International Monetary Fund (IMF),Zambia has implemented significant reforms in the Petroleum sector in the last two to three years which were intended to boost efficiency, stability, lower prices and prevent debt accumulation. These reforms include the transformation of the Indeni Oil Refinery company into an oil marketing company, Indeni Energy Company limited; and the repurposing of the Tanzania Zambia Mafuta (TAZAMA) pipeline to transport finished products, replacing crude oil. Additionally, a monthly fuel price revision mechanism has been introduced meant to reflect changing market conditions. The TAZAMA pipeline has also been liberalized, allowing multinational oil marketing companies to utilize it with the tendering system being implemented.

However, these reforms have resulted in significant disruptions and challenges. The country now faces unstable and high fuel prices, which have contributed to the high cost of living and doing business. Moreover, allegations of corruption have emerged, casting a shadow over the sector’s transparency. The over reliance on private sector imports has led to price volatility, exacerbating the economic burden on citizens and businesses. The State owned Indeni Energy Company limited has been marginalized in accessing the Government owned asset-TAZAMA pipeline. To address these challenges, Zambia needs to revisit its petroleum sector reforms by considering adjusting current strategies and implement risk mitigation measures to ensure price and supply stability.

Why governments play a role in the Petroleum Market
Petroleum is a sensitive and strategic resource, and governments worldwide, including African countries like Botswana, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, and Kenya, to name but a few, actively participate to influence supply, pricing, and distribution rather than solely relying on the private sector, whose primary focus is maximization of profit.
Governments want to ensure energy security by guaranteeing reliable fuel supply and mitigating external market volatility. Additionally, they aim to protect national interests, prevent monopolies, and promote competition. Furthermore, governments want to maintain strategic fuel reserves to address potential supply disruptions. They can only do this if they retain some control in the supply chain. A notable example is South Africa’s recent formation of the South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC), a merger of several energy companies.

“The SANPC would be poised to become a leading player in South Africa’s energy sector, ensuring energy security, driving new technologies, developing, and enabling essential infrastructure, fostering strategic partnerships, and propelling social and economic development,” The company told BusinessTech, an online publication.
By balancing private sector interests with national priorities, governments involvement in the fuel sector ensures a secure and stable energy supply, ultimately benefiting the economy and citizens.

Why must Indeni Bid for Tazama Pipeline Use?
In the past three years, under the direction of the International Monetary Fund ( IMF), Zambia has moved from one extreme of excessive government participation in the market, to almost zero participation, including opening up the use of the TAZAMA pipeline to the private sector.
“ During the time of the Refinery, Indeni was the exclusive user of the Pipeline. Our intention now is, with the liberalized market, we do not intend to be exclusive user, but to have significant portion that will result into jobs that will help the improvement of the economy”, Evans Mauta, the Chief Executive Officer of Indeni Energy Company Limited said on the company’s Facebook page, when answering a member of the Public’s question.

The IMF has imposed a condition on Zambia in the Petroleum sector where they require the implementation of open access to the TAZAMA pipeline by the Multinational oil Corporations through a tendering process. This is one of the key performance indicators of the IMF referred to as Structural Benchmark (SB) and was expected to be implemented by end of August,2024.
“ Competitive tenders to implement open access to the Tazama pipeline have faced delays due to procedural disruptions. To ensure full cost recovery more consistently, the retail and wholesale price structures will continue to be published monthly. Remedies to resolve Tazama pipeline tender disruptions are being crafted. The authorities will leverage the support of an independent consultant to revise the Tazama pipeline open access tender procedures, also committing to the publication of the tender results.”, The IMF Third review report of Zambia’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF) report Published in June,2024 stated.
Critics argue that the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) conditions on Zambia’s TAZAMA Pipeline usage and Indeni’s competition with multinational oil marketing companies compromise the country’s economic sovereignty and threaten national security. The requirement for Indeni, a state-owned enterprise, to compete for access to a government-owned asset has sparked outrage from many Zambians. How can IMF dictate to Zambia who should use our own asset, which they never invested in, they argue.
As a result, there is a growing call to reassess and potentially renegotiate the IMF’s conditions on petroleum sector reforms to prioritize Zambia’s economic interests and national security. So far, the IMF’s petroleum reforms have yielded unfavourable outcomes, fuelling criticism. There are already signs of isolated shortages of diesel, and suspicions that some oil marketing companies may be hoarding Petroleum products thus creating artificial shortages.

How Zambia can reduce fuel Prices and stabilise Kwacha
There is no question that the majority of the IMF inspired petroleum reforms have not worked, and will not work in the best interests of the economy and the Zambian people. Besides, they failed in Kenya. It is time to press a reset button. Zambia should n consider using two benchmark countries for a new and better petroleum procurement systems : Uganda and Kenya.
“Kenya in March ditched the Open Tender System (OTS), in favour of direct procurement under a government-to-government(G-to-G) deal with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Kenya is currently importing fuel on a 180-day credit period, with the deal attributed to being key in propping up the shilling and stabilising it to the current exchange rate of 129.17 compared to the lows of 155.4 units towards end of last year,” The Nation Media group reported last month. “Kampala has already embraced the direct import model in which the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) buys the country’s entire fuel stock from Vitol Bahrain E.C before distributing it to OMCs in the country.”

According to very reliable sources from the United Arab Emirates, Indeni Energy Company Limited has long been offered a deal by Abhu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) which entails the bulk supply of fuel on credit for six months, the building of new storage tanks and pipeline modernisation. The only major condition that Indeni should fulfil is to proof that it has unfettered access to TAZAMA. Why this deal has not been consummated is beyond understanding.

Conclusion
As an evidence based analyst, with a proven track record to foresee financial and economic events under various Zambian administrations, my risk assessment credentials speak for themselves. I accurately predicted the Zambia bank collapses, which had mushroomed in the 1990s, warned of consequences of excessive borrowing in 2015, foresaw the West and China rivalry on Zambian soil in 2021, and identified China is the key player in speeding up the debt restructuring talks in 2022. My articles on the same are on line.

The Zambian government is well advised to reassess the IMF-imposed tendering system. This system has failed in Kenya. It compromises  the government’s control over the strategic Petroleum industry. Such a loss of control risks severe consequences, including economic instability and market volatility, as well as political fallout such as loss of public trust, possible electoral backlash in 2026, and potential social unrest.

To mitigate the aforementioned risks, Indeni should have unfettered access to TAZAMA to safeguard national energy security, promote economic stability, and protect state interests while giving a reasonable percentage access (40%) to the Private Sector.

This recommendation aligns with the President of the Oil marketing Association of Zambia (OMCAZ) – a Private Sector organisation – Dr. Kafula Mubanga. As a local expert with intimate knowledge of Zambia’s energy sector, Dr. Mubanga’s views should take precedence over IMF conditions that may not fully account for national interest and the political risk. He advised government to revisit its current fuel policy and partially participate.

“They should consider engaging gulf countries, like the Kenyans where they have
engaged the gulf countries, to supply government directly, maybe by 50 percent. Why is the government not supposed to get a higher 100 percent is because we are coming from a precedent where the government accrued more than enough debt to meet its suppliers. So, to avoid that, let’s give the government a 50 percent, let’s give 50 percent to the private owners.
“That’s how they are going to balance it so that the government also is not at an advantage of ripping off the country and leaving it in debt. But also, we don’t endanger the country towards arm twisting, processes of shortages or sabotage and things like that. So, we need to create a balance. The trend of multinationals always on their way towards election years, because they tend to hold back products, they tend to arm twist governments to make hasty decisions. You’ll have a problem towards the last year of elections because most of those players are going to withhold products”, said Dr Kafula said in an interview with NewsDiggers Newspaper.

I urge policymakers to carefully consider alternative solutions that balance economic prudence with national interest rather than solely adhering to some of the IMF’s conditions that rely on the market, which has no brain, feelings and judgement.
In the same vein, and on the basis of my objective analysis, I would like to appeal to President Hakainde Hichilema to consider intervening, and ensure that the Indeni Energy Company Limited deal with ADNOC, which is alleged to be boggled down in government bureaucracy, is finalized and implemented to accelerate economic recovery.
The deal will result in kwacha appreciation, lower fuel prices, extended period of price reviews from the current one month, reduce in inflation, reduce cost of living and doing business, as well as mitigate against future political risk for the current administration.

The writer is a Chartered Accountant, Author and an independent financial analyst and Economic Commentator.

President Hichilema Highlights Cultural Significance at Shikaumpa Traditional Ceremony

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Highlights Cultural Significance at Shikaumpa Traditional Ceremony

President Hakainde Hichilema officiated at the 2024 Shikaumpa Traditional Ceremony of the Ila people in Namwala District, emphasizing the vital role traditional ceremonies play in national unity and cultural preservation. Speaking in Chief Mukobela’s area, President Hichilema underscored that such events are instrumental in fostering peace, security, and stability across the nation.

The Shikaumpa ceremony celebrates the legacy of Mukobela Kakombo, the revered first chief of the region, who was known for his commitment to education and strong leadership that protected his people. President Hichilema highlighted Chief Kakombo’s forward-thinking vision, recalling how the chief personally funded Lubanga Shabongo School to empower youth through education. In honor of this legacy, President Hichilema announced plans for the government to rehabilitate the school to preserve its historical significance and the chief’s dedication to education.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to free education, President Hichilema pointed out that it has facilitated access for millions of children, aligning with the government’s vision for an educated populace. He expressed gratitude to the Zambian people for their resilience amid drought-related challenges and assured continued support to prevent hunger and enhance food security. The President encouraged citizens to remain steadfast and continue farming efforts to bolster the country’s self-sufficiency.

Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima praised the impact of the free education policy, noting that school attendance had surged to six million students, adding about two million new learners. He also announced plans to establish one of the proposed 100 smart schools in Chief Mukobela’s area, signaling the government’s ongoing commitment to educational development.

Southern Province Minister Credo Nanjuwa reported support from traditional leaders for the government’s zoning of the Kafue Flats as a beef zone, aimed at protecting the area from selfish exploitation. Nanjuwa affirmed the Provincial Administration’s collaboration with chiefs to safeguard the region’s resources.

The ceremony was attended by approximately 35 traditional leaders from various regions of Zambia, underscoring its importance as a cultural gathering that promotes unity and mutual respect.

Why should our citizens glorify criminality?

Chief Editor
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Why should our citizens glorify criminality?

ONE of former president Michael Sata’s children, Mwelwa Sata has finally opened-up about the family’s economic status after the demise of their father.

According to the News Diggers newspaper, Mwelwa gives this interesting account, “while we have heard and read stories about how some presidents’ children were gifted filling stations, apartments, luxury vehicles and more, we don’t swim in money.”

Well, well, well…..where does this leave ba Lungu and his family?

Like other Presidents gone before him – Kenneth D. Kaunda, Frederick Chiluba, Levy Mwanawasa and to a certain extent, Rupiah “King Cobra,” as he was fondly referred to, never seemed to have ‘looted’ our resources for the sole benefit of his family!

Sata was a no nonsense leader who never entertained his children anywhere near the treasury. Economic Front strong man, Wynter Kabimba actually puts it in a better way. In a recent interview, he explains that when Sata caught wind of his eldest son, Mulenga, engaging in questionable business activities with the Chinese, he solicited his help to warn his son to be careful with the Chinese “to avoid being a fugitive like Hanry Banda,” (son of former President Banda). Apparently, Henry went into self-imposed exile after the PF wrestled power from the MMD for fear of going to jail on account of being involved in dubious and illicit deals when the father was in charge.

Like Sata, most of our former presidents, who’ve since transitioned to the land of the dead, never bequeathed questionable wealth to their spouses or children. They’re now eking a living either working in the private sector or indeed public service. If we may cite a few examples, Panji Kaunda is High Commissioner to Malawi while his sibling Cheswa, is a protocol officer in government. Chipo Mwanawasa is equally one of the presidential aides while Stella Sata recently landed herself a lucrative job in Canada. Others such as Mulenga Sata are said to have ventured into business…….whether it’s breeding and selling puppies is a matter of speculation; at least they’re earning a living in a decent manner.

All in all, most of former first children are struggling to make ends meet just like the rest of us save for the Lungus! Going by all these reports we are reading about regarding array of properties being confiscated from his wife, children and close associates by the state……ba Lungu definitely deserves to have his immunity stripped off, pronto! It seems immediately ba Lungu set foot in State House, he went on rampage plundering our resources like a monkey in a maize field. He would of course ‘gift’ some of this abundant wealth to his wife and children – filling stations, impressive fleets of vehicles, breath-taking mansions in exclusive neighborhoods, mukula business and enormous amounts of money like Santa Claus handing out sweets and cookies to children!

For most of our citizens unfortunately…..especially ba 1.8 million, the perceived ‘criminalities’ on the part of ba Lungu is inconsequential to them! They’d rather keep on shamelessly glorifying him to the grave……. to such an extent of even fantasizing ati “Alebwelelapo!”

Is celebrating suspected criminals restricted to politics?

Negative! During the tenure of PF for instance, the so-called Jerabos were the ‘darlings’ of some people despite their heinous activities – violently hounding-out civil servants from offices, taking over the running of markets and bus stations, assaulting or killing perceived political opponents and literally ransacking the treasury through some bogus contracts and business transactions!

Why should our citizens keep celebrating and glorifying criminality? Is it a case of choosing Barabbas over our Saviour?

Until next time…..

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Social/Political Analyst

Has the Church lost its moral bearings; curious case of missionaries & modern-day papas

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Has the Church lost its moral bearings; curious case of missionaries & modern-day papas

As per our established protocol, Sundays we try to avoid taking the plunge into the murky world of politics, as much as possible, and confine ourselves to social or religious issues.

Today, we take a look at old-school missionaries and our so-called men of God……nay, Modern-day papas if you like! During the past few days, we’ve engrossed ourselves in a book, “NDOTOLU,” (doctor in English) about Dr and Mrs Fisher’s missionary work in Angola, and then in North western parts of Zambia. The book provides great insights on how they humbly surrendered themselves to Christ to do the will of God.

We shall first begin by taking a microscopic view at our ‘papas.’ As opposed to leading simple and humble lives, you’ll see them living a life of bliss and splendour – enjoying themselves in palaces in posh neighbourhoods, driving impressive limousines straight from the showroom!

Sundays, they pitch-up in Church spotting designer labels effusing the sweetest fragrances you can find on the market – usually costing an arm and a leg! Instead of preaching the proper gospel that would enable adherents lead better lives now, and in the after life, they spend a huge amount of time accusing believers of disobeying God by regularly failing to give tithes and offering.

In their exaggerated hoarse and coarse voices, you’ll hear them urging believers grappling with various infirmities, excruciating poverty, lack of employment and in need of marriages or children to keep praying to God for miracles and continue flocking to the mountain to be delivered from their “demonic attack!”

Alas…..whenever these ‘papas’ suffer the slightest flu or pain in the knee, they won’t resort to prayer at all, but rather seek the best medical attention in town! What hypocrisy!

And when their congregants aren’t giving enough tithes and offerings to satisfy their expensive and grandiose appetites, they resort to kowtowing to politicians singing praises of them at the pulpit as long as concerned politicians have done the needful – given them brown envelopes!

We are not here to judge anyone as judgement belongs to our Lord. However, our ‘papas’ are expected to religiously adhere to the ways of Christ….or better still try to follow the example of missionaries – looking after widows and vulnerable children, running medical facilities, conducting soup kitchens and providing skills training to our youths.

Without seemingly speaking from without, we shall now seek to delve into the exploits of Dr Fisher…..a household name in North western province and the rest of Zambia and beyond.

Unlike the present-day ‘papas,’ early Christian missionaries weren’t motivated by the 3 pieces of silver. According to the said book, in 1888, Walter Fisher was a promising surgeon in England at a tender age of 22. Unlike most of his peers who would obviously go on to practice medicine in the comfort of zone of their country, that was not to be for young Fisher. He would soon meet Fred Arnot, a great Scottish pioneer missionary who had seen service in South, Central and West Africa. From him, Dr Fisher would learn of thrilling stories of conditions prevailing in the “dark continent” at the time which would turn his life around for ever.

“The attitude to sickness and death is one of pure superstition. Illness to them can only be caused by evil spirits, who work at the behest of some human enemy. This unknown enemy can be discovered with the help of the ‘witch doctor’ and punished, generally by death.”

This would immediately change the world view of the young doctor. He thus made a decision to travel to Africa to serve the Lord as a missionary – sharing the “Good News” while at the same time using his skills as a medical practitioner to treat mankind of different ailments.

In the book, he shares an harrowing account of a girl abandoned on the dirt floor of a hut with unkempt hair. She had multiple sores on her hands and foot as a result of previous burns. It was obviously clear one had been to check on her for days for fear of being attacked by her evil spirits. In another instance, a patient ill with pneumonia was simply drenched with cold water by the relatives, while another suffering from fever had a pint of blood drawn from his arm by cutting tattoos on him and squeezing some ‘muti’ in them.

The missionary also invested a great amount of time visiting villages trying to convince our people cataracts aren’t the work of the Devil, but a medical condition that could be addressed by a medical procedure or indeed delivering them from total ignorance or utter backwardness!

He shares another account: “The treatment of one witch-doctor surprised me much. Having gathered some leaves, he lay on his back on the ground with a heavy wooden mortar on his chest, while an assistant pounded the leaves. The doctor then mixed the mash with a little water in a calabash, and approached the patient walking backwards, holding the medicine with his hands behind him, and in this way bringing it to the chief’s lips (patient).

What are we trying to say? The Church must go back to the ways of Christ…..preaching the true gospel, encouraging the sick to seek medication, urging our people to work hard if they’re to escape from poverty, and most importantly, looking after widows and vulnerable children. Salute!

Prince Bill M Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

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