Lusaka Times-Zambia's Leading Online News Site - LusakaTimes.com | Keeping you Informed

President Hakainde Hichilema has warned that unrepentant procurement officers frustrating the New Dawn government’s efforts in bettering Zambia will be fired.

President Hakainde Hichilema was responding to various concerns raised by members of the UPND National Votes Protection WhatsApp chat platform on Thursday night.

According to the conversation published by State House Press Analysts – Fredrick Misebezi and Brian Mwiinga, President Hichilema responded to issues ranging from UPND government neglecting party supporters to job creation.

“This year, we are focusing on removing those who do not want to change for better, just watch the next steps. We gave them chance to change to reform but they are resisting. Nothing and nobody will be allowed to stand in the way of change to better lives of Zambians. Kwasila, Kwamana,” Mr. Hichilema responded.

On suggestions that Chawama Member of Parliament Tasila Lungu’s Security Company has a running contract with ZESCO Limited, President Hichilema responded:”Things must be done properly to avoid litigation in some situations.
Thanks.”

One member of the group told the Head of State that UPND members needed contracts to supply goods and services in various sectors but were being prevented by people from the procurement who are just giving contracts to PF.

“More jobs and small businesses are coming as we bring more investments from our marketing efforts and as we continue rebuilding the economy ravaged by PF.Your Government is trying hard to clean the PF mess so we can improve people’s lives.Your Government will support you within what is possible and over time things will continue to get better,” President Hichilema stated.

The Republican President highlighted some of the successes his government has recorded so far.

“Please list the specific benefits you as members of UPND are expecting which are not part of those your Government is delivering. Examples of what your Government is doing include freedom from the PF violence, free education, school desks, more classrooms in schools, teacher’s houses, provision of water and sanitation, more clinics, 30,000 teachers, 11,000 medical staff, payment of retirees, freedom in bus stops/markets to use and to trade in, freedom of speech, employment of DCs and others in government/councils/quasi-government institutions, improved kwacha against dollar, some prices of commodities going down (cement, sugar, cooking oil, mealie meal, soap, fuel, etc), access to increased social cash, women and youth funds in the much increased CDF, availing fertiliser and seed fairly across the country. The list is long of what your Government has done and continues to do (in one year).The IMF programme and restructuring of the huge debt acquired by the PF will bring more relief to the economy and will make it easier for Government to support you the people.When we re-open mining licences soon, we will give you citizens licences to mine on your own or in partnership with others. We are working on a programme to make more land available to you the citizens. Many more benefits are on the way.So please tell your servant, HH, what other things do you want your Government to do for you and we will look at them if they are within reach. What your Government will not do is to distribute stolen money (tantameni, ka ‘somefing’) as PF was doing. The PF corruption destroyed our country and we should not go in that direction,” he wrote.

President Hichilema added:”Soon we will be recruiting more of our citizens in the Police, Army, ZAF, Correctional Services, National Service, etc. As we bring more investments, private companies will also be employing more people. Let us correctly read the positive direction the country is going in.Shouting at your Government everyday and fighting among yourselves is not the way to rebuild a rundown country.”

He told UPND members that they should not expect handouts like it used to happen in the PF regime.

“Some (UPND members) have been recruited as teachers, medical staff, others will be recruited in military, police, etc as I have already said above. But not all can be recruited at the same time. My advice to all members is that let us not destroy that which we worked hard to build. Let us stop abusing each other, let us have respect for each other, let us work as one big family. Mwiinde, you cannot run or manage anything without a system or order, nothing at all. Chipantepante is what led to the PF destruction of our country. Let us not go that way.Any successful country in the world today is run in a methodical and orderly manner, China, Singapore, Malaysia, USA, Norway, etc. In Botswana next door there is order, you poach wild animals you are shot at sight, you steal you are jailed, you are corrupt you go to jail, throwing litter all over is a crime, you beat someone innocent you go to jail, no illegal mining, you are employed because you qualify,” President Hichilema said.

UPND members took the opportunity to express their concerns.

“UPND members we’re still very poor your excellency kulibe vabwino panja pano incase pipo deceives you to say your members are benefiting,” a member lamented.

“Thanks Mr President for your time to chat with us.Some of us we may not physically meet you.My concerns:(1) The gap between party and government must be reviewed knowing that you are the party president and republican president always find time to do politics.(2) Mr President your (our ) supporters expected something so different when in opposition and what is happening now.We need to share the vision to the grassroots.Tantameni has spoiled the minds of Zambian hence we are called a government/party ya KASO let’s find alternatives to make people benefit off course beyond CDF.(3) Mr President the party is not in good form, some are frustrated,some were appointed in government and some lost direction immediately NO caderism was declared.Work on that cause people are being deceived.(4) Mr President those PF caders in government offices are remitting six percent of their salaries to PF and hence the stubbornness you see.Please change the system or else it will change you.Mr President it’s my sincere hope that this message will reach you,” another member wrote.

President Hakainde Hichilema sets perfect example for economic recovery in Africa

Economy

Chief Editor

September 23, 2022

President Hakainde Hichilema sets perfect example for economic recovery in Africa

Zambia has made substantial strides in driving macroeconomic recovery from a challenging economic situation compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic

President Hichilema’s plan for kickstarting the economic recovery in Zambia included taming inflation, job creation for the youth, restoring the confidence of international investors and addressing external debt.

Hakainde Hichilema has guided Zambia towards economic recovery and stability since taking office in August last year.
COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, high debt portfolio and other headwinds decimated Zambia’s economy in 2021 to less than 3% of GDP.
The proven stability approach sets an example for other African nations looking to bounce back from a raft of economic and inflationary pressures.

The dawn of hope for Zambia

When Hakainde Hichilema got elected as President of Zambia, the country was in economic turmoil. Zambia has faced massive economic challenges as one of the world’s most indebted countries. In 2020, the nation became the first one to default on its sovereign debt, with the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbating the impact

Well aware of the assignment before him, Hichilema unveiled several economic policies to solve the deep-rooted economic challenges of the mineral-rich country. Zambia, Africa’s second-largest producer of copper, has struggled as the price of copper, the country’s main export, fell amid the crippling impact of its debts.

President Hichilema’s plan for kickstarting the economic recovery included taming inflation, job creation for the Zambian youth, restoring the confidence of international investors and addressing external debt. Hichilema remained committed to improving Zambia’s system of education. This way, every young Zambian has an opportunity for government assistance to embark on a productive career. This enables them can make a decent living to provide for their families and contribute to the growth of the Zambian economy.

Zambian citizens were hopeful that the longstanding business tycoon and opposition leader would usher them into a new period of economic recovery and prosperity. Neighbouring African nations closely watched Zambia’s transition hoping for better diplomatic and economic relations.

The road to economic recovery in Zambia

Many people have watched Zambia’s economic performance in the last year. Many have wondered how the country’s economy has managed to shine in areas where almost every nation in the world has struggled.

COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, high debt portfolio and other headwinds decimated Zambia’s economy in 2021 to less than 3% of GDP. This represented a low from 4.9% in 2020 and another 4.0% in 2018.

According to Zambia’s Policy Monitoring and Research Centre, the current leader has overseen a raft of fiscal and monetary measures toward economic recovery.

After taking over the government’s reign, President pledged to implement a robust reform program. The program would reestablish macroeconomic stability and promote a private sector-led economic recovery. The government prioritized social sector spending in line with these reforms.

The President also set Zambia towards improved transparency in debt management and reporting. This was a clear commitment to increasing budget credibility, which remains essential to restoring fiscal sustainability. Consequently, Zambia has made substantial strides in driving macroeconomic recovery from a challenging economic situation compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Addressing inflation in Zambia

Various African countries, including Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, have failed to tame rising inflation and plummeting currencies. However, Hichilema’s government has managed to reduce Zambia’s inflation from 24.4% in August 2021 to 9.7% in June 2022.

Part of President Hichilema’s vision was to quadruple Zambia’s growth through agriculture and upscaling production in all economic spheres. In keeping with the promise to support agriculture, President Hichilema’s government abolished 5% customs on chicken and cattle breeding imports. The government also offered technological and monetary incentives to farmers.

Further, Hichilema’s administration provided a market for various crops and other commodities to reduce post-harvest losses. Moreover, the government also sought to encourage commercial banks to offer low-cost credit to farmers to foster productivity.

These policies have led to a sustained fall in food prices. Notably, the prices fell from 12% in July to 11.3% in August. Consumer prices have also remained steady in the last year. However, challenges persist in Zambia’s mining sector, which accounts for up to 10% of the country’s GDP.

During a meeting in November last year, Zambia’s monetary policy committee boldly raised the monetary policy rate to 9%. This rate, equivalent to 50 basis points, has since remained unchanged.

The government under Hakainde Hichilema had the ultimate target of inflation reduction to between 6% and 8% by June 2023. The monetary committee has since revised this goal to the first quarter of 2024. Nevertheless, Zambia’s inflation rate has decreased as the growth in food costs eases.

Achieving currency stability through debt restructuring

Zambia has dealt with the legacy of years of economic mismanagement, with an especially inefficient public investment drive. Zambia has been in debt distress. Therefore, the country needed a deep and comprehensive debt treatment to place public debt on a sustainable path.Zambia’s bilateral creditors, including France, the UK and China, agreed on July 30 to provide the financing assurances that Africa’s first pandemic-era sovereign defaulter needed to secure a final economic bailout.

After months of negotiations, Zambia agreed with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to restructure its debt. On August 31, 2022, the IMF approved a $1.3bn loan to Zambia. This was in addition to another $1.3 billion special drawing rights apportionment from the fund it received in August 2021.

The bailout package has helped contain the rising prices due to supply-chain disruptions emanating from the war in Ukraine and the ravages caused by the covid-19 pandemic. This has seen Zambia’s national currency, the Kwacha, strengthen against the US dollar. Consequently, the Zambian kwacha is the best-performing currency in the world, rallying over 18.5% from January to September this year.

When he initially took office about a year ago, Zambia’s current leader was mocked by critics. Many dubbed him “the calculator lad” because of his strong emphasis on the economy and career as an accountant.

Looking back, it is clear that Zambia needed these abilities to get out of the economic quagmire it was in at the time. Hakainde Hichilema has guided Zambia towards economic recovery and stability since taking office in August last year. The proven stability approach sets an example for other African nations looking to bounce back from a raft of economic and inflationary pressures.

Source: The Exchange

President Hakainde Hichilema concludes UN mission

Headlines

Chief Editor

September 23, 2022

President Hakainde Hichilema concludes UN mission

President Hakainde Hichilema has concluded his attendance of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

During his visit, the President addressed the United Nations General Assembly, held bilateral talks with various political and business leaders and engaged companies and partners that are considering investing in Zambia.

President Hichilema highlighted progress made during the first year in Office citing free education for all Zambian children and achieving strong macro-economic stability despite strong global economic pressures.

The President emphasized that Zambia will continue to position itself as a top investment destination on the African Continent.

Among those engaged were UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres,IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva ,President of the World Bank David Malpass and USAID Administrator Samantha Power.

The President is confident that the engagements will ensure widespread support for Zambia’s current reform agenda and help Government deliver on its vision of a better future for all Zambians.

Anyone Found Practicing Or Promoting Homosexuality Will Be Liable For Presecution – Mwiimbu

Headlines

Chief Editor

September 23, 2022

Anyone Found Practicing Or Promoting Homosexuality Will Be Liable For Presecution – Mwiimbu

Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security says his Ministry is working in close collaboration with the Zambia Police Service in addressing issues pertaining to the rising homosexuality acts in the country.

In a ministerial statement read in the National Assembly, the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwimbu mentioned that Zambia is a Christian nation whose governance is anchored on Christian values and morals.

“The government stands firm that Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBTQ) practice is illegal in Zambia,” Mr Mwimbu stated

Mwimbu disclosed that the Zambia Police Service have so far recorded a total number of 18 cases of sodomy country wide as from the 1st of January 2022 to the 20th of September 2022.

He added that Lusaka province has recorded seven (7) cases of sodomy with five (5) arrests made and two (2) are under investigation, and on the Copperbelt seven (7) cases have been recorded, with six (6) arrests and one (1) case still under investigation, while Muchinga province has recorded one (1) case and one (1) arrest.

Mr Mwiimbu further added that the Tazara division in Mpika recorded one (1) case and with one (1) person arrested, which resulted in a conviction and sentencing to seven (7) years imprisonment with hard labour, while Eastern and Western provinces recorded one (1) case and one (1) arrest each respectively.

“And currently the Police are investigating four (4) suspects, two (2) of which are from Lusaka one (1) from the Copperbelt and one (1) from Western province,” Mr Mwiimbu revealed

The Minister has since warned that anyone found practicing and promoting any unnatural offences shall be liable to prosecution in the court of laws.

Mr Mwimbu reaffirmed the government’s position on the need for citizens to uphold the moral values and principles of society in line with the declaration of Zambia as a Christian nation.

And stating firmly the government’s stance on the recent controversial Lusaka July event which was characterized by homosexuality expressions and the recent cases of sodomy recorded in the country, Mr Mwiimbu disclosed in Parliament that any acts of homosexuality will not be condoned in the country.

Mr Mwiimbu noted that the government did not sponsor the Lusaka July event as purported in some sections of the media, but merely participated in the launch after the organizers asked the Ministry of Tourism and Arts to partner with them to market the event as a fashion show, with the aim to promote fashion tourism.

The Minister cited that in accordance with the law, homosexuality is a criminal activity that should be treated as such, adding that the government will ensure that such behavior and conduct are prevented to ensure national morals and values are adhered to.

Mr Mwiimbu described the acts of sodomy as a criminal act that has the potential to destroy the country’s moral fiber hence, the need for leaders across political, religious and community divide to work at rooting out this vice, and morals of the country are not eroded.

He further urged the public to desist and be careful when passing comments on the issues surrounding the LGBTQ rights as it has international ramifications.

Mr Mwiimbu explained that President Hakainde Hichilema has on many occasions made pronouncements on this matter, that the government does not and will not accept any acts of homosexuality.

The Minister stated that the issue of homosexuality should not be trivialized by bringing in political connotations, as he has heard of mischievous leaders who have been stating that the United Party for National Development (UPND) has not been condemning the acts of homosexuality, when it has been done on several occasions.

“We have made commitments that this country will not condone homosexuality,” Mr Mwiimbu said

Statement made by the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security is Malicious- Emmanuel Mwamba

General News

Chief Editor

September 23, 2022

Statement made by the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security is Malicious- Emmanuel Mwamba

Patriotic Front Deputy Chairperson Information and Publicity Emmanuel Mwamba has expressed dismay over the statement made by the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu that the government has unearthed a ploy in which some political parties, media houses, individuals, and pressure groups are sponsoring sporadic incidences of men and boys being sodomized by force.

At a press briefing held yesterday, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu mentioned that the government is aware that there is a long-term organized scheme to introduce gayism in Zambia’s culture and some political parties have brought some foreign nationals to organize and train the LGBTQ community to champion the homosexuality agenda.

The Minister added that this is a ploy carefully couched to induce negative sentiments on the Zambian human rights record for the donor community to be compelled to withhold aid.

Mr Mwiimbu stated that the motivation behind this scheme is to expose the government to social and economic challenges and to incite people to rise against a legitimate government.

But Emmanuel Mwamba who is also the Patriotic Front Member of the Central Committee cited that the claims made by Mr Mwiimbu as shocking because he merely repeated the earlier United Party for National Development (UPND) propaganda claims that an Opposition plot existed to make Zambia ungovernable.

Mr Mwamba mentioned that Mr Mwiimbu also repeated the false assertions that there is a scheme, using the so-called gay agenda, to threaten President Hakainde Hichilema’s government standing with cooperating partners and donor community so as to prevent them from extending to Zambia loans and grants that have been pledged so far.

“It is rather shocking that the UPND can conjure up conspiracy theories just to attempt to injure Opposition leaders and other stakeholders,” Mr Mwamba said

“This has now been affirmed by the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security that the UPND/New Dawn Government are engaged in carrying out a similar scheme against the Opposition as was seen in the Black Mamba Plot of the 1990s,” he said

Speaking on behalf of the Patriotic Front, Mr Mwamba categorically stated that as an Opposition party, they are engaged in a democratic process of checks and balances as they did while in opposition, in government and now in the opposition again.

“We also note that Hon. Mwiimbu made Emmanuel Mwamba a subject of his press conference,” Mr Mwamba said

And Mr Mwamba made reference to the inaction by the Zambia Police that has failed to stop cases of homosexuality and its promotion in Zambia, stating that there have been publicized meetings of gay activists held in Siavonga, Lusaka and Livingstone and the Police have done nothing.

He added that it is public knowledge that there is a coordinated campaign to decriminalize homosexuality in Zambia and certain NGOs have been engaged by some cooperating partners in promoting this advocacy as shown by details of their meetings.

“We are also shocked by the declaration by Hon. Mwiimbu that his government found nothing wrong with the Lusaka July that was recently held at the Lusaka Showgrounds, although some activities of the Lusaka July have alarmed and outraged most Zambians, Hon. Mwiimbu says they saw nothing wrong, asserting that in their understanding, this was a mere fashion show and his government found nothing wrong,” he stated

“Reports that men were wearing female dresses and make-up, and men were kissing men, according to him, doesn’t not constitute homosexuality as nothing against the order of nature has been violated,” he added

Mr Mwamba cited that such a statement coming from a lawyer and a Minister of Home Affairs, is very careless and rather irresponsible, as it has the potential to encourage abnormal behaviour as seen at the Lusaka July and regard them as normal, which will violate public morals and laws against homosexuality.

“We wish to emphasize that the rise in crimes, robberies, murders, and recently sexual crimes against boys and men is alarming and requires strong action from the Police and other Law Enforcement Agencies and must immediately be arrested,” Mr Mwamba stated

“We have noted that Government is engaged in blame game, shifting responsibilities and failing to attend to crises besetting the country, and this matter is one of them,” Mr Mwamba added

Mr Mwamba mentioned that it is imperative that the government leaders reject homosexuality and its promotion in all its forms and not pass the blame to the Opposition as for example, they have done with the fight against corruption.

Chipolopolo Suffers Mwepu and Patson Setback For Mali Friendlies

Sports

sports

September 23, 2022

Leicester City striker Patson Daka and Brighton midfielder Enock Mwepu are out of this weekend’s two friendlies against hosts Mali in Bamako.

FAZ General Secretary said in a statement released on Friday that the England-based duo has withdrawn from the friendly to Mali due to medical reasons.

Patson and Chipolopolo captain Mwepu have been training with the team since it arrived in Bamako on Tuesday.

And Kashala disclosed that goalkeeper Toaster Nsabata will miss Friday’s opening game against Mali as he continues to recover from a knee injury he sustained at his South African club Sekhukhune United over two weeks ago.

The Chipolopolo technical bench is banking on their first-choice goalkeeper recovering in time for Zambia’s final friendly against Mali on September 26.

Friday’s opening friendly match will kick off at 21h00 Zambian time.

LGBTQ Debate: Of Hypocrites, Philanderers & Slanderers!

Columns

Chief Editor

September 23, 2022

LGBTQ Debate: Of Hypocrites, Philanderers & Slanderers!

By Prince Bill M. Kaping’a Political/Social Analyst

The other day, a senior Catholic cleric issued a stinging attack on President Hichilema, accusing him of playing a blind eye to the burning issue of homosexuality in the nation!

“In the last 12 years, we have witnessed an increase in the number of incidents and events that promote LGBTQ tendencies contrary to the laws of Zambia and our Zambian culture. Additionally, there has been an increase in the number of incidents of sodomy where boys and men are raped by fellow boys and men with impunity,” he speculated.

The Bishop further expressed concern at the hosting of an event dubbed Lusaka July where pictures and videos emerged showing attendants double dressing in attires of the opposite sex and appearing to promote LGBTQ behaviour.

Curiously, a catholic priest, who is expected to be a paragon of good morals in society, is reported to have died in the bosoms of his girl friend in Ndola during the same time. Efforts to cover up this unholy union proved futile as the information had already leaked and spread like wild fire!

Isn’t it therefore hypocritical for the Bishop to rush into picking a speck in the eyes of the president, and conviniently choosing to neglect the log that has remained embedded in the eyes of the Catholic Church over the years – inter alia, sodomy, fornication and adultery, involving some very senior priests for that matter! What has the Church done about it?

If we may add salt to injury, did the Lusaka July begin last year or way before UPND formed government? Why then does the good Bishop want to drag an innocent soul all the way to Golgotha and crucify him?

Thank God, Bishop John Mambo has joined the fray and added his voice to the debate as reasonable as possible. He writes, “Like many other Churches that are grappling with sin, the Catholic Church has challenges that the Pope himself has acknowledged and in some cases has apologized to entire indigenous and vulnerable communities and victims, without looking for a president to blame!”

Interestingly, a medical Doctor who has no time keeping himself busy in the wards but rather jumping at every opportunity to entangle himself in protests of one sort or another, has written to the police informing them of his intentions to march to State House to present a petition to the president about what he deems to be the spiralling ugodly sexual acts in the nation – a so called Christian nation!

However, records will show that the president has on umpteenth times unequivocally clarified the position of the New Dawn Administration on this matter. How many times do you want the man to state his position on this matter? Do you want him to abdicate his other responsibilities and concentrate on tackling homosexuality? How do you even go about addessing this problem when it’s actually perpetrated behind the closed doors?

Although she has somehow been slow to respond, it’s gratifying that Information Minister and Chief Gvernment Spokesperson Chushi Kasanda has finally come out it in the open and reaffirmed that Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender practice remains illegal in Zambia. What more do you expect government to do?

Stop being hypocrites and slanderers when you are actually philanderers yourselves!

Persons living with disabilities advised to utilize govt’s empowerment opportunities

Rural News

Chief Editor

September 23, 2022

Persons living with disabilities advised to utilize govt’s empowerment opportunities

The government has advised persons living with disabilities to ensure that they benefit from its various empowerment funds if they are to contribute meaningfully to development.

Provincial Cooperatives Officer Benjamin Mvula says the government is aware of the challenges facing the vulnerable in society hence it has created empowerment opportunities among them being the Constituency development fund ( CDF ) and the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission ( CEEC ) grants.

He was speaking when he handed over certificates to Persons Living with Disabilities and Albinism who have successfully completed a training in Farmers Business Simulation sponsored by the German Corporation in Choma.

The Provincial Cooperatives Officer has since urged Persons Living with Disabilities and Albinism to apply for empowerment funds adding that this will not only boost their household income but also enable them to contribute to job creation.

Speaking at the same event, Kezia Mwiinga, a Trainer , explained that the training in Agri-business and financial management, among others, is meant to build the capacity of marginalised groups in order to promote , and ensure prudent use of empowerment funds.

Ms. Mwiinga noted that some Persons living with Albinism have been lured into ritual attacks due to poverty, adding that economic empowerment therefore plays an important role in promoting their safety.

Meanwhile beneficiaries of the training have expressed gratitude for the knowledge received.

And Beene Mukulumwa, a person living with disability, says she has learnt how to keep financial records and that her clothing business should produce her salary.

Her counterpart, Prisca Masibinta, says with the knowledge imparted in her, she will apply for funds under C.D.F to boost her business of buying groceries for exchange with maize in rural areas of Choma.

Amos Chanda and Zindaba Soko Re-Arrested on corruption charges

Headlines

Chief Editor

September 23, 2022

Amos Chanda and Zindaba Soko Re-Arrested on corruption charges

The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) through its Anti-Money Laundering Investigations Unit (AMLIU) has re-arrested former Presidential Press Aide Amos Chanda and former Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) boss Zindaba Soko on corruption charges following a nolle prosequi that was entered by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in 2020.

In May, 2020, the State entered a nolle prosequi in a case where Mr. Chanda and two others were dragged to court on allegations of corrupt practices.

DEC on Thursday announced that it had re-arrested the two for Corrupt Practices by a Public Officer Contrary to Section 19 (1) as read with Section 29 (1) of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012 and Money Laundering Contrary to Section 7 of Prohibition and Prevention of the Money Laundering Act No. 14 of 2001 as amended by Act 44 of 2010.

DEC Public Relations Officer Mathias Kamanga said Mr. Chanda and Mr. Soko are currently on Police bond and will appear in court soon.

“The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) through its Anti-Money Laundering Investigations Unit (AMLIU) has re-arrested Amos Chanda and Zindaba Soko following a nolle prosequi that was entered by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in 2020.The Commission has re-arrested Amos Chanda the former Presidential Press Aide of House No. 67 ELM Road, Woodlands and Zindaba Soko the former Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) Director of Plot No. 15345M Libala South for Corrupt Practices by a Public Officer Contrary to Section 19 (1) as read with Section 29 (1) of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012 and Money Laundering Contrary to Section 7 of Prohibition and Prevention of the Money Laundering Act No. 14 of 2001 as amended by Act 44 of 2010,” Mr. Kamanga said.

“Details of the matter are that between 1st August 2017 and 31st May 2019 the duo being public officers engaged in corrupt practices in which Mr. Amos Chanda was paid a total of $106,000.00 while Mr. Zindaba Soko was paid a total of $110,000.00 in their personal accounts as gratification by Mr. Walid El Nahas, Director of Intelligent Mobility Solutions LTD (IMS) for the award of a concession agreement for the provision of advanced Road Safety Management Solutions and Services through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) awarded by the RTSA to IMS Ltd. The two have since been charged for money laundering involving the respective amount each received,” he added.

This matter in which the state had entered a nolle had undisclosed reasons had Walid El Nahas, the former director of Intelligence Mobility Solutions (IMS) jointly charged with Mr. Chanda, and former Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) chief executive officer Zindaba Soko on allegations of corrupt practices and being in possession of 21,000 USD.

When the matter came up in May 2020 state prosecutor Sipholiano Phiri told Chief Resident Magistrate Lameck Mwale that the state was discontuing the matter against all three accused persons through a nolle prosequi.

“The matter was scheduled for continuation of trial. However, the court was informed that the state has discontinued the matter against the accused persons through a nolle prosequi. We are most obliged,” Phiri said at the time.

Chanda who had maintained a low profile since his resignation as State House Press Attache when contacted for a comment expressed relief.

And when asked on what next Mr. Chanda laughed away and would not give a response.

Mr. Chanda resigned as State House Spokesperson on June 6th, 2019 stating that he was considering pursuing other political careers.

His resignation came as a shock to many who speculated on reasons for his resignation.

On November 14th 2019 the Drug Enforcement Commission arrested Mr. Chanda and charged him with corrupt practices by public officer and receiving property suspected to be proceeds of crime all of which the state has today entered into a nolle

Meanwhile, Mr. Kamanga said has arrested a 31 year old man of Chilenje South in Lusaka for Theft Contrary to Section 272 of the Penal Code Act.

“In another incident, the Commission through its Anti-Money Laundering Investigations Unit (AMLIU) has arrested Vincent Sakala, a male aged 31 years of Chilenje South for Theft Contrary to Section 272 of the Penal Code Act, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia and Money Laundering Contrary to Section 7 of the Prohibition and Prevention of the Money Laundering Act No. 14 of 2001 as amended by Act 44 of 2010.Details of the matter are that Vincent Sakala, an Accountant at ZSIC Life Insurance, on dates unknown but between 1st January 2021 and 31st December 2021, jointly and whilst acting together with other persons unknown, did steal funds amounting to K999, 126.57 property of Z Village Banking Scheme, a village banking group of ZSIC Life Insurance employees in his capacity as Group Treasurer.The suspects are currently on Police bond and will appear in court soon,” Mr. Kamanga said.

21 Nsama accident victims buried

Economy

Support Editor

September 22, 2022

The 21 Nsama road traffic accident victims have been put to rest at Chakanga cemetery in Nsama district, Northern province.

Acting President Mutale Nalumango has called on the Road Transport and Safety agency (RTSA) and the traffic department under the Zambia police to ensure that motorists adhere to traffic laws, in order to avoid any further loss of lives caused by human error.

Mrs. Nalumango who was speaking during the funeral service of the 21 United Church of Zambia (UCZ) members who met their fate in Nsama district earlier this week, said the government is concerned with the increased spate of accidents in the country, which are mostly caused as a result of human error.

She explained that the poor state of some roads is not the only cause of accidents, adding that human factor remains the major cause of accidents.

The Acting President noted that this can be avoided if all road users prioritise road safety.

Mrs. Nalumango revealed that the government will continue to provide support to the bereaved families and the survivors who are in hospital, in order to lessen their burden.

“What the Nsumbu community experienced this week is a shock and disaster that has affected the entire nation, on behalf of the President and the entire nation, I bring our heartfelt condolences to all mourners and families.” she said.

Mrs. Nalumango encouraged all mourners and families to seek the strength and comfort of God, as they pass through this difficult and sad time.

Northern Province Minister Leonard Mbao said the tragedy is a loss not just to the church but the nation at large.

Mr. Mbao said the provincial leadership and nation is aggrieved by the loss of the women and wished the survivors a quick recovery.

“The deaths came as a shock to the provincial leadership, however I would like to thank the government for the swift response to this disaster and also for providing specialised medical attention to the survivors,” he said.

Meanwhile UCZ, Northern Presbytery Bishop Maybin Mulenga said the loss of the members is one of the saddest in the history of the church.

Bishop Mulenga said the entire leadership of the UCZ was saddened over the loss of the members, but remains comforted that they died in service of the lord.

Thousands of mourners from all walks of life, including several senior government officials, church representatives and traditional leaders attended the funeral service and mass burial at Chakanga cemetery in Nsama district.

The women who died at chaushi hill in Nsama district were part of the 58 who had travelled to Munwa to attend an annual church conference.

27 survived the accident, with four evacuated to the University Teaching Hospital, in Lusaka, while eight have since been discharged.

Chipolopolo Try To Focus on Mali Amidst Aljosa’s Absence

Sports

sports

September 22, 2022

Chipolopolo Try To Focus on Mali Amidst Aljosa’s Absence

Chipolopolo Zambia on Friday returns to action to play one of the few opponents they have never lost to.

Mali hosts Chipolopolo in Bamako on September 23 in the first of two friendly games against each other this weekend.

This is the Chipolopolo A team’s first match since beating Comoros 2-1 at home in Lusaka last June in a 2023 AFCON group stage qualifier.

But the buildup to the doubleheader has been a turbulent one after Chipolopolo coach Aljosa Asanovic boycotted his return to Zambia to prepare for the Mali trip.

Asanovic has stayed put at his home base in Croatia citing a dispute with FAZ.

However, FAZ said The Croat has been AWOL for the last month since failing to qualify Zambia for the 2023 CHAN tournament on July 30 when Mozambique beat Chipolopolo B 1-0 in Lusaka to knock them out by the same aggregate score line.

Chipolopolo assistant coach Moses Sichone will be in interim charge of the two friendlies on September 23 and 26.

Meanwhile, Chipolopolo head into Friday with a good record over Mali.

Zambia has two wins and as many draws against Mali.

But Zambia heads into the game with two major doubts.

Leicester City striker Patson Daka and Power Dynamos midfielder Joshua Mutale are feeling under the weather with fevers and are likely to sit out Friday’s game.

Zambia To Face Holland in Women’s International Friendly

Sports

sports

September 22, 2022

Zambia To Face Holland in Women’s International Friendly

Shepolopolo Zambia has secured a big women’s international friendly date against Holland.

FAZ confirmed that the 2022 COSAFA Women’s Cup champions will face The Dutch away early next month.

Holland is number four in the World while Zambia is 80.

“The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) wishes to announce that it has jointly organized an international friendly match with the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) between the Orange Lionesses and the Copper Queens on October 6 in Breda,” FAZ spokesperson Sydney Mungala said in a statement.

This will be Shepolopolo’s first-ever international match in Europe but Zambia’s second against a European opponent.

Holland is Zambia’s only other European opponent at senior level after they met at the delayed 2020 Olympic games in Japan in July 2021.

The Dutch beat Zambia 10-3 in an opening Group F match.

Zambia and Holland are using the date to prepare for their 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup outing that Australia and New Zealand will jointly host from July 20- August 20.

Shepolopolo will be making their FIFA Women’s World Cup debut together with three other 2022 Women’s AFCON semifinals.

Nigeria, runners-up and hosts Morocco and WAFCON champions South Africa are Africa’s other FIFA Women’s World Cup representatives.

Stakeholders call for the discarding of negative cultural norms such as subservice

Rural News

Chief Editor

September 22, 2022

Stakeholders call for the discarding of negative cultural norms such as subservice

ANTI Gender Based Violence (GBV) stakeholders in Kalomo have called for doing away with some negative cultural norms which they say contribute to the inter-generational cycle of abuse in communities.

Southern province Anti GBV coordinator, Derrick Sialondwe says there is an immediate need to do away with cultural trends, such as subservience, which increases inter-generational abuse at the community level.

Mr Sialondwe observes that the issue of teenage pregnancies and child marriages are rife in the province, as a result of the negative cultural norms.

Speaking during the on-going multi-disciplinary GBV week long training workshop at Kalomo’s Pazuri lodge, Monday, Mr Sialondwe urged anti GBV activists in the country to ensure that tenets of the GBV Act No. 1 of 2011 are enforced.

He further states that violence against children result in severe often lifelong negative outcomes.

“Cultural and gender norms critically influence society and there is need to do away with harmful ones,” prodded Southern province Anti GBV coordinator, Derrick Sialondwe.

He observes that the issue of teenage pregnancies and child marriages are rife in the province and urged anti GBV activists to ensure that tenets of the GBV Act No. 1 of 2011 are enforced. He further states that violence against children result in severe often lifelong negative outcomes.

The province has only five, One GBV stop centers but currently do not have a safe house to keep survivors before there are integrated back to their communities.

Gender based violence involves on physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, social, economic and spiritually abuses.

And the meeting welcomed the introduction of the new Police medical examination report forms which now allows other medical personnel to sign other than a medical doctor.

The new police medical examination report form 32B , now permits even nurses, clinical officers, medical licentiate to write down their findings on survivors, a duty previously reserved to doctors only.

The training workshop was called to enhance the understanding and intricacies of GBV issues with participants drawn from Kabwe, Mongu and Kalomo.

It is organized by the Zambia Centre for Communications Programme (ZCCP).

Procurement officers urged to uphold best practices

General News

Chief Editor

September 22, 2022

Procurement officers urged to uphold best practices

Eastern Province Permanent Secretary, Paul Thole, has implored public procurement officers to uphold best practices and stop inflating prices when procuring goods and services.

Mr. Thole notes that procurement officers must exercise patriotism in their work as it is the fundamental principle to curb the pilfering of public resources in the procurement system.

He has advised that procurement and supply professionals are required to desist from inflating prices so that public resources benefit a greater population of the country.

ZANIS reports that Mr. Thole said this yesterday in Lumezi District, after touring the World Bank financed projects implemented through the Zambia Integrated Forest Landscape Project (ZIFLP).

“Over procurement is a fact. My appeal to the procurement profession is to love their country and be reasonable in procuring goods and services so that we develop a larger portion of our country,” he said.

The inspected projects include three medium cost staff houses under construction and one communication room at Roan Camp estimated at a cost of K5.2 million as well as another three medium cost staff houses and one communication room at Kalindi Camp, costing about K5.9 million.

The named projects are being implemented under ZIFLP to enhance the capacity in the operations of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife.

Mr. Thole also inspected the Chipuka main gate ZIFLP project at Luambe National Park costing over K1 million.

He emphasised that the call by President Hakainde Hichilema is for citizens to protect public resources and exhibit firm ownership of projects.

“The truth of the matter is that the President says these projects are for Zambians, regardless of the sponsor people must own these projects,” he stated.

And Eastern Province Infrastructure Officer, Wilson Chifwima, indicated that the construction works for the projects which are at 97 percent are satisfactory, with minor works remaining before they are handed over to government.

He commended the local contractors for discharging the obligations according to what the contracts stated.

Meanwhile, Lumezi District Commissioner, Jimmy Phiri, is pleased that the completion of the projects will address housing accommodation challenges for officers, preserve wildlife and improve revenue collection for the department of national parks.

Government pledges investigations into Kapapula’s gruesome murder

Headlines

Chief Editor

September 22, 2022

Government pledges investigations into Kapapula’s gruesome murder

The government has said that it will do everything possible to find those responsible for the death of Mwense Council Chairperson Humphrey Kapapula. Luapula Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Royd Mwansa says the government is saddened by the untimely death of the Mwense Council Chairperson adding that it will do its level best to bring those culprits to book.

Speaking when he visited the funeral house for the late Council Chairperson, Mr. Mwansa said death of such nature will not be condoned in the country.

“ It is unacceptable for the country to continue losing lives of its citizens in unclear circumstances, “ he said.

And Mwense District Commissioner Happyton Mwape says it is shocking that the people of Mwense have lent of the death of the council chairperson.

Mr Mwape explained that he received a call around 04 hours today informing him about the death of the Council Chairperson and that upon arrival at scene, he found the body of the late Council Chairperson lying in pool of blood eight bruises on the body.

Meanwhile, Mrs Susan Kaula , mother of the deceased, says the family is in deep shock after learning of the untimely death of the deceased whom she described as being in good health prior to his death.

Mrs. Kalula explains that as a family they are looking up to government to help them find justice for their late son who has died in unclear circumstances.

The body of the late Council Chairperson for Mwense Mr. Humphrey Kapapula was found in a pool of blood in the early hours of today in an unexplained circumstances.

Police in the area have since commenced investigations.

And Zambia Police has issued the following statement concerning the murder

Mwense Police Station today the September 22, 2022 at 06:10 hours received a report from M/Chabala Win Chongo aged 49 of Shichama village of Kashiba Chiefdom in Mwense district who reported through a phone call that he had found a dead body of a male person lying near a Mazda BT 50 Twin Cab Registration number BAA 5474, metallic grey in colour.

It was found along the gravel road heading to Nyembe Kaoma Farm about 300 meters off Mwense/Mansa road and about 150 meters from the farm.

Police rushed to the scene and confirmed the incident. The deceased has been identified as M/Humphrey Kapapula aged 48 of Mwense who was the Council Chairperson for Mwense Town Council. He was found lying on the ground near the rear right door which was open.

He was lying half naked with the trousers and pant on knee level. On physical examination, the body was found with a small cut on the left eye, bleeding from the penis and bruises on the forehead.

The Body has been deposited in Mwense District Hospital Mortuary awaiting post-mortem to ascertain the actual cause of death.
Police have instituted investigations into the matter.

Rae Hamoonga
ZAMBIA POLICE SERVICE
SPOKESPERSON

1...834835836...5,962 Page 835 of 5,962

Contact
Privacy Policy

Lusaka Times - Keeping you informed

Company

About
Contact Us
Send Pictures
Comments Policy
Privacy Policy
To Advertise

I've read and accept the Privacy Policy.

.st0{fill:#FFFFFF;} .st1{fill:#E52E2E;}

.st0{fill:#FFFFFF;} .st1{fill:#E52E2E;}

.st0{fill:#FFFFFF;} .st1{fill:#E52E2E;}

Hot topics

Finance

Marketing

Politics

Strategy

.st0{fill:#FFFFFF;} .st1{fill:#E52E2E;}

Hot topics

Finance

Marketing

Politics

Strategy

.st0{fill:#FFFFFF;} .st1{fill:#E52E2E;}

Company

Headlines

Newsletter