Saturday, April 19, 2025

President Hichilema Pardons GBM on Medical Grounds — A Move of Compassion, Not Politics

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President Hichilema Pardons GBM on Medical Grounds — A Move of Compassion, Not Politics

President Hakainde Hichilema has released former Defence Minister Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba (GBM) from prison on medical grounds. GBM is among 13 inmates granted freedom under the presidential prerogative of mercy, a constitutional power that allows the Head of State to pardon or commute sentences based on various factors, including serious health conditions.

But beyond the legalities, this moment reveals something far greater it shows the true character of President Hichilema.

While the opposition rushed to the media, making noise and politicizing GBM’s health for their own gain, the President remained silent and focused. Unknown to many, he had already made his decision. He chose not to announce it prematurely, instead allowing due process to take its course. Like a seasoned and strategic leader, he let his actions speak louder than words, doing what was right, not what was politically convenient.

This release is not just about one man’s medical condition. It’s a message to the nation: that under President Hichilema, Zambia is governed with maturity, compassion, and deep wisdom. This is not the politics of hate, pain, or vengeance that we have become accustomed to. This is leadership that sees beyond party lines, that values human dignity even for those who once stood on the opposite side.

In a political climate often stained by bitterness and noise, the President’s quiet, calculated, and compassionate decision stands tall. The release of GBM, timed to coincide with his recovery, reflects a leadership style rooted in humanity not media pressure, not opposition theatrics.

The opposition, who are quick to speak ill and mislead the public, should take a moment to reflect. While they thrive on creating division and doubt, President Hichilema has proven yet again that real leadership is about unity, foresight, and love for country.

This may not be the last gesture of compassion from the President. And if this act is anything to go by, there’s more to expect from a leader who continues to redefine what it means to govern with heart and intelligence.

37 COMMENTS

    • Yes! After seeing the doom ahead next year, he has decided to play the emotional card on the Bembas. How can they not vote for a Man of compassion??– for political criminals ka? How about releasing my neighbour’s aunt? She suffers from Bi-polar although she was convicted only of theft by public servant.

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  1. I don’t support UPND but on this one you have my kudus you will have nothing to lose and everything to gain by so doing please extend to every politically jailed and we start again as a nation. to be honest I hated you but by so doing you are hailing my heart.

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    • Imwe naimwe
      Economy wise GDP was -2% in 2021, and its now +2% and projected to grow to 6.6%, is that, growing the economy?

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  2. Reminds me of Pilate washing his hands to clear himself from the killing of Jesus Christ. He had the power to release Jesus so he still remained part of the murdering crowd.

  3. Ba LT dont mix News reports with editorials. News is supposed to be reported without the opinions of the writer. Why do you want to influence us with your opinion of this purely political move by HH? If you want to include opinions what about the fact that Nawakwi’s death has made HH scared? Very scared!

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  4. The only time Politicians work together is when they’re looting and wasting tax payers money…behind closed doors Politicians always work together scheming how they can enrich themselves….thousands of Prisoners are very sick….can the President release them on medical grounds?????

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  5. The prerogative of mercy provision can only be evoked once all court processes have been exhausted. GBM has appealed his case so the matter is still active in court. The reason he was behind bars is that he was denied bail which he was entitled to. He has already been tormented. Which law has whoever has released used? What happens to the appeal that’s pending in court? It’s clear that we have vengeful dimwits in charge

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  6. In a political climate often stained by bitterness and noise, the President’s quiet, calculated, and compassionate decision stands tall.-Yaba!!

  7. Bally is fixing but haters are busy ne mingalato yaupuba. Munzako akachita wa chita tiziphunzira kuyamikila munthu akali na umoyo not chabe akafa. God bless our president and open the eyes of that blind opposer, who oppose everything.

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    • Kawana just got tired of denying internet reports that GBM had died-and the rumors that UPND were killing all rivals- so he told his boss to release him

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  8. And i have said it several times…Politicians are very good at creating theatrical scripted moves to deceive gullible followers….when dealing with Politicians nothing happens by chance…its all scripted….lets see how many more Politicians who have been convicted of theft and corruption will suddenly become very sick whilst serving their prison terms….Jail is for the poor

  9. And come 2026 GBM will campaign for UPND and he will be promised a ministerial Post or Diplomatic position….thats how Politicians dribble gullible praise singers

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  10. Let this gesture be extended to all terminally sick prisoners in Zambia as there could be many in that situation but have no one to speak for them.
    I am sure GBM and other politicians have learned a lesson on the importance of integrity in public service. Stay away from abusing public offices.

    • My thoughts as well
      But it wont happen as it’s only for the privaliged
      Us mortals have to dance to their Godly tune
      2026 here we come

  11. He got scared of the backlash after nawakwi died and if GBM also dies then he will lose popularity so he played his card and released GBM so that he can go and die at his home that way HH remains safe out of blame.

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  12. WTF do you people want from the president, don’t worry one day this man will leave office, just like what we did to mwanawasa we always find a way of saying bad things about people ….? Find peace

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  13. WTF do you people want from the president, don’t worry one day this man will leave office, just like what we did to mwanawasa we always find a way of saying bad things about people ….? Find peace

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