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Experience the magic of love and laughter in “He’s Not Ready,” premiering in theatres nationwide along with Namibia, Zambia and Botswana on June 28,2024.
Beyond the Eyes Network is thrilled to announce the release of the highly anticipated romantic comedy, “He’s Not Ready”; directed by the multi-talented Tebogo Mogale. Starring Motsoaledi Setumo, Botho Molahloe, and
Patrick Bokaba, this captivating film explores the humorous and heartfelt journey of a man facing the ultimate relationship ultimatum.
Synopsis: Risk Analyst Thabo Mafokoane finds himself at a crossroads when his long-time girlfriend Zonke demands marriage or a breakup. Determined to find his path, Thabo embarks on a soul-searching journey, navigating advice from family and friends while confronting his own fears and desires. As he faces the challenge of becoming “marriage fit” Thabo’s quest is filled with laughter, love, and poignant moments, culminating in a profound realization about readiness and commitment.
Stellar Cast:
Motsoaledi Setumo as Zonke, known for her roles in “Generations: The Legacy”, “The Queen”, “The Wife” and recently “The Soweto Love Story”
Botho Molahloe as Thabo, celebrated for his performances in “The River” and “Saints and Sinners” and many of our tv adverts
Patrick Bokaba as Advocate Bopape, famous for “Skeem Saam”
Sello Sebotsane, Mpho “Popps” Modikoane, Seipati Ditsoane, Don Mosenye, Pumla Ndazi of Women King and many more.
We are also introducing many new faces like Donachcha Danster, Bongani
Masango, Khanyisa Ntsomi and Mpuleh Matlhola.
About the Director: Tebogo Mogale, an accomplished writer, director, and producer, brings over a decade of industry experience to this project. With a background in financial management and film, Mogale’s versatile storytelling is evident in his previous works such as “Love by Design” and his work on the comedy sketches on the “Popcorn & Cheese” podcast on the MacG Youtube Network. He co-founded Beyond The Eyes Network with Sammy Rabolele as two young people and they have created a home for creatives for many more.
The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia Chapter has commended the Government through the Ministry of Information and Media for signing Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 35 of 2024, which operationalises the Access To Information (ATI) Law.
MISA-Zambia Chairperson, Lorraine Chisanga, says the move is a momentous development marking a significant step towards promoting transparency, accountability and good governance in the country.
Ms Chisanga adds that with the ATI Law now in effect, citizens are empowered to access vital information on matters of public interest, fostering an environment where informed decision-making and civic participation are not only encouraged but also implemented.
“MISA Zambia and its partners have long advocated for the enactment and implementation of an ATI law as a crucial pillar for democracy and sustainable development,” she says.
Ms Chisanga stated that the operationalisation of the ATI law signifies the government’s commitment to upholding the fundamental right to information, which is essential for the realisation of other human rights and freedoms.
“For MISA Zambia, the operationalisation of the ATI Law will among other benefits, ensure that governmental actions are open to scrutiny, thereby reducing opportunities for corruption and mismanagement of public resources, allow citizens to meaningfully participate in governance processes and hold public officials accountable,” she said.
Ms Chisanga noted that the ATI law will also allow journalists and media practitioners to have a legal framework to seek and disseminate information, thereby strengthening investigative journalism and the free flow of information.
“Furthermore, MISA Zambia calls on civil society organisations (CSOs), media practitioners and the general public to actively engage in the process of accessing information to ensure that this law achieves its intended purpose,” she urged.
Ms Chisanga assured that MISA Zambia remains committed to working with the government, CSOs and all stakeholders to promote and protect media freedoms and the right to information.
“We believe that the operationalisation of the ATI Law will pave the way for a more transparent and democratic Zambia,” she indicated.
The Eastern Province Chamber of Commerce and Industry (EPCCI) has urged the government to consider establishing a power interconnector with Mozambique in order to access regional electricity benefits.
EPCCI president Thomas Mtonga, says there is a need for the government to put up the power interconnectivity infrastructure in order to easily access electricity to support economic activities across the country.
ZANIS reports that Mr Mtonga said Mozambique’s Cabora Bassa Power station is ideal for the establishment of a power interconnector to help Zambia and Malawi access power imports for domestic use.
He observed that the energy crisis the country is facing has demonstrated that the power interconnector should have been established much earlier to address the current deficit.
“We have a shortage of power and there is a need for the government to build a power interconnector with Mozambique, so that we can support industries in the eastern region as well as the country” said Mr Mtonga.
Stakeholders feel that with Zambia experiencing an energy crisis due to a devastating climate change effects on power generation and rising demand for industrial and domestic consumption, electricity imports from Mozambique are expected to rise.
Historian Euston Chiputa, also urged the government to establish power interconnectors with Mozambique in order to benefit from regional power interconnectivity benefits.
He explained that power interconnectors are cardinal in making electricity available within the region to drive economic activities.
Dr Chiputa noted that due to the absence of a power connector with Tanzania, Zambia has not been able to access electricity that Tanzania was willing to offer Zambia.
“We need to exchange and benefit from electricity benefits in the region. So we need the power interconnectors with Mozambique and Tanzania, just as we have with Zimbabwe and DRC, Botswana”said Dr Chiputa.
Dr Chiputa commended the government for securing US$15 million for the establishment of a power interconnector with Tanzania.
Zambia is facing an energy crisis that has seen the government roll out various interventions among them promotion of alternative energy sources such as solar energy and liquefied petroleum gas and investments into solar plants and other hydro power stations.
President Hakainde Hichilema announced on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 that the British government has offered Zambia US$15 Million financial support towards the Establishment of a power interconnector between Zambia and Tanzania.
Meanwhile, Mr Mtonga pointed out that Zambia and Mozambique need to actualize and enhance trade agreements to benefit people of the two countries through scaled up trade and investments.
He cited the Development Triangle initiative for Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique as being paramount in promoting trade and development for the three countries.
Mr Mtonga said the Nacala Corridor needs to be made a serious trade route to spur trade, investment and economic benefits to the three countries.
The Local Authority in Kasempa district has directed mines in Jifumpa area to suspend the movement of copper along the Kasempa-Mumbwa road until the road is rehabilitated.
Town Council Chairperson, Brian Kakonkanya directed all mines using the Kasempa-Mumbwa road to stop transporting their copper until they work on the road.
Mr Kakonkanya said this during a stakeholder engagement meeting in Kasempa district today where he directed mines operating along the said route to work on the road which has been damaged by their heavy loads of copper.
“We are going to suspend the movement of all your trucks, you can continue with your production there but you are not going to transport,” he added.
“We are not going to compromise or backtrack enough, those that are carrying copper need to work on the road,” he said.
Meanwhile, District Administrative Officer Francis Makanga appealed to residents living along the Kasempa-Mumbwa road to avoid blocking the road.
He urged people to use the right channels when to air their concerns and to avoid taking the law into their own hands.
Mr Makanga called on the residents to remain calm as the government was attending to their concerns of working on the Kasempa-Mumbwa road.
“People put rocks in the road at night and when driving the rocks may cause an accident which can be very unfortunate,” Mr Makanga added.
Zambia’s Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany Her Excellency Ambassador Winnie Natala Chibesakunda has formally presented her letters of credence to the President of Hungary, His Excellency President Tamas Sulyok,accrediting her as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Hungary at a colourful ceremony held at Sandor Palace in Budapest, Hungary on Tuesday 25th June 2024.
Speaking during a closed-door meeting after the presentation ceremony, His Excellency President Sulyok said that the presentation of credentials by Her Excellency Ambassador Chibesakunda has opened new opportunities for the two countries.
He recognised and commended the Kasomeno-Mwenda road project between Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) which has been funded by a Hungarian construction company under Public- Private Partnership (PPP) and stressed that such infrastructure development will further strengthen the bilateral relations between Hungary and Zambia.
President Sulyok further affirmed that Hungary was willing to offer scholarships to Zambian students adding that as part of his country’s Africa strategy, programs such as developing long term drought resistant plants and water management and
reticulation have been embarked on.
He further pointed out that the Sub-Saharan region where Zambia is located was an important region based on Hungary’s Africa strategy adding that he looks forward to visit Zambia.
And Ambassador Chibesakunda conveyed greetings and best wishes from President Hakainde Hichilema to President Sulyok and the people of Hungary.
She informed him that Zambia cherished the bilateral ties between the two countries that have existed for decades noting that Hungary had first offered scholarships to Zambian students during the administration of Zambia’s founding President Dr
Kenneth David Kaunda.
Ambassador Chibesakunda acknowledged that the expertise gained by Zambian students that were trained in Hungary was highly notable and contributed to the country’s development adding that Zambia was willing to expand the bilateral
relations with the government of Hungary through the renewed offer for scholarships for Zambians to train in Hungary.
She thanked President Sulyok for opening a diplomatic office in Lusaka as it will strengthen the diplomatic ties between the two countries.Ambassador Chibesakunda made a special request to the Hungarian President to consider promoting high level visits between the two countries.
In his response to the request, President Sulyok assured the Ambassador that the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Hungary will undertake a visit to Zambia to be followed by his own visit which might take place next year.
She further appreciated the Public- Private Partnership (PPP) by a Hungarian company on the Kasomeno-Mwenda road project as the infrastructure will enhance connectivity which is key in driving development.
She also informed President Sulyok that Zambia has greatly been affected by the El Nino induced drought that affected most parts of the country and requested for expertise from Hungary to help in water reticulation and water harvesting as it will
benefit the country and help in reducing human animal conflict.
Issued by Lubinda Kashewe
First Secretary-Press
Embassy of the Republic of Zambia
Germany
President Hakainde Hichilema addressing a Press Conference at State House on Thursday, 30th September, 2021.
By Field Ruwe EdD
I could not believe what I was hearing. I tried to reassure myself that I was only dreaming. For the third time, I played the video and listened gravely. Again, the words fell like stones into the room filled with reporters, selected cabinet ministers, and State House staff. The voice of President Hichilema Hakainde was startling in its own carrying power.
“If the police fail to discharge their duties, I will use the military to restore law and order,he said. “That’s my job. That’s the constitutional rights [of] the head of state who is the commander in chief.”
I was crestfallen. A shudder passed through me. I could vicariously hear gasps of surprise and murmurs of disbelief and disappointment from viewers around the country.In the conference room, some in the audience applauded as, arguably Zambia’s most innovative president, struggled to disguise his frustration at the police’s failure to contain former president Edgar Lungu who has become a thorn in his flesh.
I never heard a Zambian president invoke the word “military” and use it to threaten his own unarmed people. We are a people bonused with an idyllic earthly paradise called Zambia.God has spared us from the cruelty of tribal wars, civil wars, military coups, and apocalyptic disasters such as tsunamis, hurricanes, and earthquakes. We just survived COVID and a five-month drought.
For a moment I envisioned the Zambia Army under HH’s presidency relegated to civil law enforcement duties. I could not fathom such gallant men and women who on three occasions have thwarted attempted military coups by their own officers for the love of country, patrolling the streets of Lusaka, apprehending opposition leaders, civil rights activists, and media practitioners and throwing them in jail.
I recollected the feeling of relief that engulfed the entire country on October 27, 1980,when Kaunda made a startling announcement at State House during a press conference, revealing that the Zambia military had successfully foiled an attempted coup d’état conducted by Lieutenant General Godfrey Miyanda, Zambian professionals and Congolese dissidents.
And who can forget, July 1 st , 1990 when we woke up to the voice of Lieutenant Mwamba Luchembe announcing on ZNBC Radio 4 that the army had taken over Kaunda’s government and ordered the announcer to play military music. Again, the Zambian Army stood by us and thwarted the coup attempt within six hours.
How about the coup attempt of October 28, 1997? We heard Captain Solo (Steven Lungu) announce that a coup had taken place and that the then President Frederick Chiluba should step down. It was foiled by the Zambia Army within a span of three hours.
In all the three attempts the Zambian army fulfilled its purpose of fending off a war between coup plotters and the military. Since independence, HH’s predecessors have made it clear that the military’s primary objective is to defend the nation, while the Zambia Police’s objective is to enforce the country’s laws. Neither institution is specifically trained to cater to the
requirements of the other.
Before I proceed, I must inform readers that I remain HH’s an unwavering endorser outside my profession and Zambian politics. Since he assumed power, I have refrained from expressing any negative opinions about him. I publicly endorsed him in my personal capacity because I yearned for the dynamism of his politics.
As an endorser, I will not sit back and watch him resort to “strongman” rule. When I launched my “Hunt for Successor” series during the Sata era, my aspiration was for a youthful president with exceptional abilities to emerge and wage the battle against the economy, foster national unity, curb corruption, eradicate poverty, and pave a new path to Zambia’s prosperity.
In all fairness, HH has consistently opposed the widespread pessimism that portrays Zambians as a doomed people beyond redemption. After years of effort to unlock Zambia’s potential, HH has effectively utilized his persuasive abilities to rally support from various quarters and convinced a skeptical world to come to Zambia’s aid.
Upon taking oath as president, he wasted no time in initiating fundraising trips to the US,Europe and Asia, successfully raising millions of dollars. His negotiation with private creditors to restructure $3 billion in international bonds marked a significant step towards the country’s prolonged debt. The enthusiastic reception he received from numerous Lusaka residents at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport serves as a clear indication of his impact. With this in mind, I can assert that the difference between Edgar Lungu and Hakainde Hichilema is night and day.
However, HH has faced significant domestic obstacles lately. He can be likened to an overzealous automotive mechanic who claims he can restore a mangled car that plummeted off the cliff and burst into flames. In spite of his campaign pledges to solve the nation’s energy crisis, he is still encountering obstacles to widespread outages that are detrimentally impacting his presidency.
Furthermore, the spike in fuel, food, and fertilizer prices, have exacerbated the high cost of living. Moreover, the economic strategies introduced in 2021 to aid the Hichilema administration in taking over the mines have not yielded the desired results. Consequently, the country has returned to the Lungu headlines of corruption, hooliganism, unwarranted arrests
manipulation of state institutions, and promises filled with “false and braggart words.”
The initial vitality, dynamism, and youthful spirit that defined HH’s first two years in power have somewhat waned. Studies in political science note that by the third year, many presidents start exhibiting signs of wear and tear, and begin to resort to tyrannical stratagems.
Leaders who struggle with criticism due to their massive egoistical trait often lash out, seeking ways to protect themselves. Some become vindictive, going to extreme lengths to blame and punish their opponents, while others slide towards authoritarian rule.
Upon listening to the Press Conference of June 5, 2024, I was worried that HH, an exemplary president who was trying to champion democracy and foster innovative well-regulated markets, was going beyond fair discourse and veering into authoritative domain. I was not the only one. My sentiment was echoed by a multitude of individuals with social media accounts some who described HH as a liar, tyrant, dictator, authoritarian, autocrat, and despot.
There was widespread apprehension that HH was authoritatively infringing upon civil liberties, freedom of assembly, free speech, press freedoms, and other fundamental tenets of democracy. Many in the social media were concerned that the press conference was all about his political nemesis Edgar Lungu. Some accused HH of using Lungu as a scapegoat to evade blame
for the hooliganism committed by members of his own party during the funeral procession of their provincial Vice Treasurer.
The cardinal question is, has power gone to HH’s head? Yes it has. Power tends to corrupt the minds of those in authoritative positions, such as the head of state. According to psychoanalysts, when a democratic country elevates one person as its ultimate leader and defender, the people naturally start to idolize and inflate his ego, resulting in neurological
alternations that make him feel the entire nation is under his command. When a leader reaches such a stage he, by decree of fate, assumes the “strongman” idiomatic mantra “me, myself, and I”
Has HH acquired the strongman status? Yes, he has. However, he does not exhibit the characteristics of a dictator, at least not at this point in time. But he surely sounded like one during the press conference. He showed that if pushed he is capable of entering the echo chamber in which most of the African dictators live. He carefully chose his words to subtly inject
his ideology in hidden fold. When he began to talk it was clear he was discontent with the state of affairs.
“Don’t misunderstand my patience to mean I am not aware,” he cautioned the nation in general, and UNPD hooligans and former president Edgar Lungu in particular. It was clear Lungu’s strategy of courting churches to undermine HH’s presidency was getting under his skin.
“I’ve some patience and quite some tolerance,” he continued in a voice lacking the usual tenderness. He skillfully presented his soul of authoritarianism within the whole body of his speech by means of selected words. He did so with a threatening voice like a despot, all in an effort to caution Lungu and all those who may wish to cross his line.
“Levels of patience and tolerance are quite high,” he told them. “Especially a guy like me who went through a lot to stand here as a head of state. I probably went through the worst discrimination any citizen can receive from his own citizens…”
I was worried HH was entrapped in his own self-pity, anger, and persecutory thoughts.Neurophysiologists, psychoanalysts, and therapists have found that self-pity is the defining characteristic of brutal regimes. It is a bio-psycho-social construct, which, if left unattended,assembles into tyranny. When HH urged the police to intervene into the rising hooliganism, and
quell Lungu and his cohorts’ “unlawful assembly,” authoritarianism hid in plain sight.
“The police do not need my reminder”; he said emphatically. “The police must not negotiate. No negotiation. Just enforce the law. If you fail to enforce the law, it will be an admittance of failure to perform your duties.
When a head of state issues directives such as the one above consequences can be dire.The enforcers are inclined to side with him and his party. Acting as loyalists they may target opposition members, resort to violence, use force, and imprison “for a long time” a significant number of individuals in “jails furnished with beds and mattresses,” as cautioned by HH. If such
actions were to occur, it is probable that they would escalate into an insurgency.
What is disheartening is prior to assuming the presidency, HH vowed to be a defender of democracy. In March 2023, he penned an article titled “You Cannot Eat Democracy,” in which he stated thus; “my government has returned our democracy to health, shoring up the civil liberties the people demanded; the right of assembly and end to defamation laws that challenged
free speech.”
Given HH’s tendency to easily break promises, the potential for a compromised democracy is not far-fetched. Numerous countries have experienced the breakdown of democracy because they did not see it coming. It would be naive to assume that Zambia is
entirely immune to such a threat. Safeguarding against the encroachment of authoritarianism by HH is crucial for upholding the principles of democracy. We must swiftly intervene if and when any signs of such shift emerge.
I have brazenly penned down this article out of my deep affection for my country. My utmost objective is to see HH succeed. I shall continue applauding him when he is right and reprimanding him when he is wrong. In a democracy no one is allowed to monopolize political power.
The rights to this article belong to ZDI (Zambia Development Institute), a proposed US-based Zambian think tank. On May 19, 2022, a comprehensive proposal was delivered to President Hichilema through Principal Private Secretary Bradford Machila.
Author Dr. Field Ruwe holds a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership. He is affiliated with Northeastern University,
Boston, MA., US.
Chipolopolo B coach Chisi Mbewe is not taking their COSAFA Cup championship crown for granted but says they are ready for the difficult challenge of retaining the title for an unprecedented
third successive time.
Zambia kickoff their title defence on Thursday in an 18h00 kick-off against tournament guest side Kenya at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
Zimbabwe and Comoros are Zambia’s other Group B opponents.
No team has won the COSAFA Cup third time’s in a row.
Hosts and five-time winners South Africa and six-time champions Zimbabwe have also won back to back COSAFA Cup title.
However, Zambia are the only COSAFA nation with two doubles.
“I think so far so good the team looks ready for the tournament and we know it is not going to be an easy task or assignment for us because we know we are the defending champions,” Mbewe said.
” Strong competition from our group we have the likes of Zimbabwe who have always wanted to beat Zambia.
“But otherwise the team looks ready we have psyched the players on how important this task is and how difficult this competition is knowing we are the defending champions but I this team is ready.”
Thursday beckons for Chipolopolo to make an opening statement as holders.
President Hakainde Hichilema held a press conference yesterday at State House, addressing several critical issues affecting the nation. Here are the highlights:
Prudent Resource Use: The President directed Controlling Officers and public service workers in Procurement Departments to continue using resources prudently. This measure aims to ensure accountability and efficiency in the use of public funds.
Energy Crisis Measures: Major steps have been taken to address the country’s energy crisis, including initiatives to provide lifeline power supply for small businesses in communities severely affected by energy insecurity due to the El Nino-induced drought. The President reiterated that hospitals should not be subjected to load shedding.
Maamba Collieries Phase II: President Hichilema disclosed that the Maamba Collieries phase II, with a production capacity of 300 Megawatts, will soon be launched. He noted that US$90 million had been secured for the project, which is expected to significantly boost the nation’s power supply.
Solar Product Prices: The government expects companies selling solar products to reduce their prices, as the government has zero-rated tax on solar equipment. This move is aimed at making solar energy more accessible and affordable for Zambians.
Selling Excess Power: Citizens who can generate excess power are encouraged to sell it to the national grid. The operationalization of open access electricity means that ZESCO Limited is obligated to supply the electricity generated by these citizens.
Assurance Amid Challenges: The President assured the nation that it would pull through the challenges brought about by the drought, emphasizing his belief that “God would not give Zambia a load it could not carry.”
Government Vehicles Usage: President Hichilema overrode a pronouncement made by Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa, regarding the use of government vehicles. He stated that civil servants must have access to transport 24/7 to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery.
President Hichilema’s press conference provided critical updates and assurances as the nation navigates through its current challenges, highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing key issues affecting Zambians.
MTN Super League gladiators Zesco United supporters are excited by Access Bank Zambia’s decision to renew the shirt sponsorship, as it will motivate the club to win the 10th league title.
Access Bank, which completed the merger with Atlas Mara Zambia on April 30 this year, today announced the increase in shirt sponsorship for Zesco to K2.8 million from last year’s K2.5 million.
During the signing ceremony for the 2024-25 season sponsorship in Lusaka, Zesco supporters’ chairman Arthur Temba urged Zesco to deliver to the expectations of the stakeholders.
“We want to be champions, and we ask that with this motivation, the club needs to win that elusive 10th title,” Temba said.
He said supporters are delighted by Access Bank’s decision to extend the sponsorship of their beloved club.
“With this sponsorship, we are assured that our team will continue to perform on the pitch. As supporters, we pledge to continue supporting Zesco United to win, lose, and draw, as these are the three components of football,” Temba said.
Meanwhile, Zesco Chief Executive Officer Charles Kalala said the decision by Access Bank to extend the shirt sponsorship to another season is a huge motivation to Zesco Limited management and players to work extra hard.
“It is further an extra incentive to us as we journey on our progression of building successful teams through our developmental structures,” Kalala said.
He said success in football can’t be realized without sound financial and technical support.
“Zesco United Football Club has, for the last two decades, been the torchbearer for Zambian football both at the local and international stage. In this period, the football club has firmed up its reputation as a powerhouse in the African game by achieving a semi-final finish in the 2016 CAF Champions League edition,” Kalala said.
He said the success was not by accident, as it was a combination of good leadership and sound financial and technical support from cooperating partners such as Access Bank Zambia Limited.
Kalala said Zesco is determined beyond words to deliver a 10th league title and move an extra step in CAF inter-club football next season.
Access Bank Deputy Managing Director Iheanyi Nwogu described the signing ceremony of the renewed sponsorship as another milestone in the bank’s journey of collaboration and support for sports in Zambia, a journey that reflects the financial institution’s shared values and mutual commitment to excellence, community development, and the pursuit of success.
“Our coming together represents a new era of growth and opportunities, not just for our institutions but for the communities we serve. By combining our strengths and resources, we are better positioned to make a more substantial impact across various sectors, including sports, which is a vital part of our community and national pride,” Nwogu said.
He said since 2016, Atlas Mara, which has merged with Access Bank, has been a proud sponsor of Zesco.
“Over the years, we have seen this partnership flourish. Today, I am delighted to announce that following our amalgamation, all the rights and obligations of Atlas Mara have now been assumed by Access Bank.
This therefore means that Access Bank has enjoyed this partnership with Zesco United Football Club for the last eight years and counting and remains committed to this partnership and now enhancing this legacy by increasing our sponsorship to K2.8 million for the 2024-2025 season,” Nwogu said.
He said the renewal of sponsorship is a testament to the bank’s unwavering belief in the potential and promise of the Ndola-based giants and the bank’s commitment to fostering the development of football in Zambia.
Nwogu said as part of the bank’s sponsorship with Zesco, it will also continue to actively promote financial literacy for the players.
June 25, 2024 marked a significant event in South African politics as the impeached judge John Hlophe assumed leadership of the UMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party caucus in Parliament.
The MK Party is expected to be the official opposition after the DA opted to join the ANC as part of the Government of National Unity. The MK Party’s 58 members of parliament were sworn into office on Tuesday in a move that reflects both continuity and change in the nations political landscape.
Hlophe is a prominent figure in South Africa’s legal sector, as he is known for his judicial career and significant contributions to the country’s legal system.
The 65-year-old is a former Judge President of the Western Cape Division of the High Court, a role he served for over two decades.
By his own admission, Hlophe shared during an African Legal Professionals Assocition event in Durban at the weekend, he had met with former president Jacob Zuma and they had agreed that the MKP would send its members to Parliament, led by Hlophe.
Hlophe studied law at the University of Natal, the University of Fort Hare and Cambridge University. He taught law at the University of Transkei before being appointed to the bench.
Hlophe went to Cambridge University in the UK in 1984 to pursue a Master of Laws (LLM) degree on a Livingstone Trust Scholarship
He became a temporary senior lecturer in the University of Zululand’s law faculty in 1984–1985
He was given the Africa Educational Trust scholarship in 1985 so that he could study for a doctorate at Cambridge
Hlophe began working as a law lecturer at the University of Natal in 1988
At the age of 31, he began working as a professor and public law head at the University of Transkei in 1990
Hlophe became the nation’s youngest high court judge when former president Nelson Mandela appointed him to the Cape Bench in 1995
At the age of 36, Hlophe became the first black judge to be appointed permanently to the Western Cape High Court when he was appointed as a judge in 1995. In addition, he was the first permanent academic employed as a High Court judge
In 1999, he was appointed by the Judicial Service Commission to the position of Deputy Judge President of the Cape Division
In 2000 Hlophe was appointed judge president of the Cape of Good Hope Provincial Division
In 2023, Hlophe, along with retired judge Nkola Motata became, were impeached by Parliament. He was impeached after the Judicial Services Commission found him guilty of gross misconduct. This was after an incident in 2008, where Hlophe was accused of attempting to influence the Constitutional Court’s decision on search and seizure raids carried out by the Scorpions on properties of Jacob Zuma and French arms manufacturing giant Thint.
The Road Development Agency (RDA) has initiated the construction of an ACROW Bridge at Lwamfumu in Mansa District, Luapula Province. Located approximately 23 kilometers from Mansa, off the Mansa – Nchelenge (D79) Road at the Lwamfumu Zambia National Service (ZNS) Camp, this infrastructure project is progressing steadily.
Key highlights of the construction include:
The steel fixing for both abutments has been fully completed, with the formwork for the Eastern abutment steel works reaching 90% completion.
The overall progress on the substructures stands at 70% completion, demonstrating significant advancement towards the project’s goals.
It is projected that by the second week of July 2024, both abutments will reach full completion.
The ACROW Bridge is poised to connect the ZNS camp to the security loop that runs from the Luapula River in Chembe District to Mwense District. This connectivity is expected to enhance security and facilitate smooth movement within the region.
The RDA remains committed to ensuring timely completion of the bridge, which will play a crucial role in supporting local infrastructure and development.
President Hakainde Hichilema meeting with Chief Executives of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) in Livingstone
In a significant event held in Livingstone, President Hakainde Hichilema had the honor of meeting with 250 Chief Executives of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO). This esteemed assembly of global business leaders, representing 150 countries, collectively employs 22 million people and generates trillions of dollars in combined revenue.
The YPO members, accompanied by their families, have convened in Livingstone for their annual conference, drawn by Zambia’s renowned tourist attractions, including the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Among the notable attendees is Margarita Louis-Dreyfus, a prominent Swiss businesswoman.
During his address, President Hichilema encouraged the YPO members to invest in various sectors of the Zambian economy, highlighting opportunities in health, mining, agriculture, tourism, and energy. He emphasized Zambia’s peaceful and stable investment environment, noting the country’s smooth transition through four administrations and seven Presidents, which underscores Zambia’s strong unity and family values, making it an attractive destination for businesses and their families.
“We urge YPO to prioritize fair capital, value addition that will create more jobs, advanced technology, and joint ventures with Zambian partnerships as you consider investing in our country,” President Hichilema stated.
The President’s message resonated with the audience, reinforcing Zambia’s position as a promising and welcoming investment destination.
President Hakainde Hichilema meeting with Chief Executives of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) in LivingstonePresident Hakainde Hichilema meeting with Chief Executives of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) in LivingstonePresident Hakainde Hichilema meeting with Chief Executives of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) in LivingstonePresident Hakainde Hichilema meeting with Chief Executives of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) in Livingstone
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema obviously inherited a government marred by a myriad of problems and challenges: from a stagnant and suffocating economy; uncertainty in the mines with a number of investors contemplating disengaging from the sector; huge backlog of unpaid retirees; bloated salary arrears for council employees; mounting pressure from qualified young people; restless University students deprived of bursaries and meal allowances; police brutality to the culture of political party cadres accustomed to unleashing acts of violence on perceived opponents and illegally collecting levies from markets and bus stations; it was a make or break for the former businessman-cum-cattle rancher turned politician.
Within a few months in office, President Hichilema would change the narrative and set the country forth on a different trajectory!
Under normal circumstances, the UPND should have been the first one to take to the mountain top, like their predecessors would do, and brag about such milestones while making every effort to explain what the UPND administration intended to about the other challenges such as the high cost of living and the energy crisis. But alas, it has shockingly remained “comatose.”
Politics is all about perception; the more you keep quiet, the more the public will conclude the party in government isn’t working. The more you talk, the more people will begin to believe you and have patience with you!
At least Cornelius Mweetwa, the Minister of Information and Media and of course his able Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana are trying their level best to defend government and explain its policies.
But where’s the UPND media team? This has of course left a number of folks including this author gritting their teeth and pulling their hair and wondering whether the UPND media team still exists in the face of the New Dawn Administration coming under siege and bombarded with a barrage of incessant attacks left, right and centre from the desperate opposition eager to dislodge it from power!
Speaking to the Newsdiggers Newspaper in an interview as far back as 2022, the Alliance for Community Action (ACA) executive director Laura Miti, who is also a Commissioner at the Human Rights Commission, had this to say, “the UPND government is terrible at explaining to Zambians what is really happening. They are also bad at speaking to the public. So if you look at the last government and if you look at this government, they’re lagging far much behind.”
Influential UK-based blogger, Barbrah Musamba Chama aka the Iron Lady recently took to Social media to vent her frustrations.
“How can we raise resources to run an effective parallel Media team? Any idea of well wishers? Inbox… we need to get serious.. serious money has been pumped in in the other camp,” she wondered.
Retired eminent colonel in the Army, senior citizen Hamwiinde Munamunungu, who also served as District Governor in the UNIP regime, perhaps put it more succinctly when he shared the following insights on his Facebook page: “Political battles are won by strong media teams that need to be professional and at times well paid. When you study the many successes of the past political establishments, worldwide, you will find that the Media teams were professional, effective and well coordinated and paid full time. This is a must because volunteers are no longer available. Volunteers were available during the struggle for national independence.”
He went on to explain that in the early 1960s, UNIP ran the Zambia News paper from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania which spread the good news about our independence struggle. The editors included Sikota Wina, a trained journalist, and several other journalists.
“The PF had a strong Publicity Campaigns and Propaganda machinery and in most cases paid its staff well. Remember Hon Sunday Chanda with his aggressive attitude together with his deputy, Antonio Mwanza,” he continued .
He observed that there’s too much time lag between the delivery of messages or at most times no responses are delivered timely with the exception of Mark Simuwe or Trevor Mwiinde and his boss Gilbert Liswaniso jumping in fend off attacks or putting things into perspective.
The media team might be fatigued after many years in the trenches. As is usually the case once a liberation struggle has been won, it’s probably the right time to find those in the media team other roles in government and replace them with new blood.
Over the weekend, the United Kwacha Alliance camouflaged in Harry Kalaba’s political outfit finally had its first rally in Kitwe’s Kwacha Township where the New Dawn Administration recently introduced waterborne toilets after many years of neglect
Ordinarily, one would’ve expected Edgar Lungu, the main speaker at the event and of course the potential Alliance’s presidential candidate in the 2026 general elections, to have unveiled his blueprint to what he considers the country’s socio-economic malaise.
But what transpired instead? We saw an entire former head of state, who seems still reeling from his shock defeat in the August 2021, not only becoming petty and personal, but going ballistic and desecrating the very sanctity of the institution of the Presidency – a citadel of authority in our motherland!
He went to town describing the President in the most unpalatable terms: “mambala (crook)”, “umwaiche wa chunsu (young man with an unkempt afro)” and “chimbwi no plan (hyena without a plan)”
Now, since Lungu is hell-bent on referring to his successor as mambala, which adverb is suitable to describe him since he’s on record “chewing” money for a widow that made the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) strip him off of his practising licence? A heartless kabwalala?
President Hichilema, you were wrong to hastily expunge the defamation of the President from our statutes. We’d have been the first ones to call at Police HQ to report Lungu for insulting the President!
The recent conduct on the part of Lungu is clear testimony that most of our politicians aren’t yet ready or mature enough to conduct their politics with respect and utmost civility! Next time the police are going to grant these characters a permit to have another rally and they resort to insults, we wouldn’t be surprised to see UPND cadres invading the venue to defend the President. No wonder Graphel Musamba, the hard working Inspector General of Police is reluctant to approve permits for political rallies; they’re a source of anarchy, we shouldn’t allow the so-called imperialists school us on democracy.
One of the most ridiculous suggestions Lungu made is that if HH was consulting him from time to time, our country wouldn’t find itself in the current crisis.
What sort of dumbest reasoning is this imwe faza? What you’re suggesting is akin to expecting Joe Biden in America consulting Donald Trump or indeed the Conservatives in England calling on the Labour party for advice; who does that?
UPND and PF are like water and oil; the two can’t mix! Whereas the former is a liberal social democratic party, the later is a social democratic party.
Lungu says the President should at least reduce the price of aka bungu to K100 without necessarily taking time to explain how this can be achieved. Considering where we’re coming from, he’s probably thinking of reckless borrowing to subsidize the cost of mealie meal so that he can plunge the country deep into another debt crisis!
The Zambia Police Service issued an official statement to categorically refute the baseless and malicious allegations made by the British law firm Leverets Barristers and Solicitors on behalf of Mr. Vinod Sadhu and Mr. Uddit Sadhu, as reported in the British newspaper The Guardian on June 24, 2024, against Mr. Mubita Nawa, Deputy Commissioner of Police and Africa’s esteemed candidate for INTERPOL Secretary General.
It is imperative to note that Mr. Vinod Sadhu and Mr. Uddit Sadhu are currently fugitives of the Zambian legal system and are subjects of an ongoing investigation by the Zambia Police Service. The allegations presented by their legal representatives are entirely unfounded and clearly intended to tarnish Mr. Nawa’s impeccable reputation on the eve of the INTERPOL Secretary General elections.
The Zambia Police Service has discussed this matter with INTERPOL’s Executive Committee and its President. Today, we have formally submitted a complaint to the Executive Committee regarding these unfounded allegations.
These false claims are obviously part of a calculated smear campaign aimed at undermining Zambia’s candidacy and damaging Mr. Nawa’s reputation. The Zambia Police Service stands firmly behind Mr. Nawa, whose integrity and professionalism have been exemplary throughout his distinguished career in law enforcement. His unwavering commitment to justice, professionalism, transparency, and accountability has been recognized both nationally and internationally.
The defamatory statements propagated by Leverets Barristers and Solicitors, and reported by The Guardian, are designed to mislead the public and discredit Mr. Nawa’s long-standing dedication to policing and international cooperation. It is crucial for all concerned parties to recognize these allegations for what they truly are: an attempt to manipulate public opinion and derail Mr. Nawa’s candidacy for personal and nefarious motives.
The Zambia Police urged everyone to consider the source and timing of these allegations and focus on the substantive issues at hand. The Zambia Police Service remains steadfast in its endorsement of Mr. Nawa, confident in his ability to uphold the highest standards of law enforcement and contribute significantly to INTERPOL’s mission.
A letter sent to Interpol by the UK-based law firm Leverets Group on behalf of the Sadhus stated that its clients “have strong grounds to believe that Mr Nawa played a pivotal role in a conspiracy that led to their unlawful kidnap, detention, assault and attempted extortion” in September 2022, when he was a deputy director in the Zambian CID.
It said the Sadhus were “ambushed by assailants posing as duly authorised police officers and bundled into an unmarked van before being taken to a private residence in Lusaka at which they were subject to threats and coercion, before one of the captives managed to raise the alarm using a concealed mobile phone.
“Thereafter they were transferred to a police station where they continued to be subject to threats and coercion by new kidnappers, assailants and extortionists, including Mr Nawa.”
The Sadhus are owners of Sun Pharmaceuticals, a company that was awarded approximately 117m Swiss francs (£105m) by Zambia’s supreme court for overpayment on a loan from the Development Bank of Zambia. The payment, which the government of Zambia bears responsibility for, has yet to be made.
The letter said that since the judgment the Sadhus have been placed “under extreme and illegal pressure” to forgo the payment by people close to the Zambian state, “such as Mr Nawa and his associates”.
It claimed the Sadhus have instituted legal proceedings against serving police officers and government officials for damages related to the September 2022 events, and the case is due to be heard in October this year when Nawa “will be a critical witness”.
A spokesperson for the Sadhus said “The Sadhus have not fled the country. They stayed in Zambia for a year after their abduction but are now out of Zambia because they are fearful of kidnap and violence from the syndicate trying to steal Sun Pharma’s money. No warrants for their arrest have been served on the family or their lawyers.”
He said the courts had dismissed the allegations made against the Sadhus and that the Zambian justice ministry had acknowledged it owed 117m Swiss francs to Sun Pharma.
