Friday, April 4, 2025
Home Blog Page 8

Why Me, Given Lubinda’s freedom fighter!

We have seen this before. The loudmouths, the insults, the reckless bravado. The culture of political impunity, where thugs masquerading as party loyalists become untouchable. The streets ruled by cadres, not laws. We lived through it, we suffered under it, and in 2021, we fought to end it.

Yet here we are, watching Why Me—a man who was detained for vulgar language and public insults—resurface, embraced by the opposition, emboldened once more. His crude outbursts might seem like entertainment to some, but for those who remember the PF era, they are a flashing red warning light. Because this is how it starts.

Caderism: The Nightmare We Voted Against
Not long ago, Zambia was a nation held hostage by its own political actors. If you spoke against the ruling party, you risked a beating. If you owned a business, you had to pay cadres just to operate. If you wore the wrong party regalia in the wrong place, you were inviting violence. Cadres weren’t just tolerated—they were empowered, feared, and above the law.

And now, we see traces of that same arrogance creeping back into our politics. The idea that some people can insult, intimidate, and disrupt without consequence. The slow normalization of disorder. The flirtation with chaos, disguised as political activism.

The Warning We Cannot Ignore
The question is not about Why Me as an individual—he is just a face, a symptom of a deeper disease. The real question is this: If PF were to return to power, would the door open once again to the era of cadres ruling the streets? Would Zambia find itself trapped in Part 2 of the violence, the beatings, the lawlessness?

History tells us that when societies tolerate the small fires of political thuggery, they soon find themselves engulfed in flames. We must not go back.

Never Again
2021 was a moment of reckoning. Zambians rejected caderism, not because they loved one party over another, but because they refused to be ruled by fear. That victory must be defended—not just at the ballot box, but in our collective refusal to allow the return of political disorder.

Why Me is not just one man—he is a reminder. And Zambia must remember why it chose to move forward, not backward.

Ba Energy Minister naimwe ba ZESCO, explain to our people it takes time for Kariba Dam to get filled up!

We may not claim to be hydrologists or water experts, but with our umbilical cord safely buried on the shores of the Zambezi river, and having grown up swimming or fishing while dodging the crocodiles, we understand one or two things about the movement and distribution of water.

Our Nyachipopa Royal Village, the seat of the Chief Ishima Palace, East of Zambezi distric, is situated approximately 250 meters away from the mighty Zambezi river, with two lakes tucked in-between.

As a matter of fact, there are several lakes dotted alongside the said river in the district as it journeys to the Indian ocean.

During the onset of rains, the river does not burst to the seams immediately. It usually takes several weeks for it to completely overflow towards the plain and “swallow up” these lakes. They’ve exotic and sweet sounding names such as Chinanbumba, Isolu and Musekelembwa etc.

Despite the Angels opening the heavenly taps month of November, the Zambezi river in that part of the country only starts getting overflooded somewhere between February and March before feeding into the lakes.

It’s also important to appreciate that most of the water that accounts for filling up the Kariba Dam actually comes all the way from Angola. Now, imagine the period it would take for the Zambezi river to deposit part of its water into the Kariba Dam.

This year, we have obviously been blessed with abundant rainfall. Somewhere in the Scriptures we are cautioned thus, “people perish due to lack of knowledge.” It’s therefore quite understandable when ordinary folks you encounter on the buses, in the markets and on our streets begin questioning the logic behind the continued loadshedding amidst all these good rains!

Imwe ba Minister of Energy….naba ZESCO, can you please pull up your act and start explaining such dynamics to our people.

Prince Bill M Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst
Mayeng’u, Zambezi

Chipata High Court Fines Jay Jay Banda’s Wife for Causing Death by Dangerous Driving

11

The Chipata High Court has fined Mukuka Mumba, wife of former Petauke Central Member of Parliament Emmanuel Jay Banda, K6,000 for causing death by dangerous driving.

Presiding over the case, Chipata Resident Judge Mercy Makubalo imposed the fine after Mumba pleaded guilty to the charge. Judge Makubalo ruled that the fine must be paid immediately or, in default, she would serve six months in prison. Additionally, Mumba’s driver’s license has been suspended for six months.

According to State Advocate Yvonne Nachande, Mumba, a resident of Ibex Hill in Lusaka, was responsible for the death of five-year-old Blessings Chanda in Chipata’s Madzimoyo area on June 1, 2022. The court heard that while driving a Range Rover (registration BAR 3626) at excessive speed, Mumba lost control of the vehicle and struck the child, who had already crossed the road.

In mitigation, Legal Aid Counsel Fidelis Mwauluka argued that Mumba was a first-time offender who readily pleaded guilty. As an expression of remorse, she contributed K6,000 toward the funeral and later provided K20,000 to support the bereaved family.

However, Judge Makubalo noted that the vehicle lacked insurance and road tax—factors that aggravated the offense. She emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic laws, warning that disregard for regulations leads to disorder.

The ruling underscores the court’s stance on road safety and accountability, particularly in cases of reckless driving.

Families Urged To Shun Traditional Practices That Promote Child Marriage

Families Are Nation, an advocacy organization for family values, has advised families especially in rural areas to avoid traditional practices that promote child marriages.

The organization’s Executive Director, Judith Mwila, emphasized the importance of abandoning outdated customs that push children into early marriages.

In an interview with ZANIS, Ms Mwila stated that Families Are Nation is collaborating with the government to hold marriage initiators accountable for their actions.

“All marriage initiators who force children into marriage, citing tradition, will be arrested when caught,” she said.

Ms Mwila stressed the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of child abuse and child marriages.

She highlighted the need for children to be informed of their rights and the risks associated with such practices.

“Teachers and other community stakeholders should disseminate information on these dangers to help reduce cases of abuse and child marriages,” she added.

Ms. Mwila also urged the media and other stakeholders to increase awareness and share information on the dangers of child abuse and its implications.
ZANIS

Is the Kawambwa Strategy President HH’s Only Route to His Second Term?

Kapya Kaoma

As poverty haunts the masses and President HH has become terribly unpopular, two recent social media clips speak to the nation’s growing electoral tensions as we approach 2026.

The first clip features a woman from Kawambwa who boldly accuses the United Party for National Development (UPND) of a vote-buying scheme. She states with alarming clarity, “Iyi strategy tumfwile Kawambwa, iyakweba ati bakupela K20 bakufimba napamenso. Elo bakupela natuumbi wasaiinina nalimo. Wabika nabubra. Elyo waya posamo. K20 tapali ifyo ili.”
(Translation: “The strategy we have heard from Kawambwa is this: they give you K20, and then you receive pre-marked ballots. You hide them in your bra and deposit them in the ballot box. What is K20?”)

She passionately decries the portrayal of Luapula’s residents as ineffective and backward, urging her compatriots to vote as a rebuttal to such perceptions.

Meanwhile, the second clip depicts women clad in elegant UPND attire, prominently featuring the image of President Hakainde Hichilema. When a man inquires about their political affiliation, they enthusiastically raise their fists and shout, “PF.” Their rationale unfolds as one woman responds, “We are only celebrating. Things were better in PF. We must eat their food, but we are PF.”

These contrasting snapshots illustrate the current climate in Zambian politics, where allegations of vote-buying and potential ballot manipulation raise public concern, along with the growing unpopularity of the UPND. Whether the Kawambwa strategy holds any truth or is merely a rumor, the first woman’s claims underline the rising tensions surrounding electoral integrity in Zambia. Many Zambians are beginning to question how certain regions achieve remarkably high voter turnout figures compared to their population density. This skepticism invites discussions about the so-called “Kawambwa strategy,” which suggests that individuals receive pre-marked ballots to deposit at polling stations.

In life, perceptions hold as much power as reality; political violence rarely arises from verified facts, but often from the public’s perception of potential misconduct. Such mistrust can lead to violence, and Zambians should be concerned about this trend. Allegations of pre-marked ballots can tarnish the legitimacy of the electoral process. While such claims may be dismissed in UPND strongholds, they can incite violence and unrest in opposition regions. The UPND government ought to restore confidence in our elections before 2026, as failing to do so will likely result in post-election violence.

Moreover, as political entities seek votes, individuals often resort to scapegoating to explain their failures, resulting in actions driven by misplaced egos. While the UPND may boast of “increasing” numbers in PF strongholds, the truth is that it is still in the minority—making its cadres vulnerable to this scapegoating. This cycle of blame creates an environment ripe for conflict, which can lead to many deaths.

This brings us to a persistent issue that has burdened Zambian ruling parties for decades: arrogance. Zambians are far from ignorant; they can support a beleaguered ruling party while simultaneously expressing contempt. This duplicity perpetuates a cycle of deception that has long defined Zambian politics. Those in power may secure by-election victories through bribes and police brutality, maintaining a heavy hand over the opposition. They may flout laws, expecting their rivals to comply without question. Zambians are not blind to this hypocrisy. They are likely to bide their time until the next general elections. Who in their right mind would risk their position by antagonizing the president’s supporters? Which civil servant would dare publicly insult the ruling party? The answer is none. Thus, they dress in UPND colors outwardly, while their true allegiance remains unspoken. As the 2026 elections approach, the UPND may find its support significantly diminishing in various regions of Zambia.

Ironically, it was the UPND that first popularized the concept of “watermelon politics”—green on the outside but red within. Now, one must ponder: Is the PF evolving into a passion fruit, exhibiting a red exterior yet green within? After all, the acronym for Passion Fruit can be PF. Will the UPND accept defeat or choose to steal the election by corrupting the ECZ? Only time will tell!

Government Urged To Focus On High Cost Of Living Instead of Amending Constitution

15

Opposition Zambia Wake-Up Party (ZAWAPA) President Howard Kunda says the Government should focus on tackling pressing challenges affecting majority Zambians instead of rushing to amend the republican constitution.

President Hakainde Hichilema has recently highlighted the need to make amendments to the current republican constitution.

But Mr. Kunda, the former Muchinga Member of Parliament, said at the moment constitution amendment is not a priority for the people of Zambia.

He told journalists at a media briefing in Ndola that the Government should prioritize the fight against the high cost of living, load shedding and weak economy.

“ZAWAPA notes with shock the rush by the UPND administration and President Hakainde Hichilema to amend the Republican Constitution about one year before the 2026 General Elections. There is no consensus from the people of Zambia and no road map has been made regarding the proposed constitution amendments. What do they want to change in the Republican Constitution? Why is the UPND rushing to amend the constitution? President Hakainde Hichilema should not bulldoze constitution amendments because it is a people’s document,” Mr. Kunda said.

“One year before the general elections is too short a time for constitutional amendments. At the moment the constitution amendment is not a priority. UPND just wants to divert people’s attention from real challenges directly affecting the people such as the high cost of living, load shedding and the weak economy. The UPND and President Hichilema can’t be trusted with the constitutional amendment process because their Government was founded on deceiving people with unrealistic campaign promises,” he said.

Mr. Kunda further spoke against threats issued by Chief Government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa against the Catholic Auxiliary Bishop of Chipata Diocese Gabriel Msipu Phiri.

“Furthermore, instead of tackling the high cost of living, the UPND administration has reported attacking Church leaders. ZAWAPA condemns Chief Government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa for issuing threats against the Catholic Auxiliary Bishop of Chipata Diocese Gabriel Msipu Phiri. The issues raised by Bishop Msipu of failed promises and lack of development in Eastern Province are genuine and well documented. The unprecedented intolerance levels seen under this regime, confirms the shrinking democratic space in Zambia. Are Zambians buying mealie meal at K50? Is fertilizer at K250? Is fuel at K12 or is the dollar below K15? This Government should not be upset when reminded over their several failed promises. Zambia needs more candid Church leaders like Bishop Msipu to side with the needy, the poor, to be on the side of justice and to speak the truth,” Mr. Kunda said.

Meanwhile, Mr. Kunda has announced that ZAWAPA will go for an elective national congress ahead of the 2026 General Elections where all party positions will be contested for.

How to End Zambia’s Poverty

12

Journalist and Human Rights activist Laura Miti recently wrote about some unfortunate experiences her newly established small restaurant has faced with the police. In relating her infuriating ordeal, she also touched on the heavy cost of doing business in Zambia. “Take Ipesheni [the restaurant],” she wrote on her popular Facebook page, “we have made sure we have paid the crazily expensive fees a business needs to be fully compliant in Lusaka.”

At the end of her post, she re-emphasizes that painful point: “I will say it again – it is very difficult to make honest money in Zambia. The legal requirements to operate are already laborious and, as said above, punishingly costly. Then we must add the police being random. I’m sure other establishments suffer other authorities.”

Politicians and technocrats keep coming up with all kinds of convoluted “national development plans” that they sincerely think will one day cure Zambia’s chronically ailing economy. Zambia is now on the 8th national development plan, with absolutely nothing to show for it, because these “plans” are actually useless, if not destructive. We have been doing them since the time of Kenneth Kaunda when he copied them from the former communist Soviet Union, without stopping to ask whether they ever produced any meaningful improvements in people’s livelihood.

The only real secret to “development” has always been hidden in plain sight: reduce the costs of doing business and the economy will boom. That’s all. It doesn’t matter if it’s small businesses or big businesses, the government must not make business harder than it already is by having so many costly regulations, fees and taxes. On top of this, they even decide to add other random costs like irrational policing of these small companies that are trying hard to just stay afloat. It’s almost as if they are trying hard to keep the country poor!

President Hichilima, as a businessman, already knows these things, so we were hoping he would do better than his predecessors. So why has he not aggressively implemented an environment that is pro-business?

All our politicians fall into the same trap once they get into power: they start trying to directly help people, instead of doing it indirectly by letting businesses grow so that they can be the ones to employ them and improve their lives. A small restaurant might not employ too many people, but if the owner sees that they are making a lot of money, they will be motivated to open another one, and then another one, or at least to grow the size of the restaurant by introducing more ideas to win new customers. Whether they are mainly doing this for profit or because they just enjoy serving people, it will result in more and more people getting jobs – real jobs that actually make money in the economy. The suppliers they are buying their vegetables and chickens from will also make more money, and end up hiring more people to help them. That’s the only formula for true economic growth.

This is a much more effective way than trying to give people government jobs. You can keep boasting about hiring 10 thousand new teachers or nurses when the economy could have produced 1 million jobs if you had just allowed businesses to operate freely and cheaply.

Many people feel guilty when they oppose government programs that give people free government jobs or “social cash transfer” or “CDF” or “cash for work” or “cash for pregnancy” or many other economically useless programs. You feel guilty opposing such programs because you sound like you don’t care for the suffering people. And yet those same policies of expensive expenditures are the ones that keep the same people poor. To fund those programs you need to keep the taxes (or “fees”) high. And by keeping taxation high, you are just making it more impossible for more people to become employed.

Abolish all these harmful “social” programs and unleash the businesses to be the ones to solve the problem of poverty, by unburdening them from all the unnecessary costs, including the invisible tax of impetuous policing.

Recent Articles from Author:

Hichilema Should Have Implemented Sata’s Idea

President Hichilema is a Good Man, But His Policies Can’t Fix the Economy

Should Zambia Really Return to Socialism?

The author, Chanda Chisala, is the Founder of Zambia Online and Khama Institute. He is formerly a John S. Knight Fellow at Stanford University and Visiting Scholar to the Hoover Institution, a policy think tank at Stanford. You can follow him on X @chandachisala.

The PF’s Silence on “Why Me” Exposes Their Toxic Politics

The PF’s Silence on “Why Me” Exposes Their Toxic Politics – Zambians Must Rise Against Them

By Cletus Muchinga

Zambians are witnessing one of the most shameful displays in our political history: the rise of a reckless, insult-driven figure masquerading as the “voice of the opposition.” The individual calling himself “Why Me” (https://www.facebook.com/reel/607147175474735) has become a symbol of moral decay, hurling despicable insults at the Head of State. But let us be clear this is not about politics. This is about the collapse of decency, the celebration of vulgarity, and a deliberate attempt to provoke the government into a reaction, all so the opposition can play the victim.

What is even more alarming is the deafening silence from the Patriotic Front (PF), a party that claims to be ready to lead this nation. Where is Edgar Lungu? Where is Given Lubinda? Where is Emmanuel Mwamba? Their refusal to condemn this madness speaks louder than any words ever could. It confirms what many of us have long suspected: the PF thrives on chaos, thrives on division, and thrives on deception.

This so-called “Plan B” of the PF is not about offering Zambians a better future. It is a deliberate strategy to sow discord and create unrest. They want Zambians to believe that the UPND government is oppressive, yet they sit back and allow a deranged individual to insult the President in the most degrading manner. This is not democracy. This is not leadership. This is a cheap, dirty, and desperate ploy to regain power at any cost.

If Edgar Lungu truly considers himself a leader, why has he not publicly denounced this disgraceful behavior? Why has he not distanced himself from this madness? The answer is simple: this is the PF’s brand of politics. They operate like a shadowy cabal pretending to be respectable in public while secretly fueling chaos behind the scenes.

Zambians must not be fooled. If the PF is comfortable being represented by a vulgar, unhinged individual like “Why Me,” what kind of leadership do they intend to bring? Is this the caliber of opposition we should take seriously? If they cannot even control one of their own, how can they claim to be fit to govern this nation?

To the youth of Zambia, especially the Gen Z generation, I say this: do not fall for their tricks. Do not be swayed by their manufactured victimhood. Instead, focus on the tangible progress being made under the UPND government economic stability, infrastructure development, and the restoration of Zambia’s dignity on the global stage.

Let us not forget: the PF had ten years in power, and what did they leave us? A mountain of debt, a culture of lawlessness, and a legacy of corruption. Now, they seek to return by disguising their chaos as opposition. Zambians must reject them outright.

Edgar Lungu, Given Lubinda, and Emmanuel Mwamba must be held accountable. If they cannot publicly disown this rogue individual, no sane Zambian should ever trust them with power again.

The role of the opposition is to provide alternative solutions, not to promote vulgarity and hate. If the PF cannot grasp this basic principle, then their dreams of returning to power should remain exactly that a fantasy.

Zambians, it is time to wake up. The PF is not an alternative; they are a disaster waiting to happen. Let us stand together and reject their toxic politics once and for all. Our nation deserves better

Measuring proclamations of African leaders’ so-called achievements with numbers: The case of Ghana.

9

By Edward Chisanga

We listen to political proclamations of African leaders about their so-called economic, social and political achievements. We record them and make assessments against statistics to find variances and later, either confirm or point out disharmonies and leave outcomes to the people to make judgement. In this article, we focus on economic achievements. This time, we followed Ghana and its immediate former Head of State, President Akufo – Addo who stepped down last year after finishing his full two terms of office.

HIS ACHIEVEMENT PROCLAMATIONS
• “I’m proud of my achievements as president.”
• Highlighting his administration’s significant achievements,
• He emphasized the transformative impact of his policies on Ghana’s socio-economic landscape.
• One of the hallmarks of his administration, according to Akufo-Addo, is the substantial progress in economic growth and stability.”
• Ghana has played a pivotal role in diversifying the economy, thereby reducing Ghana’s dependence on cocoa and gold exports.”
That’s what former president of Ghana, Akufo-Addo says, and wants Ghanaians, Africans and the world to hear. Yes, former president Akufo-Addo strongly believes that among other things, he must be remembered by the so-called achievements manifested in his vainglorious proclamations, that only he and his courtiers saw.
He’s not alone. Many other African presidents share the same inflated sense of value. So, President Addo may have left his presidency and living his post-presidency with extreme gayety, thinking the people he left behind too, were and believed him. They did not. Not all Ghanaians are moronic or disrelish to numbers. For some, their life is in them. Using numbers, they, together with us tracked this performance, using key words, phrases or sentences in his statements.

Transformative

We began with the term, ‘Transformative,’ and found that it means, “Causing a major change to something or someone, especially in a way that makes it or them better.”
Remember, many African Heads of State use this term, often incorrectly. According to Ghanaians, most families continue to eat less than three meals a day. In July 2023, a World Bank Ghana economic update report stated, “The World Bank says some 850, 000 were pushed into poverty in 2022 because of rising prices of goods and services. The inflationary pressures, the Bank said, had led to a deterioration in living standards and ultimately, worsened and food insecurity among Ghanaian households.”

We can look for more information to show that Mr. Addo’s proclamation was nothing but mockery to most Ghanaians. Akufo-Addo served as President from 2017 – 2025.

Substantial progress in economic growth and stability
We used Unctadstat statistics to assess economic performance of Ghana using the period 2017 – 2025, when he was in charge. Our finding is self-explanatory in Figure 1 shown below. When he took office in 2017, you can see that GDP growth stood at 8 per cent but faced an episode of drastic contraction going below 1 per cent in 2020. Although improvement in growth can be seen thereafter, the period 2021-2023 experienced sharp contraction going to less than 3 per cent. That’s not ‘substantial progress in economic growth and stability,’ is it? I don’t have data for the period 2023-2024 when he left office. But surely, one year would not have made a significant difference from his past trend of dwindling growths.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) is an important input to the ongoing economy’s development agenda of a country. It flourishes under a robust local private sector that can partner it. Unfortunately, many African countries like Ghana are failing to attract robust FDI. For President Addo, he began well with inward FDI of about $3.5 billion when he took over office.

He even managed to raise it to close to $4.0 billion the following year. However, since then, FDI began to plummet, even down to less than $1.5 billion in 2023. I doubt if he may have made substantial increase in his last year of 2024 as I have no data. That’s not substantial progress in economic growth and stability, is it?

Ghana has played a pivotal role in diversifying the economy

Well, there’s several ways to measure diversification of the economy. One way is to use the indicator of proportion of exports of manufactured goods to the world in total. In other words, we found Ghana’s total exports of all goods products to the world. Out of this, we measured the share of exports of manufactured goods in that total.
Our finding is seen in Figure 3 below, where we clearly note that the share of exports of manufactured goods shown in the last line if far less than the line above. Share of manufactured goods is less than or exactly 10 per cent compared with about 90 per cent for primary commodities. Does this confirm the statement, “Ghana has played a pivotal role in diversifying the economy? Perhaps diversification is elsewhere.

There’s another way of diversifying. Even without numbers, it may be true that Ghana has diversified its export markets, from the traditional West to China for its minerals. But this diversification has not been matched with export product diversification, like into manufactured goods.

Conclusion

We’re contemplating asking President Trump of the U.S. to extend his model of using the Ovall Office meetings with African leaders, open to the public instead of closed sessions. We’ll encourage him to invite African leaders to the Ovall Office to hold conversations where he can dialogue with them using public broadcast. He’ll ask them tough questions and provide his own answers to their points. This is because in Africa, they don’t give us chance to dialogue with them. They only want us to listen to their stories. If you ask them what they don’t want to hear, they consider you an enemy. They’ll not do that to President Trump.
Mr. Trump, please accept our invitation. After all, you’ve the right to do so because, these African leaders are aid – dependent on your country.

School Health Project Launched at Malama School in Kasama

1

President Hakainde Hichilema officiated the handover ceremony of the School Health Project at Malama School in Kasama, celebrating its addition to a network of 595 similar facilities across the country. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to integrating education and healthcare, ensuring that students and their communities receive essential health services within their learning environments.

The School Health Program is a comprehensive initiative designed to address both the academic and health needs of pupils. By providing access to healthcare services within school premises, the program enhances student well-being and contributes to improved educational outcomes.

“We are pleased to note that, so far, 5,000 teachers have been trained as the first line of defense in school health, while 1.5 million learners across 700 schools in all 10 provinces have benefitted from this initiative,” President Hichilema stated during the ceremony.

Achieving universal health coverage remains a national priority, and these school-based health facilities play a crucial role in making healthcare more accessible to students. Trained teachers serve as vital entry points for healthcare, ensuring that learners receive the necessary support to thrive academically and personally.

President Hichilema extended his gratitude to the Ministries of Education and Health, as well as all stakeholders involved, for their dedication to this initiative. “We commend the collaborative efforts that have made this project a success. Empowering our learners through access to healthcare is a transformative step toward building a healthier and more prosperous Zambia.”

The expansion of the School Health Program reflects the government’s broader commitment to fostering a well-rounded educational experience that prioritizes both learning and well-being, reinforcing the role of schools as centers of holistic development in communities nationwide.

Opting for Privacy: Is Hichilema Dodging Accountability?

By Venus N Msyani

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has made a choice that has left many stunned: privacy over transparency. Despite Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha’s recent clarification that the Zambian Constitution does not require sitting presidents to declare their assets annually, the decision has ignited a firestorm of criticism.

Under the current Zambian law, presidential candidates must declare their assets and liabilities before contesting elections. Hichilema, like his competitors, complied with this requirement ahead of the August 12, 2021, general elections. However, these declarations remain hidden from public view, raising eyebrows and fueling suspicions.

Now, concerned citizens, good governance advocates, and opposition politicians are demanding annual public declarations. While the law absolves President Hichilema of this obligation, his reluctance to embrace transparency has cast a shadow over his presidency. Critics argue that his actions contradict his own promises. After all, it was Hichilema who declared to the United States Institute of Peace in 2021, “Transparency is very important in the way we will run the country going forward.” Yet, his current stance seems to undermine this commitment.

The stakes are high. For many Zambians, asset declaration is not just a legal formality but a moral and ethical imperative. They believe that for Hichilema to lead a genuine fight against corruption, he must set an example by proving his transparency. Publicly declaring his assets and liabilities annually would not only silence critics but also restore faith in his leadership.

But there’s more to this story. Hichilema’s silence on asset declarations has reignited allegations from his involvement in the 1990s privatization process of state-owned assets. As a key player in valuing assets during that period, he has been accused of undervaluing properties for personal gain—a claim that resurfaces during every election cycle. These allegations have become a political weapon, wielded by opponents to question his integrity.

The Patriotic Front (PF) government, under former President Edgar Lungu, even vowed to revisit the privatization scandal. Addressing the Mines Union in Kitwe just days before the August 2021 elections, Lungu warned that those involved would face consequences. Had the PF won, Hichilema’s fate might have been drastically different. The specter of privatization continues to haunt him, casting a long shadow over his presidency.

Hichilema’s decision to prioritize privacy over transparency has left many wondering: What is he hiding? Is he avoiding scrutiny to protect himself from potential exposure? These questions have only intensified the public’s demand for accountability. For a leader who has built his image on promises of good governance and anti-corruption, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

The issue of asset declaration has become a litmus test for Hichilema’s presidency. By choosing privacy, he risks fueling suspicion and tarnishing his legacy. On the other hand, embracing transparency could clear his name and strengthen his position as a leader committed to ethical governance.

The question remains: Will Hichilema rise to the challenge of transparency, or will he let the shadows of the past define his presidency? For now, the nation watches and waits, caught between hope and skepticism.

In a democratic society, everybody has the right to choose what fits him/her. President Hichilema has chosen privacy over transparency, which implies that what he feels fits him. Is he trying to dodge accountability?

Defence School Of Health Sciences To Be Upgraded To University College

3

The Ministry of Defence, through the Defence Force Medical Services, has started the process of upgrading the Defence School of Health Sciences into a University College.This is on account of increased demand for student enrolment both locally and abroad.

The Emmasdale-based college, which enrolls both military personnel and civilians, currently has 553 students who are studying various diploma and certificate health courses such as Registered Nursing, HIV Nurse Practitioner, Environmental Health Technology (EHT), Clinical Officer General (CoG), Military Medicine and other courses. The school will roll out a diploma in Midwifery program in July this year in an effort to continuously expand on its course portfolio.

As part of the process to upgrade the school to a University College, the Defence School of Health Sciences is building another campus in Twin Palm area of Lusaka whose construction works have reached an advanced stage.

Speaking when a delegation from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Military Health Services Working Group Troika visited the Defence School for Health Sciences,Brigadier General Simon Tembo who was representing the Defense School of Health Sciences Commandant Brig Gen Mwinga Sheyo, said once the institution is upgraded to a University
College, it will start offering Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery and Bachelor of Nursing courses.

Brig Gen Tembo says the training institution has embarked on an exchange program with the South African National Defence Force through the Joint Defence Committee agreements which will see student and faculty exchange between the two nations for studies and teaching respectively. The Botswana Defence Force has also expressed interest for their officers to be
trained at the institution.

Brig Gen Tembo says the quality of training being given at the School is attractive and has seen many civilians training at the institution since 2018 when the Ministry of Defence approved a request for non-military personnel to access the training facility.

He added that the institution plans to be further upgraded to a full status university so that it can be offering more bachelor’s degree programs and an enhanced research capability.Chief of Medical Services in the Tanzania People’s Defence Force Major General Amri Mwami said the neighbouring country also wants to upgrade its health college to a university.
Maj Gen Mwami called for exchange visits between Zambian military medical personnel and Tanzanian military medical personnel to share experiences.

And speaking after he toured the Maina Soko Medical Center where he witnessed the day to day operations, Maj Gen Mwami commended management at the health facility for the hardwork they are putting in.Meanwhile, Maina Soko Medical Center Commandant Brigadier General Levy Muchemwa said the health facility provides the much needed health services to both the military and the general populace.

Maj Gen Mwami (Tanzania) is the outgoing SADC Military Health Working Group Troika Chairman and he handed over the Chairmanship at the last Annual General Meeting in 2024 to Brigadier General Jackson Kasela (Zambia) who will in turn hand over the Chairmanship to Zimbabwe Defence Force Director General Medical Services Brigadier General Godfrey Mutetse
at the 2025 Annual General Meeting.

Issued by:
Paul Shalala (Mr.)
Principal Public Relations Officer
MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

Republican Progressive Party Applauds Support for Women Leadership and Gender Equality

9

The Republican Progressive Party (RPP) has welcomed the recent call by Her Honour the Vice President, Mrs. Mutale Nalumango, to accelerate the implementation of Zambia’s National Gender Policy. Speaking during the International Women’s Day celebrations in Lusaka, the Vice President emphasized the importance of empowering women and ensuring gender equality across all sectors of society.

RPP National Women Chairperson, Onny Kayumba, expressed strong support for the Vice President’s remarks, stating that they reflect the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive national development. “Her reaffirmation of government’s dedication to ensuring that women are not left behind in national progress is both commendable and encouraging,” Kayumba said.

The RPP also extended its appreciation to the Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) for its continuous advocacy for women’s leadership. In particular, the party lauded the NGOCC’s call for increased female participation in the upcoming 2026 elections. The council’s sponsorship of women candidates, RPP noted, is a crucial step toward achieving greater gender balance in governance.

“As the Republican Progressive Party, we strongly support this initiative and applaud all stakeholders who are working to elevate women into positions of influence,” Kayumba said. “We believe that when women lead, communities thrive and the nation prospers.”

Encouraging young women and aspiring female leaders to seize this opportunity, the RPP urged them to step forward and take an active role in shaping Zambia’s future. “Zambia needs your voice, your ideas, and your leadership,” the statement concluded.

The RPP’s endorsement of women’s leadership initiatives aligns with its broader vision for inclusive governance and equitable national development.

FAZ Mourns Veteran Coach Mathews Phiri

1

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has learnt with deep sorrow the death of veteran coach Mathews Phiri.
Phiri who coached several clubs in the Zambian Premier League died at his residence in Kaunda Square.

FAZ president Andrew Kamanga says the football family had lost an accomplished yet humble coach.

“On behalf of myself and the entire football family, I wish to express my deepest condolences to the family of the late Mathews Phiri who was a lifetime football servant,” he says.

“We are saddened by his death but are happy that the deceased honoured us with many good football memories that we shall cherish as a football family.”

The deceased left a permanent footprint on the game with his title winning antics in 2004 at Red Arrows. The also coached Nakambala Leopards, Muza FC, Lusaka City Council and Circuit City.

For and on behalf of:
FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF ZAMBIA
Sydney Mungala
COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Maria Zaloumis, The Zed Farmer, Tells Women: “Live Your Best Life, No Apologies!”

Maria Zaloumis, the vibrant and unstoppable force behind The Zed Farmer, is here to shake things up! In a refreshingly bold International Women’s Day message, she’s calling on women everywhere especially those stuck in toxic relationships to ditch the drama, embrace new beginnings, and live life on their own terms.

And guess what? She’s not just talking the talk. Zaloumis, a trailblazing agricultural innovator and recent honoree at the Zanaco Bank’s Zee Woman Banking Awards, is walking the walk. Her message comes hot on the heels of her very public split from what she described as an abusive marriage to her pastor husband. But instead of hiding in the shadows, she’s owning her story and using it to light a fire under women everywhere.

“Ladies, listen up! If you’re broken, stuck, or just plain unhappy, it’s time to hit the reset button,” Zaloumis declared during a lively Facebook Live session. “I’m all about my happiness. If someone or something doesn’t vibe with my vision, I’m out. No hard feelings, no regrets. Life’s too short to waste time on people who don’t get it.”

She didn’t stop there. Zaloumis, who’s no stranger to starting over (hello, divorce!), had some straight-up advice for women in unhappy marriages or toxic situations. “If you’re being cheated on, disrespected, or just feeling stuck, it’s time to level up. Success starts in your mind. Believe it, speak it, and go get it. And honey, don’t worry about what anyone else thinks your family, your friends, or even your nosy neighbor. If you’re not happy, nothing else matters.”

Zaloumis also dropped some wisdom about chasing dreams, no matter how big or small. “Want to be a farmer like me? Go for it. Dream of being an engineer? Do it. The Bible says trust in the Lord, but I’m saying trust in yourself too. Don’t let what’s around you hold you back. You’ve got this!”

Of course, not everyone was cheering her on. One follower threw a little shade, suggesting she should “practice what she preaches” in light of her recent divorce. But Zaloumis wasn’t having it. “Don’t judge me without knowing the full story,” she fired back. “I’m living my truth, and that’s all that matters.”

Maria Zaloumis is the breath of fresh air we all need. Her message? Life’s too short to settle. Whether you’re dreaming of a new career, leaving a toxic relationship, or just finding your joy, it’s time to go after it no apologies, no excuses. So, ladies, what are you waiting for? Let’s get to living!

Maria Zaloumis is a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and living life unapologetically. Her journey from a difficult past to becoming a force of change in the agricultural sector, and an inspiring voice for women everywhere, shows us that no setback is too big to overcome. She’s not just advocating for women to leave behind what no longer serves them but also to take charge of their dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem. So, as Maria herself says: Reset, rise, and thrive  no apologies, no regrets.