The Human Rights Commission HRC has called on traditional leaders to respect the rights of their subjects.Commission Communication and Public Relations Manager Samuel Kasankha, however, states that the traditional leaders have a right to endorse their preferred candidates.
Mr. Kasankha in an interview  says the commission is on high alert to ensure that the rights of Zambian voters are protected before, during and after the general elections.
Mr. Kasankhas comments come following Chief Mushota of the Chishinga people of Kawambwa district in Luapula province who is alleged to have vowed to punish any of his subjects campaigning for the opposition Patriotic Front.
The Human Rights Commission Public Relations Manager explains that the chiefs should realize that their subjects come from different backgrounds with different political affiliations.
Mr. Kasankha has since urged the electoral stakeholders to educate the traditional leaders on the importance of respecting their subjects.
Meanwhile Political Analyst Dante Saunders says traditional leaders risk losing respect from their subjects if they continue engaging in partisan politics.

The Small Scale Miners Association says plans of legalizing operations of illegal mining in Zambia have reached an advanced stage. And the Association has expressed concern at the increasing number of people dying as a result of illegal mining.

In an interview, Association Spokesperson Patrick Jeffery said the Association is engaged in negotiations with government over the legalization process.

Jeffrey meanwhile says the Association together with the youths who are involved in illegal mining will soon conduct a march past in honor of the developmental works that have been done by President Rupiah Banda s government.

Jeffery says his Association will also rally behind the MMD Wusakile adopted Member of Parliament Pavuma Kalobo in this years general elections.

The Patriotic Front says it does not have a policy of banning the public media from covering its activities. PF Secretary General, Wynter Kabimba, told the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia on Wednesday, 20th July 2011, that the PF Central Committee has never sat to pass a resolution banning the public media from covering it.
Mr. Kabimba told MISA Zambia Chairperson Daniel Sikazwe and National Director Sipo Kapumba, who requested for a meeting with the PF Secretary General to clarify the recent banning of the public media from covering the PF General Congress in Kabwe.
Mr. Kabimba told MISA Zambia that his party was frustrated that the public media tended to cover his party in negative manner which tended to harm its public image.
He complained that despite repeated efforts to reach out to the public media to create dialogue and mutual understanding, his efforts had yielded nothing.
Mr. Kabimba said his party expected the public media to exhibit the highest professional standards and adhere to professional ethics because they were owned by the Zambian public and, therefore, should show fairness in their coverage of different stakeholders, including opposition political parties, and to report fairly about them.
He assured MISA Zambia that the PF does not hate the public media, referring to the PF manifesto, which had elaborated his party's stand on the media and its support for a free press.
He said his party was ready to open dialogue with the heads of the public media, if government will permit them, so that the public media and the PF can appreciate each other and their role in strengthening Zambia's democracy.
In response, Mr. Sikazwe told Mr. Kabimba that MISA Zambia had gained a lot of insights from the meeting about the challenges the PF was facing in being fairly covered by the public media.
He assured Mr. Kabimba that MISA Zambia would engage all the stakeholders, including government and the public media, to see how the situation could be improved.
He further told Mr. Kabimba that MISA Zambia believed in dialogue with stakeholders, as evidenced by the recent meeting between MISA Zambia and Vice-President George Kunda, where a number of issues, including media operations were discussed.

United Party for National Development (UPND) has charged that the MMD adopted candidates for this general election do not inspire Zambians in any way.And the party says it will announce the adopted candidates for various constituencies at an optimum time.
In an interview,  UPND Vice spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa says there is nothing new about the adopted candidates because most of  them have been in office before.
Mr. Mweetwa says most of the adopted candidates have helped in frustrating Zambians in parliament and cabinet, adding that no meaningful change will be made by the adopted candidates.
He says his party is aware that Zambians need a change of government hence the party is doing its best in ensuring that it delivers to the people.
Meanwhile, Former United Party for National Development Youth Spokesperson Ronald Manenga says he is overwhelmed and humbled by the news that he has been adopted as aspiring candidate for Chimwemwe constituency seat under the Movement for Multiparty Democracy.
Mr. Manenga said that the adoption process was a tough one especially that he was coming from a different political party.
He however says he is happy to be adopted and was considered for the race.
And Mr. Manenga has pledged to work on the road network in Chimwemwe constituency once voted into office as Member of Parliament.
He says it is saddening that the roads have not been worked on by the incumbent PF Member of Parliament Willie Nsanda.

Mike Mulongoti has attributed the delay in announcing the date of elections to the pressure the MMD is facing.

Mr. Mulongoti says the delay by the MMD government to announce the date of elections can best be described as indecency.

He says decency demands that the date of elections is announced and not kept a secret.

In an interview with QFM, the former works and supply minister further adds that the date of elections can never be kept a secret forever.

He has further observed that delay in the announcement of the elections date might be proving to be a disadvantage on the part of the MMD.

Mr Mulongoti has further noted that whether elections are delayed, Zambians are already decided on which political party they want to form the next government.
[Qfm]

The Patriotic Front Executive at Kitwes Chisokone market have unearthed a scam in which some Zambia National Marketeers Association have allegedly hired a group of thugs to beat up Patriotic Front members into the market.

PF Chisokone Branch Chairman Mulunda Mwanza has disclosed the development to Tumfweko.
Mwanza has since appealed to the police to ensure that order and sanity is instituted in the market.
In an interview with Tumfweko.com , Mwanza charges that ZANAMA has connived with a group of thugs to beat marketeers perceived to be PF members or any group found supporting the party.
He however says the PF members will not sit idle and watch ZANAMA take advantage of marketeers.
And Mr. Mwanza has urged marketeers to be united and defend themselves in any way possible.
He has since warned ZANAMA president Elvis Nkandu to put an end to the scam and respect the party affiliations of marketeers.
But ZANAMA Vice president Sydney Kayombo has dispelled the allegations.
Mr. Kayombo says it is unfortunate that Mr. Mwanza has continued to make false allegations against ZANAMA, adding that the association respects all marketeers and does not in any way intimidate them.

Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) president Musa Mwenye says he will not allow calls for his resignation to derail the operations of the association.

Mr. Mwenye says the LAZ executive has resolved not to respond to such calls, as doing so would only detract the association from dealing with real issues.

He explained in a telephone interview that LAZ will remain objective and not allow any interference in its operations.

The LAZ president has in the past weeks come under attack from some sections of the civil society for his statement on the operations of the Zambia National broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC).

Mr. Mwenye says the association will not comment on an agenda which he said is being pushed by individuals who are known to be commentators.

Munali adopted MMD parliamentary candidate Marjory Mwape has vowed to defeat incumbent Mumbi Phiri of the Patriotic Front. Ms Mwape a former 'rebel' PF Mufulira Member of Parliament recently defected to the ruling party.

And Ms. Mwape has stated that she will continue to work for the people of Mufulira where she served as Member of Parliament from 2006 to date.

Speaking in a telephone interview, Ms. Mwape says her key objective in politics is to ensure that she contributes to the development of the country.

She says being adopted in the ruling party is more achievable to work, than working with what she described as a disorganized Patriotic Front.

The Patriotic Front Executive at Kitwes Chisokone market have unearthed a scam in which some Zambia National Marketeers Association have allegedly hired a group of thugs to beat up Patriotic Front members into the market.

PF Chisokone Branch Chairman Mulunda Mwanza has disclosed the development to Tumfweko.com.
Mwanza has since appealed to the police to ensure that order and sanity is instituted in the market.
In an interview with Mwanza charges that ZANAMA has connived with a group of thugs to beat marketeers perceived to be PF members or any group found supporting the party.
He however says the PF members will not sit idle and watch ZANAMA take advantage of marketeers.
And Mr. Mwanza has urged marketeers to be united and defend themselves in any way possible.
He has since warned ZANAMA president Elvis Nkandu to put an end to the scam and respect the party affiliations of marketeers.
But ZANAMA Vice president Sydney Kayombo has dispelled the allegations.
Mr. Kayombo says it is unfortunate that Mr. Mwanza has continued to make false allegations against ZANAMA, adding that the association respects all marketeers and does not in any way intimidate them.

The Professional Teachers Union of Zambia PTUZ says teacher unions will receive the 10 billion Kwacha disbursed towards dismantling of teachers arrears with caution.

However, PTUZ has demanded that the money be paid to teachers immediately saying the arrears have been long over due.

Speaking in an interview, PTUZ Secretary General Kangwa Musenga further demands that the government pays the arrears in full.
And Mr. Musenga has urged the government to show transparency in the disbursement process so that society does not think that the government is trying to hoodwink teachers for votes.

The Government has disbursed another 10 billion Kwacha towards the dismantling of arrears for other personal emoluments for teachers.

The 10 billion Kwacha which has being released brings the total amount disbursed in the last three months to 40 billion Kwacha.

Central, Eastern, North Western and Luapula will receive 1 billion Kwacha each, while Lusaka, Southern will received 1.2 billion Kwacha.

Copperbelt will receive 1.5 billion Kwacha while Northern will receive 1.1 billion Kwacha respectively.

FORMER republican President Levy Mwanawasa’s eldest son Patrick’s brother, Paul, says his sibling should have consulted the family before joining the Patriotic Front (PF) because its president, Michael Sata, was hostile towards their father when he was alive.
And MMD women have urged Patrick Mwanawasa to respect President Banda, First Lady Thandiwe and elders.
Paul Mwanawasa said in an interview in Ndola on Wednesday he hopes Patrick will use respectful language following the meeting the family held on Sunday.
“Patrick should have consulted the family before joining the PF because the PF leader (Mr Sata) never liked the late President Mwanawasa. As the family we respect his political rights, but he should have at
least consulted the family,” Paul said.
He said after the meeting the Mwanawasa family expects Patrick to change his political language and show respect for elders in the political arena.
He said Patrick’s lack of respect for elders had gotten out of hand, and the family had to bring him back to his senses.
“As the Mwanawasa family, we had to call for a meeting with Patrick before things got worse because his political language was also indirectly affecting the family, and we hope after the meeting Patrick will speak with respect,” Paul said.
He said Patrick should have consulted his family before joining the opposition Patriotic Front (PF) because the party’s president was not on good terms with the late President Mwanawasa even at the time of his demise.
[Zambia Daily Mail]

FORMER republican President Levy Mwanawasa’s eldest son Patrick’s brother, Paul, says his sibling should have consulted the family before joining the Patriotic Front (PF) because its president, Michael Sata, was hostile towards their father when he was alive.
And MMD women have urged Patrick Mwanawasa to respect President Banda, First Lady Thandiwe and elders.
Paul Mwanawasa said in an interview in Ndola on Wednesday he hopes Patrick will use respectful language following the meeting the family held on Sunday.
“Patrick should have consulted the family before joining the PF because the PF leader (Mr Sata) never liked the late President Mwanawasa. As the family we respect his political rights, but he should have at
least consulted the family,” Paul said.
He said after the meeting the Mwanawasa family expects Patrick to change his political language and show respect for elders in the political arena.
He said Patrick’s lack of respect for elders had gotten out of hand, and the family had to bring him back to his senses.
“As the Mwanawasa family, we had to call for a meeting with Patrick before things got worse because his political language was also indirectly affecting the family, and we hope after the meeting Patrick will speak with respect,” Paul said.
He said Patrick should have consulted his family before joining the opposition Patriotic Front (PF) because the party’s president was not on good terms with the late President Mwanawasa even at the time of his demise.
[Zambia Daily Mail]

FORMER republican President Levy Mwanawasa’s eldest son Patrick’s brother, Paul, says his sibling should have consulted the family before joining the Patriotic Front (PF) because its president, Michael Sata, was hostile towards their father when he was alive.
And MMD women have urged Patrick Mwanawasa to respect President Banda, First Lady Thandiwe and elders.
Paul Mwanawasa said in an interview in Ndola on Wednesday he hopes Patrick will use respectful language following the meeting the family held on Sunday.
“Patrick should have consulted the family before joining the PF because the PF leader (Mr Sata) never liked the late President Mwanawasa. As the family we respect his political rights, but he should have at
least consulted the family,” Paul said.
He said after the meeting the Mwanawasa family expects Patrick to change his political language and show respect for elders in the political arena.
He said Patrick’s lack of respect for elders had gotten out of hand, and the family had to bring him back to his senses.
“As the Mwanawasa family, we had to call for a meeting with Patrick before things got worse because his political language was also indirectly affecting the family, and we hope after the meeting Patrick will speak with respect,” Paul said.
He said Patrick should have consulted his family before joining the opposition Patriotic Front (PF) because the party’s president was not on good terms with the late President Mwanawasa even at the time of his demise.
[Zambia Daily Mail]

The Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ) has announced that starting next week; it will host a series of debates among political parties at aimed at helping them present their economic and social policies.

EAZ president Isaac Ngoma announced at a media briefing held at the Golden bridge hotel in Lusaka.

Mr. Ngoma says the debates will be centred on issues and topics corresponding to the present ministerial portfolios and that each party will be asked to nominate a different representative for each debate.

He said the objective of the debates will be to help the general public understand the issues and choices that confront them.

Mr. Ngoma hopes that voters will use the debates to challenge and engage those who will seek office to represent them in parliament and councils, as well as those who compete for presidency.

He also hopes that Zambians and non-Zambians who have the welfare of the country at heart and who will participate in economic affairs as investors, traders, financial institutions and cooperating partners will also gain insights into the respective parties policies.

And Mr. Ngoma has deplored recent violence against members of the press.

He however hopes that all media outlets in Zambia will make a much stronger effort to report comprehensively and impartially on the forth coming elections.

There was tension at the border post as the irate drivers ran amok bringing business at both Tunduma and Nakonde border to a stand still.

They also attempted to set on fire a fuel tanker belonging to one of the companies in Tanzania carrying fuel destined for Zambia.

However, quick action by the Zambia Police and their Tanzanian counterparts saved the fuel tanker from being set on fire.

The tanker has since been escorted by armed Zambia police officers and it is parked at Nakonde police station.

The strike action by the Tanzanian truck drivers which has entered day-4 today failed to be resolved yesterday during a meeting addressed by the Mbeya Region minister John Mwakipesile at Tunduma border in Tanzania.

Paramilitary police officers in both Zambia and Tanzania are keeping vigil to thwart any violence by the drivers.

The chanting drivers said their strike action can only be called off after their grievances have been met in full.

The truck drivers are demanding for increased salaries and improved conditions of service.

They have vowed to continue with their strike action saying time has come for them to speak and demand for what is right and good for them.

The international drivers are now demanding to be addressed by the Tanzanian Republican President Jakaya Kikwete or his vice president saying their issue is very serious and should be addressed by senior Government officials and not regional officials.

The strike action has affected revenue collection by the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RATSA) offices at Nakonde.

Riots have broken out in Malawi's capital, Lilongwe, as opposition groups protest against President Bingu wa Mutharikas government.

The BBCs Joel Nkhoma in the city says protesters are burning barricades and have looted at least two businesses.

Police have retaliated by setting up roadblocks and firing teargas.

The trouble started after a court ruled on Tuesday that nationwide protests, called against the high cost of living, were illegal.

Our reporter says despite the ruling, protests are also taking place in the main commercial city, Blantyre, and the northern city of Mzuzu.

But the situation is most tense in Lilongwe, where angry crowds have been shouting, "Let him [Mr Mutharika] go", our reporter says.

He says police roadblocks have prevented protesters from entering the city centre, where all shops are closed and streets deserted.

The riots are taking place in three townships near Lilongwe - Biwi, Kawale and Nchesi, our reporter says.
[BBC]

Movement for Multiparty for Democracy (MMD) cadres in Nkana constituency mid morning protested in Kitwes Buchi area demanding an answer from MMD authorities on why they decided to adopt Patriotic Front rebel councillor Divo Katete on the MMD Nkana constituency ticket leaving out former Nkana constituency Member of Parliament George Chilumanda whom they wanted. Sources close to tumfweko.com have confirmed the development.
By press time, the cadres were still protesting.
But Kitwe District Chairman George Lungu when contacted over the matter said he was not aware of the protests but promised to investigate the matter.
He however wonders why the cadres should protest when the adoptions were made by the MMDs National Executive Committee (NEC).
Meanwhile, Patriotic Front former National Youth secretary Erick Chanda says the PF will win 100 percent parliamentary seats on the Copperbelt.
Mr. Chanda says the credibility of the adopted MMD candidates on the Copperbelt can not meet the expectations of the people, describing the adopted candidates as failures.
The MMD has adopted 'rebel' PF councilor Divo Katete for Nkana Constituency, former UPND national youth spokesperson Ronald Manenga to contest the Chimwemwe seat and Copperbelt MMD task force chairman Joe Malanji for Kwacha constituency.
Others are Pavyuma Kalobo for Wusakile and Itay Chinkuli for Kamfinsa constituency respectively.
But Mr. Chanda says the adopted candidates lack the will to work for the people of Zambia.
He says the PF has better candidates that will bring development to the respective constituencies on the copperbelt.
But Kwacha Constituency adopted candidate Joe Malanji says the PF has no direction.
Asked how he levels his chances of winning the seat, Mr. Malanji says he does not go into any competition with guess work.

The 2009 Budget and Expenditure Tracking Survey (BETS) has revealed a number of inadequacies in both the education and health sector on the Copperbelt province.In the health sector, of the six health institutions covered only two in Mufulira (Mokambo and Kawama West) have no maternity wards as a result, cases are conducted in isolation rooms or referred to higher institutions in cases of complications and during the night as they do not operate at night.
The survey also reveals that a children ward exists at only one of the six health institutions which is Kamuchanga district hospitals as all other health centers both in Mufulira and Kitwe have no children wards.
On staffing of professional health workers, a serious shortage of key qualified staff at visited health institutions were discovered, especially at rural health centres.
On infrastructure development, the survey reveals that there was no construction, renovations, rehabilitation s or extensions undertaken at any of the three health institutions visited in Mufurila district during the period under review.
Meanwhile in the Education sector, out of the six basic schools covered, only three were planned for construction and extension, two of those are Kitwe while the other is Mokambo basic school in Mufurila.
The survey also reveals shortages in staffing, inadequate grants to meet needs of schools and delays in disbursement of grants from the ministry of education among other things.
And making recommendations based on the findings of the Budget and expenditure survey, Zambia Council for Social Development (ZCSD) Provincial Liaison officer Pascal Bwalya said more effort should be directed at introducing maternity and children wards at all clinics to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates even further.

He also recommended that the ministry of education review the free education policy to allow for increased and effective participation of communities in project management.

Mr. Bwalya said while much has been done in improving health delivery, a lot still needs to be done with regard to improving maternal and children health care services especially in Peri-urban and rural areas.
The survey covered six health institutions in Kitwe and Mufulira namely Chavuma Health centre, Zamtan Health centre, Ndeke health centre, Kamuchanga District hospital Mokambo Health centre and Kawama West clinic.

It also covered six basic schools namely Riverside, Kitwe, Lima, Mokambo, Mupambe and Central basic school.

And commenting on the findings of the 2009 budget and expenditure tracking survey Kanfinsa PF  'Rebel'  Member of Parliament Michael Nyirenda said there has been no link between the communities and the MPs office hence the gaps.

He said the survey was two years behind and most of the noted inadequacies in both the education and health sectors had already been tackled by the current government.
ZCSD in collaboration with its partners, Bethesda Zambia and Advocacy on Human Development of Kitwe and Mufulira respectively conducted a BET survey in the education and health sectors.

"Rebel" Kamfinsa PF Member of Parliament Michael Nyirenda has dismissed as baseless, continued accusations that he has failed to effect development in his constituency. Aspiring Kamfinsa MP Tresford Chisela told flava fm recently that after a conducted tour of Kitwes Ndeke area, it was discovered that the road network was in a deplorable state among other things.

But Mr. Nyirenda says the road which connects AMIS to Ndeke Village is being attended to saying delays were due to lack of funds.

He blamed the damage on the road to shoddy works but assured that it would be repaired before the tripartite elections.

Mr. Nyirenda was however, quick to point out that aspiring Kamfinsa MPs were free to point out wrongs in his constituency.

And Mr. Nyirenda said he was proud of his works in the constituency further urging his critics to understand that Kamfinsa constituency does not only cover Ndeke area.

Mr. Mulongoti says the MMD adopted candidates have an uphill battle to convince the people to vote for them.

He describes some of the adopted parliamentary candidates as walkovers incapable of winning an election.

Mr. Mulongoti has further questioned Luapula Member of Parliament Peter Machungwa's decision to vie for the Kabwata seat instead of re-contesting his Luapula seat.

In an interview, Mr. Mulongoti, who recently endorsed the candidature of Patriotic Front leader Michael Sata, say Dr Machungwa's decision is an indication stated that he neglected people of Luapula Province.

Former MMD chairperson for elections Mike Mulongoti says the adopted MMD parliamentary candidates in Lusaka have guaranteed the opposition outright victory. Mr. Mulongoti says the MMD adopted candidates have an uphill battle to convince the people to vote for them. He describes some of the adopted parliamentary candidates as walkovers incapable of winning an election. Mr. Mulongoti has further questioned Luapula Member of Parliament Peter Machungwa's decision to vie for the Kabwata seat instead of re-contesting his Luapula seat. In an interview with QFM, Mr. Mulongoti, who recently endorsed the candidature of Patriotic Front leader Michael Sata, say Dr Machungwa's decision is an indication stated that he neglected people of Luapula Province.

POLITICS of deceit and manipulation is the root cause of poverty and underdevelopment in Zambia, says reverand Mb'ao.

In an interview, rev Mba'o who is Pastors forum For Eastern And Southern Africa Chairperson, said Zambians must vote for leaders that would spearhead good governance and heed peoples cries over the constitution.

"What Zambia needs is sincere leadership.  There is massive rheotic going on with leaders trying to portray a picture that the country is doing very well politically and economically when in fact not.  Corruption, Poverty, injustice and political oppression are still the main challenges that leaders have failed to curb.  This should be at the back of every voters mind as the country goes to the polls," Rev Mba'o said.

He said the country is in need of strong leaders that would give power to the people for the betterment of the country.

" My appeal to the Zambian People is that they should demand for credible leaders.  The country needs a leadership that will provide relief and restore dignity in the lives of  many people, a leadership that would restore the integrity and independence of the judiciary, the public media, law enforcement agencies and other state institutions," said Rev Mba'o.

Kaweche Kaunda has applied to contest the Malambo Parliamentary seat in Mambwe district of Eastern Province on opposition PF ticket.

And former Petauke district commisioner and former diplomat, George Zulu, has applied to contest the Luangeni seat on a PF ticket.

Kaweche, who is Dr. Kenneth Kaunda's son, confirmed the development in an interview yesterday beforegoing for the PF provincial interviews that were held in Chipata.  He said he consulted the people of Malambo on which party ticket he should stand on.

"Its not me who decided that i should stand on PF ticket but the people of Malambo.  Somewhere in October last year, I went to the people of Malambo. I asked them which party they want me to stand on so thats how i was guided to do what i have done," Kaweche said.

He said PF's popularity in Malambo was very healthy.

"I have followed the will of the people of Malambo. I went to all the chiefdoms in the area and consulted the people," Kaweche said.

He said it was unfortunate that the people of Malambo were not in charge of the abundant resources in the area.

About Three people have applied to stand on the Malambo seat on the PF ticket.

 

Organization's executive director Smart Chanda has told QFM that it is important that government comes out clear on the illnesses that the detainees having been suffering from after being released from detention.

Mr. Chanda adds that it is sad to note that four people have died under strange circumstances after being released from detention.

And Mr. Chanda has condemned Senior Chief Mushota of the Chishinga people of Kawambwa district in Luapula province for vowing to punish his subjects supporting the opposition Patriotic Front.

Mr. Chanda has reminded Chief Mushota that every citizen has the right to belong to a party of there choice and that his intimidation of the subjects is an infringement on their rights.

He has since urged government not to engage traditional leaders in partisan politics saying the trend is a threat to democracy.

Meanwhile hope for Human rights has condemned the harassment and assaulting of the Muvi TV editorial staff by suspected MMD cadres.

Mr. Chanda says it is saddening to note that government has been so reluctant to deal with MMD cadres who he says have been harassing people and allocating land illegally.

[Qfm]

 

“Rebel” Luapula Constituency Patriotic Front Member of Parliament Dr Peter Machungwa has been adopted to stand in Lusaka’s Kabwata Constituuency on the MMD ticket, along five other PF MPs adopted to stand in various constituencies on the ruling party ticket.

The five other PF MPs are Bahati’s Besa Chimbaka who is also Luapula Province Minister, Dr Jacob Choongo (Mwense), Faustina Sinyangwe (Matero), Majory Mwape who was MP for a constituency in Mufulira who has been fielded in  Munali constituency in Lusaka and Elizabeth Mulobeka Chitika will re-contest her Kawambwa seat.

Other opposition MPs adopted to stand on the MMD ticket are National Democratic Focus (NDF) president Ben Mwila who is standing in Nchelenge Constituency, UPND MP Robby Chizyuka who will re-contest his Namwala seat, UPND’s Josephine Limata will re-contest her Luampa seat, FDD’s Levy Ngoma (Sinda) and UNIP’s Mkhondo Lungu (Lundazi) will also stand on the MMD ticket.

The ruling MMD has become the first political party to announce adopted Members of Parliament to contest on its ticket in this year’s election.

And the MMD National Executive Committee (NEC) has adopted six opposition Patriotic Front and two United Party for National Development UPND MPs to contest on its ticket.

Others include National Democratic Focus (NDF) President Ben Mwila who is standing in Nchelenge Constituency while nominated Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane is standing in Liuwa constituency.

Expelled Namwala UPND MP Major Robbie Chizhyuka will re-contest his seat on the MMD ticket and so will another UPND bigwig Josephine Limata who will re-contest the Luampa constituency seat on the ruling party ticket.

Katanshi and Kasama central constituencies’ adoptions have been deferred.

Seasoned politicians from both the ruling and opposition members who have also been adopted include Patrick Ngoma (Feira), Donald Chilufya (Chawama), Muhabi Lungu (Lusaka Central), Major Celestino Chibamba (Shiwang’andu) and David Diangamo (Itezhi-Tezhi)

New entrants include Japhen Mwakalombe (Chongwe), Dr. Carnisius Banda (Mandevu),  Rosaria Fundanga (Chilubi), Chileshe Kapwepwe (Chinsali), Mwalimu Simfukwe (Mbala), Laiven Apuleni (Mbabala) and Joshua Simuyandi (Pemba).

Others are Trymore Mwenda (Chikankata), Dr. Victor Mukonka (Monze Central), Noah Siasimuna (Siavonga), Muti Beyani (Sinazongwe) and Charles Mututwa for Senanga Central among others. The rest of the MMD current MPs have maintained their seats in this year’s adoption process.

Ronald Mukuma (Kabompo MP), Gunston Sichilima (Mbala MP) and Charles Shawa for Feira are among those who have not been adopted.

The list of candidates was released Tuesday evening after an MMD NEC meeting at State House to finalise the selection.

President Banda who is also MMD President observed that the selection process was transparent, meticulous and highly competitive.

Mr Banda, in a statement released by one of his aides Dr Francis Chigunta, appealed to MMD aspirants who have not been adopted to continue supporting the ruling party and not retreat into bitterness.

“The unsuccessful aspirants should note that the selection process was a balanced collective exercise involving the entire party through NEC,” President Banda said.

He urged all the MMD members to put the interests of the party above their own and campaign vigorously to ensure that the ruling party wins this year tripartite elections.

 

Kitwes Independent Riverside Ward Councilor Christopher Kangombe says government should acknowledge that it has failed to protect Zambian workers from abuse by foreign investors.
He said it is unfortunate that Zambians are suffering abuse at the hands of investors despite having labour laws in place.
Councilor Kangombe charges that investors are taking advantage of the weak labor ministry and have continued to subject Zambian workers to abuse.
Councilor Kangombe has since challenged labour minister Austin Liato to seriously address the issue adding that failure to do so will confirm that government has been corrupted by investors.
Councilor Kangombes comments come following media reports that a site manager at Joint Venture Civil mining contractors had beaten his worker for reporting five minutes late for work at open pit at Mopani mines in Kitwe.

Media Institute for Southern Africa (MISA ZAMBIA) has told political parties to instill discipline in their cadres.
And MISA has urged media practitioners to desist from covering areas that pose a threat to their lives.
Reacting to the harassment of a Muvi TV news crew by suspected MMD cadres, MISA Chairperson Daniel Sikazwe says the harassment of media personnel is tainting Zambias image.
He says the institute is saddened by the continued attack of media personnel by cadres from various political parties.
Mr. Sikazwe has since called on the police to ensure that all the people behind the act are brought to book.
More than 100 ruling MMD cadres yesterday morning severely beat a MUVI TV news crew and further confiscated their equipment.
The respective also almost raped the female journalists, who were among the Muvi TV news crew.
The journalists had gone to Nakachenje area in Lusaka West to interview a woman who was attacked by the same MMD cadres, who a few days ago grabbed her land.

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By Richard Kabanda.

If you’re guzzling red wine and black tea, or smoking cigarettes or cigars, expect your partner to frown. You may have suddenly going out for those hot dates without reason but he or she is ashamed of your stained/dirty teeth. The Pepper dentist, Dr Richard Kabanda guides you through how you can kick this problem.

Brush it
Culprits to blame for discolored or dirty teeth include colas, gravies, and dark juices. If it’s dark before you put it in your mouth, it will probably stain your teeth. Brush immediately after eating or drinking foods that stain teeth and use a good bleaching agent, either over-the-counter or in the dentist’s office. For convenient teeth-cleaning action, eat an apple.

Chuck your toothbrush
This should be at least every two to three months. Otherwise, you’re just transferring bacteria to your mouth. According to Kabanda, the best way to brush is by placing your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against your gums and gently moving it in a circular motion, rather than a back-and-forth motion.

Clean your tongue
Carefully brush your tongue every morning to remove plaque and freshen your breath. One major cause of bad breath is the buildup of bacteria on the tongue. “Using a tongue scraper is more effective than a toothbrush on your tongue,” says Dr Kabanda.

Eat ‘detergent’ foods
Such foods are firm or crisp help clean teeth as they’re eaten. Apples, otherwise known as nature’s toothbrush, raw carrots, and popcorn qualify for clean teeth. For best results, make these foods the final food in your meal especially if you know you won’t be able to brush your teeth right after eating.

Gargle
Do it with apple cider vinegar in the morning and then brush as usual. The vinegar helps help remove stains, whiten teeth, and kill bacteria in your mouth and gums.

Brush with baking soda once a week
To remove stains and whiten your teeth use it just as you would toothpaste. You can also use salt as an alternative. Be sure to spit it out so it doesn’t count as sodium intake! Also, if your gums start to feel raw, switch to brushing with salt every other day.

Stay fresh
To check the freshness of your breath, lick your palm and smell it while it’s still wet. If you smell something, it’s time for a sugar-free breath mint. Shop for alcohol-free mouthwash. Mouthwashes that have too much alcohol can dry out the tissues in your mouth, making them more susceptible to bacteria.

Floss with eyes shut
If you can floss without having to guide your work with a mirror, you can do it in your car, at your desk, in bed, and before important dates. Buy several packs of floss and scatter them in such different places.

Bottom line; have all plaque cleaned off the teeth before sleep and brush first thing in the morning to brush off plaque and bacteria that may have built up as you slept.

 

By Richard Kabanda.

If you’re guzzling red wine and black tea, or smoking cigarettes or cigars, expect your partner to frown. You may have suddenly going out for those hot dates without reason but he or she is ashamed of your stained/dirty teeth. The Pepper dentist, Dr Richard Kabanda guides you through how you can kick this problem.

Brush it
Culprits to blame for discolored or dirty teeth include colas, gravies, and dark juices. If it’s dark before you put it in your mouth, it will probably stain your teeth. Brush immediately after eating or drinking foods that stain teeth and use a good bleaching agent, either over-the-counter or in the dentist’s office. For convenient teeth-cleaning action, eat an apple.

Chuck your toothbrush
This should be at least every two to three months. Otherwise, you’re just transferring bacteria to your mouth. According to Kabanda, the best way to brush is by placing your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against your gums and gently moving it in a circular motion, rather than a back-and-forth motion.

Clean your tongue
Carefully brush your tongue every morning to remove plaque and freshen your breath. One major cause of bad breath is the buildup of bacteria on the tongue. “Using a tongue scraper is more effective than a toothbrush on your tongue,” says Dr Kabanda.

Eat ‘detergent’ foods
Such foods are firm or crisp help clean teeth as they’re eaten. Apples, otherwise known as nature’s toothbrush, raw carrots, and popcorn qualify for clean teeth. For best results, make these foods the final food in your meal especially if you know you won’t be able to brush your teeth right after eating.

Gargle
Do it with apple cider vinegar in the morning and then brush as usual. The vinegar helps help remove stains, whiten teeth, and kill bacteria in your mouth and gums.

Brush with baking soda once a week
To remove stains and whiten your teeth use it just as you would toothpaste. You can also use salt as an alternative. Be sure to spit it out so it doesn’t count as sodium intake! Also, if your gums start to feel raw, switch to brushing with salt every other day.

Stay fresh
To check the freshness of your breath, lick your palm and smell it while it’s still wet. If you smell something, it’s time for a sugar-free breath mint. Shop for alcohol-free mouthwash. Mouthwashes that have too much alcohol can dry out the tissues in your mouth, making them more susceptible to bacteria.

Floss with eyes shut
If you can floss without having to guide your work with a mirror, you can do it in your car, at your desk, in bed, and before important dates. Buy several packs of floss and scatter them in such different places.

Bottom line; have all plaque cleaned off the teeth before sleep and brush first thing in the morning to brush off plaque and bacteria that may have built up as you slept.

 

MICHAEL Sata will win by a landslide in Chiengi regardless of what the MMD does, says senior chief Puta’s immediate younger brother Abel Musonda.

And Chiengi MMD information and publicity secretary Wansambo Makungu said the people in Chiengi told President Rupiah Banda’s ministers who were recently on a tour of Luapula Province that the President should help set Katele Kalumba free from the corruption cases he is facing.

In an interview, Musonda said the people should ignore the claims that the MMD was gaining popularity in Chiengi and other areas in Luapula.

He said it was an obvious case that Sata would win the elections with a landslide, saying people would not buy into the propaganda against him.

“I know president Sata winning is an obvious thing. He is winning. This time he is winning by a landslide. As long as I am there I will make sure he wins, not the way he was winning by smaller margins in the previous elections,” Musonda said.

Musonda said even at parliamentary level, the PF stood a better chance of winning but that they should adopt a popular candidate in the area.

He said his elder brother; chief Puta was neutral when it came to supporting political parties.

Musonda said chief Puta supported President Banda and the MMD merely because chiefs were “supposed to support the government of the day”.

And Makungu said President Banda’s ministers, Catherine Namugala, Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane and Maxwell Mwale asked the MMD structures in Chiengi to work with the party leadership since the appeal process of their area member of parliament Kalumba was already in progress.

“W e MMD in Chiengi, said since the appeal process of appeal is already underway, let’s just work together. We told them that since the President has powers to set people free on some cases ‘so we ask you to help us by setting Kalumba free because the cases against him are political’,” Makungu said.

Makungu also said the party in Chiengi told Namugala and group to stick to the parliamentary candidate the party structures in the area would adopt.

He said the people in Chiengi wanted Cosmos Mpampi adopted.

 

We are rather shocked by the gross political misconduct of Patrick Mwanawasa. We find that his recent behaviour and utterances are unacceptable in any normal society.

In a space of a very short time, Patrick has been quoted in the media insulting President Rupiah Banda, Mrs. Thandiwe Banda, and former Republican Vice-President Enoch Kavindele, his own uncle, Moses Muteteka and his own auntie Eva Mwanawasa. He also issued a disparaging statement against late president, Dr. F.J.T. Chiluba in 2010.

Clearly, the political career of Patrick is headed to the dustbin of history and does not represent or symbolise a budding political career of a youthful or young leader. This event also reflects the poor judgement of those persons such as Michael Sata and the PF that have hired Patrick and are using him to attempt to discredit President Banda.

By his recent conduct, Patrick has demonstrated utter desperation and he is keen to practice dirty and outdated form of politics just to earn him cheap political attention. With his form politics, Patrick has let down the many youths that wish to bring a breath of fresh air of integrity to our politics.

However we are not surprised that Patrick has failed to emulate even the principles practiced by his own father, the late president, Dr. Patrick Mwanawasa. President Mwanawasa would not insult elders or members of his own family in the name of politics.

Recently he has caused the suspension of Kitwe Mayor, when against all principles of use of public resources is alleged to have obtained fuel on the account of Kitwe City Council.

This is not the only issue that has put into question the integrity or lack of it in Patrick. We are also aware that he sought a refund from his University from the United Kingdom in a fraudulent manner. When he discontinued his studies in the UK, he forged papers purporting that his mother had sought a refund from the College and used someone’s account. He even jeopardised the job of this young lady by his fraudulent conduct.

We also urge Patrick to seek help for his known drinking problem as this seems to be the underlying problem. In this vain, he doesn’t seem to go into politics to serve the people but to serve his own selfish appetite for free things.

We therefore urge Patrick to desist from his shameful behaviour. It paints a bad picture giving credence to assertions that young people are not ready to participate in senior leadership when in fact not. It is people like Patrick who misrepresent the capacity of young leaders.

We also implore young people to ignore the desperate ranting of Patrick. Patrick should take time to resolve the crisis in his life such as the fraudulent fuel he obtained in Kitwe and the irregular refund of his school fees.

Note To Our Readers:This story is not Verified, it was done by[Gregory Chifire]

The United Party for National Development (UPND) on the Copperbelt has questioned the motive behind the continued closure of Radio Lyambai in Mongu especially that the country is headed for the tripartite elections.Provincial spokesperson Kennedy Kalunga says the party finds the closure of Radio Lyambai in Mongu to be totally unacceptable considering the fact that Zambia is a democracy.

Mr. Kalunga says the continuous closure of the radio station is detrimental not only to the people of western province but the entire nation.

He says Radio Lyambai was not only the platform for political views but also helped communities in Western Province to learn about various life issues such as HIV and AIDS.

Mr. Kalunga says in a statement that the people of Western Province cannot be denied an opportunity to listen to divergent views emanating from the 2011 campaigns.

He has since appealed to government to immediately re-open Radio Lyambai in Mongu that was closed following the Barotseland disturbances.

And the Copperbelt spokesperson has called upon Zambian people to vote for the UPND saying it will allow media institutions operate freely away from government interference by making sure that the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) comes into being.

Mufulira Resident Joe Mwale has charged that the government has neglected its people for failing to provide a constitution that meets the peoples aspirations.Speaking to flava fm , Mr. Mwale noted that the government has remained selfish in wanting to provide a constitution that favors the people.
He says the government has an obligation to ensure that the country has a constitution that meets the needs of its citizens.
Mr. Mwale has since called on the next government after the general elections to come up with a constitution that will stand the test of time.
Meanwhile Mr. Mwale says Vice President George Kunda should first apologize to the Zambian people for wasting tax payers money instead of trying to re-introduce the failed constitution amendment bill.
Over the weekend Vice President George Kunda said Government will re-introduce the failed constitution amendment bill which failed in the last sessions of parliament.
Vice President George Kunda says the bill failed because it was sabotaged by the opposition.
Mr. Kunda says Government is determined to bring the bill back to the house because it contains good and new reforms.

The Youth Redemption Forum has come to the defence of Patrick Mwanawasa following his description of President Rupiah Banda as stubborn.And the Forum has vowed to campaign for youths that will show interest to participate in this years presidential, Parliamentary and Local Government elections.
Forum Executive Director Davis Munina says Patrick Mwanawasa has the right to speak out on issues affecting the country.
Munina says Patrick is the voice of the youths who have no opportunity to be heard in society.
He says older politicians should not be intimidating the youths who want to vie for political positions as being disrespectful.
Munina says the political level field should be favorable to both the old and the young.
He says democracy does not border on the age of a person.
Speaking  in an interview, Munina explains that the youths of Zambia feel betrayed by politicians who want to continue holding onto positions fit for them.
Patrick Mwanawasa the first born son of the late president recently joined the opposition Patriotic Front and has applied for adoption to contest the Kafulafuta parliamentary seat.

Patriotic Front Spokesperson Winter Kabimba has urged the MMD government to start financing the Public media if they want to be covered exclusively. MMD Spokesperson Dora Siliya has been quoted saying this is the time for the ruling MMD to be exclusively covered on ZNBC television because even when PF leader Michael Sata comes into power, ZNBC will be covering him alone.
In an interview with tumfweko.com Mr. Kabimba says it is wrong for the MMD to be covered exclusively by the public media which is financed by tax payers money.
And Mr. Kabimba says his party will ensure that the public media is respected once voted into power.

CHIENGI member of Parliament Katele Kalumba has warned that the few ‘treacherous’ individuals who are still scheming to resign from the MMD will live to regret because President Banda and the MMD still enjoy public confidence.

Dr Kalumba, who is former MMD national secretary, said in an interview from Chiengi yesterday that Zambians are too intelligent to change Government because President Banda’s administration is delivering on its promises to the people.

“President Banda still has many strategic options in his political armoury to boost even further public confidence in his leadership and the ruling party, the MMD. I believe days are numbered for the few traitors who continue to betray President Banda’s confidence,” Dr Kalumba said.

He said the MMD is still strong and popular because of its prudent economic management and consistency on policy.

“Because of the MMD’s size and long history of leadership, there are bound to be people who feel that perhaps the cat calls for change by the opposition are loud enough to scare the voting public and that opportunity is beckoning on the other side.

“It is my firm belief that the moment has not arrived. Zambians are too intelligent to give up something that is working for them,” Dr Kalumba said.

He said the strong economy, difference in the style of leadership between President Banda and Patriotic Front (PF) president Michael Sata and MMD’s consistency on policy are indicators of the outcome of this year’s tripartite elections.

Commenting on Mr. Sata’s claims that the PF is taking over Eastern Province and former deputy minister of Works and Supply Lameck Mangani’s defection to the PF, Dr Kalumba said the MMD has experienced similar situations in the past but they have had no real negative impact on the ruling party.

“Significantly, I believe that the people of Eastern Province are still in the saddle of power after belonging to the opposition for a long time. I wish to give myself a little credit on this that it took a long time for me personally and others in the MMD to persuade the people of Eastern Province to leave UNIP and join the MMD,” Dr Kalumba said.

He said he does not think that the people of Eastern Province are about to give up stewardship of the MMD which is in charge of national affairs.

“I know that the east is composed of very significant population entities from Chama, Chadiza, Mtenguleni, Nyimba and Mambwe but I still believe that with intelligent leadership in the province, it is possible to unify them behind the MMD leadership. Unity of leadership in the province will have a positive impact on the other provinces,” Dr Kalumba said.

He said Mr Mangani’s resignation from the MMD is not insurmountable and can be repaired if the party remains united in its work, purpose and strategy.

“We have had similar losses before and we have been able to reduce the damage by intelligent and informed strategising,” Dr Kalumba said.

Meanwhile, JIMMY CHIBUYE reports that Zambians for Empowerment and Development president Fred Mutesa has urged Zambians to be wary of recycled politicians who don’t deserve a vote.

Dr Mutesa said in a statement issued in Lusaka yesterday that any leader who has been in Parliament for more than ten years should be retired during the elections.

He said Zambians should not entertain politicians who jump from one political party to another.

“Unless Zambians open their eyes, the only change they will get is recycling the same shameless politicians,” Dr Mutesa said.

He said some politicians fear the possibility of losing the privileges they have enjoyed in the MMD and are now trying to revive their political careers by joining other parties, hoping the ruling party will lose the polls.

Speaking with Qfm, NAREP Secretary General John Phiri says his party is ready to organize peaceful demonstrations in support of Mr. Mwenye.

Mr. Phiri says people should not demonize the LAZ president for his observation on the ills of the national broadcaster ZNBC which should serve the interests of the public.

He has since urged Mr. Mwenye to stand firm and not allow himself to be intimidated by those who do not respect the laws of Zambia.

And Mr. Phiri has called on government to start investing in the local industry for printing of ballot papers before the 2016 elections.

Commenting on the move by the ECZ to award a contract of printing ballot papers for this year's elections to a South African Company, Mr. Phiri says it is unfortunate that some local companies despite having the capacity to handle the printing of ballot papers, they are not considered for the job.

He says the move is a clear indication that the MMD government has failed to fulfill its pronouncements of empowering Zambians.

Rupoiah Banda is going to be fired this year because he has failed, says PF Leadrer Micheal Sata.

Featuring on Breeze FM's political hour programme yesterday, Sata said the diference between President Banda and him was that he had never been fired in life.

"The difference between Comrade Banda and I, is that I have never been fired in life, but Comrade Banda wherever he goes he is being fired.  Even  this one  (Presidency) where he is, the people of Zambia are going to fire him because he is just enjoying himself left, right and center" Sata said.

He said if Dr. Kaunda was as reckless as the current government is, alot of development projects would not have been done.

Asked what he would do in an event that he lost this years elections, Sata said he was one person who does not want bloodshed.

"I did not lose 2006 elections but i went public, i went tto ZNBC, appealed to my supportersnot to take to the streets like Ivory Coast because I hate to see the blood of any person" Sata said.

In 2008, RB did not win the 35,000 votes from eastern Province, he went to win in Western Province.  I even went with Mr. Sebastian Zulu to court and the high cort said they could not recount the voptesbecause i wanted them to recount.  But i still went public and appealed to the public.... I have survived 110 years in the opposition but wherever Ruphia Banda goes i can go, whatever Ruphia eats i can eat."

He pledged that the PF government would place emphasis on the protection of people than animals in the current animal-human conflict that has seen a growing number of deaths among people living near game areas.

He also expressed happiness with the re-opening of the Chipata Central constituency office that was closed by angry MMD cadres last week.

Kanyama Patriotic Front Member of Parliament Colonel Gerry Chanda has observed that the country will be in big trouble should Zambians fail to change government in the forthcoming general elections.

Mr. Chanda says people in his area have for a long time suffered due to the negligence of the ruling MMD.

Mr. Chanda says as area member of parliament, he is trying his best to improve the livelihoods of his people but noted that it is challenging as government withholds constituency development funds.


He said that it is government that should explain why the CDF is not released to help address the number of challenges being faced by citizens.

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) President Musa Mwenye says the association will not respond to allegations that the association is compromised.
Mr. Mwenye was responding to New Generation Party president Humphrey Siulapwa who has called for the resignation of LAZ president Muse Mwenya alleging that he has compromised the Association.
And Mr. Mwenye in an interview with Tumfweko.com , he has urged the Press Association of Zambia (PAZA) to write to LAZ if it has a problem with the Associations comments on the operations of the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC).
PAZA has accused LAZ of making decisions based on one political party and has stopped consulting stakeholders before making decisions.

The ruling Movement for Multi- party Democracy MMD in Kitwe has advised the opposition Patriotic Front not to cheat themselves that they are gaining popularity in the countrys nine provinces.
District chairperson George Lungu told Flava Fm News that the PF will be shocked at the MMDs popularity come 2011 elections.
He says unlike the PF which focuses on faking crowds, the MMD has remained committed to developing the country as evidenced by the number of schools and hospitals built within a space of two years.
Mr. Lungu also advises Zambians to be cautious of those calling for pre-mature change of regime saying President Rupiah Banda has demonstrated true leadership through tireless efforts to develop the nation.
He was reacting to PF claims that it has taken over Eastern province.
Meanwhile Mr. Lungu has accused opposition Members of Parliament and councilors in Kitwe of failing the Zambian people.
He said except for a few, most MPs and councilors have failed to use Constituency Development Funds to upgrade their respective constituencies that have since remained underdeveloped.

Kitwe Mayor Elias Kamanga said no amount of intimidation will stop him from carrying out his mayoral duties.
And Councilor Kamanga has expressed interest to contest the Kamfinsa parliamentary seat on the Patriotic Front ticket.
Councilor Kamanga has also accused MMD Copperbelt Task force chairman Joe Malanji of frustrating the efforts of the office of the mayor.
Speaking at a media briefing held at Ndeke Community hall Monday morning, Councilor Kamanga wondered in what capacity Mr. Malanji was being involved in council issues.
He notes that by him being summoned by Riverside Police stations on theft allegations simply confirms that the police are a wing of the MMD.
Councilor Kamanga also accused the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation ZNBC of being a mouth piece for the MMD.
MMD task force chairperson Joe Malanji last week revealed that he had reported councilor Kamanga to Riverside Police Station for allegedly re-fuelling Patrick Mwanawasas vehicle with 73.4 liters of petrol worth K635, 000 on a council account and also to the Anti Corruption Commission for illegal land allocations.
Meanwhile, Councilor Kamanga has called on the Ministry of Local Government and housing to allow auditors to audit the Kitwe City council.
He explains that no councilor has a right to give land to an individual as the process is done with full approval of the city council.

Wynter Kabimba says President Rupiah Banda has been embarrassed by his own advisors on the Maamba Colliery houses sale issue. Kabimba in an interview said it was becoming difficult for anyone to trust President Banda’s pronouncements since he himself did not know what went on in his government.

“Does he really understand what’s going on in his government for him to make such pronouncements without first getting some background information?  And in any case, why should a president run this country based on guesswork?” he asked.

Kabimba said what was happening were signs of the worst yet to come.

“Why should those paid to advise the president cause him such embarrassment? And he himself, does he really think he can win an election based on those pronouncements? It’s a pity that he is falling on the same trap that Chiluba fell into.  Let him leave those consultancy handouts Chiluba left him with.  You cant go out on a platform in Maamba and say you are selling houses that have already been” said Kabimba.

He said Maamba collieries houses were sold along with other mine houses in several parts of the country during late president Frederick Chiluba’s tenure.

 

Patrick Mwanawasa says he is an adult who can exercise his free will to participate in politics and would like his family members to respect his decisions.

Patrick said he was a young man and, like all human being, was bound to make mistakes.

His remarks come in the wake of criticism from his aunt Evelyn Mwanawasa, who described his earlier comment on President Rupiah Banda as childish, desperate and influenced by disgruntled politicians using him to gain political mileage.

“I have got tremendous respect for my aunt.  I cannot wish her anything bad at all.  I would just like to say that for her to say what she said in the national media is very unfortunate.” Patrick said.

“But what I would like from my family members is that they should respect my decisions. I am 28 years old now, same age as Thandiwe Banda; may be within the same age anyway, with the president’s wife Thandiwe Banda.”

Patrick said he did not believe his comments on President Banda were equal to insults, saying he was a young man who was learning to climb the political ladder.

“Mr.[ Ephraim] Mateyo, I respect him and he served the police service very well.  I would implore him to it like that.  He did his part in serving mother Zambia.” He said

Patrick said he took great exception to people that where saying ‘all sorts of things’ in the public media

 

Someone should be held accountable for the failure of the constitution-making process, says LAZ.

In an interview, Law Association Of Zambia (LAZ) president Musa Mwenye said it was amazing that after bungling the NCC (National Constitution Conference) process and the subsequent attempts at enacting a constitution, the individuals who were primary movers of the process were still holding public offices without any repercussions whatsoever.

“Clearly, the government has failed to deliver a people driven constitution and we have lost over K100 billion in this bungled process, and as Zambians, we need to promote a culture where we start holding our politicians accountable for failures such as the constitution failure.” He said.

Mwenye said even the current debate surrounding Article 34 sub-title three of the Constitution of Zambia which was the infamous parentage clause would not have arisen if the country had a people driven constitution.

And Mwenye said the constitution should never be taken back to parliament before the people approved of it in a referendum.  He said once the constitution is submitted to parliament without the people deciding what they wanted, parliamentarians would be empowered to impose their will over the aspirations of the people.

He said it was easy for Zambia to have the best, cheapest and most representative method of enacting a new constitution.

Mwenye disagreed with president Banda’s plans to take back the constitution to parliament if the MMD wins this year’s election, saying there was need to get back to the drawing board.

 

PF leader Michael Sata yesterday presented Lameck Mangani to His Royal Highness Kalonga Gawa Undi of the Chewa people of Eastern province.

Sata, who arrived at Mukaika palace around 10:00 hours immediately, proceeded into a closed door meeting with his royal highness, which lasted for about an hour and half hours.

Sata and Mangani left the palace around 11:30 hours and drove back to Chipata in readiness for a rally in Luangeni Constituency.

Meanwhile, Mangani said it would be impossible for the MMD to achieve even 60 per cent of the total votes in Eastern Province.

In an interview yesterday, Mangani, who is Chipata Central Member of Parliament, said the Saturday rally was testimony that things have changed in the province.

“As president (Sata) indicated yesterday, Eastern Province is an agriculture province, so any government that does not put serious attention to agriculture risks being voted out” Mangani said. “The fertilizer support programme is a good programme but the reduction in the number of bags from eight to four has demoralized the farmers”

Mangani said there was poor infrastructure in the province, particularly the road network.

“A lot of feeder roads are extremely in a bad state, as such the people think the government is not paying attention to their needs.  Even the water supply in the province is bad.  Eastern Province has got very big village groupings and most of these don’t have water supply, they just draw water from the streams”

Mangani said this time around, the people of Eastern Province wanted to be associated with the wind of change.

“To a larger extent, even the ordinary residents also feel that the MMD has outlived its usefulness.  No wonder it will be impossible for the MMD to achieve 60 percent of the total votes in Eastern Province’” said Mangani.

 

PF leader Michael Sata yesterday presented Lameck Mangani to His Royal Highness Kalonga Gawa Undi of the Chewa people of Eastern province.

Sata, who arrived at Mukaika palace around 10:00 hours immediately, proceeded into a closed door meeting with his royal highness, which lasted for about an hour and half hours.

Sata and Mangani left the palace around 11:30 hours and drove back to Chipata in readiness for a rally in Luangeni Constituency.

Meanwhile, Mangani said it would be impossible for the MMD to achieve even 60 per cent of the total votes in Eastern Province.

In an interview yesterday, Mangani, who is Chipata Central Member of Parliament, said the Saturday rally was testimony that things have changed in the province.

“As president (Sata) indicated yesterday, Eastern Province is an agriculture province, so any government that does not put serious attention to agriculture risks being voted out” Mangani said. “The fertilizer support programme is a good programme but the reduction in the number of bags from eight to four has demoralized the farmers”

Mangani said there was poor infrastructure in the province, particularly the road network.

“A lot of feeder roads are extremely in a bad state, as such the people think the government is not paying attention to their needs.  Even the water supply in the province is bad.  Eastern Province has got very big village groupings and most of these don’t have water supply, they just draw water from the streams”

Mangani said this time around, the people of Eastern Province wanted to be associated with the wind of change.

“To a larger extent, even the ordinary residents also feel that the MMD has outlived its usefulness.  No wonder it will be impossible for the MMD to achieve 60 percent of the total votes in Eastern Province’” said Mangani.

 

By Richard Kabanda.

If you’re guzzling red wine and black tea, or smoking cigarettes or cigars, expect your partner to frown. You may have suddenly going out for those hot dates without reason but he or she is ashamed of your stained/dirty teeth. The Pepper dentist, Dr Richard Kabanda guides you through how you can kick this problem.

Brush it
Culprits to blame for discolored or dirty teeth include colas, gravies, and dark juices. If it’s dark before you put it in your mouth, it will probably stain your teeth. Brush immediately after eating or drinking foods that stain teeth and use a good bleaching agent, either over-the-counter or in the dentist’s office. For convenient teeth-cleaning action, eat an apple.

Chuck your toothbrush
This should be at least every two to three months. Otherwise, you’re just transferring bacteria to your mouth. According to Kabanda, the best way to brush is by placing your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against your gums and gently moving it in a circular motion, rather than a back-and-forth motion.

Clean your tongue
Carefully brush your tongue every morning to remove plaque and freshen your breath. One major cause of bad breath is the buildup of bacteria on the tongue. “Using a tongue scraper is more effective than a toothbrush on your tongue,” says Dr Kabanda.

Eat ‘detergent’ foods
Such foods are firm or crisp help clean teeth as they’re eaten. Apples, otherwise known as nature’s toothbrush, raw carrots, and popcorn qualify for clean teeth. For best results, make these foods the final food in your meal especially if you know you won’t be able to brush your teeth right after eating.

Gargle
Do it with apple cider vinegar in the morning and then brush as usual. The vinegar helps help remove stains, whiten teeth, and kill bacteria in your mouth and gums.

Brush with baking soda once a week
To remove stains and whiten your teeth use it just as you would toothpaste. You can also use salt as an alternative. Be sure to spit it out so it doesn’t count as sodium intake! Also, if your gums start to feel raw, switch to brushing with salt every other day.

Stay fresh
To check the freshness of your breath, lick your palm and smell it while it’s still wet. If you smell something, it’s time for a sugar-free breath mint. Shop for alcohol-free mouthwash. Mouthwashes that have too much alcohol can dry out the tissues in your mouth, making them more susceptible to bacteria.

Floss with eyes shut
If you can floss without having to guide your work with a mirror, you can do it in your car, at your desk, in bed, and before important dates. Buy several packs of floss and scatter them in such different places.

Bottom line; have all plaque cleaned off the teeth before sleep and brush first thing in the morning to brush off plaque and bacteria that may have built up as you slept.

 

Someone should be held responsible and accountable for the failure of the constitution-making process, says LAZ.

In an intervis yesterday, Law association of zambia

Dora Siliya's visit to the copperbelt has only succeded in bringing out issues that explain why MMD should be voted out of office, says Nkana PF parliamentariaan Mwenya Musenge.

Commenting on education minister Dora Siliya's justification of MMD's abuse of state -owned media organisations, Musenge said it was regretable and unfortunate that a minister could justify abuse of public media organizations.

Musenge also Charged that Siliya had also exposed her 'Shallowness' on a number of issues.

"It is sad that a minister who is supposed to be honourable can proudly make a statement and justify MMD's abuse of the public media. It is very Unfortunate." Musenge said.

"Throughout her tripto the Copperbelt, Dora has only managed to bring out issues to justify why people should vote out MMD.  For example, she has confirmed that government has been denying development to areas that are dominated by the oppositionand secondly,she has justified MMD's abuse of state media."

Addressing a meeting at Kanseshi High school in Ndola on Wednesday, Siliya declared that it was time for the ruling MMD to be exclusively covered on ZNBC television because even when Sata comes into power, ZNBC will be covering them alone.

NGOCC Board Chairperson Beatrice Grillo says the delay in announcing the date of elections is causing unnecessary anxiety in the country.

Mrs. Grillo says it is either the president announces the date of the elections or the ECZ states that it is not yet ready to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.

Speaking to QFM, Mrs. Grillo observes that early announcement of the election date will help create a leveled playing field for all players in the preparation of the forthcoming general election.

The NGOCC Board Chairperson has since appealed to republican president Rupiah Banda to announce the election date on take for people to plan well.

[Qfm]

After been put for possible eviction only once since the show commenced on May 1  the former Zambian housemate Mumba Mwaka  has been evicted. Last week, Mumba joined Malawi’s Lomwe Namali, Vina Longpet (Nigeria), Bernadina Buys (Namibia) and Botswana’s Zeus Bantsi for possible eviction and if she had survived today's'  eviction on Sunday, Zambian housemates would have likely been part of the final list for next month’s finale, the possible two winners of the 200,000 dollars each.

Works and Supply Minister, Gabriel Namulambe has acknowledged that security cannot be guaranteed if ballot papers were to be locally printed.

This is in the backdrop of electoral stakeholders concerns over the printing of ballots in a foreign country.

Mr Namulambe however says government is soon to spend 46 billion kwacha on security installations at the government printers in order to facilitate local printing of the ballots.

He has further said that government is nevertheless confident that ballot papers for the 2016 and 2021 general elections will be printed locally.

 

The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has intensified its operations in view of the SADC drug cartel planning to set up base in Zambia.
DEC Public Relations manager John Nyawali has disclosed in an interview.
Mr. Nyawali says the commission is strengthening its operations to prevent the recruitment of women whom he says are major targets as they are least expected to engage in drug related deals.
He says the commission is at the moment collaborating with both local and international Law Enforcement agencies and has already started carrying out sensitization campaigns to protect Zambians from illegal activities.
Mr. Nyawali has since appealed to members of the community to be vigilant and report all suspicious drug couriers to relevant authorities.
The commission last week warned members of the public especially women that there is a vicious and ruthless drug cartel operating in the Southern African Development Community region and is attempting to set up base in Zambia to recruit more drug couriers.
And The Lusaka Magistrate Court has sentenced a former Management Accountant at the Legal Aid Board to one year six months imprisonment with hard labour for theft of public funds amounting to K30 million.
Humphrey Chola Mumbi, 33, was convicted after being found guilty of theft and money laundering charges.
Facts before the court were that Mr. Mumbi in his capacity as Management Accountant at Legal Aid Board, a department under the Ministry of Justice withdrew over K30 million from the departments revolving fund account purporting that the money was to be given to officers as Loans when in fact not.
The money was however deposited into a private account with the view of earning interest which was going to be used for offsetting the K30 million illegally withdrawn.
And in a related development, two businessmen of Lusaka have been sentenced to three years imprisonment with hard labour for money laundering involving a total of K390 million.
Freddie Sichone, 54 was jointly sentenced with Paul Musonda Lunda 56 after being found guilty of three charges of money laundering.
Facts before the court were that the dual using a company called Sizala Enterprises Limited defrauded Standard Chartered Bank Limited by forging a cheque belonging to a Canadian based firm which they cashed and withdrew the money.
However, the cheque was not honoured as it was a forged document.
DEC Public Relations Manager John Nyawali says in a statement that the Commission is encouraged with the convictions as they show that financial crimes are not tolerated by the Zambian laws.
Meanwhile, 383 kilograms of cannabis was seized in the last seven days and 69 people arrested in connection with the psychotropic substance.
Mr. Nyawali says among those arrested was Ketankumar Naik, 43 Proprietor of My Own Pharmacy for being in possession of 1396 tablets of Phenobabital, a highly controlled depressant drug, without valid documents.
He says Mr. Naik together with his salesman has since been charged for drug trafficking.
(Flavafm)

The Copperbelt University Students Union (COBUSU) has urged the government to begin to engage Diploma students at both CBU and the University of Zambia in dialogue over what it terms sky-rocketing tuition fees at higher learning institutions.

COBUSU Secretary General Anthony Bwalya says sustained dialogue done in good faith, through honest opinion sharing and a willingness by all stakeholders to examine available alternatives will eventually yield a solution to the problem, Diploma students have continued to face.
Bwalya further implores government to embark on a rigorous path of addressing graduate unemployment by ensuring parity between investments in higher education and financing formal job creation and expanding entrepreneurial capacity for graduates within the economy.
And Bwalya has advised people to refrain from trivializing the problems of students by making political stunts out of them.
He says government should continue down a trail of sustainably supporting the education sector as this holds the life and blood of the countrys future economic productivity and subsequent growth.
[FlavaFM]

16:10 Master of ceremonies, Lameck Mangani, introduces Given Lubinda, Kabwata MP, makes welcoming remarks. The PF has come to the Eastern Province. Song for change “Tembenukani, Tembenuka, abale mutembenuke, Tembenuka ufumu wa kumwamba wayandikila!!!” meaning repent my brethren, the Kingdom of God has come.
Introduces Hon Kapijimpanga and Mike Mulongoti.
Chants: Mphamvu! Mphamvu!
Patrick Mwanawasa being introduced.
Mangani continues with introductions: Rupiah Banda said Chitala, Mulongoti, Masebo, Mangani are all bad people… only Dora Siliya is okey!! How can everyone around you be bad? Something is seriously wrong with Bwana Rupiah himself.
Mphamvu!!
Chants: We want jobs, we want jobs, we want jobs, we want change, we want change!!
As you return home, should anyone ask where you have been; simply say you been attending the MMD funeral.
Sylvia Masebo now on stage: Song Ba Sata ni Boma, Ba Sata ni Boma. Change is now ! Change is now!
RB says there is no corruption is Zambia, the youth are drinking tujilijili due to lack of jobs, Sata will bring jobs because he is a man of action. For real change I urge the youth to vote for Sata. MMD died when President Mwanawasa died and was buried when Chiluba was put to rest. MMD was buried on 27.06.2011; Rupiah is a very undemocratic man. ZNBC won’t report how huge these crowds are. Stop paying TV levy. Pabwato!! Pabwato!! The clock is dead, it dropped into some water, I thank you.
16:45 Michael Sata addresses the rally.
Thanks people. Introduces Lameck Mangani.
“Some years back Mangani came to tell the people of the Eastern Province not to vote for Sata. Now he has come back to you and asking you to vote PF. You forgive him. He is for the people. When Mangani listens to all your problems and presents them to Rupiah Banda, he is told to shut up. Mangani is your man; needs your support.”
Song: Amangani mwawela lero, Amangani mwawela lero kuzotiona!!
Sata continues: “They say when Sata becomes president he will stop the distribution of ARV’s. But who brought ARVs to Zambia??”
Chants: It is Sata, it is Sata!!!
Sata: Bible story about two children whose father got so drunk and slept in nudity. The first child (Dora Siliya) walked in and burst into laughter, but the wiser child (Lameck Mangani) got hold of some chitenge material, and walking backwards, covered his father. Dora needs to be taken to Alangizi.
Sata continues: “This morning we went to Mpezeni. There is plenty of maize at Mpezeni. There are no mines in here. What we need is fertiliser.
Sata introduces GBM: We shall ensure that all the maize is purchased. We don’t want maize lying around. This man has plenty trucks and buses, all the maize shall be purchased.
Sata: Jesus said Do not cry for me, but for yourselves and your children. I do not care whether I go to State House or not. I haven’t gone to State House in ten years. The change we want is for our children. You the people shall bring development to Zambia. When KK was here there were hospitals, roads, police stations and so on. The people of Chadiza want roads. Iam very happy to be in Chipata.’Mphamvu ni Banthu’. There are so many MP’s present here today, they came to escort Mangani. I urge you to support and vote for Mangani.
When Chiluba gave out houses, he never offered any to the police, ZNS or army personnel; where do they go upon retirement? We shall bring change. The change that all of us want will come.
Chants: Mphamvu ni Banthu, Mphamvu ni Banthu
I thank you.
17:05 GBM on stage: In 2006 I stood as MP in Kabwata under the MMD, but lost miserably to Given Lubinda. I lost because I was on the wrong ticket. I urge all of you to rally behind Mr Sata and the PF because it the correct party to bring the change that all of us are yearning for.

Update coming shortly !

The Lusaka  high court has sentenced a 31 year old man to 5 years to imrpsonment with hard after he pleaded guilty to man slaughter. This is in a curse in which Daudi Mwenda was charged with manslaughter contraly to the laws of Zambia.

Mwenda is alleged to have casused the death f Dickson kanyembo on  20th, December 2010  in Lusaka.

According to the postmortem , report conducted on December 19th,  the casue of  death was blood in the brain, due to head  injury. The accused told Judge Florence Lengalelenga that  the fact were true true and correct and she  convicted hime upon the own guilty plea and admission of facts.

In mitigation, Mwenda said hewas very sorry for what happened. Mwenda said while he conceded that he had no right to assualt Kanyembo he urged the court to weight his conduct against that of the diseased. But in passing sentence, Juge Lengalenga said mwenda had no right to behave the way he did, and because of his beahveoiur the life was lost.

She said Mwenda  should have avoided the situation by walking away.

Judge lengelenga said even as I exercise maximum leniency, they should be a reminder to the convict to control his temper, in order to stay out of trouble in future and then sentence him to 5 years imprisonment with hard labor.

 

A govenrment driver was on Thursday forced to speed off, after a mob of angry Livingstone residents surrounded a vehicle he was using to distribute MMD Chitenge Materials to malamba market.

Southern province Pf chairperson Joseph Akufumba who rushed to the market after his secretary Roy Mangalelwa alerted him pf the presnces of the government vehicle, he said the MMD levels of abusing governentm was  not only alarming but alos annoying.

"The the driver sped off after he realized that my secretary was taking pictures of  the vehicle using a mobile phone, this arrogant cleary shows the reason president Rupiah Banda doesn't want to dissolve the govenrment because he wants MMd to abuse  governemt resources to benefit his election Bid." akafumba said.

She said despite MMd's action to distribute chitenge to marketeers, many of them were not keen to receiving the materials. Akafuba, a lawyer said president Banda should not annoy people by abusing governmetn resources"

People have been complaining about abuse of government  resources but the MMD through its leaders arrogance has been refusing.It will be fair for president Banda level to the playing field  by disolving parliament and announce election date, let him not hide behind the ECZ.

If  continues abusing governmental resources, people will be forced to react."

Mangalelwa said youths at the market allerted him on the presences of a government van distributing chitenge materials.

 

An update is coming shortly....

President Banda says zambians should peacefully vote the MMD out of Power if they want change.

And sakwiba sikota has advised President banda that he could let parliament dissolve itself in October.

Addressing a rally at maramba stadium on friday, President Banda said Zambians should vote peacefully in their quest for change.

" This year 2011 is another year when we must practice our democracy and peacefully change , if we wan to change, and peacefully re-elect our leaders. We should not permit anyone to tell us that we must get at each others throat in order to have an election." President Banda said.

Full update coming shortly!

The President said this in Livingstone today when he officiated at the commissioning parade of graduating ZAF officer cadets who have just completed one year of military and professional training.

The president, who is also Commander-In-Chief of the Zambian armed forces, observed that HIV and AIDS had negatively affected the fitness of military personnel, hence the need to maintain a high level of moral discipline.

Mr Banda says HIV/AIDS poses a serious threat to the effectiveness of the country's defence force, with a number of skilled manpower having been lost from the scourge.

He urged the graduating military personnel to treat HIV/AIDS as their number one enemy.

President Banda says the military career required officers to be fit at all times, and that they could only remain so if they looked after themselves well and displayed good moral standards befitting a well disciplined body of men and women in uniform.

Mr Banda also urged the graduating officers to be alert at all times as the Zambia's security lay on their shoulders.

The Head of State challenged female graduates to rise to the challenges of military life by aspiring for promotion like their male counterparts.

[Qfm]

 

Leaks in from Chipata have revealed that the Ngoni chief Mpezeni has just endorsed PF leader Michael Sata. This happened about 45 minutes ago when Sata and his entourage visited the chief at his Empadukeni palace.
Sata with his team that included Given Lubinda and other PF MPs arrived at the palace at about 09:30 hours and went straight in the palace for a closed door meeting with chief Mpezeni.
After about 45 minutes the chief came out to see off his guest and then gave a live interview to Hot FM.
“Ise kuno talema nao abo bamene mukamba at chitukuko. (here we are tired of the government). Chitukuko chinatinama ati bazapanga museu kuno, but namaje. (Government lied that they will build a road to the palace but nothing up to now)
Tifuna manje aSata akatipangileko museu kuno (Now we want to try Mr Sata so he can come build a road here)” said the Chief.

Lately there has been increased tension between Mpezeni’s led Ngoni people with the MMD and president Banda.
The crack was obvious when the chief was at UTH and Sata visited him while president Banda did not. Then came the resignation of Chipata Central MP Lameck Mangani who has since joined PF.
The last straw has been reported MP adoption by President Banda with candidates who were not on the preferred list of the chief. The main constituency in question is Luangeni where the chief preferred a Noel Nkoma while president Banda has insisted and gone ahead to adopt a Kennedy Zulu.

[zedleaks]

Diploma students will tomorrow in Kitwe CBU demonstrate, demanding to be put on government bursary.
According to a statement posted on area councillor for riverside ward Kangombe Christopher Facebook page, said, they will protest demanding the inclusion of diploma students on government bursary.
Mr. Kangombe further stated that its unfair and unjust for diploma students to be omitted from benefiting from government sponsorship.

"just knocked off & proceeding with planning for tomorows' peoples protest to demand for diploma students in zambia to be included on govt bursary!idea is to raise awareness on this great injustice of leaving out dip students on bursary!! its either 2012 budget includes allocation for dip students or govt prepares a supplementary 2011 budget to cover this cost!! protest starts from riverside at 9:00hrs into town" stated his facebook page.
The last time diploma students where on government bursary was in the late 90s' when then minister of education brigadier General Godfrey Miyanda abolished sponsorship to diploma students.d

SCIENCE and Technology minister Peter Daka was today booed by angry Evelyn Hone students. This was during a graduation ceremony at which he officiated as a guest of honour.
The students were riled by Peter Daka’s scathing attacks on the Patriotic Front (PF) leader Michael Sata.
“Government appreciates your achievement as young graduates. Should we be wasting time on someone who has been a district governor and minister without much achievement?” the minister asked, in reference to the PF leader. At this the students were so outraged; they booed Mr. Daka, some chanting solidarity PF slogans.
The shouts of “fuma apa iwe chi Daka. Zwa, Zwa Zwa” (get out of here you ugly Daka. go, go !) calmed down only upon a direct intervention from the College principal.

United Party for National Development president Hakainde Hichilema has expressed fear that anomalies in the voter register will disadvantage the opposition.

And Hichilema has refuted allegations that he bribed some MMD councilors to influence their defection to his party.

Hichilema said the electoral register was in ‘bad shape’, with certain disparities not clearly explained by the Electoral Commission of Zambia.

He charged that the details of some registered voters had been altered, especially in opposition strongholds, and there is a risk of these voters being disenfranchised.

He said the ruling MMD is doing everything possible to ensure that they tilt the political playing field to their advantage ahead of this year’s general elections.

He said the political playing field was unlevelled but pledged that his party would work hard to win votes despite the unfavourable atmosphere created by the MMD.

“We are ready to win despite what is happening. We promise to deliver on the creation of jobs, better health care and infrastructure once we are in office,” he said.

On the councilors, Hichilema said they defected because they realised that the UPND is the only one that is able to deliver on its promises to better the living standards of Zambians.

He said the defectors had realised that the ruling MMD has nothing to offer the ordinary Zambians whom the councillors represent, hence their decision to shift camp.

“At no time did I bribe any of the officials to move to the UPND. They have done so on their own will, because they have realised that the UPND is the only party that is able to deliver meaningful development,” he said.