The Optimum Choice for the Presidency of the MMD in 2012

12:40 AM | Posted in | Read More »

PRESS RELEASE: RED CARD CAMPAIGN ON YOUTH JOBS

BY

SUNDAY CHANDA

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

OPEN SOCIETY FOUNDATION
…Pioneers of the Red Card Campaign on Youth Jobs

OBSERVING LABOUR DAY IN THE MIDST OF JOBLESSNESS

The Red Card Campaign on Youth Jobs, an initiative of the Open Society Foundation notes that Government’s blame on lack of unemployment statistics rather than doing something about the unemployment problem just goes to show how out of touch and complacent they are. The remarks by Finance and National Planning Deputy Minister Miles Sampa’s statement on the need for the Central Statistical Office to provide monthly employment statistics was window dressing and an empty political statement. As Zambian workers and the nation observe Labour Day on 1st May 2012, there is nothing for the Zambian worker to celebrate about. Youths constitute the largest percentage of dormant labour in Zambia and Government is not presenting a marshal plan to allow them to make an immediate impact in the labour market. This Government must prove to the nation’s youth that it is doing everything it can at every level to help young people into meaningful and sustainable work.

The Zambian economy desperately needs more jobs and decent pay rises, not the mockery given to University of Zambia lecturers. What Hon. Sampa must be telling Zambians is when they as Government will reveal the true scale of unemployment on its watch. We are also interested in the Hon. Deputy Minister issuing a comprehensive statement on the additional support Government will channel to CSO so they can deliver because they cannot capture this data in the absence of essential tools. We further argue that the statistics the deputy minister spoke about should be announced in Parliament by the Minister of Finance and National Planning. The unemployment/employment/underemployment data should be captured and presented sector by sector, as well as segmenting age groups and sex.

Government needs to add significance to the unemployment crisis in Zambia by presenting an employment bill to Parliament. Government must not be a bully on the question of youth unemployment because it is a break or make issue in the nation building towards 2016.Government needs to show in evident ways that it is serious about dealing with unemployment, especially among the youth of Zambia. Government must realize that it is not doing enough to address youth jobs and guaranteeing economic freedom for the younger generation.

Government has proved wasteful and failing to prioritize allocation of resources. A case in point was the fuel donation to Malawi which Government has remained mute about. While we appreciate that countries must and should stand next to each other in times of mourning, the Zambian government was overzealous in making that exaggerated donation when the country does not have the kind of capacity to show off.

The Youth Jobs Fund can focus on emerging and existing entrepreneurs within the youth bracket and support them with loans. This is because the K11 billion kwacha allocation at the Ministry of Youth cannot support any tangible economic freedom within the youth sector. This is not about the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission. Government owes the youth and payback time starts now.

The Red Card Campaign on Youth Jobs will commission a study on youth unemployment in Zambia and host a Regional Youth Employment Festival in Lusaka, Zambia between October and November 2012. This will bring students, youths drawn from a wider section, development, political activists and entrepreneurs from the Region.

This will showcase best practices around advocacy, lobbying and holding Governments accountable. The main outcome will be a communiqué on Youth Unemployment to Governments in the Region and the launch of a Regional Youth Coalition on Youth Jobs whose mandate will be announced at a later stage.

 

 

 

 

 

12:36 AM | Posted in | Read More »

OBSERVING LABOUR DAY IN THE MIDST OF JOBLESSNESS

The Zambian economy desperately needs more jobs and decent pay rises, not the mockery given to University of Zambia lecturers. What Hon. Sampa must be telling Zambians is when they as Government will reveal the true scale of unemployment on its watch. We are also interested in the Hon. Deputy Minister issuing a comprehensive statement on the additional support Government will channel to CSO so they can deliver because they cannot capture this data in the absence of essential tools. We further argue that the statistics the deputy minister spoke about should be announced in Parliament by the Minister of Finance and National Planning. The unemployment/employment/underemployment data should be captured and presented sector by sector, as well as segmenting age groups and sex.

12:28 AM | Posted in | Read More »

Kabimba Hires 200 Cadres To Beat HH



United party for National Development (UPND) President Hakainde Hichilema (HH) says Sata is a cadre that is hungry for power and he should tame Kabimba for hiring over 200 Patriotic Front (PF) cadres to fight me at the funeral of the late princesses Nakatindi Wina.
The process in the PF over the constitution is worse because it has no legal basis if they will produce a report that is not accepted by the president then Sata will through it out.
“We are not safe. Committees are full of Sata’s friends and relatives and this is what is destroying us, why did they leave out political parties in the Constitution making process” he observed.
Speaking on Hot Fm he accused the Pf government of being the worst, they are dictators who are fighting corruption when they are also corrupt for issuing tenders to their relatives.
“Sata has given a contract to his relative Minister of Finance Chikwanda to renovate state house and the contract has seen him been paid over K600 million “
HH said this country is not decent enough it has no priorities it has failed to address social need of the people and the more money in the pocket is a failure.
He has accused the government of being worse than the UNIP administration in that they are abusing the people in authority.
He wondered how Sata can blast at his Justice Minister over a report and allow Kabimba to act as a third in command over government when he is not government official.
HH is appealing to the media and the church to fight for the opposition so that the country does not go to a one party state like in UNIP times.
Mr Hichilema wondered how the cadres could pounce on him at the funeral of late princesses Nakatindi Wina when the police were just a stone throw from him.
He quoted the Nyanja proverb “chiwamila galu nkuluma mbunzi not mbuzi kuluma galu, meaning it is better for a dog to bite a goat than for a goat to bite a dog.
“Sata should remember that like another party Pf is in the transit they will leave office one day, they will not be in government forever” he said.
HH said it was unfair for Kabimba to keep issuing statements on parastatal companies, saying he is third in command for the Pf and not the government.
He has called on the journalist and the church to discipline Kabimba so that he stops being a dictator.

11:54 PM | Posted in | Read More »

Power Outrage Affects MTN' Mobile Money Transactions

MTN subscriber’s using Mobile Money Transactions (MMT) has suffered a sit back. They can’t use the facility due to a power outrage that has left a Kaoma resident stranded because her transport was sent through MTN’s Mobile Money Transactions. MMT customer care representative confirmed on Saturday, April 28 that they had a power outrage which had led to messages not to be delivered.
The lady identified as Rebecca, a customer care representative confirmed and said those using MMT will have delays in getting confirmations” we have a long of clients pending, we apologize for the inconvenienced caused, she said.

11:43 PM | Posted in , | Read More »

“I Will Not Pay She Was Not A Virgin When I Found her”

 

There was laughter in court  as a man of Matero Township argued with the local; court Magistrate over his failure to pay damage after he impregnated a girl last year.

Lameck Jere told court that it was not deliberate that he did not pay the damage but that the girl told him that at one point she was pregnant for a police officer but the child died after birth.

“How do I pay for a person who was not a virgin traditionally I should not pay, she showed me photos when she was pregnant for the same man” said Jere.

“Your honor they charged me K 12 million but later reduced to K 6 million” said Jere.

Meanwhile senior Local court magistrate Lazarus Mwape urged the man to appeal to high courts and prove his innocence but as things were, the girl told court that he was the first man she had sex with.

Further Magistrate Mwape ordered Jere to pay K6 million as was agreed when they discussed the issue out side court.

“There is no proof here as far as the court has heard the girl says you were the first one and she had never been pregnant for any other man” said Magistrate Mwape.

However Jere promised his father in law Mr. Harry Phiri that since he was not satisfied with the judgment therefore he would take the matter further until he was satisfied.

1:08 AM | Posted in | Read More »

'Wizard', 70 In Court For Indecent Asault On 11-Year-Old

Lusaka Magistrate Chilembo last week referred a 70 years old man to Lusaka High court for sentencing after he found him guilty of indecent Assault on an 11 years old girl.
The man who was alleged to have been abusing the young girl by undressing, fondling and masturbating on her private parts later on give her a K 50 0000.
Ernest Kabwita a resident of Garden who could not further disagree when the girl testified against him told the court that his wife died a long time but that he had a girlfriend who at times spent nights at his house.
It was believed that Kabwita had on several occasions during the act warned that girl of been turned into a monkey if she told anyone as she also knew very well of the rumors that Kabwita was a wizard.
Facts before the court where that between January 1, 2010 and February 2012 Kabwita had carnal knowledge of a girl below the age of 16 contrary to section 137 as read together with amendment act number 15 f 2005 and cap 87 of the laws of Zambia.
During trial last week the minor told court that she had known Kabwita since 2009 adding that since then Kabwita had been calling her to his house and gave her money after he finished his indecent act.
“He used to call me when I was playing with my friends near his house, when I got into his house he could go to his bedroom, undress then lay me on the bed and smear some oil on his manhood then place it on my private part then after ejaculating he could then give me at least K50 000 which I used to buy dolls and sweets with my friends” said the child.
After cross examination of facts from both parties, magistrate Chilembo said it was right to note that Kabwita had known the girl as he could not deny or look at the girl when she appeared to testify in court.
However Kabwita is scheduled to appear at Lusaka High Court soon for his submissions and sentencing.

zambianstar.com

1:03 AM | Posted in , | Read More »

Habitat For Humanity Zambia (HFHZ) Country Director Joseph Munsanje says the escalating number of Orphans could be attributed to HIV/AIDS which puts them into desperate situations.
Mr. Munsanje stated that as a response to the negative affects that HIV/AIDS posed on the victims’ family especially on children, HFHZ would this year build 220 vulnerable groups housing which would benefit 1,440 families.
He noted that children in most circumstance are faced with displacement once their parents die and were forced to go on the streets where they spend nights in the cold.
“it is sad to see young boys and girls rooming streets at night, therefore as habitat we would like to see that at least we reduce the risk of exposing children to sexual and physical abuse at the hands of people that pretend to help at yet they might intend to exploit the innocent children’s that have already suffered a lot form the loss of their parents” said Munsanje.
He said people in the country should come out and help the orphans and vulnerable in society if development was to be enhanced.
He noted that more than 60% of people in Zambia live without adequate shelter and below the poverty line which posses a major health problem for the rest of the population.
Mr. Munsanje said by helping the needy in society through initiatives like build a home for a person in need Zambia could help reduce the poverty levels and the margin between the rich and the poor.
He said Help Change a Families Life Forever programs through which HFHZ would this year build houses in Kaoma, Lusaka, Ndola , Luanshya and other parts of the country to help alleviate poverty and reduce the risks of HIV infections amongst Children.

12:56 AM | Posted in | Read More »

20 Staffs At State House lose Jobs For Failing To Cook For Robiana

President Sata nicknamed 'Ukwa' among critics has led off 20 kitchen staff at statehouse and given them April 30th as deadline to vacate the house.

One of the affected, who has been at state house compound for over 25 years said on the fateful day there was a directive to cook food for Robiana who was admitted at UTH after a 20 kg tumor was operated on him. There was a directive from from state house be taken to UTH for Robiana.

The failure to do so has left more man 20 staff affected. They have accused Sata of making their work difficult, saying he goes in the kitchen to check, monitor and supervise them.

The staff have accused Sata of interfering in their work adding that unlike the past leaders, Sata works in to the kitchen with his hands on his back inspecting what is being prepared. “ Sata controls even the stock been bought."
Some of the staff have opted to retire and get their pension especially those that  have worked for more than 30 years.
It is alleged that these jobs are been created for pf cadres.

12:40 AM | Posted in , | Read More »

Majorie Masiye Now Married To Bodyguard

MMD losing candidate for Munali majorie M,  Masiye has proven that love is indeed blind and has tied note with MMD cadre and bodyguard commonly known as Dauzen, identified by a big scar on the face, huge and arrogant.
The two are staying together. A seemingly happy Dauzen has put on weight and now looks smart.

12:04 AM | Posted in , | Read More »

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11:20 PM | Posted in | Read More »

Notice of Cessation of Refugee Status for Angolan Refugees

10:27 AM | Posted in | Read More »

MTN Employee Who Fraudulently Made Girlfriend Win K1 Billion Arrested

Police have apprehended the MTN employee linked to the One billion kwacha Lets Go BEEG Promotion fraud.

Inspector General of Police Stella Libongani says the suspect will be transported to Livingstone from Lusaka where he will answer charges leveled against him.

Ms Libongani was responding to questions from Journalists at a press briefing in Lusaka on Sunday.

She says police will take keen interest in all promotions.

Ms Libongani has explained that it is better to prevent fraud occurrences in lotteries and other promotions.

She says the Zambia Police Service is working with the Drug Enforcement Commission-DEC in investigating the matter.

MTN Zambia yesterday disclosed that the winner of the win BEEG Promotion is being investigated on allegations of fraud.

The winner was selected via a random draw which was monitored by Grant Thornton, the MTN appointed auditors for the promotion.

Information has however emerged that the winner of the ONE billion kwacha cash grand prize may have been fraudulently selected.

11:21 PM | Posted in | Read More »

Indian Man Names Dog ‘Michael Sata’

An Indian man in Nyumba Yanga next to Nyumba Yanga Basic School area in Lusaka has named his dog after president Sata.
A source close to a Zambianstar reporter said a worker of the said Indian national this week took up courage and decided to consult before he summoned his boss for naming his dog after his excellence Michael Sata.
The man who this week visited the Lusaka Local court ‘BOMA’ unnamed court Marshal wondered if it was right for his boss to name an animal after the President of Zambia.
‘My boss soon after President Sata won the elections he changed his dogs name to Michael Sata because he does not like our President reasons known to himself’ he said.
The man said he could no long tolerate his bosses’ negative behavior of talking ill about the President.
‘When you report late for work he tells you to report to the dog sometimes if you have not understood what he is instructing you to do he would tell you to ask his dog ‘Michael Sata’, saying because he is your president so he will repeat what I said whilst pointing at the dog, honestly how does a normal person report to the dog, what can you tell the dog? He complained.
Firstly before he could summon his boss the man suggested that the marshal should arrange for the police to go and see the said boss or visit him without letting him know that they intend to establish the truth about the named dog and his hate for the President of Zambia.
He said this man had never said anything good or used good words to describe the president he always used disgusting language whenever he talked of the President.
The unnamed name man said he was ready to lose his job until he ensures that the Indian man stopped using bad language towards the president because the President was a person that deserved to be respected by all people.
‘I would want to see this Indian man disciplined a Zambian cannot go in a foreign country and starting insulting people or name an animal after a president, this is uncalled for’ she said.
‘The president deserves to be respected if someone has issues they have to go and tell him than insulting workers because they are governed by a man he is not happy with’ said the man.
He said it was said that some foreigners have taken advantage of the Zambian people who work for them because they look at them to be worthless people that could not live without their help.

2:33 PM | Posted in | Read More »

Dr. Kalonga Kanono fails to appear in court for Rape.

Prominent Lusaka Traditional healer popularly known as Kalonga Kanono (Chileya Chilufya) aged 35 yesterday failed to appear before Lusaka’s senior resident Magistrate Joshua Banda for a mention.
Kanono however who was on a five million kwacha ball with two sureties sent a representative to inform court that he was not feeling well therefore he could not come to court.
Kalonga Kanono who had denied the charge in which he had been accused of raping a 17 years old grade twelve pupil at Arakan High school in Lusaka.
Dr. Kanono also a former Movement for Multi Party Democracy Kanyama constituency treasurer was alleged to have raped the said pupil after he offered her a lift when he met her on her way back from school.
Kanono who appeared in court on Monday April 16, 2012 could not look at the girl as she narrated the ordeal in court.
It was alleged that Kanono on February 17, did force himself to have sex with a girl without her consent.
The girl told court that kanono pleaded with her to get on his vehicle as she refused to be offered a lift by a person whom she described as a stranger.
The girl who spoke in English told court that Kanono kept on driving following her and told her that she should not refuse the offer as she does not know who would help her in future.
‘however when I got on the car he told me that I should not be rude to people that want to help me because I don’t not know who would help me in future’ she narrated.
She told court that Kanono promised to take good care of her but she refused and told him that she was young to have an affair with a man of his age.
As the girl narrated in the dock Kanono kept on looking down and when court asked kanono to look at the girl Kanono failed to look straight in the girls face.
‘Your Honour because he persisted I thought he was a genuine person and I jumped on the vehicle, while driving he alleged that he had received a phone call from his secretary and needed to drive to some lodge where the secretary was, But when we reached at the unnamed lodge in Kamwala south the traditional healer introduced himself as Dr. Kanono from the University Teaching Hospital (UTH)’ she narrated.
She told court that when they reached at a point where she wanted to drop off from Kanono asked her to accompany him to kabwata so that he could get some money for his lodge bills
She said from there Kanono bought two castles and a drink and directed her to follow him to a room.
‘it was in the same room where he pulled me to the room and squeezed my neck and hit me against the wall, I pleaded with him but he could not listen to me, at some point I told him to use a condom instead of having unprotected sex but he said he could not use a condom on a school girl’ she said.
She said at the moment she then told him that she was HIV positive so that he could let go of her but Kanono told her to go in his car and get HIV testers so that he could carry out a test on her to prove if it was true she was HIV positive.
‘It was at this point that the girl managed to escape and sent a text message to her brother explaining what had happened to her.
Nevertheless the matter comes up on May 22 and 28 for cross examination of facts by counsel.

2:20 PM | Posted in | Read More »

Zambia National Breweries Plc (ZNB) workers K 134 million Theft Scandal.

Three Zambia National Breweries Plc (ZNB) workers have denied having stolen money amounting to 134 Million Kwacha.
Chama Chanda aged 32 a sales man at ZNB, Rodrick Kunda 28 a stock assistant and George Mbewe, 38, a security guard appeared at the Lusaka magistrate court before magistrate Simusamba.
In the first count Chanda and Kunda are jointly accused of fraudulently accounting contrary to section 326 of the penal code and chapter 87 of the laws of Zambia.
It was believed that the duo on January 27 being persons employed by Zambia National Breweries Plc did defraud or make false entry on an invoice number 214622 dated January 27, 2012 indicating that they collected K 128, 076 000 million from Getol Goods Limited when infact not.
In the second count Chanda and Kunda are charged with theft by servant contrary to section 272 and 278 of the penal code and cap 87 of the laws of Zambia.
The duo were believed to have stolen K5 184 298 million, cash property belonging to Zambia National Breweries Plc on January 27, 2012.
While George Mbewe a security guard at the company had been charge together with Chanda the sales man and, Kunda the stock assistant and other unknown people for theft contrary to section 272 of the penal code and cap 87 of the laws of Zambia.
Meanwhile the three accused persons in the third offence are accused of stealing K5. 184, 292 million cash property of Zambia National breweries together with some other unknown people on the material date.
However police bond for the accused had been extended until May 15, 2012 for continued trial the Zambia National Breweries informed court that they were ready to bring 10 witnesses to testify in the matter.

2:13 PM | Posted in , | Read More »

PATRIOTIC Front (PF) Secretary General Kabimba has been urged to tone down because he is a threat to the security of the nation, unity and peace. Lusaka based Lawyer Moono Mapani said Kabimba’s conduct of verbal harassment of those with divergent views and sowing seeds of discontent in the nation was worrying. He said Mr. Kabimba’s conduct was capable of dragging the nation into deeper political and economic problems than ever before. Mr. Mapani said Mr. Kabimba should draw a distinction between a political party he represents and the government because it seemed as if he had become a defacto government spokesperson in the manner he was commenting on issues.

“I would like to advise the PF Secretary General Mr. Wynter Kabimba to draw a distinction between a political party to tone down because he is a threat to national unity. His continued verbal attacks on Henry’s lawyers are being done in bad faith and no wonder the people of Zambia are suggesting that these corruption allegations are mare political persecutions.” Mr. Mapani who is UPND Lusaka Province Deputy Chairperson said Mr. Kabimba should respect constitutional offices rather than hijacking duties delegated to other government officers. He said Mr. Kabimba had no moral right to speak on behalf of Zambians as he was a conveyor of the PF ideologies and principles which did not reflect the will and wishes of everyone.

Commenting on the continued verbal and media attacks by Mr. Kabimba against lawyers hired by Henry, Mr. Mapani said government had structures entrusted to carry out investigations and not the PF as a party or even its members. He said there was need for the PF to respect constitutional institutions entrusted to carry out works of investigations and allow them to operate independently unlike the current situation where there was too much interference and pressure from the executive and the party in government. Mr. Mapani said the position Mr. Kabimba had taken of being an investigative wing spokesperson would erode the good will and attitude the nation records in the region. “Let him look at the principles of democracy and doctrine of the separation of powers. I am told that Kabimba is a lawyer, what kind of a lawyer is he? Then he should behave like one,” said Mr. Mapani. He said Kabimba should be above board when dealing with legal and governance matters and not to handle issues with a mob attitude which would end up misleading and embarrassing the nation. “Kabimba should not conduct trials of legal matters using newspapers. How do you start exchanging notes of such serious matters through the media and you want to justify contempt stance just like that, it is wrong and shameful,” he said. Mr. Mapani said Kabimba should not hijack the role of the government spokesperson or that of the police spokesperson because his comments were compromising the on going investigations. “We don’t have problems with Kabimba talking about any issues patterning to the PF in t he manner he feels like but not issues which will compromise the work of the police and the judiciary,” he said.

8:10 AM | Posted in | Read More »

Tone Down Kabimba, You Are A Security Risk, Says Lusaka Based Lawyer

PATRIOTIC Front (PF) Secretary General Kabimba has been urged to tone down because he is a threat to the security of the nation, unity and peace. Lusaka based Lawyer Moono Mapani said Kabimba’s conduct of verbal harassment of those with divergent views and sowing seeds of discontent in the nation was worrying.

He said Mr. Kabimba’s conduct was capable of dragging the nation into deeper political and economic problems than ever before. Mr. Mapani said Mr. Kabimba should draw a distinction between a political party he represents and the government because it seemed as if he had become a defacto government spokesperson in the manner he was commenting on issues.

“I would like to advise the PF Secretary General Mr. Wynter Kabimba to draw a distinction between a political party to tone down because he is a threat to national unity. His continued verbal attacks on Henry’s lawyers are being done in bad faith and no wonder the people of Zambia are suggesting that these corruption allegations are mare political persecutions.”

Mr. Mapani who is UPND Lusaka Province Deputy Chairperson said Mr. Kabimba should respect constitutional offices rather than hijacking duties delegated to other government officers. He said Mr. Kabimba had no moral right to speak on behalf of Zambians as he was a conveyor of the PF ideologies and principles which did not reflect the will and wishes of everyone. Commenting on the continued verbal and media attacks by Mr. Kabimba against lawyers hired by Henry, Mr. Mapani said government had structures entrusted to carry out investigations and not the PF as a party or even its members.

He said there was need for the PF to respect constitutional institutions entrusted to carry out works of investigations and allow them to operate independently unlike the current situation where there was too much interference and pressure from the executive and the party in government. Mr. Mapani said the position Mr. Kabimba had taken of being an investigative wing spokesperson would erode the good will and attitude the nation records in the region. “Let him look at the principles of democracy and doctrine of the separation of powers. I am told that Kabimba is a lawyer, what kind of a lawyer is he?

Then he should behave like one,” said Mr. Mapani. He said Kabimba should be above board when dealing with legal and governance matters and not to handle issues with a mob attitude which would end up misleading and embarrassing the nation. “Kabimba should not conduct trials of legal matters using newspapers.

How do you start exchanging notes of such serious matters through the media and you want to justify contempt stance just like that, it is wrong and shameful,” he said. Mr. Mapani said Kabimba should not hijack the role of the government spokesperson or that of the police spokesperson because his comments were compromising the on going investigations. “We don’t have problems with Kabimba talking about any issues patterning to the PF in t he manner he feels like but not issues which will compromise the work of the police and the judiciary,” he said.

7:51 AM | Posted in , | Read More »

TEACHERS And Pupils Share The Bush To Answer The Call Of Nature

Teachers and Pupils share the bush to answer the call of nature TECAHERS and pupils at Mulamfu Basic Schools in Kalomo District are using the bush to answer calls of nature.

This came to light during a full council meeting held at the Kalomo Council Chambers in Zimba recently. The school which has classes from Grade 1 to 9 has no toilet facilitieis for both teachers and pupils. And Grade 12 pupils at Mubanga High School in Kalomo District in Southern Province may not write their 2012 exams because the school was not registered with the Examination Council of Zambia (ECZ. According to sources at the District Education Office, Mubanga High School did not meet the minimum requirements for a school to be registered for examinations with ECZ.

The sources said that at the time Mubanga Basic School was turned into a full high school, it did not have Science labs, adding that the school managed to build the two labs but that at the time the school applied for an examination centre number from ECZ the requirements had changed to 3 science labs for a school to be registered as a full centre.

Elita Mulenga a Grade 12 pupil at the affected school said they were worried about the situation and were appealing to government through the ministry of education to come to the aid of the school so that they can write their upcoming exams at school. Mulenga said that the school administration asked them to make their own examination arrangements with Kalomo High School an institution located more than 20 kilometers from Mubanga High School. Ends..

7:37 AM | Posted in | Read More »

TOP BOZ Official FIRED From Kwacha Rebasing Evaluation Team

ONE top Bank of Zambia (BoZ) official has been axed from the final kwacha rebasing evaluation team and faces disciplinary action for trying to influence the awarding of the final tender to mint and print Zambian currency to one named foreign company. And sources at the central bank have said the Kwacha rebasing exercise will cost K430 billion and ten tenders have already been evaluated and sent to the Zambia Public Procurement Agency (ZPPA) for final selection.
The final evaluating team was reconstituted after the named official was removed after investigations revealed that he had been wining and dining with representatives of a named company which offered to print security features for the Zambian currency.

Sources at the bank said three companies have tendered in their bids to mint the Zambian coins while seven companies have bidded to print the Kwacha notes.
The source said the foreign companies are from England, France, Germany, Swtzerland and Russia and named some of the companies as Thomas De La Rue International, Giesecke and Devrient.
Others are Goznak of Russia, Orell Fussli Security Printing Limited of Switzerland and the South Africa’s Bank Note Company (Pty) Limited. Government in January approved the Bank of Zambia (BoZ) recommendations to re-base the local currency by removing three zeros from all denominations of the kwacha.
“The scrutiny process has been finalised and the tenders sent to the ZPPA for final selection. However, a low mood has gripped the evaluating team which is demanding for disciplinary action to be taken against an official who almost awarded the tender to a named foreign company on his own” he said. He said the complaints about the misconduct of the official who has been accused of bringing the name of the bank into disrepute have been relayed to the top management and other members of the evaluating team are waiting for action.
He said the ZPPA has been asked to take extra caution when scrutinising the tenders to avoid corrupt practices prevailing during the shortlisting of the companies to carry out the exercise. “The K430 billion will cover costs for the publicity campaigns and other logistics but the figure is likely to increase with other over head costs being taken into consideration” he said. And Anglican Priest Father Richard Luonde has said the PF government should consider contracting a renowned company to print the new currencies regardless of the costs.
He urged ZPPA to be transparent in its selecting process if the Zambian currency was to be protected from any illegal activities such as counterfeit production.
Central Bank deputy governor Dr. Bwalya Ng’andu said the printing of the new re-based Kwacha notes was expected to commence next month after the Bank of Zambia (BoZ) signs a contract with the preferred printer.

7:31 AM | Posted in , | Read More »

Mabenga Cheating On His Wife?

MMD acting President Micheal Mabenga is dating the Lwanpa Member of Parliament Josphine LImata, says UPND losing candidate for Lwanpa Katherine K Liato. Michael mabenga is married with kids.

She said she was happy that the seat was nullified by the courts because Ms Limata used the corrupt MMD by way of vote buying and distributing campaign materials to people of Kaoma.
She was happy that justice had prevailed that the people of Lwampa will have second chance to choose who they want to lead freely. UPND candidate has declared that she will work with the Pf in ensuring that the seat does not go back to Ms limata.

Source:Zambianstar.com

12:39 AM | Posted in | Read More »

WTF!! CARE International Country Director Attempts To Kill WIFE By Cake Poisoning

CARE Country director Mark Vander vort’s wife Aggie has appealed to all women and non-governmental organizations in the country to come to her aid after a dispute in her marital home which resulted in her husband poisoning her.
Events that she told the ZambianStar are that on the fateful day Mrs. Vander Vort went home with a friend and found a cake bought by her husband which she alleged that was poisoned by her husband.

She said one of her children warned her not to eat the cake because it was poisoned. “Mum don’t eat that cake I saw dad putting poison on that cake". The daughter narrated  how their dad had prevented the three kids from eating the cake.

This caused alarm by the 34-year-old mother, and prompted her to report the matter to the Victim Support Unity(VSU) at Central Police were the Director Tresford Kasale has since confirmed that the Cake was taken to the University Teaching Hospital for sample testing for poison traces.

VSU director said in a telephone interview with Zambianstar that  UTH results indicated that the cake contained traces of poison and the matter is before the director of public prosecution Mutembo Nchito awaiting further instructions.

He explained that the couple has since being advised to go to court and settle the matter because they were other accusations.

Meanwhile Mrs. Vander Vort has accused the police of being bias because the husband bought them airtime right in her face and drove his car the day she went to report to the police. She said it was difficult to fight a man who was a financial giant and white. She complained that if the husband was Zambian he could be in jail at this moment; now that he is white the law will drag its feet. She has since asked the church to pray for her.

1:05 AM | Posted in , | Read More »

Henry Banda's Lawyers Threaten To Take Government To The UN

Lawyers representing former Zambian president Rupiah Banda and his son Henry have said they are preparing urgent appeals to international bodies including the United Nations in a bid to stop the continued unlawful conduct of the Zambian government which wants Henry to answer questions on unspecified charges.
Robert Amsterdam of Amsterdam and Peroff LLP have said the politically driven allegations against Henry which seem to change on an almost daily basis have continued to deteriorate though Henry has never been questioned by the police about anything.
“Henry has been subjected to trial by the state controlled media and the fact that the Zambian authorities still refuse to announce what Henry is accused of demonstrates that they have no real case against him” the lawyers said.
The lawyers are planning to write to international bodies because of the silence of the Zambian authorities on the matter despite repeated requests for details adding that this is now being seen by the public as part of a political witch hunt conducted with the aim of destroying the MMD and prominent figures associated with it.
Henry, who is wanted for alleged corrupt deals, has since said he would not set foot in Zambia because of the refusal of the government to identify the specific charges against him. He has cast doubts on whether he would receive fair treatment from the Zambian government adding that despite his legal representatives contacting the Zambian authorities, nothing has been said about the charges which he faces.Henry has confirmed that he was living in South Africa as he held apermanent residence status by virtue of being married to a South
African citizen.“Henry has never been questioned by the police nor has he been officially summoned. If the situation continues to deteriorate, we are prepared to urgently appeal to international bodies including the UN
to halt the unlawful conduct of the Zambian government” the lawyers said.

[Zambianstar.com]

12:33 AM | Posted in | Read More »

Stop Sowing Hate Seeds In Western Province, PF Told

stop sowing hate seeds in Westyern Provice, PF told STOP interfering and sowing hate seeds of discontent and division in Western Province over the Barotse Agreement of 1964, Alliance for Development and Democracy (ADD) president Charles Milupi has said. In an interview Mr. Milupi said it was sad that the political leadership of the nation was seen to be in the forefront issuing hate statements and creating discontent in the province.

He said government should therefore stop interfering and issuing hate statements that would create divisions among the people. “They should stop interfering and it is not just this government, it is governments going back. Stop sowing seeds of discontent, hate and stop dividing people. Stop encouraging division in the nation by these careless talks about the Barotse issue,” said Milupi.

He said the Machiavelli kind of politics which were now at play in the nation were aimed at destroying other competitors based on other unorthodox methods and beliefs. Mr. Milupi said the desire to create division among people as means of ruling them was the actual event at play by politicians.

The Barotse Royal Establishment (BRE) through the Barotse National Council (BNC) has accused the PF government of not showing commitment towards the restoration of the 1964 agreement and has since demanded for succession from the rest of the nation. The BRE and BNC have also accused the Nkoyas of being used by the Patriotic Front (PF) government in dividing the province.
The Nkoyas have objected to the succession of the region saying they were not consulted while the Lozis have indicated that the position was a collective and consultative one.

12:10 PM | Posted in | Read More »

Mahtani Sue Mutembo Nchito FOR US$4.2 m

FINANCE Bank Zambia Limited has sued Mutembo Nchito and other five for fraudulent misrepresentation in the Lusaka High Court. According to the writ of Summons obtained by the Zambianstar,, Finance Bank Zambia Limited has sued Kieran Day receiver of Mines Air Services Limited (the now defunct Zambian Airways) as First Defendant, JCN Holdings Limited second defendant while the Post Newspapers third defendants.
Mutembo and Nchima Nchito have been sued as fourth and Fifth
defendants respectively while Fred Mmembe has been sued as sixth defendant for fraudulent misrepresentation.
Finance Bank is owned by Rajan Mahtani. Finance Bank retained Messers SBN Legal Practitioners a legal firm owned by State Counsel Sunday Nkonde to handle the case, however, the legal firm has returned all the documentation on the matter as they have been finding it difficult to proceed with the case. However, the matter has taken a snag as Lawyers representing Finance Bank have found it difficult to proceed with the matter in the Lusaka High Court.
Sources close to Lawyers handling the matter told Zambianstar that Finance Bank proprietor Rajani Mahtani was not willing to give fresh instructions on whether the matter should proceed or not. “This case is being handled by State Counsel Sunday Nkonde and we know that he is finding some difficulties in proceeding with the matter because he has not received fresh instructions from Mr. Mahtani. This matter of fraudulent misrepresentation is still active in the High Courts,” said the source.
According to the writ of summon Finance Bank is demanding for the total sum of US$ 4, 208 938 being outstanding obligations due to the plaintiff from the overdraft facility on the Escrow fuel account and main overdraft account extended to the Borrower.
“The plaintiff’s claims is for recovery from the 1st defendant of US$4 208 938. 28 being outstanding obligations due to the plaintiff from the overdraft facility on the Escrow fuel account and main overdraft account extended to the Borrower by the plaintiff and from the 2nd and 3rd defendants jointly and severally being monies due to the plaintiff defendants as a result of the respective letters of guarantee for unlimited amount dated 17th October 2008 on outstanding obligations of the borrower to the plaintiff on the Escrow fuel and main overdraft account,” stated the summons.
The bank is also among other things demanding for interest for the period and any other costs as the courts may deem fit. The bank has also sued Mutembo Nchito and Nchima Nchito for fraudulent misrepresentation and is demanding for interest. Finance Bank has also sued Mutembo, Nchima and Fred Mmembe for fraudulent trading in terms of section 383 of the Companies Act, Cap 388 of the Laws of Zambia.
Mutembo, Nchima and Mmembe has also been sued for misrepresentation in terms of section 3 (1) of the Misrepresentation Act, Cap 69 of the
Laws of Zambia and Finance Bank is demanding for interest on the damages caused as the court deem fit.
And according to a statement of claim filled at the Lusaka High Court Mutembo, Nchima and Mmembe were at the material time directors of the
defunct Zambian Airways as well as JCN Holdings Limited whilst Mmembe Director of the Post Newspapers.
Mutembo, Nchima and Mmembe got an overdraft facility amounting to US$1.5m with the collateral or security to be held by the Finance Bank
which was equity funds from the Post Newspapers amounting to US$1.1 m.
The statement states that in a letter Mmembe (Post) wrote on 13 November 2007, they (Board of Directors) sought to make changes to the
application for the US$1.5m multipurpose working capital facility.

11:35 AM | Posted in , | Read More »

SONDASHI KEEN ON K800M GRZ PARTNERSHIP ON HIV/AIDS CURE

Veteran politician and Lusaka lawyer cum herbal physician Dr Ludwick Sondashi is keenly awaiting the K800million government sponsored tests on his Sondashi Formula 2000 (SF 2000) among other herbs so he could partner government in creating nationwide access for SF 2000 following government clinical trials in 2006; followed by laboratory tests in South Africa and U.S.A in 2007 and ongoing negotiations with government for more tests in Ndola.
“This medicine has been tested. Immediately I got it, I exposed this medicine to laboratory testing. And that is the way you prove. So science has gone into this medicine. And it is science talking, not me. Science is saying that this medicine works. It is a treatment for HIV/AIDS. In fact, at the present moment it is better than ARVs. But I still want the government to come up. Because this medicine can help Zambia a lot, I want government to support it because I am an individual, I cannot have resources.” Dr Sondashi was talking on ZNBC Radio 2 programme “Book Spectrum”
co-presenters Kawang’u Muzhina and Kaseba aired Monday night at 20:30 to 21:00 Dr Sondashi was sharing a platform with sociologist and author David

Kasuba who has just finished a book manuscript titled, “Why Blacks Are Dying of AIDS”. Kasuba said, “I was shocked to see that only blacks, in fact, are dying. I want to find why is that so. And then I went into researching. There are researches that have already been made. And I went into researching those researches. I found that there were a lot of controversies. Some have taken what they may call mainstream ideologies. Others are what they call dissidents because they think what is being taught in schools and everywhere in world is not the truth. There are a lot of lies. I want to find out, what are those lies and what is the truth.”

11:26 AM | Posted in , | Read More »

BETTER IN HELL WITH UPND THAN IN HEAVEN WITH PF

1. I would rather be in Hell with the United Party for national development (UPND) than in Heaven with the PF government that failed to deliver to the people of Zambia. UPND's Mulanjatila member of parliament has since promised to support the MMD in an event that his party does not field a candidate for the Lwanpa constituency sit in Kaoma. Following the election petition of the seat, which has been nullified by the High court of Zambia in Lusaka.
Biemba Jackson Kahinga said the two opposition parties should work together so that they can do checks and balances to the ruling government. The opposition should work together in doing the cheks on the PF adminstration and not to lose grip.
He said it was unfortunate the MMD members were shooting each other in the leg to protect their worthy and not to serve the interest of the people. He has challenged president Sata to explain how we could allow the election petition of more than 62 seats, what if all the 62 were nullified, what would have become of the country." Want to know were the money to settle legal fees in the petition will come from" he asked. He explained that the Kaoma petition had no merit but was a way to weaken opposition. Mr Kahinga has accused the MMD of not having morals but interested in making their wallets thick.
2. Seyuba's removal from Western Province is like putting a loaded gun i the pocket knowing that it will not blow off. the UPND councilor has challenged government to reflect on their appoint and hire system which is a mess to the country's development. He said president Sata should desist from transferring people that were contributing to the nation. He said Augustine Seyuba was the fist Permanent Secretary in the History of Western Province to have gone in the districts sensitizing people on the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocation and how it was to be used.
3. MMD acting President Micheal Mabenga is dating the Lwanpa Member of Parliament Josphine LImata, says UPND losing candidate for Lwanpa Katherine K Liato, she said she was happy that the seat was nullified by the courts because Ms Limata used the corrupt MMD way of vote buying and distributing campaign materials to people of Kaoma.
She was happy that justice had prevealed that the people of Lwampa will have second chance to choose who they want to lead freely. UPND candidate has declared that she will work with the Pf in ensuring that the seat does not go back to Ms limata..
4 PRINCESSES NAKATINDI 'S TREASON SENTENCE PROVED SHE WAS A TOUGH WOMAN AND THE PRESIDENT THEN ACTED TO WEAKEN HER, SAYS CHARLES MILUPI.
He has descired the late princesses as an extraordinary lady because of how she lived and what she achieved in life. Just like the trial and tribulation of the treason case and the arrest at Kabwe's Mukombeko Maximum Prison showed how strong and fearless she was. He said she span decades of contributions in the country's development in politics. Milupi explaied that though the Princess was there in the UNIP era she move the wind of political change to suit the situation at every particular time. He said she did not want to sit back.

MILUPI says Sata's treatment to his minister is a shame to the people of Zambia and the intrenetionel commuinty, thses ministers are not his slavrs but cilvil servants mandataed to serve the people of Zambia by parliament. He has advised President Sata to stop undressing the minister in public saying they had families besides been in pulic office and they were not his small girls and boys. He is diminishing the country's picture to the international world out there. Many citizens are embarrassed by Sata's continued attacks on his cabinet, it is unacceptable, i can never do that if i was president it is wrong.
Sorry i was not around today just arrived home, work on the layout and categorizes.
ZAMBIANSTAR

5:43 AM | Posted in | Read More »

"I Could Not Control My Sexual Apetite That I Defiled My Niece" Says 27 Years Old Man Of Lusaka

"I could not control my sexual apetite that was why I defiled my niece" says 27 years old man of lusakas' Misisi compound.
Titus Banda who appeared before magistrate Chanda at lusaka magistrate courts yesterday told court that he was well informed that the girl he forced to have sex with was his brothers daughter.
Particulars of the offense where that on December 14, 2011 Banda had unlawful canal knowledge of a girl under the age of 16 believed to be his elder brothers daughter.
Banda stands charged with incest contrary to section 159 (1) of the penal code and chapter 87 of the laws of Zambia.
In his defense Banda could not deny the charge but told court that it was not easy as he did not have any option.
It was alleged that Banda took advantage of his niece when she went to visit him at his house in Misisi compound.
Banda who spoke fluently in nyanja said "Your honor I knew it was wrong and Iq regret my action but there was nothing i could do, you know these issues of sex".
However these sentiments sent people in the court room into laughter.
The matter comes up on April 30, 2012 as the state awaits for further instructions from Director for Public Prosecution (DPP) meanwhile Banda remains in police custody.

[Zambianstar.com]

10:31 AM | Posted in , | Read More »

5 Types Of Condoms For Great Sex

It's a lot of fun to choose the right condom before a steamy love making session. Today there are many varieties of condoms available in the market, from flavoured condoms to dotted condoms. It's always safe and feels good to wear condom while having sex.

If you are not on a baby-making mission and want to arouse and stimulate your partner like never before, we list down 5 varieties of condoms for great sex.

1. Flavoured condoms
Such condoms are best for oral sex. They are available in a wide range of flavours such as chocolate, coffee, strawberry, mint, vanilla and many more. If you are using it for vaginal or anal sex, always make sure they are sugar-free in order to avoid yeast infection.

2. Dotted condoms
If you want that extra pleasure this is the right condom for you. Textured or studded condoms are meant for increasing pleasure for both the partners. These condoms have slight bumps that run through the length of the condom on both the sides.

3. Super thin condoms
If you want to use a condom and still get the same kick as condom-free sex, this one will suit you fine. This type of condom is transparent with a thin layer made of sheerlon material that acts like a second skin. It is highly effective against pregnancy and STDs.

4. Pleasure-shaped condoms
This type of condom heightens sensitivity for both the partners. It has loose and enlarged tip.

5. Glow in the dark condoms
If you want to experience kinky sex, this is the right choice. When exposed to light for 30 seconds, it glows in the dark. It is non-toxic and has three layers. The inner and the outermost layers are made up of latex and the middle one contains a safe pigment that makes it glow.

Even with condoms one needs to take precautions. So, next time you are buying one don't forget to check the label if it is FDA approved for use against unplanned pregnancy and STDs.

2:31 AM | Posted in | Read More »

Zambia Air Force Officer Pleads Not Guilty To The Offence Of Forgery

A Zambia Air Force officer has pleaded not guilty to the offence of forgery after he was accused of forging his documents with intent to change his age in order to continue working despite reaching retirement age.
ZAF officer Evaristo Bwalya Musuna aged 59, of house number 35780/1080 Baulinia Avenue Chelston was charged by the Lusaka magistrate court in Lusaka yesterday with an offence of forgery contrary to section 347 of the penal code cap 87 of the laws of Zambia.
Before magistrate Willie Banda was Musuna who was believed to have on unknown dates but in April 2009 in Lusaka had changed his years with intent to defraud or deceive ZAF attestation paper form 2 purporting to show that he was born on June 2, 1959 when in fact not.
Musuna whom according to the first documentations from the Zambia Air Force showed that he was born in June 2, 1956 denied the charge of forging his age as he insisted that he was born in 1959 and did not understand where the officer got the information.
However this was revealed by Lieutenant colonel Isaac Tembo who noticed that Musuna had over worked exceeding his retirement age and had kept working for the Air Force at the Head Quarters in Lusaka.
Colonel Tembo told court that he noticed the mishap on Musuna’s age when he was going through the documents and compiling names of officers who were supposed to retire as he was mandated to do so six months before they could officially be told to retire.
He said he found two documents in Musunas’ folder which contradicted his age but however went to the order records showing dates when he joined the Air Force and how old he was by that time.
He later told the court that after that he decided to go to a school in chililabombwe where Musuna started his grade one.
While in chililabombwe Tembo visited Konkola Basic School and got hold of a class register which indicated that Musuna was born in 1952 and not 1956 as his National Registration Card indicated.
However the matter was adjourned to April 20, 2012 for continued trial.

Source: Zmbianstar.com

2:19 AM | Posted in | Read More »

Prosecution Of Henry Was Aimed at Destructing The Main Opposition Party:Henry's Lawyers

Lawyers representing Rupiah Banda’s son Henry have charged that the Zambian government lacks a clear case against their client.

Robert Amsterdam of Amsterdam and Peroff LLP said it is clear that the matter was politically motivated farce.

Mr Amsterdam has criticised a fundamental lack of credibility to the State’s case given its irregular and unlawful abuse of the process.

“If you look at the way this matter is being handled by Zambia, you see all the hallmarks of a politically motivated farce,” said Robert Amsterdam.

“Mr. Banda has never been questioned by the police about anything, while instead the State has conducted a trial by headlines consisting of frequently changing accusations. The fact that Zambia has refused to describe what Mr. Banda is accused of should set off alarm bells. It is a clear sign that they lack any real case.”

He said the persecution of Henry was ultimately aimed at pressuring the former president Rupiah Banda and the destruction of the main opposition party.

The lawyer said the allegations have been accompanied by a broad attack on the main opposition party Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), including a shocking attempt to de-register the party.

He wondered why Foreign Affairs Minister Given Lubinda threatened diplomatic consequences if South Africa did not hand over Henry despite a total absence of charges.

Mr Amsterdam further said that the Zambian authorities had failed to respond to Henry’s legal representatives’ request for information and clarification of the alleged charges but decided to attack him in the media with unsubstantiated allegations including labelling him a fugitive.

“The conduct of the Zambian government, including the issuing of direct orders to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mutembo Nchito, to produce preferred verdicts, has violated international norms of due process, rule of law, and constitutional separation of powers,” said Amsterdam.

“Mr. Banda can hardly have any reasonable expectation of a fair judicial process, much less any fair treatment in the Zambian media.”

Amsterdam & Peroff LLP along with law firm Brian Kahn Inc of Johannesburg, South Africa represents the former President Rupiah Banda and his son Henry.

The legal team is in the process of presenting appeals before international bodies to expose the unlawful conduct undertaken

2:05 AM | Posted in | Read More »

Dr. Nevers Mumba will Only Be Allowed To Contest If His MMD Membership Status Is Adressed: Christopher Banda

Dr. Nevers Mumba will not be allowed to contest the MMD Presidency if the party fails to address his membership issues.
MMD Muchinga Province Treasurer Christopher said the party leadership has been given 12 hours to address the matter or face a revolt.
“We shall stop Nevers Mumba from standing if Major Kachingwe fails to address the issues of Dr. Mumba’s candidature because he was expelled in 2005 by late Mwanawasa and since then he has never been re-admitted,” he said.
Mr. Banda warned that the failure by the party leadership to address pertinent issues raised by the former deputy minister Brian Sikazwe will be detrimental to the selection process of a new MMD leader.
He said the response from Deputy National Secretary Cheembe Nyangu that Pastor Mumba is a bonefide member is not down in good faith because it is aimed at covering up the expulsion of Dr. Mumba.
“On Friday, April 22, 2005, the MMD expelled Pastor Nevers Mumba from the party for gross indiscipline. This was against the background that Pastor Mumba dumped his then National Citizens Coalition (NCC) to accept the Vice Presidency under late President Levy Mwanawasa. Before long, Pastor Mumba’s appetite for power led him to start planning on challenging the same man who raised his status in society,” said Banda.
He said the issues of illegality on the part of Dr. Mumba are not personal but a principle on which the MMD was founded on in 1991.
Banda observed that when members ask questions, the party Secretariat should not dismiss them casually because there are far reaching implications which can work against the party in the short and long-term.
Banda said according to the party constitution those expelled can either apply to the MMD Convention or a full National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting for re-admission and not any other methods.
He said it is sad that Mr. Nyangu deliberately decided not to answer when Pastor Mumba became a bonafide member of the MMD after his expulsion and gave a blank statement.
“Strangers cost MMD its fortunes because they did not understand the spirit of reform which gave birth to the MMD. We are going to defend the MMD constitution and ensure that only bonafide members of the MMD are allowed to contest the Presidency.
What discipline can he (Pastor Mumba) bring to the MMD when he was expelled for gross indiscipline to this date, his return to the MMD remains a mystery. It does not matter whether he was contributing money to the MMD while in the diplomatic service because there are several other people who did that but they were not bonafide MMD members.”

2:00 AM | Posted in | Read More »

PF Plans To Include Party Consitution In The National Constituion, To Empower Cadres To displine Constituion Office Holders

THE Patriotic Front (PF) wants to sneak into the new constitution its party constitution which gives power to cadres and the Central Committee to discipline constitution office holders.
According to sources within the PF, President Sata has instructed Wynter Kabimba who is party Secretary General to ensure that before the draft constitution is submitted to him at the end of this month, it should include the PF party constitution.
The source revealed that this is to ensure that the PF has total control of the Judiciary, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and other government institutions.
According to the PF constitution 2007 document, all constitution office bearers will be disciplined and appointed by the Central Committee of the party.
But the Foundation for Democratic Process (FODEP) has reminded the committee drafting the national Constitution to stick to the time plan as it assured the nation.
FODEP Executive Director Mac Donald Chipenzi noted that the silence from the Constitution Technical Committee (CTC) indicated that everything was on course and expected the first draft to be inclusive.
He said the committee will have itself to blame if it failed to produce the document this month-end.
Mr Chipenzi charged that 13 million Zambians were expecting a Constitution that would benefit them, hence the need for the committee to come up with a document that would stand the test of time.
“I think the committee has been given enough time and it will be disappointing if it will fail to meet the stipulated deadline. Our expectation is to see the document produced this monthend and the nation at large is patiently waiting for the document,” said Chipenzi.
He emphasized that all Zambians must be involved regardless of their status because the document was meant for them.
Recently the committee assured the nation that the first document would finally be ready by the end of this month.
However, CTC spokesperson Simon Kabanda said the committee was working hard to ensure that the document is readily available for submission this month end without fail.
Mr Kabanda explained that the Constitution would be made in such a manner that all Zambians should understand it.

1:53 AM | Posted in | Read More »

African Governments Demand More Representation In The UN Security Council

African Governments have reaffirmed their demand for two permanent seats and about five non-permanent seats in the United Nations (UN) Security Council.
In their submissions during an Informal Plenary meeting of the General Assembly on equitable representation in the membership of the Security Council, several African countries and other friendly nations backed the calls for more representation of the 54-nation continent in the Security Council.
Zambia’s permanent representative to the UN Dr Mwaba Kasese-Bota, said the African proposal sought to redress the historical injustice to the continent through the Security Council composition and processes.
"It is the position of the African Group that there should be expansion in both the permanent and non-permanent categories with the new permanent members exercising all privileges and obligations that go with permanency tenure," Dr Kasese- Bota said.
She said in her submission to the Council that despite Africa being subject to 70 percent of the Security Council’s decisions, the continent did not have permanent representatives.
Dr Kasese-Bota who called for change of the status quo however said Africa exercises flexibility on issues of maintaining or abolishing the veto for all permanent members of the Council.
She said Africa was opposed to any piecemeal approach but comprehensive style.
And Botswana’s representative to the UN Charles Ntwaagae said Africa remained committed to reforming the Security Council to make it more representative, more accountable, more democratic and inclusive in its composition and method of work.
"The identification of the candidate countries to occupy the Permanent Seats should be left to the wisdom of African leaders to decide on," Ambassador Ntwaagae said.
And Coordinator of the C-10 Group negotiating on behalf of the African Group, Ambassador Shekou Touray, of Sierra Leone said support for the African Common position continued to receive support in the continent's quest to claim permanent membership in the Security Council and address the historical under-representation.
Ambassador Touray said the UN Security Council was the principal decision-making organ in matters relating to international peace and security.
Currently the UN Security Council is composed of five permanent members being China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and 10 non-permanent members of which only South Africa and Togo are from Africa which has the largest number of UN members.

1:48 AM | Posted in , | Read More »

Sata Is Inconsistent And The People Of Zambia should Not Trust Him:HH

UPND President Hakainde Hichilema says Commissions of Inquiries set up by President Michael Sata to investigate the perceived wrong doings by former leaders in the MMD are predetermined and aimed at punishing and embarrassing the former ruling party.
Mr. Hichilema said this can be seen in the manner he reacted to Justice Minister Sebastian Zulu’s report on the procurement of the airport Radars as the most useless report before reading and tabling it to cabinet for scrutiny.
The UPND leader said President Sata is inconsistent and someone the people of Zambia should no-longer trust on any issue of national importance.
Mr. Hichilema said President Sata’s outburst against the report before reading was a clear indication that the fight against corruption is ill timed and aimed at few individuals who seemed to be critics to his leadership.
He said it is not right for President Sata to act in a manner that undermines cases which are currently in court by suggesting that Justice Minister Zulu is trying to protect former Transport and Communications Minister Dora Siliya.
Mr. Hichilema said President Sata was told not to proceed with commissions of inquiries because they are just a waste of resources but decided to go ahead and shameless today is the first one to complain.
“I am on record having told President Sata that commissions of inquiries are just a sheer waste of resources but he decided to go ahead because he had a predetermined out of the reports. His business into those commissions was to find leaders in the former government guilty of corruption but alas that it seems to be something else and today he is now accusing his minister of justice of protecting Ms. Siliya which is not the case,” said Hichilema.
Mr. Hichilema observed that President Sata’s conduct exhibited high levels of vengefulness coupled with hate for innocent citizen wondering whether Ms. Siliya would receive a fair trial especially that President Sata on various occasions had issued contemptuous statements.
He said President Sata’s behavior was strange for a head of state adding that ridiculing his ministers in public was an indication that he had no confidence in his cabinet.
Mr. Hichilema who is a serious critique of President Sata’s leadership style urged the head of state to take time and analyse his governance system whether it would offer solutions to the current economic challenges the nation was facing.
“This nation doesn’t need someone vengeful to lead it, it needs an economic manager. No-wonder our colleagues in the PF are offering a raw deal to the people of Zambia. Even the fight against corruption is not genuine, it is like they have already planned who should be investigated, arrested, taken to court and jailed but such actions against the people is very dangerous,” he warned.
He said President Sata should stop his hate speeches against people with divergent views, adding that resorting to insulting ministers was a serious matter which should not be supported.
“What is worrying the nation is that he keeps insulting people in his cabinet. We are not happy with the way he talked down Sebastian Zulu. And if anything Mr. Zulu who is a State Council should resign to uphold his dignity because the President doesn’t not believe in him,” he said.

Source: Zambianstar.com

1:33 AM | Posted in , | Read More »

PASTOR Nevers Mumba Is Not Capable Of Leading The MMD, He Is Inconsistent And Unreliable: Brian Sikazwe

PASTOR Nevers Mumba is not capable of leading the MMD because he is inconsistent and unreliable, says Former Minister Brian Sikazwe. Mr. Sikazwe said it is a well known fact that Dr. Mumba a former diplomat sold off his political party and therefore he will auction the former ruling party the MMD if allowed to be President. He insisted that Dr. Mumba is not capable of leading the MMD because he was inconsistent and unreliable.

He said it is a well know fact that Pastor Mumba auctioned his party and therefore MMD members should not trust him because the same can happen. Mr. Sikazwe a former Deputy Minister of Youths and Chimbamilonga MP has also challenged the MMD National Secretary Major Richard Kachingwe to state when Pastor Mumba was reinstated in the party after his expulsion by the late President Mwanawasa.

Mr. Sikazwe insisted to know when and at which NEC or convention Pastor Mumba was re-admitted. He said there are many credible people in the party among the Felix Mutati, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane and Kabinga Pande who can lead the MMD and not people with questionable background. Mr. Sikazwe observed that the arguments being advanced by Pastor Mumba that he is the best candidate to lead the MMD are highly misplaced and should be challenged with facts. “Let us agree that MMD needs a President the party can trust that he will not sell or ditch the party when temperatures rise. What has fundamentally changed about Pastor Mumba that he will not “auction” MMD to the highest “bidder” as he did with the National Citizen’s Coalition and Reform Party?” asked Mr. Sikazwe. He said there were critical fundamentals issues that needed to be looked into with regards to Pastor Mumba’s bid to contest for the position of Presidency in the party.

The former deputy minister said there was no way the party could be led by someone without a fixed aboard, adding that lodges and hotels were never permanent residence. “If Pastor Mumba has serious intentions of ruling this country, how come he does not even owns a house in Zambia and is busy renting lodges and hotels? Can the Party manage a President without fixed aboard? Considering that lodges and hotels are never permanent residence, will MMD members have to travel to Dallas Texas to find their leader? I personally would have serious issues being led by a man who does not own a house in Zambia and wants to lead an exaggerated lifestyle which portrays financial arrogance.

A party President with no house is a party President who is unsettled and unstable,” he said. Mr. Sikazwe the MMD has quality MPs such as leader of Opposition in Parliament and Lunte MP Felix Mutati, Former Finance Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Former Foreign Affairs Minister Kabinga Pande among others and Pastor Mumba does not come any closer to these in terms of quality. He said Mutati, Musokotwane and Pande have performed in their portfolios exceptionally well. Mr. Sikazwe said MMD needs a leader who has the capacity to listen with humility and who can intelligently resolve issues facing the nation rather than people scheming on how to sell the party.

He said the should present to Zambia a President who would be intelligent enough as to roll-out practical interventions regarding the creation of Jobs for youths across the country. “In my view, if MMD is to look at who becomes President at this critical hour, they must restrict their choices to three names, as follows- Hon. Felix Mutati, Hon. Situmbeko Musokotwane and Hon. Kabinga Pande. As a matter of suggestion, these three, in whatever form MMD members decide, should form President and the two Vice Presidents of a new MMD. These would present a strong and viable alternative to Zambia and would give the party the much needed regional representation,” he said.

2:28 AM | Posted in | Read More »

Lackson Mangani Still Using Toyota Prado ABX 4470, Government Above The Law?

EDITORIAL

Government should explain to the people of Zambia if the Charity Munganga Chanda's state investigation team on corruption is only championing its fight on the former members of the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD). This follows the number of cases that have been disclosed is among the former members. It has come to our attention that some of the MMD vehicles have sine been confiscated.
We would like to know how former Chipata central member of parliament and home Affairs Minister in the previous administration Lameck Mangani, now under the Patriotic Front (PF) comfort is still using a Toyota Prado ABX 4470. Does it mean that PF is a no go area for the task force?

 

2:10 AM | Posted in | Read More »

Government should explain to the people of Zambia,if the Charity Munganga Chanda's state investigation team on corruption is only championing its fight on the former members of the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD). this follows the number of cases that have been disclosed is among the former members. It has come to our attention that some of the MMD vehicles have sine been confiscated.
We would like to know how former Chipata central member of parliament and home Affairs Minister in the previous administration Lameck Mangani, now under the Patriotic Front (PF) comfort is still using a Toyota Prado ABX 4470. Does it mean that PF is a no go area for the task force?

2:03 AM | Posted in | Read More »

Differences Arises As Sata Funds The NRC, Promises Them Jobs in Ministries

In his stance to fight corruption President Sata has defeated himself by funding the Nkonya Royal Council, a group distancing itself from the secession  in Barotseland.

According to members that went to state house, the group was given about 100m to  host  a two day indaba at Mangongi Royal Village in Kaom District. Differences  have risen among members saying the money was not equally shared . It is believed that the six chiefs, were given 5 million kwacha each and the rest of the money, no one knows.

A member in the group, disclosed that sata has also promised them jobs in ministries as directors.

Source: Zambianstar.com

12:34 AM | Posted in | Read More »

Oil-Gate Saga, PF Officials Involved

THREE companies with highest political connections have corruptly been awarded the tender to procure oil for Zambia without following normal tender procedures, making the current evaluation process expected to be held this month as mare formality.

One of the companies was introduced by the son of a leader; another was brought and introduced by a well known businessman in the Banking sector.

According to Investigations, the tender of oil supply attracted 15 companies and 14 qualified after one supplier was disqualified on the basis of late delivery of bid submission, but three companies represented by powerful political interests including one notorious banker who funded the PF elections campaign have reportedly been awarded the contract.

Three big companies Dunvor of Switzerland, Dalbit of Kenya and Glencore of United Kingdom are among the bidders for the contract of the supply of oil. One company is alleged to have promised government a saving of US$40 million which offer has been accepted and is being worked into the persuasion process. Competitors have questioned the morality behind the offer to government, saying the oil company was not being genuine in the manner it was conducting its business using patronage formulas.

Competitors say the trading company had no control of oil prices on the international market and could not determine and fix oil which was controlled by OPEC. The source also revealed that another company which did not bid for comingled feedstock oil which was a bid requirement also known as Murban Crude as per requirement had successfully been shortlisted to be among the three possible suppliers for the period 2012-2014. T

he sources who attended the tender opening on 23 March, said some of the prominent bidders which included a company that had previously been single sourced tendered for diesel as a finished product at US$1, 191.20 per metric tonnes and petrol at US$1,372.46, with other companies not offered the same condition. Other companies that have tendered, Agipol Africa quoted diesel at US$1, 261.01 and petrol at US$1, 367.45, Addax Oryxl tendered for diesel at US$1, 252.49 and petrol at US$1, 468.56.

Trafigula tendered for diesel at US$1,304.70 and petrol at US$1, 418.56, IPG tendered for diesel at US $1, 420.66 and petrol at US $1, 554.71 and Kenol Kobil tendered for diesel at US$1, 294.53 and petrol at US $1, 416.87. A technical analysis of the bids is to be conducted before considering the financial proposals, and that according to the evaluation criteria, the bidder with the lowest price at the financial evaluation stage would be considered the most responsive.

The sources said all companies were required to bid in all the options or categories as required by the law but three foreign companies selectively chose not to and offered the PF government US$40 million. “This company claims that the Zambian government will be able to save money if the tender was offered to them, just because they are being aided by senior PF officials who traveled to Switzerland early this year. That cannot happen because they don’t control the prevailing market prices,” said the source.

The source explained that, for a price evaluation based on using option two of the feedstock combination – 65 per cent Murban Crude and 26 per cent Gasoil and nine per cent Naphtha, the three other companies would have been disqualified. “Having seen the list of successful bidders, to our disappointment, we have also noticed that a United Kingdom oil company has joined in the bid by some businessman from the Banking and Financial Sector. This is the company which was awarded a controversial energy bid under the Mwanawasa regime through a named businessman,” said the source.

The source said some companies set to be evaluated had created tension in Bolivia and Iran as a result of their conduct in the supply of oil. But government through its Minister of Energy Christopher Yaluma have expressed ignorance interfering in bids and tender procedures saying the whole process was still under scrutiny by the Zambia Public Procurement Authority (ZPPA) before being handed to his ministry. This has forced stakeholders in the oil procurement industry to make a passionate appeal to the Zambia Public Procurement Authority (ZPPA) to seriously scrutinize companies bidding for the same tender to avoid corruption practices which have already emerged. Mercuria, Gunvor, Glencore, Crown Well, Dalbit and Kenol Kobil oil companies have been shortlisted for the evaluation to supply 1 440 000 metric tonnes of oil for the period of 2 years. The rest of the list of companies consists of Trafigura, Addax Energy, VITOL, IPG and Agipol Africa Ltd.

sZambianstar.com

10:11 PM | Posted in , | Read More »

Gen Miyanda Annoyed With Catholic Bishop Telesphore Mpundu

BRIGADIER General Godfrey Miyanda is disappointed with the Roman Catholic Bishop Telesfore Mpumdu for describing the declaration of Zambia as a Christian nation ‘nonsensical.’

In his letter Brig. Gen Miyanda said the Bishop Mpundu’s statement against Zambia being declared a Christian nation was a direct assault on Christianity. “I am disappointed and downcast by the Bishop’s declaration and consider it a rather harsh and contradictory Easter message.

The Bishop is entitled to his opinion; but in fact I am not criticising his opinion but the language he carefully chose to use. For one who is known to be a professed Christian to describe the Declaration as “nonsense” is inconsiderate to all those who believe in it, and there are many; and its timing is also rather curious.” He said the Bishop’s retort while officiating at a Palm Sunday event a few days ago was untimely at a time when there were calls for reconciliation from high places in Catholic circles. Brig. Gen Miyanda said Bishop Mpundu’s angry comment tends to ridicule all those of other faiths other than his Roman Catholic flock.

“Christ is non-denominational and tasked his disciples to go to the whole world to evangelise, of course in His name. No one will be judged on account of which church they go to but on their faith in the one true God symbolised by His Son Jesus Christ. What did Dr Chiluba say that is not in the Bible? The whole earth, including Zambia, is the Lord’s, so says the Bible,” said Brig. Gen Miyanda.

He said as a teacher and shepherd Bishop Mpundu must have the patience and tenacity to teach and counsel and guide those he believed had fallen by the way side rather than despise and belittle them. Bishop Mpundu said only God would in the end judge who was his true follower, adding that the idea of teachers and preachers was to correct rather than to ridicule. “Christianity is meant to build and help all Christians to follow Jesus and love one another (if you love me obey my command, says the Lord).

Of course this is not easy because nowadays many Christians refuse to accept and follow Christ’s teaching unless you are a member of their church! As I see it Bishop Mpundu is rejecting those of other faiths as well as those who have sinned. Does the Bible not remind all of us that we are sinners and have all fallen short of the glory of God? Who was Paul? St Paul? Was this not the man who was persecuting and killing Christians? Many people have been made to focus on Dr Chiluba the sinner who made the Declaration,” said Brig. Gen Miyanda. He reminded the Catholic Bishop that criticising the late Chiluba was a direct attack on other non Roam Catholic faith, adding that Chiluba had never been the message but only a messenger. Gen Miyanda questioned Bishop Mpundu whether those that have declared to be Christians were nonsense.

“Criticising the sinner Chiluba is a disguised attack on other faiths. This is what requires recanting at this Easter period before talking about reconciliation. Unless this is done the call by ZEC will remain hollow,” he said. He said that he was disappointed because the Bishop’s message was divisive and separating Christians of different callings, especially Protestants. “Yes, Dr Chiluba may have been the vessel that was used to make the Declaration but many of us believed and still believe in that good and appropriate message for Zambia, which has set the goal towards which we must walk as it tends to change the heart of Man and is a better way of fighting corruption and sin than making endless laws that achieve nothing.” He said Christians should not be ashamed to be known that they were followers of Christ.

He said he did not subscribe to wearing the cross but would not oppose it as long as those who do so believed in Christ and were not doing so for commercial purposes. “Will those who do so be wearing “nonsense”? I say that instead of merely wearing a cross, Christians must practice what they preach by reconciling with and forgiving and loving one another,” he said. Gen Miyanda said it was shocking that ZEC had kept quiet on that divisive Easter message on the eve of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. He said it was an unkind Easter message from such a high ZEC member and contradicts, if not nullifying, the message by the ZEC Secretary General. The Secretary General of the Zambia Episcopal Conference (ZEC) last week called on Zambians to use the Easter period as a time for reconciliation and forgiveness. However, Bishop Mpundu labelled as “nonsense” the Declaration of Zambia as a Christian Nation.

source: Zambianstar.com

10:04 PM | Posted in | Read More »

Dr. Musokotwane Tells Sichinga to shut-up, "He Is Confusing People, He Is Just An accountant"

COMMERCE Minister Robert Sichinga must shut-up and stop commenting on economic issues because he is confusing people with matters he does not understand, says Former Finance Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane. Dr. Musokotwane who is MMD presidential aspirant said Sichinga was an accountant who did not understand economic issues therefore needs to leave technocrats at Bank of Zambia (BoZ) to comment on matters relating to the rebasing of the Kwacha.

He said Sichinga was embarrassing the PF administration in the manner he had economically mishandled the issues behind rebasing of the local currency with regards to its performance against other convertible denominations. Dr. Musokotwane said Mr Sichinga was fond of giving un-researched opinions on issues he did not understand himself. “Sichinga is just an accountant, he is not an economist and it will be good for him to leave issues to do with the economy and rebasing of the Kwacha to people at the Bank of Zambia because I know that there are more capable and credible people who can authoritatively comment on such matters.” said Dr. Musokotwane.

He said Sichinga’s understanding of the rebasing of the Kwacha was a mere dream which won’t help the nation and government but confuse people because value for the currency did not come about by changing or knocking down of zeros.

Dr. Musokotwane said there was need for the nation to invest critically in the manufacturing industriy whose products would compete favorably on the international market. He observed that the continued mismanagement of communication of information being given to the public by the PF administration was a source of concern and if not checked would create an economic crisis to the nation.

Last week government said it would proceed with plans to rebase the local currency to strengthen the value to 1964 levels despite calls by some quarters to defer it to a later date. Sichinga said rebasing the Kwacha was necessary as it would lead to reduction in the cost of doing business; reduce inconvenience and risks associated with carrying large amounts of currency for transactional purposes. He said once the Kwacha was rebased, it was likely to become stronger against major convertible currencies, citing when the local unit traded at par with the British pound in 1960s. “In 1964, our Kwacha and Malawian Kwacha were at par with a (British) pound. Exactly at K2 to a pound, this is because the currency was strong,” he said. Sichinga said rebasing the Kwacha would accrue huge benefits to everyone.

Source: Zambianstar.com

9:28 PM | Posted in , | Read More »

President Sata Must Address Contentious Issues Says Bishop Mususu

PRESIDENT Michael Sata should seriously consider addressing contentious national issues rather than keeping quiet when the country is in dare need of his guidance and leadership, says Bishop Paul Mususu. Commenting on the continued silence of President Sata from the time he returned from India where he held various meetings with hotelier investors, Bishop Mususu said Zambians were in order to demand for the presence of their president especially where the nation had critical issues that needed his indulgence.

Bishop Mususu said President Sata was not a private citizen anymore and therefore it was prudent that those in government advise him on critically on how to handle issues of national importance. He said keeping quiet on various issues would not help him and his government resolves the problems the nation was facing. “He sneaked out of the country on a private visit using tax payers’ money but what was behind is different. What the people know is that the President was unwell and that has been compounded with his silence since his return from the so-called private visit,” said Bishop Mususu.

Bishop Mususu who is Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ) national overseer said there were many issues that needed to be attended to by President Sata and the PF government. He said the continued contradictions in government in the manner public statements were being issued by cabinet ministers were a source of concerns that needed President Sata’s direction. “It is sad that no one in this government sees the urgency and the need for President Sata to intervene in matters happening in Western Province, no one sees the importance to address the issue of poverty and the injustices people are subjected to,” said Bishop Mususu.

The clergyman observed that Zambians had many challenges they were facing which needed a responsible leadership. He said youths and unemployment should be number one agenda because failure to do that it would cause civil strife in the nation. “Let us not ignore the fact that there are issues such as lack of employment among our young people, there is an issue to do with the government’s inertia to handle the discontentment in Barotseland. These issues need to be addressed, there is need of a way forward for the people to feel safe being home,” he said.

9:20 PM | Posted in | Read More »

THREE companies with highest political connections have corruptly been  awarded the tender to procure oil for Zambia without following normal tender procedures, making the current evaluation process expected to be held this month as mare formality. One of the companies was introduced by the son of a leader; another was brought and introduced by a well known businessman in the Banking sector.According to Investigations, the tender of oil supply attracted 15 companies and 14 qualified after one supplier was disqualified on the
basis of late delivery of bid submission, but three companies represented by powerful political interests including one notorious banker who funded the PF elections campaign have eportedly been awarded the contract. Three big companies Dunvor of Switzerland, Dalbit of Kenya and Glencore of United Kingdom are among the bidders for the contract of
the supply of oil. One company is alleged to have promised government a saving of US$40
million which offer has been accepted and is being worked into the persuasion process.Competitors have questioned the morality behind the offer to
government, saying the oil company was not being genuine in the manner it was conducting its business using patronage formulas.Competitors say the trading company had no control of oil prices on the international market and could not determine and fix oil which wascontrolled by OPEC. The source also revealed that another company which did not bid for
comingled feedstock oil which was a bid requirement also known a Murban Crude as per requirement had successfully been shortlisted tobe among the three possible suppliers for th period 2012-2014. The sources who attended the tender opening on 23 March, said some of the prominent bidders which included a company that had previously been single sourced tendered for diesel as a finished product at US$1,191.20 per metric tonnes and petrol at US$1,372.46, with other companies not offered the same condition. Other companies that have tendered, Agipol Africa quoted diesel at US$1, 261.01 and petrol at US$1, 367.45, Addax Oryxl tendered for
diesel at US$1, 252.49 and petrol at US$1, 468.56. Trafigula tendered for diesel at US$1,304.70 and petrol at US$1,418.56, IPG tendered for diesel at US $1, 420.66 and petrol at US $1, 554.71 and Kenol Kobil tendered for diesel at US$1, 294.53 and petrol at US $1, 416.87. A technical analysis of the bids is to be conducted before considering the financial proposals, and that according to the evaluation criteria, the bidder with the lowest price at the financial evaluation stage would be considered the most responsive. The sources said all companies were required to bid in all the option or categories as required by the law but three foreign companies selectively chose not to and offered the PF government US$40 million.  “This company claims that the Zambian government will be able to save
money if the tender was offered to them, just because they are being
aided by senior PF officials who traveled to Switzerland early this
year. That cannot happen because they don’t control the prevailing
market prices,” said the source.
The source explained that, for a price evaluation based on using option two of the feedstock combination – 65 per cent Murban Crude and 26 per cent Gasoil and nine per cent Naphtha, the three other companies would have been disqualified. “Having seen the list of successful bidders, to our disappointment, we have also noticed that a United Kingdom oil company has joined in the
bid by some businessman from the Banking and Financial Sector. This is the company which was awarded a controversial energy bid under the Mwanawasa regime through a named businessman,” said the source.
The source said some companies set to be evaluated had created tensionin Bolivia and Iran as a result of their conduct in the supply of oil.
But government through its Minister of Energy Christopher Yaluma have expressed ignorance interfering in bids and tender procedures sayingthe whole process was still under scrutiny by the Zambia Public Procurement Authority (ZPPA) before being handed to his ministry.

This has forced stakeholders in the oil procurement industry to make a passionate appeal to the Zambia Public Procurement Authority (ZPPA) to seriously scrutinize companies bidding for the same tender to avoid corruption practices which have already emerged.

Mercuria, Gunvor, Glencore, Crown Well, Dalbit and Kenol Kobil oil companies have been shortlisted for the evaluation to supply 1 440 000
metric tonnes of oil for the period of 2 years. The rest of the list of companies consists of Trafigura, Addax Energy, VITOL, IPG and Agipol Africa Ltd.

2:27 PM | Posted in | Read More »

Mbala Central MP Mwalimu Simfukwe Arrested For Abuse Of office

MMD Mbala Central Member of Parliament and former Northern Province permanent secretary Mwalimu Simfukwe has been arrested and charged with abuse of authority of office contrary to the law. Simfukwe has been jointly charged with a former procurement officer at the provincial administration Elias Simukonde. Northern Province Police Commissioner Mary Chikwanda confirmed the arrest of Simfukwe in an interview yesterday.

Ms. Chikwanda said Simfukwe was summoned by the Provincial Taskforce on Corruption comprising officers from the Zambia Police, Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) and Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) for questioning in relations to abuse of office during his tenure as permanent secretary. She said Simfukwe and Simukonde have since been remanded in police custody at Kasama Central Police Station and will appear in court soon. And in a separate interview, Simfukwe claimed that his arrest by police was politically motivated.He however expressed confidence that justice will prevail in his case. Last week, Mr. Simfukwe failed to appear before the Provincial Taskforce on Corruption after being summoned on grounds that he was unwell.

However, yesterday he made himself available to law enforcement officers at Kasama Central Police Station in the company of his lawyer Robbison Malipenga of Malipenga and Company from Lusaka. MMD Mafinga MP Catherine Namugala, MMD provincial Chairman Steven Mukuka and other party cadres and sympathizers were on hand to offer solidarity to Simfukwe. The Provincial Taskforce on Corruption has been investigating Simfukwe in connection with alleged abuse of office during his tenure as provincial permanent secretary. In January this year, the Taskforce recorded a warn and caution from him. Simfukwe is accused among others things of not following laid down procedure in the awarding of contracts to contractors for various capital projects worth billions of Kwacha.

Source: Zambianstar.com

1:54 PM | Posted in , | Read More »

PASTOR Nevers Mumba is not capable of leading the MMD because he is inconsistent and unreliable, says Former Minister Brian Sikazwe. Mr. Sikazwe said it is a well known fact that Dr. Mumba a former diplomat sold off his political party and therefore he will auction the former ruling party the MMD if allowed to be President. He insisted that Dr. Mumba is not capable of leading the MMD because he was inconsistent and unreliable. He said it is a well know fact that Pastor Mumba auctioned his party and therefore MMD members should not trust him because the same can happen. Mr. Sikazwe a former Deputy Minister of Youths and Chimbamilonga MP has also challenged the MMD National Secretary Major Richard Kachingwe to state when Pastor Mumba was reinstated in the party after his expulsion by the late President Mwanawasa. Mr. Sikazwe insisted to know when and at which NEC or convention Pastor Mumba was re-admitted. He said there are many credible people in the party among the Felix Mutati, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane and Kabinga Pande who can lead the MMD and not people with questionable background. Mr. Sikazwe observed that the arguments being advanced by Pastor Mumba that he is the best candidate to lead the MMD are highly misplaced and should be challenged with facts. “Let us agree that MMD needs a President the party can trust that he will not sell or ditch the party when temperatures rise. What has fundamentally changed about Pastor Mumba that he will not “auction” MMD to the highest “bidder” as he did with the National Citizen’s Coalition and Reform Party?” asked Mr. Sikazwe. He said there were critical fundamentals issues that needed to be looked into with regards to Pastor Mumba’s bid to contest for the position of Presidency in the party. The former deputy minister said there was no way the party could be led by someone without a fixed aboard, adding that lodges and hotels were never permanent residence. “If Pastor Mumba has serious intentions of ruling this country, how come he does not even owns a house in Zambia and is busy renting lodges and hotels? Can the Party manage a President without fixed aboard? Considering that lodges and hotels are never permanent residence, will MMD members have to travel to Dallas Texas to find their leader? I personally would have serious issues being led by a man who does not own a house in Zambia and wants to lead an exaggerated lifestyle which portrays financial arrogance. A party President with no house is a party President who is unsettled and unstable,” he said. Mr. Sikazwe the MMD has quality MPs such as leader of Opposition in Parliament and Lunte MP Felix Mutati, Former Finance Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Former Foreign Affairs Minister Kabinga Pande among others and Pastor Mumba does not come any closer to these in terms of quality. He said Mutati, Musokotwane and Pande have performed in their portfolios exceptionally well. Mr. Sikazwe said MMD needs a leader who has the capacity to listen with humility and who can intelligently resolve issues facing the nation rather than people scheming on how to sell the party. He said the should present to Zambia a President who would be intelligent enough as to roll-out practical interventions regarding the creation of Jobs for youths across the country. “In my view, if MMD is to look at who becomes President at this critical hour, they must restrict their choices to three names, as follows- Hon. Felix Mutati, Hon. Situmbeko Musokotwane and Hon. Kabinga Pande. As a matter of suggestion, these three, in whatever form MMD members decide, should form President and the two Vice Presidents of a new MMD. These would present a stsrong and viable alternative to Zambia and would give the party the much needed regional representation,” he said

1:45 PM | Posted in | Read More »

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