The Independent Observer

17/01/2025

HH donates K250,000 to the UCZ, as the Church Celebrates 60 years Anniversary
President Hakainde Hichilema has donated K250, 000 to the united church of Zambia (UCZ) Copperbelt presbytery construction.

The President is impressed with the Church’s initiative of an investment policy, which creates alternative sources of income for the Church to sustain its social and economic responsibilities to the community as opposed to depending on one stream of revenue.

The head of State has further congratulated his grace the synod Bishop Rev. Festus Chulu for ascending to the helm of the leadership of the United Church of Zambia that has been in existence for 60 years in a united, peaceful and dignified manner.

Officiating as Guest of Honor at the UCZ Diamond Jubilee celebrations in Kitwe's Mindolo Area, Hon. Chipoka Mulenga, MP who is also Minister of Commerce Trade and Industry donated the K250, 000 on behalf of the President and also in his personal capacity and as a member of the church contributed K50, 000 to the Presbytery.

Mr Mulenga asked the church to continue keeping the country united, worshiping and Praying for political Leaders both in government and in opposition to work together for the common goal of developing the country.

He also urged the church to keep close interactive sessions with the government in order to prevent any challenges and divisions that may arise in the country, but work together with counsel from the church.

"For us to sustain the unity in the country, bringing people of different religions together, we look forward to the guidance of the church. We look forward to your counsel, guidance and bringing the church and political Leaders together " he said.

Hon. Mulenga adds that what was being witnessed today is no mere achievement and it takes commitment and dedication to the cause.

He stressed that government will continue supporting the church and take heed to its beneficial counsel.

Meanwhile, his Grace Synod Bishop Rev. Festus Chulu said over the past 60 years, the UCZ has stood as a pillar of faith, unity and service.

He adds that the 60th anniversary signifies more than a passage of time but highlights the church's continued relevance, support, counsel and wisdom it offers to the nation.

15/01/2025

Woman, Children Arrested for Allegedly Hiding Husband's Dead Body for 2 Years
A shocking case of murder is unfolding in Lusaka, Zambia, where a woman, Sylvia Mutoba Kalaba, 51, and her four children have been arrested for allegedly keeping her husband's dead body in their house for two years.

The husband, George Kalaba, was reportedly refused visitation by his family members, who grew suspicious and alerted the authorities.

When police arrived at the scene, they found the skeletal remains of George Kalaba on a bed, suggesting he had been dead for a significant period. The family members, including Sylvia and her children, Natasha (19), Sandra (22), Wendi (27), and a 15-year-old juvenile, were found locked inside the house and have since been taken into custody to assist with investigations.

A postmortem examination is scheduled to take place today, January 15, 2025, to determine the cause of George Kalaba's death.

The Zambia Police Service has opened a docket of case, and investigations are ongoing ¹.

15/01/2025

Mob Justice Claims Two Lives in Chama District
A tragic incident occurred in Tondo Village, Chama District, on January 14, 2025, where an angry mob brutally murdered two people, Ms. Neda Nkhata, 87, and Mr. Luckwell Zyambo, 65, and attempted to murder a third person, Mr. Lazarous Lungu, 39.

The victims were accused of practicing witchcraft by the late Headman Tondo, Mr. Tryford Ngulube, who had consulted witch doctors during his illness.

The mob attacked the trio using sticks, stones, and poisonous maize preservative tablets known as "Quick Force." Police found Mr. Zyambo's body with deep cuts at the back of his head, while Ms. Nkhata's body had no visible injuries but showed signs of poisoning. Mr. Lungu was found unconscious with a deep cut at the back of his head and a swollen face.

The Zambia Police Service has opened dockets for murder and attempted murder and is urging anyone with information to come forward.

The police condemn this act of mob justice and remind the public that taking the law into their own hands is illegal and undermines the rule of law and human life.

15/01/2025

ZCCB OKAYS GAME CHANGING EDUCATION CURRICULUM.

The (ZCCB) Education Department has welcomed the implementation of the new Education Curriculum Framework in schools.

ZCCB National Education Secretary , Fr. Leonard Namuhumba, described the new curriculum as a positive step forward, emphasizing its focus on competence and practical application of skills and knowledge, rather than prioritizing marks as was the case with the previous curriculum.

Fr. Namuhumba noted that while Zambia has many highly educated individuals, there is a significant shortage of skilled workers to perform certain jobs.

He explained that the hands-on training incorporated in the new curriculum would have a significant positive impact on the quality of the country’s workforce.

“The development of the country is driven by skills, and this can only be achieved by teaching these skills to learners from early childhood education,” he stated.

He added that the new curriculum would stimulate creativity and critical thinking among learners, equipping them to address real-world challenges.

However, Fr. Namuhumba also acknowledged the significant demands associated with the new curriculum which the government needs to address for the successful implementation and positive results of the new curriculum.

“The new curriculum requires more infrastructure to allow pupils to practice what they learn in class. For example, if a student chooses a path in engineering, they will need access to labs, equipment, workshops, and other resources in real-time,” he said.

He emphasized the need for updated materials such as textbooks, the recruitment of additional teachers, and the induction of educators into the new curriculum framework.

He also noted the need for the construction of new classrooms to accommodate the growing demands of the curriculum.

Fr. Namuhumba further highlighted the increasing influence of artificial intelligence, noting that people can now easily obtain qualifications through technology therefore it is only imperative to adapt to teaching methods that meet the challenges posed by these advancements, making the introduction of this curriculum timely and necessary.

The ZCCB Education Department remains optimistic that the new curriculum will positively transform education in Zambia by prioritizing skills development and equipping learners for the future.

15/01/2025

US$ 72,420 RECOVERED FROM 3621 KGs OF SMUGGLED SNAILS

The Lusaka Economics and Financial Crimes Court has convicted Three taxpayers for the offense of smuggling contrary to the Customs and Excise Act.

Brief facts of the case are that RONATA LOGISTICS LIMITED AND SAWA TRADING & GENERAL DEALERS/SIMASIKU MUNDIA on unknown dates but between 11th October 2023 and 3rd February,2024 in Lusaka, jointly and whilst acting together with other unknown persons, smuggled into the Republic of Zambia 3621 kgs of Abalone-a highly prized dish on seafood menus, thereby defrauding the Government of the Republic of Zambia a total revenue in a total sum of US$ 72,420 in taxes and duty.

When the case came up on 15th January,2025 the convicts informed the Court that they were evoking the provisions of the Plea Negotiations and Agreements Act number 20 of 2010.

The Authority did not object. The convicts have since paid the Authority the evaded taxes and duties in a total sum of K2,257,574.57 and the cost of prosecution amounting to K100,000.
They also pledged to register on the Smart – Invoice platform with the Authority.

The Court further convicted RONATA LOGISTICS LIMITED AND SAWA TRADING & GENERAL DEALERS/SIMASIKU MUNDIA on counts of SMUGGLING and sentenced it to a fine of K 10,000.
The matter was before Honourable Anna V. Holland.

The Authority has intensified its monitoring mechanisms in order to detect tax fraud and Smuggling.

15/01/2025

7 Philippine Nationals Arrested in Solwezi for Alleged sexual Assault

Seven Philippine nationals, aged between 40 and 55, are in custody at Solwezi Central Police Station for alleged indecent assault on females.

The suspects, identified as Zaldy Alarcon, Michael Lotino, Del Mundo, Vincent Barbaras, Jonathan Nelmida, Taiwan Jonard Paniro, and Edwin Rosas, were apprehended on January 12, 2025, after police received credible intelligence from concerned members of the public.

According to reports, the Philippine nationals, employed at Kansanshi Mines, had been luring young girls to various lodges in Solwezi town for alleged prostitution-related activities.

Police swiftly mobilized and surrounded Lukumo Lodge, where the suspects were found in compromising situations with 13 Zambian females, whose ages are yet to be established.

The females are in police custody for their protection and as part of ongoing investigations.

Statements have been recorded, and medical examinations have been ordered to verify their ages. Edwin Rosas faces an additional charge of assault on police.

The Zambia Police Service Spokesperson Rae Hamoonga said the Police has condemned the alleged exploitation and abuse, assuring the public that all individuals implicated will be held accountable under the law.

The police have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of exploitation or abuse to their nearest police station.

15/01/2025

Immigration Department Apprehends 26 Ethiopian Nationals for Illegal Entry
The Department of Immigration in Zambia has been cracking down on illegal immigration, with several successful operations between January 9 and 12, 2025.

In two separate incidents, immigration officers apprehended 26 Ethiopian nationals in Muyombe and Nyimba for illegal entry into Zambia.

In Muyombe, eight Ethiopians aged 14 to 21 were caught walking in the bushes of Chamawa area in Mafinga District.

They had entered Zambia illegally from Malawi, intending to continue their journey to South Africa.

A 24-year-old Malawian man was also apprehended for aiding and abetting the undocumented Ethiopians.

In Nyimba, 18 undocumented Ethiopians aged 14 to 20 were detained for illegal entry.

They were intercepted by police at Kacholola Checkpoint in a Lusaka-bound vehicle.

Two Zambian nationals were also arrested for allegedly aiding and abetting the illegal immigrants.

These incidents bring the total number of persons apprehended for various immigration offenses countrywide between January 9 and 12, 2025, to 132.

The Department of Immigration also secured 53 convictions, removed 56 illegal immigrants from the country, and denied entry to five individuals who failed to meet entry requirements during the same period.

15/01/2025

ZNS Targets 50,000 Hectares of Maize Production by 2027
The Zambia National Service (ZNS) has set an ambitious target to grow approximately 50,000 hectares of maize by 2027.

According to ZNS Commander, Lieutenant General Maliti Solochi, this goal is achievable due to the service's recent acquisition of more land.

The expansion of maize production is part of the ZNS's efforts to enhance food security in the country.

General Solochi emphasized the importance of increasing maize production during his visit to Musakashi farm in Mufulira District, Copperbelt Province.

In addition to maize production, the ZNS has also received approval from the Ministry of Health to cultivate cannabis and industrial h**p for medicinal purposes.

This new initiative is scheduled to commence next month.

The ZNS is also expanding its maize production at Musakashi farm, increasing the area under cultivation from over 100 hectares to over 300 hectares by February 2025.

This development has been praised by Copperbelt Deputy Permanent Secretary, Daniel Kamenga, who commended the ZNS for its contributions to food security through agricultural initiatives.

15/01/2025

Coach Wedson Nyirenda has expressed confidence ahead of today’s CHAN draws. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced a shift in the schedule for the 2024 CHAN, which will now take place in August instead of February.

15/01/2025

FAZ Unveils Provincial Elections Schedule
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) Electoral Committee has released the schedule for provincial elections, set to kick off with Southern Province on March 15, 2025.

According to FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga, the Electoral Committee has finalized the schedule, which was earlier communicated by its chairperson Ronald Hatoongo.

The provincial elections will continue with Lusaka, Central, North Western, and Copperbelt holding their elective congresses on March 16, 17, 18, and 19, respectively.

The next cycle will see Luapula, Northern, Muchinga, Western, and Eastern holding their elective conferences on March 20, 21, 22, 25, and 27, in that order.

Kamanga expressed satisfaction with the progress, stating that everything is on track for a successful build-up to the March 29 Annual General Meeting.

He emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness in the electoral process, noting that the provincial elections are as critical as the national election.

The electoral roadmap, which was unveiled earlier, includes the filing of nominations on February 1, 2025, with nominations closing on February 7. A two-day window has been provided for any clearance of possible outstanding matters.

The Electoral Committee will announce successful candidates on February 17, with unsuccessful hopefuls given five days to appeal. The final list of successful candidates will be unveiled on February 22, after the appeals process has been exhausted, which will culminate in the official opening of the campaign period.

15/01/2025

Malanji, Yamba to Open Defense in February

Former Foreign Affairs Minister Joseph Malanji and former Secretary to the Treasury Fredson Yamba are set to open their defense on February 12, 2025. This comes after Yamba requested an extension to file additional documents, including witness statements, which the court granted ¹.

The request was made when the matter came up for defense before Senior Resident Magistrate Irene Wishimanga. Yamba asked for more time to file documents he intends to use in his defense, and the matter was heard in chambers.

Malanji and Yamba face charges of willful failure to comply with procedures and possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime. Specifically, Yamba is charged with two counts of willful failure to comply, while Malanji faces eight counts of possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime.

14/01/2025

ZAMBIA GOVERNMENT REFUTES UN HUMAN RIGHTS SANCTIONS CLAIMS

The Zambian government has categorically denied media reports alleging that the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has imposed sanctions on the country for human rights violations.

Addressing the press on Monday, January 13, 2025, Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, Permanent Secretary for International Relations and Cooperation in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, described the allegations as "misleading and factually incorrect."

Gundersen clarified that Zambia is not currently a member of the UNHRC and, as such, cannot face suspension or removal from the body. "The Human Rights Council comprises 47 member states elected by the UN General Assembly. Zambia is not presently serving on the Council, so the notion of sanctions or suspension is baseless," she stated.

The Permanent Secretary noted that Zambia last held a seat on the Council from 2006 to 2008 as an inaugural member. She reaffirmed Zambia's dedication to human rights principles under both domestic and international frameworks.

Gundersen highlighted the country's ongoing engagement with UN human rights mechanisms, including its collaboration with independent experts who monitor and advise on global human rights issues. As part of this commitment, Zambia has invited the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression to visit the country on January 19, 2025.

The government also announced its intention to contest a seat on the UNHRC during the 2026 elections, representing the African States region under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) quota. If successful, Zambia would begin a three-year term starting January 1, 2027.

The government expressed concern over the dissemination of false information, emphasizing the critical role of ethical journalism in national development. While acknowledging the importance of freedom of expression as a constitutional right, Gundersen reminded the media and the public that this right is not absolute and must be exercised responsibly within the bounds of the law.

"Accurate reporting is vital to sustaining peace, security, and democracy. The media's watchdog role must prioritize factual dissemination to maintain credibility and public trust," she stated.

As Zambia prepares its candidacy for rejoining the Human Rights Council, the government reiterated its commitment to transparency and adherence to human rights obligations. Gundersen urged the public and media to rely on verified information, emphasizing that the nation's global reputation depends on collaborative efforts to uphold truth and accountability.

14/01/2025

CONCOURT TO RULE ON JAN. 20 ON PETAUKE CENTRAL BY-ELECTION

THE Constitutional Court has this morning reserved its decision on whether to restrain the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) from conducting the Petauke Central by-election, with the ruling set for January 20.

The application for an order was filed by Isaac Mwanza, Executive Director of the Zambian Civil Liberties Union (ZCLU), who is challenging the constitutionality of the actions by the National Assembly to determine a vacancy that has triggered a by-election

Mr. Mwanza argues that the National Assembly of Zambia violated and contravened the Constitution by declaring a vacancy in the office of a Member of Parliament for breach of a code of conduct - an action he contends is the exclusive role of the judiciary and tribunals appointed by the Chief Justice.

During the hearing, Mr. Mwanza urged the Court to issue conservatory orders to restrain ECZ from conducting the by-election and argued that such orders are necessary to protect the Court's jurisdiction to adjudicate on the alleged unconstitutional actions of the National Assembly.

But in response, ECZ argued that in the recent Belemu case, the Constitutional Court guided that ECZ is under an obligation to conduct the by-election within 90 days of receiving notice from the Speaker of the National Assembly regardless and irrespective of any legal challenges.

The ECZ cited a Supreme Court judgment where it was stated that a person can not be prevented from fulfilling its statutory obligations by estoppel.

The ECZ also relied on the recent Constitutional Court judgment in the Michelo Chizombe case, which established that court decisions remain binding unless overturned or expired.

Mr. Mwanza countered by clarifying that his petition does not aim to prevent the ECZ from performing its statutory duties generally but is seeking an order to restrain the ECZ from conducting a by-election arising from a purported vacancy that is unconstitutional and unlawful.

He said the principle of no estoppel against statute is often invoked when a party attempts to prevent a statutory body from exercising its statutory functions by relying on prior representations or conduct but that the Applicant is not relying on any representations or past conduct of the Commission.

He also distinguished this case from the Belemu case by arguing that a vacancy in that case had resulted from a criminal conviction and sentencing by a court while in the present case no valid vacancy exists, and the Speaker's actions contravene the Constitution.

AND both the Attorney General and the National Assembly argued that Mr. Mwanza should have first addressed his concerns with a parliamentary committee rather than petitioning the court.

They also contended that the Court can not issue an injunction to stop an election.

In his rebuttal, Mr. Mwanza dismissed these arguments, stating that there is no legal requirement for a person to go to a parliamentary committee in matters of constitutional breaches by the National Assembly.

He emphasised that he is seeking a conservatory order, which is a constitutional remedy and different from an injunction.

(2025): ZCLU MEDIA TEAM

14/01/2025

Media Urged to Prioritize Accuracy in Reporting
Governance and Human Rights Expert Wesley Miyanda is urging media outlets to exercise caution when publishing articles, particularly those that may impact the country's global reputation.

This comes after a recent article claimed Zambia had been blacklisted by the United Nations for human rights violations ¹.

Miyanda emphasizes the importance of verifying information to prevent spreading misinformation. He notes that unverified reports can damage the country's image and undermine trust in institutions.

The article in question has been refuted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Permanent Secretary Etambuya Gundersen, who described the claims as false.

Miyanda commends the government's efforts to uphold UN human rights conditions and advises media houses to adhere to media ethics, especially when reporting on matters of national interest.

It's crucial for media outlets to prioritize accuracy and truthfulness, recognizing their significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing national discourse.

14/01/2025

RTSA SWINGS IN ON MOTORISTS
The Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) in conjunction with the Zambia Police has cautioned road users to comply with road rules and regulations that have been put in place.

RTSA Road Traffic Inspector Martin Kanganja has cautioned road users to ensure that they have all the necessary requirements following the road traffic act 11 of 2002, before embarking on the road, noting that this exercise is a routine compliance check-up for the first quarter of 2025.

In an exclusive interview with ZANIS, while conducting a road check-up along Alick Nkhata road in Lusaka, Mr Kanganja emphasised the importance of complying with road rules and regulations.

Mr Kanganja noted that motorists often neglect to renew their vehicle’s road tax, opting to drive without valid documentation or wait until the last minute.

“This exercise serves as a reminder to all motorists that non-compliance will result in fines payable at our fast-track court at Civic Centre,” he warned.

Mr Kanganja also highlighted that RTSA’s enforcement efforts are part of a broader strategy to reduce road accidents in addition to promoting road safety on the Zambian roads.

He has since cautioned motorists to renew their vehicle’s road tax and ensure all necessary documentation is up to date to avoid penalties.

“The aim is to encourage compliance and ensure road safety through these enforcement efforts,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Noah Shumba, a bus driver, commended the efforts from the officers, saying this is the only way to ensure road safety, and has since urged bus owners as well as companies to take responsibility and ensure that their vehicles meet the required road safety standards.

14/01/2025

Former Employees Arrested for Theft at Kasaria Farming Block

By ALICE NACHILEMBE
Two former employees of Kasaria Farming Block in Mufulira have been arrested for allegedly stealing two solar submissive pumps and 200 meters of submissive cables valued at K50,000.

The incident occurred between January 8 and 9, 2025, in Mufulira.

Emmanuel Sondashi, 42, reported the incident on behalf of Ecco Village Mufulira, prompting an investigation and a visit to the scene of the crime by police.

The investigation led to the apprehension of two former employees, Christopher Bwalya, 25, of Kamuchanga, and Kelvin Mofya, 25, of New Kansunswa.

Police recovered the stolen items from the suspects' residence, and a docket has been opened in connection with the case.

Copperbelt Police Commanding Officer Peacewell Mweemba confirmed the arrests and recovery of the stolen items in a statement.

14/01/2025

14/01/2025

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