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06/12/2024

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT:

There is a flu 😷 outbreak in Lusaka and it’s affecting ears. Avoid going to night clubs and other large gatherings.

06/12/2024

ZESCO REVERTS TO SEVEN-HOUR POWER SUPPLY SCHEDULES

06/12/2024

NKOMBO DEFENDS DELAY IN DELIVERY OF CDF AMBULANCES, SAYS IT’S NOT A SCANDAL

Minister assures timely delivery of all 156 ambulances despite delays; 50 units expected by year-end.

Lusaka, Zambia, December 6 – Local Government and Rural Development Minister Gary Nkombo has dismissed allegations of scandal surrounding the delay in the delivery of 156 ambulances procured under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). Speaking in a ministerial statement to the National Assembly on Thursday, Nkombo assured lawmakers that the procurement process was above board and that all ambulances would be delivered within the revised timelines.

“There is absolutely nothing to name this procurement a scandal as the public has been induced to believe through social media,” said Nkombo. “The procurement of the 156 ambulances under the CDF is still firm and they will be delivered. We fell short on the time of delivery, and this is a matter that we are pursuing vigorously.”

Nkombo revealed that 11 ambulances had already arrived in the country—six from Ace Pharmaceuticals Limited and five from Aqueous Investments Limited. He stated that an additional 18 units were under shipment, with documentation confirming their imminent arrival.

“The projection is that at least 50 ambulances will be in the country by 31st December, 2024, and the balance of 106 ambulances by 31st May, 2025,” he explained.

Nkombo highlighted that the ambulances, all Landcruiser 2024 models, were purchased at an extremely competitive price of $9,500 per unit, significantly lower than prices in the past.

The minister affirmed that the government had conducted rigorous due diligence on the suppliers, Ace Pharmaceuticals and Aqueous Investments, to ensure compliance with procurement standards and the promotion of Zambian businesses. He emphasized that both firms met the government’s criteria, including competitive pricing, adherence to quality standards, and citizen participation.

In response to a query by Nalolo PNUP MP Imanga Wamunyimwa about Ace Pharmaceuticals’ change of address from Garden Compound to Meanwood, Nkombo clarified that his report indicated Meanwood as the official address. “Garden, Kabulonga, call it whatever—it is just a location,” he said, downplaying the significance of the address issue.

Nkombo acknowledged that the delivery period had exceeded the contract terms by five days, which had caused public concern. However, he insisted that the situation was being handled responsibly. “This is a circumstantial situation. I would not be too comfortable going by the circumstances that I have explained, but I must emphasize that things have not seriously gone wrong.”

He reassured Parliament and the public that the government remained committed to ensuring the timely delivery of all ambulances to support the country’s healthcare system.

The procurement of the ambulances has been a point of public scrutiny, but the minister’s assurances and detailed updates are expected to allay some concerns as the government works to fulfill its commitment.

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©Nkani Online 2024

06/12/2024

LUSAKA COURT VISITS PARLIAMENT IN MUNIR ZULU LIBEL CASE

Court examines National Assembly media centre as MP Zulu claims parliamentary immunity.

Lusaka, Zambia, December 6 – The Lusaka Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday visited the National Assembly to inspect the media centre where Lumezi Independent MP Munir Zulu held a press briefing in March last year. This visit is part of proceedings in a case where Zulu faces three counts of libel for alleged defamatory remarks against Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane, Infrastructure Minister Charles Milupi, and Road Development Agency (RDA) Board Chairperson Mulchand Kuntawala.

Zulu’s charges stem from allegations that during the March 21, 2023 press briefing, he accused Dr. Musokotwane and Mr. Milupi of corruptly receiving $250,000 each through bank transfers from an unknown company. He also alleged that Kuntawala sent $150,000 to Mr. Milupi two days before his appointment as RDA board chairperson.

During Wednesday’s court session, Zulu’s lawyer, Nkula Botha, requested the court to visit the National Assembly media centre, where the alleged defamatory statements were made. Chief Resident Magistrate Davies Chibwili granted the request, and the court moved to the facility.

Zulu demonstrated to the court the exact location and manner in which the press briefing occurred. He claimed he was authorized to use the media centre, asserting that it is a facility reserved for members of Parliament to address issues of national interest.

“I am a member of Parliament, and the media centre is a facility given to MPs when they wish to speak on matters concerning the country. It is not accessible to anyone but members of the National Assembly,” Zulu explained.

Zulu also invoked Article 76 of the Constitution, Amendment No. 2 of 2016, asserting that he enjoys parliamentary immunity for actions conducted within the National Assembly. “According to the Constitution, I have immunity while at the National Assembly,” he told the court.

Following the visit, Botha informed the court that the defence would make a written application challenging the court’s jurisdiction over the matter. Magistrate Chibwili granted the defence until December 6, 2024, to submit their application and adjourned the case to December 16, 2024, for a ruling.

The case has drawn significant public attention, with the allegations involving high-ranking officials. The outcome could set a precedent regarding the limits of parliamentary immunity and the use of parliamentary facilities for public communication.

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©Nkani Online 2024

06/12/2024

LAWYERS BAFFLED BY CONSTITUTIONAL COURT’S DECISION TO HEAR LUNGU ELIGIBILITY CASE AGAIN – KBF

Kelvin Bwalya Fube expresses shock over ConCourt decision to revisit Edgar Lungu eligibility case.

Lusaka, Zambia, December – Renowned lawyer and Zambia Must Prosper (ZMP) president Kelvin Bwalya Fube (KBF) has expressed confusion and shock over the Constitutional Court’s decision to hear a case challenging the eligibility of Zambia’s sixth president, Edgar Lungu, to contest future elections. The case, brought by petitioner Micheelo Chizombe, has been previously adjudicated by the same court multiple times, always yielding the same outcome.

“The law fraternity is confused and shocked that the Constitutional Court has decided to hear Zambia’s Sixth President Edgar Lungu’s eligibility case after having presided over the matter several times before,” said Bwalya. “It is particularly surprising that the petitioner, Micheelo Chizombe, has no locus standi to bring this matter forward.”

Bwalya argued that the repetition of the same legal challenge raises questions about the Constitutional Court’s decision-making and procedural processes. “Lawyers have been left puzzled as to why this matter is being entertained again, especially given that it has been heard four times before with the same verdict. The public and legal professionals are struggling to understand the justification for revisiting this case.”

The question of Lungu’s eligibility has been a contentious issue since the end of his tenure, with debates centering on the interpretation of constitutional provisions regarding the number of terms a president can serve. The Constitutional Court has consistently ruled that Lungu’s partial term after the death of President Michael Sata does not count as a full term, making him eligible to stand again.

Despite these rulings, the latest case has reignited the debate, drawing criticism from legal experts and political commentators who see it as an unnecessary distraction.

“The repeated litigation on this matter does not inspire confidence in the judicial process,” Bwalya added. “We must focus on more pressing national issues rather than rehearing a case that has already been conclusively decided.”

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©Nkani Online 2024

06/12/2024

Those dreams you have of my partner being yours Uzakafela Kutulo🙂😭.

06/12/2024

PARLIAMENT DEFERS CONTROVERSIAL CYBERCRIMES AND CYBER SECURITY BILLS

Civil society opposition and MP concerns prompt postponement; Anti-Terrorism Bill proceeds to second reading.

Lusaka, Zambia, December 6 – Parliament has deferred the highly contentious Cybercrimes and Cyber Security Bills following significant opposition from Members of Parliament (MPs) and Civil Society Organisations. The decision was made during Thursday's parliamentary session, where Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati and Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwimbu jointly requested the bills' postponement to a later date.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, granted the request, noting that the suspension rendered a petition filed by opposition MPs challenging the bills premature and, therefore, void. The petition, which highlighted concerns about potential infringements on civil liberties, had sparked intense debate both inside and outside Parliament.

Despite the deferral, Minister Mwimbu moved forward with the second reading of the Anti-Terrorism and Non-Proliferation (Amendment) Bill, urging MPs to rally behind the proposed legislation. “This bill is critical to enhancing our national security and combating the growing threats of terrorism and proliferation,” Mwimbu stated during his presentation.

The deferral of the Cybercrimes and Cyber Security Bills has been met with mixed reactions, with civil society groups praising the delay as an opportunity to further scrutinize the legislation, while others see it as a temporary reprieve from what they perceive as overreaching government controls.

The government has yet to announce a timeline for when the deferred bills will be brought back to the floor, leaving their fate uncertain amid ongoing public discourse.

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©Nkani Online 2024

06/12/2024

Kanshi God did nikudyela Bantu ndrama 😭💀

06/12/2024

Weather forecasts hint at another looming drought in Zambia, potentially triggering more power outages, poor crop yields, and deeper economic struggles—particularly for small and medium enterprises.

06/12/2024

AIPAC CALLS FOR DECISIVE ACTION OVER CORRUPTION ALLEGATIONS AT MINISTRY OF HEALTH

Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Centre urges Zambian government to address misuse of public and donor funds to restore trust.

Lusaka, Zambia, December 6 – The Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) has voiced serious concern over ongoing allegations of corruption and misuse of funds at Zambia’s Ministry of Health, warning that the scandal threatens donor confidence and undermines public trust.

AIPAC Executive Director Solomon Ngoma, in a statement issued Thursday in Lusaka, said the allegations of embezzlement of donor funds have created a crisis of confidence among international partners, with some already suspending aid to Zambia.

“This corruption undermines the delivery of essential public services and perpetuates poverty and inequality in Zambia,” Ngoma stated, describing the situation as a stark reminder of the endemic corruption plaguing the public sector.

Ngoma called on the government, under President Hakainde Hichilema, to take decisive and immediate action to investigate the allegations, hold those responsible accountable, and implement measures to prevent future misuse of funds.

Ngoma emphasized that the government must demonstrate a genuine commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance to regain donor trust. He outlined steps such as strengthening institutional frameworks, enhancing transparency, and improving engagement with donor partners as critical to restoring confidence.

“We urge the government to take immediate action to address the allegations at the Ministry of Health, including a thorough investigation and holding those responsible accountable,” he said.

Ngoma further called for the implementation of robust preventive measures to curb corruption in the future. “We can’t continue witnessing the abuse of donor funds year after year,” he lamented.

He added that combating corruption requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and the private sector, to foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and integrity.

“We must work together to create a culture of transparency, accountability, and integrity in Zambia,” Ngoma said, urging unity in tackling corruption.

Ngoma concluded by expressing hope that decisive action against corruption would help Zambia regain donor confidence, boost economic growth, and improve the lives of its citizens.

“By taking these steps, the government can restore donor confidence, promote economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for all Zambians,” he said.

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©Nkani Online 2024

06/12/2024

JUDICIARY GRANTS MEDIA ACCESS FOR LIVE BROADCAST OF PRESIDENTIAL ELIGIBILITY CASE

Judiciary approves live coverage of Constitutional Court proceedings on December 10, 2024, to enhance transparency and public access.

Lusaka, Zambia, December 6 – The Judiciary has granted the Media Owners Association of Zambia (MOAZ) permission to broadcast live the highly anticipated Constitutional Court proceedings on the presidential eligibility case, scheduled for December 10, 2024.

The announcement follows a request by MOAZ to Chief Justice Mumba Malila for equitable access to live broadcasting of the proceedings, after the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) disclosed on Monday its plans for live coverage of the case. MOAZ sought inclusion of private media outlets to ensure broader access.

In a statement issued Thursday, Special Assistant to the Chief Justice Judith Sinzala Chiyayika confirmed the approval of the request, highlighting the Judiciary’s commitment to transparency and public accountability.

“His Lordship the Chief Justice has granted a live request to the Media Owners Association of Zambia to broadcast the live proceedings of the Constitutional Court presidential eligibility case on 10th December 2024. This will be done by member stations namely Diamond TV, Prime TV, Hot FM, and News Diggers,” Chiyayika stated.

She added that permission had also been granted for a support crew to set up live broadcast equipment within the court premises, though access to the courtroom itself would be limited due to space constraints.

“Only a limited number of journalists from the list submitted will be allowed to attend and broadcast the event on the material day,” she clarified.

Chiyayika urged approved media houses to adhere to strict protocols and ethical standards established by the Judiciary to maintain the dignity and decorum of the court.

“This decision underscores the Judiciary’s recognition of the significant public interest in the matter and dedication to fostering transparency and accountability within the justice system. The live broadcast will enable members of the public to observe the proceedings from the comfort of their homes, and will assist in reducing congestion at the court premises, ensuring the safety, security, and convenience of all parties involved,” she said.

The Constitutional Court’s hearing on former President Edgar Lungu’s eligibility for a third term has drawn immense public attention. The Judiciary’s decision to allow live broadcasts is seen as a milestone in promoting openness in Zambia’s justice system.

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©Nkani Online 2024

06/12/2024

ACCORDING to the Bible, people with tattoos are not on the list of people who are going to heaven.

06/12/2024

FORMER WARMA BOSS JAILED FOR CREATIVE ACCOUNTING THAT "FLOODED" HIS WALLET WITH A HEFTY K709,366.92

Kenneth Nyundu, once the Director-General of WARMA, found guilty of using creativity in all the wrong ways.

Lusaka, Zambia, December 6 – Kenneth Nyundu, the former Director-General of the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA), was sentenced to two years in prison for corruption-related offenses. The charges? Forgery, uttering a false document, and obtaining pecuniary advantage by false pretenses—all stemming from what the court called his “artistic interpretation” of an employment contract.

Nyundu, who once oversaw the country’s water resources, apparently decided that the trickle-down theory should start with his own pocket. The Lusaka Magistrates’ Court found him guilty on three counts, sentencing him to six months each for forgery and uttering a false document, and 12 months for pocketing K709,366.92 through fraudulent means. The sentences will run consecutively, giving Nyundu a full two years to reflect on his newfound career in creative accounting.

The case revolved around Nyundu’s remarkable discovery of a clause in his employment contract—one that no one else seemed to remember signing. The magical “net of tax” clause allowed him to collect a tax-free housing allowance, a financial geyser that gushed K709,366.92 into his account. Magistrate Anna Holland wasn’t buying it, ruling that Nyundu had personally altered the document.

“This contract clearly benefited Mr. Nyundu and no one else. Unless the paper spontaneously rewrote itself, it’s obvious who’s responsible,” Holland quipped, dismissing the defense’s insistence on the document’s authenticity.

The fraud was uncovered by Joe Kalusa, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, who noticed something fishy during a routine review of executive contracts. An audit revealed not only the fraudulent housing allowance but also Nyundu’s failure to make the mandatory 30% payment for a vehicle he received an allowance for. Apparently, Nyundu had adopted a “take the car, skip the bill” policy.

Despite mounting evidence, Nyundu maintained his innocence, insisting his contract was authentic. The prosecution, however, presented damning evidence, leaving the court no choice but to convict.

In her verdict, Magistrate Holland condemned Nyundu’s actions as a betrayal of public trust. “Forgery is not a water cooler prank,” she stated, adding that Nyundu’s actions amounted to a calculated abuse of his position. “This was not an accident or oversight—it was deliberate fraud.”

With his two-year sentence flowing into reality, Nyundu now faces the consequences of his "net-of-tax" scheme, serving as a cautionary tale for those who think they can muddy the waters of accountability and transparency.

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©Nkani Online 2024

06/12/2024

UPND STALWART LOVEMORE KANYAMA CALLS FOR END TO INFIGHTING AND SOCIAL MEDIA MISUSE IN SIAVONGA

Lovemore Kanyama warns that internal disputes and social media misconduct threaten UPND unity and Zambia’s peace.

Siavonga, Zambia, December 6 – United Party for National Development (UPND) stalwart Lovemore Kanyama has called for an end to infighting within the party, particularly in Siavonga District of Southern Province, urging members to focus on unity and discipline ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Kanyama, who previously served as Siavonga District Commissioner under the Patriotic Front (PF) administration, expressed concern over the increasing trend of social media misuse by UPND members. He warned that insults and provocation on digital platforms could jeopardize the country’s peace and stability.

“I want to warn my fellow UPND members against the growing trend of social media insults and provocation within our ranks. This is not only dangerous for the party but also poses a risk to Zambia’s peace and stability,” Kanyama said.

Kanyama urged members to shift their focus from internal disputes and prioritize strengthening the party by recruiting new supporters. He highlighted the importance of unity and discipline as key factors in the growth and development of the UPND.

“The infighting that has taken center stage, especially in Siavonga District, must come to an immediate end,” Kanyama said. “Order and discipline are key to the growth and development of any organization. We need to promote love, peace, and unity within the UPND.”

He also cautioned members against misusing social media, emphasizing that freedom of speech, championed by President Hakainde Hichilema, should not be abused.

“Freedom of speech, as championed by President Hakainde Hichilema, must not be misused. Let us use social media platforms to promote progressive and developmental programs instead of engaging in insults and provocation,” he said.

Kanyama stressed that the UPND is a national party that belongs to all Zambians, not any single individual or group. He called on members to foster a welcoming environment to attract new supporters and secure the party’s position in the 2026 elections.

“UPND is a national party, and no single individual or group can claim ownership. We must embrace unity and foster an environment that attracts new supporters,” he said.

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©Nkani Online 2024

06/12/2024

COURT OF APPEAL DISMISSES ZAMRA APPEAL IN HONEYBEE CASE

Judges uphold High Court decision to join ZAMRA in the controversial Honeybee health kits contract case.

Lusaka, Zambia, December 6 – The Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal by the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA), which sought to challenge a High Court decision joining it to the controversial contract between Honeybee Pharmacy Limited and the Ministry of Health for the supply of health center kits.

A panel of judges, comprising Justin Chashi, Catherine Makungu, and Dominic Sichinga, dismissed the appeal for lacking merit and declined to award costs.

In November 2019, Honeybee Pharmacy Limited won a tender to supply 22,500 health center kits under a contract with the Ministry of Health. However, ZAMRA later accused Honeybee of supplying defective drugs, condoms, and gloves. In response, Honeybee sued ZAMRA in the Lusaka High Court, seeking an injunction to stop the revocation of its pharmaceutical license and prevent any reputational damage caused by public statements from ZAMRA.

Honeybee argued that ZAMRA’s actions were unreasonable and violated the provisions of the contract. It further alleged that other pharmaceutical companies in similar situations only had their products recalled without facing threats or negative publicity.

ZAMRA, in its defense, stated that Honeybee had no valid license and that the legal entity, Honeybee Pharmacy, had been deregistered by the Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA) in April 2020. It also argued that Honeybee’s claims were frivolous and constituted an abuse of the court process.

High Court Judge Catherine Phiri ruled that Honeybee’s claims raised issues worth deliberating, thereby dismissing ZAMRA’s application to strike out the writ and statement of claim. Judge Phiri further guided that additional parties should be joined to the case to avoid duplicative legal actions.

ZAMRA appealed this decision, arguing that it was not a party to the contract between Honeybee and the Ministry of Health and that the claims against it lacked merit.

The Court of Appeal dismissed ZAMRA’s appeal, stating that the lower court had acted appropriately in handling the matter. The judges emphasized that there were allegations against ZAMRA, particularly concerning threats to revoke Honeybee’s license, which warranted further scrutiny.

“We note, especially, that there are allegations in the statement of claim of the appellant issuing the respondent threats to revoke its license, which allegations are leading up to the first claim for an order proscribing the appellant from revoking the respondent's license,” the judges said.

The Court also rejected ZAMRA’s argument that the lower court ordered the joinder of parties without a formal application. It found no grounds to interfere with the High Court’s findings.

The dismissal of ZAMRA’s appeal marks a significant development in the contentious Honeybee case. The matter will proceed as initially directed by the High Court, with ZAMRA joined as a party to the proceedings. The Court of Appeal made no order as to costs.

This case has drawn significant public attention due to its implications for public health and governance in Zambia.

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©Nkani Online 2024

06/12/2024

VICE PRESIDENT NALUMANGO SPARKS LAUGHTER IN PARLIAMENT WITH "2026" SLIP

Vice President Mutale Nalumango humorously predicts UPND victory in 2026 general elections during National Assembly session.

Lusaka, Zambia, 6 – Vice President Mutale Nalumango brought the National Assembly to a moment of light-hearted laughter yesterday when she mistakenly wished the opposition a “happy 2026” instead of 2025, citing her confidence in the United Party for National Development (UPND) securing another electoral victory in the upcoming general elections.

While giving a notice of motion in the August House, Vice President Nalumango jovially declared, “I therefore wish this August House and the nation at large a Merry Christmas and a wonderful 2026. I have put 2026—understand my thinking—because 2025 is gone, and I won’t see you on the 1st of January, so I’m wishing you in advance a wonderful 2026.”

Her remarks prompted a wave of laughter from Members of Parliament, including Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti, who humorously suggested that the mention of “2026” came from the opposition benches on her left. This prompted Nalumango to clarify her statement with a playful quip.

“I beg to move, Madam Speaker. I beg your pardon, I’m jumping. I want to scoop them quickly, Madam—2025,” she said, doubling down on her confidence in the ruling party's dominance.

On a more serious note, Vice President Nalumango urged Members of Parliament and the nation at large to celebrate the festive season responsibly, emphasizing the importance of safety to prevent accidents and fatalities.

The Vice President’s remarks underscored the spirit of camaraderie in the House as the year draws to a close, with a mix of humor and earnest advice for the holiday season.

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©Nkani Online 2024

05/12/2024

"All girs are the same"

But why does yours beg for food and talktime on her status?🙄

05/12/2024

If u are not married stop posting ati "going into 2025 with the man I met in 2018" pantu 7 years iyo nga wailefye ku medicine 💊

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