3148-22-30/11/23

No 1611 K10 www.diggers.news Friday November 24, 2023

SEXUAL HEALING
Lusaka
man kills
baby after
bouncing at

GOES BAD
girlfriend’s
P
By Nakaonga Nakaonga
OLICE in Lusaka have arrested popular pastor
John General for allegedly raping a Matero woman
who was seeking prayers to make her stop having
house

O
miscarriages every time she gets pregnant. By Muzamba Siandizya
According to a statement from Police spokesperson Rae N Monday,
Hamoonga, John General escaped by jumping over the fence 3 6 - y e a r -
after being caught in the act by the victim’s husband. old Vinlay
Sialwiindi’s life changed
Story on Page 4 forever, after he and his

Pastor John General bolts naked

wife watched his cousin’s
boyfriend murder his
one-month-three-weeks
old son, Patrick.
Narrating the ordeal,
Sialwiindi said his

as hubby catches him ‘raping’ wife

neighbour, 28-year-old
Musonda Muluma had
gone to his house in search
of the former’s cousin.
Story on Page 2

KCM owes Zesco

$500m, reveals
Mapani
Z
By Ulande Nkomesha
ESCO Managing
Director Victor
Mapani has revealed that Konkola Copper Mines
(KCM) owes the utility

TIZ
company $500 million.
And Mapani says there
are no risks of the country

honours
experiencing load shedding
because Zesco has put in place
some mitigation measures like

DPP
the importation of power from
Story on Mozambique.
Page 3 Story on Page 5

Mukula verbatim
continues Story on Page 6
3146-13-29/11/23
3147-22-30/11/23
2. Local News www.diggers.news Friday November 24, 2023

O Lusaka man V Nalumango highlights

By Muzamba Siandizya By Mwiche Nalwimba
N Monday, 36-year- ICE President Mutale
old Vinlay Sialwiindi’s Nalumango says the

challenges in improving
kills baby after
life changed forever, covid-19 pandemic,
after he and his wife watched the Russia–Ukraine war and
his cousin’s boyfriend murder other regional conflicts have
his one-month-three-weeks caused a surge in global oil
living standards
bouncing at
old son, Patrick. and food prices which has in
Narrating the ordeal, turn had a negative effect on
Sialwiindi said his neighbour, basic commodity prices.
28-year-old Musonda Muluma And COMESA Secretary

girlfriends house
had gone to his house in search General Chileshe Kapwepwe
of the former’s cousin. says COMESA and the
He said Muluma threatened European Union have signed
that someone would die if he two Financing Agreements
did not see his girlfriend. which will provide new grants
“What happened is that he asked me about Miyoba. I using knives and guns. I want to COMESA valued at €48.2
when I knocked off from work, then asked him to either call the government to keep him million.
I reached home and found my or follow her where she was. wherever they will keep him but Meanwhile, European
wife and then she told me the He then responded saying he should not come to society. Union Ambassador to Zambia
neighbour in the other flat, we ‘someone will die today’ and He might not kill you today but and COMESA Karolina Stasiak
are within the same yard, came that’s how he rushed to the gate he might kill somebody else. says The Global Community is
and beat the door. He wants and locked it. After locking That guy should be caged for grappling with the profound
the cousin that you keep, her the gate, I was standing, life. He doesn’t deserve to live effects of climate change and
phone is off so he wants you because I thought I was just in the society, such people we environmental degradation.
to call your cousin so that you having a conversation with should not condone them in Speaking during the
can get hold of her. That’s how my neighbour. After locking the society,” he said. COMESA 44th Council of
I came out of the house and Ministers meeting, Thursday, “Despite our countries opportunities that come
the gate, he went straight into He said his wife was being endowed with vast along with global challenges,
he saw me. Before I could say his house, got a bag and came depressed and he recalled that Vice-President Nalumango
anything, he said ‘chimudala highlighted challenges natural resources, including such as climate change,
close to where I was standing, even Maluma’s parents had minerals, agricultural and making trade more
(derogatory term for man), removed a knife from that pleaded with him not to kill affecting government’s ability
you will see today, where is to improve people’s living land and attractive sites, sustainable and will further
bag and started sharpening anyone. our people remain poor contribute to enhancing the
Miyoba?’ Miyoba is my cousin, it on the floor since our yard “My wife is depressed, standards.
she’s at Eden University doing “The covid-19 pandemic, and vulnerable to various overall competitiveness of
has got cement all over. After imagine a one month three economic shocks. This is one enterprises, which provide
nursing,” he said. weeks baby is killed. She has the Russia – Ukraine war and
sharpening it, he tried to stab more reason why we should services, including through
“Then I asked him why not even healed. She was not other regional conflicts have
me on the chest but I held join hands to forge ahead digital platforms. With respect
caused a surge in global oil

Kasanda’s
his hand that had the knife, I attacked but she pleaded, with our regional integration to the market performance
and fuel prices, food items
pushed him down and that’s asking him what the boy had agenda, which offers and key achievements in
and agricultural inputs, which
how I went back into the house done to him but the guy didn’t opportunities to add value the implementation of
has had a negative effect

lover in
to avoid him”. listen to anyone. He didn’t and enhance productivity, our programmes; In 2022,
on basic commodity prices
Sialwiindi said Muluma listen to his father and sister generate employment COMESA’s exports to the
owing to disruption of global
then mobilised some friends who helped plead together with opportunities and increase world increased by 15% while

court for
supply chains, tightening of
and broke down his door. my wife. His mission was to kill household income earnings. the value of intra-COMESA
global financial conditions
“Unfortunately, he but I can only speculate that It also stimulates growth and exports increased by 10%.
and heightened market

allegedly
organised his friends to come he does drugs. I have opened expansion of the private sector Imports sourced from the
volatility. These developments
and broke the door and entered a police docket for the people and business opportunities. COMESA market were
have placed severe fiscal
the house. He came to me I saw entering my house and As we move forward, it is ranked in fourth position and
and exchange rate pressures

assaulting
and tried to stab me on the helped attack me. I believe that important to leverage on the increased by 27% in 2022,”
across many countries in the
chest, I held onto the knife today, they will be arrested,” opportunities offered under said Kapwepwe said.
COMESA region. Further,
and swerved. After I swerved, said Sialwiindi. the COMESA-EAC-SADC Kapwepwe said inadequate

his wife’s
the region is grappling with
he rushed to get the baby who In a statement, Tuesday, tripartite free trade area infrastructure in the region
the adverse impact of climate
was sleeping on the sofa. I was Police Spokesperson Rae and the African continental remained one of the major
change which cannot be

relative
unable to follow him because Hamoonga confirmed the free trade area,” said Vice- constraints to economic
ignored, as Africa is the
the friends started beating me murder. President Nalumango. growth and development.
most affected region. These
and it was hard for me to fight “Police in Matero have And Kapwepwe said She added that COMESA
challenges pose risks to the
back. After he hit the baby, he detained Musonda Muluma COMESA and the EU and the African Union

L
By Taonga Tembo gains that the region has
said ‘whoever comes near, I will aged 28 of Zingalume had signed two Financing launched a joint and fully
u s a k a made in reducing poverty
stab the baby’. It was difficult compound in Lusaka on Agreements which would integrated observer mission to
businessman and improving the standards
for anybody to reach near him allegations of having killed improve the overall trade Zimbabwe in July 2023.
S e d r i c k of living of our people,” Vice
because they were afraid the a one month old baby. It is competitiveness of COMESA Meanwhile, Stasiak said
Kasanda’s alleged lover President Nalumango said.
baby would be stabbed. He alleged that on November 20, member states while seeking the Global Community was
Rumbidzai Chibanda “This, therefore,
spun the baby in the air and 2023, at around 19:30 hours underscores the need for the opportunities that came along grappling with the profound
has been dragged to
then hammered his head on the the suspect went to look for region to prioritise and refocus with global challenges. effects of climate change and
court for allegedly
floor. That’s how the baby was his girlfriend at her uncle’s on key areas that contribute to “I am glad to inform environmental degradation.
assaulting a woman
rushed to hospital but he was place within Zingalume. Upon development, productivity and this meeting that on “The Global Community
believed to be his wife’s
pronounced dead and I also reaching his girlfriend’s place, competitiveness. Prioritisation Monday 20th November, is grappling with the profound
relative.
went to get stitches on my hand he noticed that she was not should be based on value 2023, COMESA and the effects of climate change and
Chibanda is
due to cuts from the knife that around, then he decided to addition, diversification and European Union signed two environmental degradation. In
charged with one count
he attempted to stab me with. force himself inside the house embracing new technologies, Financing Agreements which light of these global challenges,
of assault occasioning
According to the information and found the girlfriend’s uncle all with due consideration will provide new grants to we must work together to
bodily harm Contrary
I gathered, Miyoba was going and the wife seated while their to the protection of our COMESA with a total value make trade thorough and more
to Section 248 of the
out with the same young man baby was sleeping. Afterwards, environment”. of EUR 48.2 million. The two sustainable. Green investment
Penal Code Chapter 87
but the relationship became he threatened to kill the couple She said there was need programmes will focus on holds the key to creating more
of the Laws of Zambia.
sour, they started fighting and and the baby because they to join hands to forge ahead improving the overall trade job opportunities for the youth
Particulars of
she blocked the number and by declined telling him where his with the regional integration competitiveness of COMESA in the COMESA region and in
the offence are that
virtue of me being the cousin, girlfriend was. He then lifted agenda. member states, while seeking Europe fostering industrial
Chibanda, on August
that’s how I suffered this up the baby and started hitting growth and revitalizing
29, 2023, in Lusaka,

Bowman gets police bond

problem,” Sialwiindi narrated. him against the ground,” stated relations between our two
jointly and whilst acting
He said he never wanted Hamoonga. continents,” said Stasiak.
together with other
Muluma to come out of prison “The father tried to “I am pleased to announce
persons unknown, did
because he is a danger to rescue the baby but he was that together with the Secretary
assault Hart Michelle

P
By Muzamba Siandizya General, we signed two key
thereby occasioning society. overpowered by the suspect
OLICE in Kabwe have formally arrested and regional support programmes
actual bodily harm. “I want this guy to never who produced a knife which
charged PF faction deputy chairperson of on Monday. The first one being
When the matter come out to society, he is a he used to stab him on the
mobilisation Bowman Lusambo and others for the the Trade Competitiveness and
came up for allocation criminal, he will kill other right arm. Police visited the
offence of unlawful assembly. Market Access Programme
before Chief Resident people. That guy if the police scene of crime and managed
In a statement, Thursday, Police spokesperson Rae and the second, the Trade in
Magistrate Davies never came, he would have to apprehend the suspect
Hamoonga stated that all the suspects had been released on services Programme. These
Chibwili, he allocated killed all the people in that with help of the members of
police bond and would appear in court soon. two actions will provide
the matter to Magistrate yard when he locked the gate. the public. The victims were
“Police in Kabwe of Central Province have today grounds to COMESA of
Kigan Litiya. He is a danger to society, he rushed to George Clinic where
formally jointly arrested and charged Bowman Lusambo over EUR 48 million and
Magistrate Litiya doesn’t deserve to live, he was the baby was pronounced dead
aged 47 of Chamba Valley in Lusaka, Saidi Chibwana aged focus on improving trade
set November 27, 2023 supposed to be eliminated upon arrival whilst the father is
52 of industrial area in Kabwe, Matthews Changwe aged competitiveness and trade in
for plea. somewhere. Society must be admitted in the same Hospital.
39 of Kasanda Mine area in Kabwe, Martin Simfukwe aged services. Additionally, we have
Earlier in October, clean. If you’re an educated The body of the deceased
44 of Makululu Compound in Kabwe and Billy Sichamba numerous programs in the
Chibanda dragged person with proper education, was deposited in University
aged 52 of Bwacha in Kabwe for the offence of Unlawful pipelines which are dedicated
Kasanda’s wife Lauren you cannot do what that person Teaching Hospital mortuary
Assembly Contrary to Section 74 and 75 of the Penal Code to trade and transport
Rhaphelle to court did. He has been saying he awaiting postmortem. The
Act Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia. The offence is alleged facilitation, competition and
on similar charges to works for (named bank). Now, suspect is detained in police
to have been committed on November 2, 2023 at Kabwe consumer products, safety,
which the latter pleaded I’m wondering what kind of a custody waiting to be charged
town centre along the Great North Road in Kabwe District. e-commerce and e-payments
not guilty to and trial is bank keeps criminals. What I and appear in court soon”.
All the suspects have been released on police bond. They and the transition from a
yet to commence. know is that things are resolved Patrick was put to rest on
will appear in court soon,” said Hamoonga. linear to a circular economy”.
through conversations unlike Wednesday.
Friday November 24, 2023 www.diggers.news Local News .3

TIZ honours Gilbert Phiri for his

T
By Angela Muchinshi Meanwhile, TIZ Chapter hold a high level engagement
R A N S PA R E N C Y president Priscilla Chansa on integrity and ethics. This
International said they were implementing is the reason why the theme

contribution to corruption fight

Zambia (TIZ) has a new project aimed at of this year’s conference is
awarded Director of Public documenting corruption building a culture of ethics
Prosecution (DPP) Gilbert cases prosecuted in the court. and integrity in the fight
Phiri for being the most “In re-emphasising against corruption,” said
influential local Anti- demonstrated. thank God that this has been for recognizing the small the importance of the Chansa.
Corruption actor. And Phiri said he had recognised,” said Phiri. steps that are happening Judiciary in the fight “In advocating for and
TIZ has also discovered that fighting The Zambia Police, in the Zambia Police. The against corruption, TIZ is supporting efforts aimed at
posthumously awarded corruption was his calling. Zambia Revenue Authority, recognition that has been implementing a new project strengthening oversight and
former Swedish Ambassador “This is going to steer Road Transport and Safety given encourages the Zambia aimed at documenting cases law enforcement institutions,
to Zambia Anna Maj me on to do even better, to Agency were also recognised Police to do better. We know of corruption prosecuted TIZ has continued to
Hultgard for being the most dedicate myself even more for being the most improved as police officers that we have in the courts. The regional advocate for increased budget
Influential international to the cause. We have to be public institutions in the a huge challenge, but with databases, aimed at stopping allocation to law enforcement
Anti-Corruption actor in fearless if we have to win 2022 Zambia bribe payers the partnership that we have impunity for corruption to agencies and for the financial
2023. this war, we must carry the index. with organisations like TIZ, enhance accountability in management autonomy
During the first ever young people along with Southern Province Police ACC and others, I think we seeking to sustain the fight of the Anti Corruption
Anti-Corruption Awards us and have a very long Commissioner Auxensio may make bigger steps in against corruption through Commission. I’m sure you’ve
Gala to recognise the term goal to transform our Daka thanked TIZ for future. The challenges are fostering public and private noticed that in the budget for
contributions people were society. I see hope, I know recognising their “small huge but small steps can be sector integrity infrastructure next year, there’s an increase
making to the graft fight in that we can do it. For a long steps”. recognised and appreciated,” and promoting strong ethical in the financial allocation for
Livingstone, Tuesday, TIZ time, I was in the private “I want to thank TIZ said Daka. governance, TIZ resolved to the ACC”.
Executive Director Maurice sector, and when I came into
Nyambe said Phiri had public service, I discovered
demonstrated a passionate
endeavour to graft fight, both
in his past and current roles.
something that has always
been latent in me, my two
jobs, Anti Corruption, now
Halting of health recruitment saddens ZMA

T
Nyambe said Phiri’s at the National Prosecution By Muzamba Siandizya decision to halt has been system and health workforce working under strenuous
role required a fearless Authority don’t, in fact, feel HE Zambia Medical made. In as much as the majorly comprises of conditions. This issue, if
determination to do like jobs, it’s a passion, it’s not Association says Ministry tried to explain that volunteers. When you visit not expedited, will have a
what was right, which he about a salary, it’s a calling. I it is disappointed they want the promotion health facilities, you find that negative impact on service
with government’s decision process that the Civil in different units, including provision. We had hoped
to halt the 2023 health Service Commission has to tertiary institutions, you as an association when we
workers recruitment work on to be completed, find that 80 percent of reached that agreement
process. which is normal procedure, people that are sustaining for recruitment, which we
On Tuesday, Health however, knowing that this that facility are volunteers. commend the government
Minister Sylvia Masebo recruitment was already The health sector is quite for, that things would be
said the Civil Service planned for, we expected a sensitive environment, done in a more expedited
Commission had directed that the civil service very hazardous and quite manner given the urgency
that the 2023 recruitment commission would not work strenuous. Now, for one and the dire need of skilled
process for health workers as per usual but try and to be working in such an human resources in these
be halted until further expedite their processing environment on a voluntary health facilities. It will just
notice. of people who have been basis is really demoralising prolong the volunteerism
Commenting on this in commended for promotions. and also makes them and delay in patients being
an interview, Wednesday, What this halting does is perform under par”. attended to because the
ZMA Secretary General that it prevents the ready or He said health workers doctors and health workers
Dr Oliver Kaoma said the skilled human resource from were frustrated because are tired because of the high
failure to recruit health staff reporting to their stations they were working under volume of patients they have
would negatively affect the in time and to commence strenuous conditions. to deal with,” Dr Kaoma said.
delivery of services in health delivering services to the “That is why when people “Our recommendation
facilities. Zambian people who are in visit hospitals, they meet to the government or the
“Basically, as an much need of these services,” frustrated health personnel Civil Service Commission
Director of Public Prosecutions Gilbert Phiri (r) receiving the association, we are he said. and people who do not smile is that they have to sit and
award of Most Influential Local Anti-Corruption actor. disappointed that the “Currently, the health at them because they are look at the promotions, treat
this as a matter of urgency

We’re still waiting to see how

and priority. In addition

S
By Mwenya Mofya to that, the budget line for
USPENDED PF recruitment was for 2023,
National Chairman so, what are they telling us
Davies Chama says he regarding the revenue that

Lungu will fix PF – Chama

is still waiting to see what was allocated for this part?
strategies former president Our call is for the Civil
Edgar Lungu has put in Service Commission to not
place in order to actualise treat this like business as
his pronouncements of fixing usual but attach some level
the former ruling party after of urgency to it so that they
returning to politics. done and we’re praying about found”. to go and steal, do unlawful around politics,” said Chama. can complete the elevation of
In an interview, Chama it. We’re praying for them so Meanwhile, Chama said things. I didn’t go into politics “But I can tell you, the promotion of people that
said he was praying for the PF that they may have the wisdom he received his suspension for that. So, I really get Honourable [Raphael] have been recommended
leadership so that they could and everything to help them to letter last month. surprised to even get questions Nakacinda called me more to ensure that new recruits
get the wisdom to correct correct things,” he said. “I have not heard from about being worried, worry than three weeks ago and we can fill up those positions
things in the party. “Whenever you do them. I don’t know what about what? I joined politics had a chat on the phone and that will be left by those who
“I had a meeting with something, you need to know charge or what I did. They have with a clear conscience, to he said he wanted to see me. I have been promoted”.
somebody who came to me where things will end up. not communicated anything make a contribution about told him I’m always available. He insisted that the
and said we are waiting for You need to have dissenting apart from that letter. Politics the welfare of this country. So, I answer your calls and I’m commission should expedite
things to happen but things wisdom whenever you’re is purely voluntary. Unless if someone tells me we don’t able to reply to messages. I’ve the recruitment process.
are not happening. Because doing something. If you those who think they are in want you, it doesn’t bother me, always been available to talk. “Our message is that
someone said he is coming to don’t do that, then probably politics to get benefits, I’ve not even a bit. If anything, I He said he wants to see me we are not happy, this will
fix this, to do this. I said I’m you’re not trained sufficiently. never joined politics for me have not been thinking about but he has never come back. delay the commencement
also waiting to find out what is Whatever action you take, to get rich. It will never be my this because I have so much to I don’t shy away from talking of service provision by the
going to happen. What action there will either be a reaction nature. I didn’t get into politics do. So, my life does not revolve to people if people are willing experienced work force
is being taken to make sure that or consequences. If you don’t to talk because that’s the only and it promotes continued
things are corrected and unity know that as a person, then I way you can’t resolve issues. volunteerism which is
that we all desire, working don’t know what to tell you. I You may not agree but at unacceptable. ZMA does
together as a family can be don’t want to sound insulting least you’ve talked and that’s not support volunteers in
fortified? What strategies are to anybody, that maybe they a starting point. Of course we the health care system given
there? What pronouncements are less intelligent, no. That’s talked for maybe close to 30 the nature of the work that
have been made to make sure why I say that our orientation minutes on the phone. I like these people undertake on
that we start mending and is very different. So, the entire seeing people so that I can see a daily basis. The country at
working as a team? I haven’t matrix, I don’t understand it. the spirit in your eyes. I want present has approximately
heard anything. Maybe I have Maybe I have been too naive. to talk face to face, not by 7,276 health facilities all
not been following because So, I want to give them space phone where you have put me needing health care workers.
I am not following what’s without me distracting them. on loud and other people are The total shortages stand at
happening. So, ask those There are a lot of requests, a lot listening to what I’m saying. 74,187. Hence the need to
people. I heard someone of people saying ‘ba chairman, They may even misinterpret fill these positions is one that
say ‘they’ve come to fix this, stay quiet for now’. And I said what I have said. That’s how cannot be undermined. The
they’ve come to remove the yes, I don’t comment or say I operate and I’ll tell them in commission should expedite
factions, chancers will be anything so that people who their face whether you like this process. To ensure that
controlled, all these things are intelligent and smart can it or not. Maybe that’s my our people have access to
will be controlled’. So, we are see how these things can work weakness because I’ll say it as decent n quality services,”
waiting for those things to be out and how solutions can be Davies Chama it is”. said Dr Kaoma.
4. Local News www.diggers.news Friday November 24, 2023

NHIMA should be taken P By Nakaonga Nakaonga

OLICE in Lusaka
have arrested
John General rapes
Matero woman, escapes
back to MoH – Chitalu
popular pastor
John General for allegedly

naked after being

raping a Matero woman
who was seeking prayers
to make her stop having
miscarriages every time she
caught by her hubby
M
By Ulande Nkomesha placed in this intervention where women are dying when
ANSA Central and broadly speaking, in giving birth,” said Kapyanga. gets pregnant.
PF member non-communicable diseases Meanwhile, Masebo said According to a statement
of parliament to ensure that we respond there was still need to stabilise from Police spokesperson
Dr Chitalu Chilufya has to epidemiological profile. I the drug supply status in big Rae Hamoonga, John
stressed the need for the see a very big disconnect in General escaped by jumping
hospitals like UTH, among
National Health Insurance over the fence after being
resource allocation,” said Dr others.
Scheme (NHIMA) to be caught in the act by the
Chilufya. “One of the issues that
taken back to the Ministry of victim’s husband.
“I see that while the has come out is the issues to
Health. “Matero Police Station
Ministry of Health is telling do with drugs. I will say that
And Dr Chilufya says yesterday November 22,
us that the case fatality from regarding health facilities at
the budget increase for 2023 at 21:00 hours received
non-communicable diseases the lower level, I don’t think
procurement of drugs should a report of rape in which
is very high, I don’t see there should be anyone
female Esther Tembo
translate into access to safe adequate resource allocation complaining. So, anybody
Nyau aged 26 of unknown complainant that he would naked having sex with his
and efficacious drugs for in the budget to interventions who complains about drug
house number Kahale be visiting them for the same wife. He then went outside
everyone. that would prevent these non- availability at a lower facility
area reported that a pastor prayers and at around 13:00 and locked the gate. After
Meanwhile, Health communicable diseases. If we level is just politicking. But
commonly known as John hours he arrived at their seeing this, the pastor ran
Minister Sylvia Masebo says look at the number of people when it comes to big hospitals
General raped her in her house together with another outside naked and managed
she is aware that some health dying out of hypertension, like UTH, Levy and even
house. This is alleged to have unknown man. He then told to jump the wall fence leaving
workers have a tendency strokes, Diabetes Mellitus, some of the general hospitals,
occurred on November 22, her that he wanted to check all his clothes, a cell phone
of not giving medicines to Chairperson, you realise that I want to put it on record that
2023 between 13:00 and in all the rooms as part of the and a motor vehicle Chrysler
patients when the medication the numbers are alarming. we still have to stabilise. As 14:00 hours in Kahale area. prayers. When he reached the Registration number BCD
is available at the health That is in the statistics from you recall, I did indicate that Brief facts of the matter are bedroom, he forced himself 372. The other man also ran
centres. HMIS. I would request that the the bulk drugs from Egypt that the woman has been on the woman and had sex away,” he said.
Debating the estimates Minister consider reversing had been purchased. But as having miscarriages every with her as he threatened Hamoonga then disclosed
of revenue allocated to the the decision to restrict the you know, the processes of time she conceives. She to shoot her if she refused. that the suspect was later
Ministry of Health in the 2024 health promotion department validation and testing those then visited the same John When all this was happening, apprehend and detained.
Budget, Dr Chilufya, who is and ensure that the Health drugs is still underway and General to pray for her and the other man was waiting in “A medical report
also former minister of health, Promotion Department is until that process is complete, told her that the prayers are the sitting room,” he stated. form has since been issued
said returning NHIMA to the not only expanded but also we will still have some of these to be done at their home,” Hamoonga stated that the to the complainant. The
Ministry of Health would help given adequate resources complaints still coming. I want Hamoonga stated. victim’s husband caught the suspect male John Nundwe
address health care financing. to empower with adequate to assure you that the fact still Hamoonga disclosed pastor in the act. commonly known as John
“Mr Speaker, universal knowledge on how to prevent remains that government has that the pastor, who was “At around 13:30 General aged 51 of unknown
health coverage focuses non-communicable diseases”. procured essential drugs and accompanied by another hours, the husband to the house number Roma has
on a strong health system. And Mpika PF member of even kits enough to last us for man, raped the victim from complainant Pearson Tembo been arrested and detained
Infrastructure to expand parliament Francis Kapyanga a long time,” she said. her bedroom, threatening to aged 33 came and found a in police lawful custody. A
access to health services is said there was need to Masebo said, however, shoot her if she refused. man in the sitting room. He warn and caution statement
critical. What I see in the improve the doctor to patient that she was aware of some “Yesterday (Wednesday) then greeted him and decided for the alleged offence of rape
budget, there is a proposal ratio. health staff who were not at around 09:00 hours, to proceed to the bedroom has been recorded from him,”
to appropriate adequate “Mr Speaker, the doctor to giving drugs to patients the pastor called the where he found the Pastor stated Hamoonga.
resources to infrastructure patient ratio has not reduced, despite them being available.
expansion. That is we need more doctors to serve “Now I know also that

We didn’t breach law in August

commendable. However, the our people. We have facilities at times when patients
reduction compared to the that have no doctors. This go to facilities, somebody
previous years needs to be put should be addressed with would tell them that this

2021 polls, ECZ tells ConCourt

in check. Mr Speaker, supply this kind of allocation. The particular drug is not there
chain, I note that the Minister fast track hospital at UTH or they will tell them that
has increased the amount also needs attention. The this equipment is not there.
of money allocated towards other issue is infrastructure, We have since found out

E
drug procurement. This is we have most areas that have that there are people who are By Taonga Tembo president Edgar Lungu seeking to be nominated as President
commendable and let us deal unfinished infrastructure, doing that in a very dishonest L E C T O R A L a declaration that he is not and Running mate were
with legacy debt for drugs,” more especially district manner because either they Commission of eligible to contest any future required to present before the
Dr Chilufya said. hospitals; in Muchinga we want to make money from Zambia Chief Electoral presidential elections. returning officer their requisite
“Let us ensure that have about two, I know even unsuspecting patients or they Officer Brown Kasaro has Chizombe, who also cited documentation prescribed by
procurement processes are in Eastern, I know even just want to give government told the Constitutional Court the ECZ and the Attorney law within the prescribed time
within the law. Procurement Southern. They need attention a bad name because they are that ECZ did not breach General as respondents, also within which nominations
processes are such that we do so that our people can be politicking, which is really any provisions of the law wants the court to declare that should be filed,” read Kasaro’s
not bring on board suppliers accessing these health services unfortunate. We have some or Constitution during the Lungu’s participation in the reply in part.
who will not bring highly from within the district. cases where we have called August 2021 general elections August 2021 general elections Kasaro stated that ECZ
efficacious medicines. We The other important issue some people and very soon Kasaro has also told the was unconstitutional. abided by all the requisite laws
must ensure that the money to address is the mortality when you [hear] some people ConCourt that ECZ abided by In his reply, however, for processing nominations for
that is increased in drug rate, I know there has been a getting fired, don’t come here the requisite laws during that Kasaro stated that the ECZ the presidential candidates.
allocations translates into decline but still there is much and start defending criminals period. was guided by relevant He added that Article
access to safe and efficacious to be done to ensure that this or people doing things which This is in a matter in which electoral laws, among them the 52 (2) of the Constitution
drugs for everyone. On health is completely eradicated. We are a danger to society,” said a youth activist, Michelo Constitution of Zambia. Amendment Act No.2 of 2016
care financing, I still bemoan should not allow a situation Masebo. Chizombe, petitioned former Kasaro stated that obliged the ECZ to either
the fact that NHIMA still candidates who were aspiring accept or reject nomination
sits at Labour. I call upon the to be nominated as president papers filed by a candidate
Executive to quickly revert and running mate in the wishing to contest for
NHIMA to the Ministry of August 2021 elections were presidential elections.
Health so that we can address required to present before the Kasaro, however,
the issue of health care returning officer their requisite stated that Article 52 of the
financing”. documentation prescribed Constitution Amendment Act
He said the Ministry of by law, within the prescribed 2 of 2016 provided adequate
Health needed more funds time. grievance mechanisms to
to fight non-communicable “I am advised by the challenge the nomination
diseases by sensitising people advocates and verily believe process.
on how to prevent them. that in the performance of “It is our submission
“A functional health its functions, the second that the second respondent
system focuses on universal respondent (ECZ) is guided (ECZ) abided by the requisite
health coverage, health for by the relevant Electoral laws laws during the processing
everyone everywhere. The which, amongst others, include of the nominations and did
epidemiological profile for the Constitution of Zambia not breach any provisions
the country is fundamental (amendment) Act No.2 of of the Law or Constitution
to budget allocations of 2016, Electoral Process Act during that Process. That I
resources. If we look at the no.35 of 2016 and Regulations am advised by my Advocates
strategic plan 2022 to 2026, promulgated thereunder. and I verily believe that
the Ministry of Health has That the nominations for Article 52 of the Constitution
told us that the highest case presidential candidates for (amendment) Act 2 of 2016
of fatality rate is attributable Vice President Mutale Nalumango confers with former COMESA court chief justice Lombe the 2021 general elections provides adequate grievance
to cardiovascular diseases. Chibesakunda after officiating at the 44th COMESA Council of Ministers meeting attended by were conducted from May 17, mechanisms to challenge the
Chairperson, it means that 21 member states at Mulungushi International Conference center in Lusaka yesterday - Picture 2021 to May 20, 2021. That nomination process,” read
there should be money by Chongo Sampa candidates who were aspiring Kasaro’s reply in part.
Friday November 24, 2023 www.diggers. news Local News .5

Z KCM owes Zesco $500m, reveals Mapani

By Ulande Nkomesha
ESCO Managing
Director Victor
Mapani has
revealed that Konkola
Copper Mines (KCM) will be taking out another status was getting better, from Mukuba Pension usage of water between the on the power from Zambia
owes the utility company $200 million approximately adding that the company then, quite a good number. two countries, Zimbabwe for a long time. To the
$500 million. next year, which will come had resolved not to accept The moment we came into and Zambia. Last year, Congo, it is basically a life
And Mapani says down to around $900 or any tariff which it could not office, within about three our colleagues used a bit and death situation, we
there are no risks of the $800 million. We hope that afford. to four weeks, all of them more water than they were have to give them minimum
country experiencing load during that process, the “We have actually requested that they wanted [accorded]. So this year, we power for them to live. Of
shedding because Zesco GRZ would have finalised been accused that we are to leave, so we let them have been meeting more course when we have a
has put in place some the debt restructuring standing at the gate and go. They were employed regularly and we have been crisis, we pull back some of
mitigation measures like [process] because part of stopping people from being officially, of course several very firm. Our portion of the power, for example this
the importation of power the debt is locked up in developed. They will tell you other people came that we the water will definitely take year we have already pulled
from Mozambique. there and we cannot borrow that ‘Zesco is not accepting want to leave, we let such us to the end of the year. We back some power. Namibia,
Meanwhile, Mapani externally. So, once that is our power, they are refusing people go. The worst case do not see any physical risk. we pulled back about 40
says Zesco would be forced unlocked, maybe we will development’, but they come was where professionals So what we did, we reduced megawatts, Botswana, we
to stop operations if they be able now to get cheaper with very crazy numbers, were hired, for example for a lot of generation on the pulled out 30 megawatts. By
stopped exporting power. money from outside and I call them crazy numbers. a job which requires five Kariba when we had a lot of the way, the export market
Speaking during a media transfer this short term We are just coming from a people and then you have water on the Kafue Basin,” is what sustains Zesco. The
engagement, Thursday, burden to long term’’. time when 13 cents per unit 15 to 20 people to an extent Mapani said. local market has 1.3 million
Mapani said Zesco was Mapani hoped that the of power was too expensive. where others come in the “So, we went further, we customers, all of them put
committed to reducing its debt would reduce further if There is no company in morning, others come in knew there was less water together, their total bill is
debt of $1.1 billion. KCM paid the $500 million Zambia that buys power the afternoon, others are at this year, so what we did, we less than exports to three
He said Zesco had which it owed to Zesco. at that price, but could we home sharing offices. The made arrangements with or four countries,’’ said
obtained a $359 million “So, we hope by 2025, have signed out a contract over bloating is actually EDM of Mozambique to Mapani.
loan from Zanaco to help we will have reduced this in 2013. So now what we do employing a lot of people be importing power from “I can give you the
pay independent power debt to slightly below $500 is we don’t accept any tariff who do not have the work them. How we did that is to numbers, we are looking at
producers. million. So, why do I say that we cannot afford to pay, that you want to do. When ensure that we import power 1.3 million customers that
“The financial so? Because KCM also has because then it is useless, you need this work, you which was cheap, so off peak is complete with industrial
sustainability of this announced that now they it doesn’t help anyone,’’ he have to go and employ other power. We do not see that and you are talking about
organisation depends on will be starting to pay us, said. people to do the work,’’ physical risk now, all things maybe $38 million per
how the resources that we by the way, KCM owes “All it does is it strains Mapani said. being equal, we should be month. Then local mines,
are endowed to work with us close to half a billion our books, also it endows “As we sit now, we have able to glide through up like what we sell to CEC,
are optimised. We found dollars, $500 million. If a few people with a lot of run so far three adverts for to the end of the year. We what we sell to KCM, KCM
ourselves in a situation they will drop that money, money which we know we technicians, electricians hope that these rains that for example, the monthly
where we are basically we will drop that debt from can get away. What do I and technologists. Believe are coming will also start bill is $12 million. We sell
coming from a hole, $1.1 billion to $600 million mean? If someone comes me, we are failing to meet falling in the catchment to CEC also in the range
because all the resources just like that. But KCM has with a tariff, for example the numbers, yet when you so that we start picking up of $8 million. So CEC and
that are supposed to be been going through its own of 13 cents, it means their look at the total number of some water. We are buying KCM, two of them give $20
there were taken out. As we issues. We have come to an profits will be very high. people, they are so many. at six cents and we only buy million. Then by the time
sit today, our receivables are understanding that they All the solar IPPs we have So, there are a lot of wrong off peak. The outages that you come to the smaller
basically swallowed up by would be able to offload signed, none of them is people who are around you experience especially ones, Chambeshi, when
our debt, which means we some of the money that they above 6.5 cents. All of them so what we need is to in Lusaka is basically due you add Kalumbila and
are over borrowed or we are bringing through for are a maximum of 6.25 if streamline. We are looking to the maintenance that we Kansanshi plus all the other
borrowed badly. What we investment to pay people I am not mistaken. It is now for power generation have been carrying out, it ones put together, about $34
have done is the first part, who they owe money, Zesco getting better, we have come engineers. We are hoping started from April this year. million. Then you now go
of course we negotiated is one of them,’’ Mapani out from where we were. We that after two years, we There is actually no load to the exports, the exports
the tariffs to ensure that we said. are getting better, definitely would fully stabilise on the shedding at all’’. we push out to Namibia,
are paying the bill as they “We are not just also we are getting better. We overblown workforce’’. Meanwhile, Mapani said Botswana, DRC, a little bit
come, then we start paying sitting idle waiting to can see it, we can feel it, And asked whether Zesco would stop operating in Zimbabwe, we supply to
the debt. What we have borrow money to pay, every also the other cooperating the country was at risk of if it halted exports. a specific mining company
done is we have now started saving that we make, we partners who assess us experiencing load shedding “What is interesting called Zimbabwean
borrowing money locally to are paying the debt. Every independently, I think can looking at the weather about power exports is Platinum. So, all those
ensure that we transfer the month, we are actually also give you the story’’. pattern, Mapani said that we have maintained put together will give you
current debt to long term,’’ paying towards this debt. Asked if the company mitigation measures had the market in Namibia, another number close to
he said. So, even without Zanaco’s had dealt with the bloated been put in place. Botswana, Malawi, we $30 million. So 30 plus 34
“We have got Zanaco, input, the 359, we are also workforce, Mapani said “[In] 2023, we received support each other. There is 64. So, if we stop exports
for example, has been paying the debt. So, there Zesco was hopeful that less water than in 2022. We are parts where we buy Zesco stops working’’.
very instrumental, they is an arrangement that we would be done in the next were forewarned actually power from them, there are Mapani also confirmed
have actually syndicated have made to make sure two years. at the beginning. So three parts where we sell power that Zesco had purchased
for us a loan of $359 that we pay some of them “There was a cluster things have happened: we to them. The industry in Mukuba House and turned
million specifically to monthly, some of them of staff that were working have been very firm on the Namibia actually depends it into Malaiti House.
pay independent power quarterly, so the debt will
producers. We have paid definitely go down. I see it

Govt reinstates 18 suspended,

out, I think through that going down by $200 million
facility, close to $135 next year. If KCM comes on,
million as of today. The good, we might even drop
difference will be paid next that by a bigger chunk’’.

E expelled UNZA students

year, so we believe that we He said Zesco’s financial By Chongo Sampa
D U C AT I O N
Minister Douglas
Syakalima has
reinstated 18 University statement posted on the be perceived as a sign of behavior, urging students
of Zambia students who Ministry of Education weakness, warning that to use established channels
were either expelled Facebook page, Thursday, repeated misconduct for conflict resolution.
or suspended after the Syakalima cautioned might not result in similar Meanwhile, UNZA
riot which occurred on the students against leniency in the future. Dean of Students, John
September 18, 2023. succumbing to influence He cautioned the Munkombwe said the
The riots, which were that could lead to further implicated students University provided
sparked by the cancellation disruptive behaviour after against engaging in ample opportunity for
of the 2023 UNZA reinstating them. riotous behavior because the students to prove
Students Union elections, “You have all been they might not be so their innocence before
led to disturbances on pardoned; you can go fortunate, as continuation disciplinary actions were
Great East Road, property back to the University, but of pardons might appear taken.
damage and looting. ensure that you are not as if the Ministry supports Meanwhile, parents and
The investigations by misled by unscrupulous misconduct. guardians representative
the University of Zambia people to engage in riotous Meanwhile, Ministry Hudson Sakayi thanked the
resulted in the expulsion behavior and destroy of Education Permanent Minister for his forgiving
and suspension of some property at the University,” Secretary – Education stance and encouraged
students linked to the Syakalima said. Services Joel Kamoko the reinstated students to
unrest. Syakalima emphasised expressed his disapproval remain focused on their
But according to a that pardons should not of resorting to riotous education.
Victor Mapani
6. Verbatim www.diggers. news Friday November 24, 2023

By Taonga Tembo
Cross examination
continues…
Verbatim: Mukula smuggling trial – Given
Lubinda, others Vs News Diggers (PART 14)
Nchito SC: What
about the Murena, or is it
Mulena Apartments did
you declare those?
Lubinda: I did my lady
Nchito SC: Just refresh Lubinda. You did not get paying tax. admit at the last sitting, did How do you pay tax State Counsel had a lot to
my memory, how many that land through a public Nchito SC: Yes. you not, that in all the 40 without tax returns? say to support his…
properties did you say you advert which would have Lubinda: Correct. years that you’ve run your He conceded that in his Judge Yangailo: It’s like
bought in Kingsland? benefited the people? Nchito SC: I had asked business, you haven’t been business, there were no you are submitting…
Lubinda: Two Lubinda: Repeat the at the last [case] sitting paying tax? tax returns. That’s the K Kaunda: In short,
Nchito SC: Sorry? question my lady. whether you had signed a Lubinda: I did not record that I have and if my lady, we reiterate our
Lubinda: Two. Judge Yangailo: Repeat tax declaration from the admit that my lady. my learned friends have a objection to what State
Nchito SC: You the question. time that you remember? (K Kaunda rose to different record, they can Counsel raised, there is
bought two properties? Nchito SC: Obliged (Bonaventure Mutale object) bring it into record. no reference to 40 years
Lubinda: Yes. my lady. The question is State Counsel rose to K Kaunda: My lady, an Mutale SC: By way anywhere. I am most
Nchito SC: How many simple, I am saying you as object) objection to State Counsel’s of replying, despite the obliged.
properties did you refer to Honourable Lubinda did Mutale SC: My lady, question. When he asked evidence from the opening Judge Yangailo: The
when you were asked? not get that land on which may I just interject for the witness that at the comments that my brother record shows that the
Lubinda: I can’t recall you built a mansion from guidance here. Issues last sitting or session, the has just read, that the witness stated that he did
my lady but I did indicate Mahopo from responding involving the question tax witness had conceded questions relating to the not admit that he had not
Kindsland property. to a public advert. That’s were exhaustively delved that he hadn’t been paying returns were in respect of a been paying tax during the
Nchito SC: Did you what you have just told the in at the last session, I tax 40 years of his being body corporate, Highview 40 years that he has been
provide the record? court meaning you were don’t know whether they in business. My lady, the Investments Limited and in business. If indeed he
Lubinda: I can’t recall never aware of any adverts, are going over the same record will show that the not in relation to the first did say something contrary
Nchito SC: But you correct? over and over again. If witness was specifically Plaintiff ’s personal tax to his earlier statement,
were required to declare Lubinda: My lady, all it’s another aspect that asked on the loan that affairs. And I think my State Counsel Nchito has
your property when you the residents… my brother is pursuing, he got from the Chinese brother is mixing issues the right to refresh his
were minister, correct? Nchito SC: You’ve heard that’s very normal but the company whether he paid relating to the tax affairs of memory. At the end of the
Lubinda: Correct my question? Remember witness was exhaustively tax or not. The record a corporate body and those day, there is a court record
Nchito SC: What the rule, you answer my cross examined on his tax will show that the witness relating to the first Plaintiff which will be a basis for
would you say if I put it question, and if you want status. testified that he was paying in his personal capacity. the determination of the
to you that in fact you did to explain after that you Nchito SC: My lady, tax through Pay as You Much obliged. matter. Accordingly, the
not declare your property? can explain, If I try to stop I am introducing a new Earn. My lady, therefore K Kaunda: In addition objection is overruled.
Lubinda: To the best you, the court will remind subject to tie the loose the reference to 40 years is, my lady, when one does not Parties: Obliged
of my knowledge, I did me of this promise. Answer ends. Hence, I don’t see the I am afraid, is misleading sign accounts, [it] does not Nchito SC: Honourable
my lady. the question. need to object. and we object to that. mean that they don’t pax. Lubinda the point that I am
Nchito SC: What Lubinda: My lady, Mutale SC: I will Nchito SC: My lady, The fact that one does not trying to make, the point
would you say if I put it repeat the question. withdraw. obviously I am referring sign accounts… that I am making is, if you
you that you acquiring Nchito SC: I’ve repeated Judge Yangailo: to my notes and I can Judge Yangailo: Can were not paying tax, you
the land in Mahopo after this question for the third Objection withdrawn. demonstrate that in fact, he you say that again? were not fit to hold public
championing what was a if not the fourth time. I Proceed. did admit that in 40 years K Kaunda: The fact office, is that correct?
public fight for the people asked you the question, Nchito SC: Obliged. of doing business, he hadn’t that one does not sign Lubinda: Correct.
can be viewed as unfair? was there an advert for that Honourable Lubinda, the filed any tax returns and I accounts… Nchito SC: Now, in
Lubinda: My lady, all land in Mahopo? And you question that I was asking can go back to the similar Nchito SC: The witness your evidence, I asked
the residents of Mahopo said I am not aware of the you, maybe let me put a questions that I asked him. specifically said that he has you about how you were
got land and only the advert. So, the land you background…one of your My lady, the question that I never done a tax return, organising your tax affairs,
remainder is what was got was not obtained after complaints is that you asked was this and I’ll just meaning, if my colleagues remember that? Would you
gotten by non residents responding to an advert have been cast in a light pick up the quote as me want to respond, that’s kindly tell the court.
like myself. because you were not aware where it is being suggested speaking, “did you produce what they should respond Lubinda: I do.
Nchito SC: So, you of any public advert? that you are not fit to hold any memoranda, evidence to. They are saying I put Nchito SC: I asked you.
agree that you were a Lubinda: Correct public office. That’s one of of this movement, anything words in his mouth and I Firstly you said when I
non resident and a public Nchito SC: You see how the complaints, remember that the company had am saying no, I have not. asked you whether there
official and went and got somebody would conclude that? seeded or the company had This is what we discussed was no tax returns, you said
that land after fighting, that you were benefiting Lubinda: I don’t received? He says no my in the last sitting. He I am agreeing there is no
correct? yourselves as leaders in remember. lady, and you tell this court conceded that he never tax returns. [I asked] Why?
Lubinda: Correct my these tenders meant for the Nchito SC: Oh. You did. that you have been doing paid tax returns in the last The rest of us are scared of
lady. public, of land and others? One of the complaints was business for the last 40 40 years. ZRA, you said the major
Nchito SC: Where was Lubinda: The video in that you have cast me in a years, yes my lady. So, in 40 Judge Yangailo: Yes Mr source of income my lady
the advert for the people question my lady was about light that shows that I am years of business, have you Kunda. is rentals on which we were
to apply for that land? mukula. not fit to hold public office. ever signed any accounts K Kaunda: Yes my paying tax on rental and
Was there an advert? Nchito SC: I am not Lubinda: Right. of business? He says no lady, I was saying that the withholding tax, remember
Lubinda: My lady, talking about the video, Nchito SC: Before my lady. So, if probably fact that one does not sign that? And on other income,
it was being handled by I am talking about land. State Counsel (Mutale) 17 million passed through accounts, doesn’t follow I asked you? We figured,
Lusaka City Council. We’ve moved from the objected, I was asking you your account as Highview, that they don’t pay tax… my lady, that those were
Nchito SC: You heard video. the question whether if you in a period of three years, Judge Yangailo: Sorry, not major income earners.
my question? Lubinda SC: My lady, were not paying your taxes, would that be right, no can you take away that So, in other words Mr
Lubinda: I am not the question it would be right [that] my lady. So, you have no bundle from the witness Lubinda, you have not
aware of any advert Judge Yangailo: What’s you were not fit for public objection with us looking (Plaintiff ’s bundle of been remitting tax on your
because I was not the one your question? office. at the Highview account? documents), when he is income to ZRA, correct?
advertising my lady. Nchito SC: The Lubinda: If, my lady. Have you ever done any referred to the bundle, Your answer, ‘you may say
Nchito SC: So, you question is, somebody Nchito SC: If, and your personal tax returns? I he will be given. And if so’, remember that?
don’t remember any would be right if they answer is? asked him that question. Counsel wants to present it Lubinda: I don’t my
advert yourself because concluded that since you Lubinda SC: The My lady, I was in formal before court, then Counsel lady
you were not the one were getting land without answer is if. employment until 2021 and needs to communicate with Nchito SC: But today,
advertising. That’s what adverts, you were favouring Nchito SC: Yes, when I was relying on parliament me if it’s still needed by the you agree that when you
you just told the court, yourselves as leaders you and I are talking, just of which I was paying Pay court, is that clear? got that money to go and
correct? without public tender remember [that] the court As You Earn. I am now in K Kaunda: We buy property in Kingsland,
Lubinda: Correct. system to allocate the land? will remain with the record the process of preparing apologize on that. I was there was no document
Nchito SC: So, you Lubinda: Not so finish the sentence. both personal income tax saying that the fact that one produced between you and
just agreed with me that necessarily my lady. Lubinda: My lady, the for 2022. So, you are telling does not sign an account the company?
in fact, you did not get Nchito SC: I’m sorry question is if I was not this court that you manage doesn’t mean they don’t Lubinda: Correct my
that land in the public honorable Lubinda, it’s not paying tax and I am saying all these properties together pay tax. In reference to lady.
advert which would disrespectful but I’m trying yes, if I was not paying with your wife and you the witness saying they’ve Nchito SC: And you
have benefited the to demonstrate that you tax… have no time to prepare tax never… didn’t pay any tax.
public. Yourself, we are were not fit to hold public Nchito SC: You were returns because you were Judge Yangailo: You are Lubinda: Correct my
not talking about other office. If you were not not fit? in formal employment? No now in the area of going lady
people who got, we don’t paying tax, then you were Lubinda: I would not my lady. No what? I am into what is meant for To be continued in the
know how they got, you not fit, not so? be fit. agreeing that there is no tax submissions. Monday (November 27,
as Honourable Given Lubinda: If I was not Nchito SC: But you did return”. K Kaunda: My lady, 2023) edition.
Friday November 24, 2023 www.diggers.news Business / local News .7

We need to flash out overzealous soldiers – Mabeta

K
By Muzamba Siandizya engage with the community nothing can replace life,” killed because of things like
A N K O Y O and manage crowds are the said Matambo. smuggling. I want to tell
UPND Member police and not ZNS. There “Using live ammunition you that smuggling on the
of Parliament was no need to go and use should be the last thing to do Copperbelt is on the rise and
Heartson Mabeta says force to check whether there unless the worst goes to the ZNS has done a lot of work.
there is need to flash out was mealie meal in Kankoyo worst where they are almost Three days ago, 22,OOO
some overzealous and or not. We have overzealous killed, they should restrain bags of mealie meal were
unprofessional officers and unprofessional people themselves when it comes to retrieved in Chililabombwe
from the army. who are wearing military using live ammunition. We and you know, December
And Copperbelt Minister uniforms who need to be know that sometimes they and November are the
Elisha Matambo has called flashed out because they find the scene very awkward, months when we usually
on security wings to avoid remain a danger to all of us but even though, it should experience a shortage of
using live ammunition when so those should be flashed be the last solution. Even mealie meal because of
controlling crowds. out of the system,” said His Excellency President smuggling. But even though
On Tuesday a 15-year- Mateba. Hakainde Hichilema gave it’s like that, using live
old teen of Kankoyo And in a separate express orders that he doesn’t ammunition should be the
township was allegedly shot interview, Matambo asked want to see anyone being last resort”.
dead by ZNS officers during security wings to desist from

UPND must disown

an anti-smuggling operation using live ammunition when

N
in Mufulira. controlling crowds. By Philip Chisalu
In an interview, “It’s regrettable that we ATIONAL Union
Wednesday, Mabeta also had to lose life, especially a for Small Scale
Farmers in Zambia

fertiliser thieves – NUSFAZ

said ZNS shouldn’t have boy as young as 15 years, it’s
participated in investigating a very sad development. We (NUSFAZ) president Dr
the shooting. are all very sad with what Frank Kayula says it’s too
“It’s a bad occurrence transpired, I have instructed early for UPND officials
that’s why the President has the police to investigate to start tarnishing their
given me the task to go and thoroughly what really party’s image and that of trying to transport fertiliser at these UPND officials to start coming into the district all
mourn with the people and transpired and furnish us the President through their night. tarnishing their own name the way from where they
ensure that all the support with the information about involvement in fertiliser Meanwhile, another and the name of the President are coming from, you don’t
the government is giving what really transpired. scandals. Kasama UPND member and the name of their party. I expect that they are not
the family is received. Where there’s loss of life, a On Wednesday, Eastern Wise Lukwesa denied stealing think the party has to take a spending anything, they are.
We’ll support them until little boy like that, it’s a very Province Commanding Officer 156 bags of D Compound strong disciplinary measure And for them to survive now,
justice for this young boy is regrettable development. Limpo Liywali disclosed that and Urea fertiliser, saying he against such purported UPND we are hearing those stories
attained. Whoever did that, So, I’ll wait for the police three people had been arrested bought the commodity from guys. Because we are coming that they have to sell the
the Minister of Defense to investigate and we’ll in Kasenengwa District for stranded FISP beneficiaries from a situation where the fertiliser in order for them to
clearly put it in Parliament communicate when we have alleged theft of 10 packs of using his CDF loan. country had PF cadres who meet accommodation costs
yesterday that they are all the facts on the table. fertiliser valued at K21,000. But in an interview, Dr were uncontrollable in every and transport back [to their
on their own. For ZNS to Whatever the case, it’s a sad And Chief Mishoro said Kayula said uncontrollable sector, including agriculture. respective places]. That is
conduct the search is an development which all of us the three suspects, among cadres who destroy And farmers never benefited why the system has to be re-
over stepping, they shouldn’t are sad about. We sympathise them UPND Kasenengwa government programmes to grow their businesses to arranged. Farmers can collect
have been the ones to go and with the family and we have District Youth Chairperson should not be allowed back in become beyond FISP so that these inputs down where they
conduct the search. The to stand with them in prayer only identified as Headman the system. they can get inputs elsewhere are, just close to the farm, not
first line who are trained to in this difficult moment, Chitona, were arrested after “Well, it is too early for and be able to even get loans necessarily at the farm but
even from the banks. We somewhere close, not into the
had that challenge with the district,” he said.

T Cheap ZNS mealie

By Philip Chisalu actually switched into soya.
HE Millers Association previous government and this “There is a cost attached,
They are switching into maize one also starts the same,” he there is time attached and
of Zambia (MAZ) says because they are saying look,
government’s cheap said. if these farmers do not have

meal has negatively

I think we have had a better “We appeal to the UPND money, they are spending time
mealie meal intervention, price in the country than we
through the Zambia National administration to deal with going into town. They run out
have [ever] had. And as such, these people, fire them from of the little money they have,
Service (ZNS) and the Zambia

impacted us – MAZ
we wish to commend millers your party because they are what will they do? They start
Correctional Service (ZCS),
and even the traders that tarnishing your name. And we selling which is not supposed
has negatively impacted
participated in the market, I don’t want the government to to be the case. It is illegal to
commercial millers.
think it’s job well done because fail because of unscrupulous sell but those are desperate
In an interview, Thursday,
of the price that we were able to cadres who we are thinking farmers. For the farmers, my
MAZ president Andrew on the market, this obviously only be determined by the pay,” said Chintala. had gone but they have come appeal would be to government
Chintala lamented that ZNS had an impact on our side as market forces in terms of “And I think we will back in the cover of UPND. that let’s put in systems. If
and ZCS were accessing millers. Because if you look at production. definitely encourage our No, we don’t need them, agro dealers are failing, the
cheaper maize than the the price at which millers are “In terms of expecting farmers to do more and whether they are UPND or PF cooperatives and the farmer
commercial millers. paying for the maize, we went cheap maize and all that, we probably increase maize or whatever – MMD. We don’t groups can do that. We can
“First of all, I think we as high as 7,900. And these our cannot determine that now. production in the 2023/4 need those cadres who destroy help and support government
need to appreciate one thing
colleagues, how much are they Because what is determining maize season. We are quite government programmes. to create a structure where
here, government made a very
accessing their maize at? So, the price in the country is the optimistic that we should be They need to be dealt with by these fertilisers can go straight
serious call at the start of the
you can try and find out that market itself. Depending on able to see an increase in terms the law and they need to be from the national suppliers.
season that millers should go
they are accessing this maize what we will do next year, that of maize production which dealt with by their party”. We don’t need to run systems
out and ensure that they secure
from FRA at a more cheaper is what is going to determine should be able to settle most Commenting on Lukwasa’s that are very porous when it
enough maize to support their
price than we were paying. the direction that the country of the concerns that we have case, Dr Kayula said buying comes to losing the fertiliser to
production throughout the
So, that on its own has totally will take. So, if we produce had during this season. I think FISP inputs from beneficiaries those who are not supposed to
period. And I think I am on
created some kind of impact on enough maize, then that is this season has been quite was illegal. have it. Government intends
record of having echoed the
our activities in terms of rate of a well-known fact that you challenging but obviously, such “It’s not legal to sell inputs that this fertiliser goes to the
same from the Ministry of
sales and all”. expect a reaction, which is is expected in a market. It’s that have been given under small holder farmers and it has
Agriculture or government
Chintala said it was, that reaction that obviously not every time that you expect FISP. There are people like to be used by the small holder
per se. So, what we did is that
however, government’s prices have to go down. But if smooth sailing but we expect desperate farmers [but] we farmers”.
we went out in the market and
responsibility to respond when production is kind of low, that’s challenges and we remain have advised government He said Lukwesa was
tried to buy as much as we
people complained. a different story altogether. positive about it”. actually that to have farmers wrong to buy commodities
could. Obviously, we had one
“But however, We would like to implore our which were not supposed to

Daily Rates
challenge which is the high
prices of maize on the market. It notwithstanding that farmers that let’s work together be resold.
was a principle of now demand [government security wings and ensure that we produce “Unfortunately the law
and supply, you couldn’t go and are accessing cheap maize], enough,” he said. may have to take its course
we appreciate that it is The MAZ president and like the current President
Bank of Zambia
put in the price that you want
to pay but farmers, I think this government’s responsibility also described this year’s says, ‘he is on his own’. He has
time around, because the prices to respond when people maize marketing season as to substantiate why he bought
complain. But I think we know challenging. what he is not supposed to
were determined by the market
that there could have been “You also need to
Daily ZMW/USD Exchange Rates : 23-11-2023 buy because there are open
forces, they were able to make
a bit of some, or rather, good better considerations of maybe appreciate that following our Time Buying Selling markets. I understand for
money or get a good return how that would impact millers activities in the 2023 maize me that he was helping those
09:30 23.3838 23.4319 farmers who are stranded but
on their investment which is a that were sitting on expensive marketing season, this should
maize following the directive be able to encourage the 12:30 23.4181 23.4659 you know, law is law. He has
good thing,” he said.
from government to procure. farmers to do more maize. I 15:30 23.4494 23.4944 to be forgiven by the courts of
“But obviously, along the
way, before we could conclude But I am quite confident that have been in several parts of Average Exchange rates: 23-11-2023 law. We cannot say we forgive
the season like you rightly said we have really survived and the country just to monitor him because he broke the law
that some interventions that we have been able to compete preparedness for farmers. I Currency Buying Selling which is clearly written not for
government has made through in the market even under the think the vibes that are coming sale then you go and buy or
USD 23.4171 23.4641 you buy things that you don’t
ZNS and Kalonga Milling circumstances,” he said. out is that more farmers
GBP 29.3720 29.4404 know where the sources are,
which is Zambia Correctional Asked if his members would want to go for maize
EUR 25.5316 25.5923 the law will take its course,”
Service, obviously coming expected cheaper maize next as compared to the previous
ZAR 1.2465 1.2494 said Dr Kayula.
in with cheaper mealie meal year, Chintala said that could two, three seasons where they
8. Opinion www.diggers.news Friday November 24, 2023

Our soldiers, police officers are killing

more civilians than actual enemy forces
T
HE shooting but even then, soldiers
of a 15-year- are trained in various
old boy of ways of combat that
Kankoyo township at don’t require the use
the hands of Zambia of live ammunition.
National Service There cannot be any
officers during an justification for the
operation in Mufulira soldiers to do what
District makes sad they did in Kankoyo.
reading. It is difficult
to understand how As it was under
a group of trained the Patriotic Front,
military personnel this incident needs
can open fire on to be condemned
defenceless civilians. in the strongest way
The incident in under the new dawn
Kankoyo needs transpired. Using live with food to eat, we ammunition, resulting be done to stop this. administration. The
to be condemned ammunition should should not die. An in the death of two It seems soldiers and Zambia National
in the strongest be the last thing to do accident can claim a life innocent people. police officers are Service should not
terms, and we agree when the worst goes when we travel from It was again one killing more civilians hesitate to give away
with area member to the worst; where one place to another, trigger-happy police than actual enemy the officer who pulled
of parliament the officers are almost not a bullet. This death officer who used a forces. It is not right the trigger. We don’t
Honourable Heartson killed, [otherwise] is not just painful to the state-owned military that in a country that want this matter to
Mabeta who says they should restrain family of the poor boy, weapon to kill Nsama knows no war people die a natural death.
there is need to flash themselves when it but to every Zambian. and Kaunda. Today can be dying like this Meanwhile, the ZNS
out some overzealous comes to using live Imagine the grief of a two of our brothers to a bullet. command must
and unprofessional ammunition. We know parent who is at home are not with us, they explain the mandate
officers from the that sometimes they waiting for a son to were killed by the state Citizens are not that they were
army. We equally find the scene very return after school, without committing supposed to be scared executing in Kankoyo
share the concern by awkward, but even any crime. We see the of state officers who which led to the death
after playing; only to be
Copperbelt Minister then, it should be the same thing happening are sworn to protect of the poor boy. Our
told that he has been
Honourable Elisha last solution. Even His in Kankoyo. their lives. Zambians understanding is
shot by soldiers. It’s
Matambo who Excellency President must feel safer when that such matters of
unacceptable.
wonders why our Hakainde Hichilema The rate at which they see a police internal security are
armed forces use live gave express orders civilians are dying officer or a soldier, managed by police
This incident brings
bullets to disperse that he doesn’t want to at the hands of gun- not the other way under the Ministry
see anyone being killed memories of the death wielding state officers round. It’s not normal
members of the of Home Affairs.
because of things like of Nsama Nsama and is worrying. In recent that soldiers, with all
public. Citizens would be
smuggling”. Joseph Kaunda outside years, unarmed their training, can happy to understand
Elisha Police Headquarters citizens have died over look at civilians and why ZNS soldiers
MATAMBO: “It’s Zambia is a very in December 2020 domestic disputes and feel threatened to an are doing the work
regrettable that we had peaceful country. The during the Patriotic basic civil unrests that extent of resorting to of police officers,
to lose life, especially two greatest wars that Front regime. In pose no danger to shooting. If citizens searching for stolen
a boy as young as 15 our country faces are similar fashion, police, life or property. The are wielding similar and smuggled goods,
years, it’s a very sad hunger and illness. while trying to control statistics are alarming weapons and charging, and dispersing
development. We are When we are at home, a group of unarmed and something has to it may be understood, crowds. Shame!
all very sad with what in good health and citizens discharged live

Crossword Puzzle No 1580 “Many receive Solutions for Puzzle No 1579

advice, only
the wise profit
from it.” —
Harper Lee
Friday November 24, 2023 www.diggers.news Readers feedback. 9

Grant, Zambia was simply outplayed

Editor,

“Zambia was outplayed, don’t blame the ref, blame your

sluggish defence and midfield.” -John B M Muleya

“On this one to be honest, it’s like we didn’t have a

defense team and goalkeeper. I kept questioning why the
coach couldn’t remove Sunzu as he was clearly failing, it’s
like Banda had to play multiple roles and if he wasn’t
there, the other team would have the ball. The next match we
don’t expect to see certain players please.”
-Bupe Tasha’s Mum

Debt restructuring “Zambia is just used to qualifying yama calculations.”

-George Malupande

won’t make
kwacha appreciate
Dear Editor

Lubinda should apologize to the

Editor,
“This is quite a unique decision, increasing
SRR and MPR at one shot! Good time for “It’s too soon
pension funds and insurance companies.
Banks will have to offer high interest
rates to attract deposits. Borrowers
to attempt
to deny the
existence of PF
Zambian people and not mock them
should expect high rates as banks try thugs which an the change ignorance of
to compensate for the high cost of entire Central we voted for “It’s a slap unnecessary
funds. Less overall liquidity in the formal committee will not be on the face of amendments to
economy. In short, it will not be the usual unleashed on actualized the Zambians constitution
spending this Christmas.” Zambians to by this for the PF to which is truly
-Victor Manda curtail their administration. claim & condemn catching up
democratic Not taking the UPND of with them such
“That is not true ba governor, reduced space. Lubinda people for the shrinking as, the cyber
forex inflows are due to the bad policies must be
in the mining sector. Restructuring debt
fools again, political security act
apologizing like we were space. When and list goes
can’t make the kwacha appreciate. In any instead of
case govt is not paying foreign debt.” not there.” it’s their on & on!”
mocking -@eleskaycity arrogance and -Wisdom Shilamba
-Mu Kuka
Zambians.”
-@Space2013M
“How Many times are you going to adjust
upwards the MPR? If not mistaken this
should be the 3rd time this year. Seems “We don’t need
to now lie imwe
Health issues should
the Governor doesn’t know what he’s
doing. About debt restructuring, praise
singers have been cerebrating ati this was
naimwe ba yama,
they’re already
distracting
not become a loophole
achieved, how come we are still discussing
debt restructuring?” -Sydney Sam S Phiri themselves.
Yours is to for evading justice
“Certainly not from copper and other actually own
mineral sales. The real reason is our up, apologize Dear Editor, the PF secretariat the other
poorly performing ZMW currency, Period!” and make people week and visiting Lubinda,
-Christopher Kaonga realize that “While everyone deserves fair Mwamba and Nakacinda in
treatment, it’s essential that jail last week?” -Zambians
the legal process remains Everywhere
robust and transparent.
Health issues, though “Is it too late for her to
unfortunate, shouldn’t withdraw from the case,
become a loophole for just like Tasila Lungu did.
evading justice. Striking Because definitely that initial
the right balance between arrogance has completely
compassion and the pursuit faded. Lawyers, please guide
of truth is crucial to her.” -Friday Kashiwa
maintaining public trust in
our legal system.” -Kaddy “Justice takes too long to
Simbeya be delivered as though
the ones who are vested
“It is high time we considered with the responsibility to
introducing virtual trials. deliver it are not sufficiently
My submission.” -Mumbula educated. Justice delayed
Mumbula is definitely denied and the
same people are to blame.
“Is this not the same Jean Let justice prevail.” -Hibbuku
Kapata who was dancing at Hamundyoli Mpooma
10. International News www.diggers. news Friday November 24, 2023

V Anti-Islam populist Geert Wilders

ETERAN anti-Islam
populist leader
Geert Wilders has
won a dramatic victory in the

wins dramatic victory

Dutch general election, with
almost all votes counted. right leaders around Europe parliament.
After 25 years in praised his achievement. In During the campaign Mr
parliament, his Freedom France, Marine Le Pen said Wilders took advantage of
party (PVV) is set to win 37 it “confirms the growing widespread dissatisfaction
seats, well ahead of his nearest attachment to the defence of with the previous
rival, a left-wing alliance. national identities”. government, which collapsed Mr Wilders made clear on gasp of disbelief when the Ms Yesilgöz, 46, had tried
“The PVV can no longer Mr Wilders wants to in a disagreement over Wednesday he intended to exit polls flashed up on the to distance herself from the
be ignored,” he said. “We will hold a “Nexit” referendum asylum rules. tackle a “tsunami of asylum screens and they huddled Rutte government in which
govern.” to leave the EU, although he For political scientist and immigration”. over their phones trying to she was justice minister, but
His win has shaken Dutch recognises there is no national Martin Rosema from the Last year net migration understand what went wrong. ultimately she was unable to
politics and it will send a mood to do so. He will have University of Twente, it was into the Netherlands more Ms Yesilgöz took over live up to the opinion polls.
shock across Europe too. a hard time convincing any one of several gifts that had than doubled beyond 220,000, as centre-right leader when Right up to the eve of
But to fulfil his pledge major prospective coalition been handed to Mr Wilders partly because of refugees the country’s longest-serving the election, almost half of
to be “prime minister for partner to sign up to that. on a plate in a matter of fleeing Russia’s invasion of prime minister, Mark Rutte, the electorate were being
everyone”, he will have to He tempered his anti- months. Another was that the Ukraine. But the issue has bowed out of politics in July. described as floating voters.
persuade other parties to join Islam rhetoric in the run-up centre-right liberal leader had been aggravated by a shortage She came to the Netherlands Many of those may well have
him in a coalition. His target to the vote, saying there were opened the door to working of some 390,000 homes. as a seven-year-old refugee decided not to back her.
is 76 seats in the 150-seat more pressing issues at the with him in coalition. At the Hague from Turkey but has adopted A measure of Mr Wilders’
parliament. moment and he was prepared “We know, also from headquarters of Ms Yesilgöz’s a hard line on immigration. success in winning over
At a party meeting on to “put in the fridge” his international precedent, that VVD, supporters had been Some politicians and voters came from one Muslim
Thursday, Mr Wilders, 60, policies on banning mosques radical right-wing parties fare preparing to raise their Muslim figures have accused voter in The Hague who said:
was cheered and toasted by and Islamic schools. worse when they’re excluded,” glasses at the prospect of her of opening the door to “If he wasn’t so opposed to
party members in a room The strategy was a he said. the Netherlands’ first female the far right by refusing to Muslims, I’d be interested in
crammed with TV cameras. success, more than doubling Migration became one prime minister. rule out working with Geert him.”
He told the BBC that his PVV party’s numbers in of the main themes, and But there was a collective Wilders. BBC
“of course” he was willing to
negotiate and compromise

Fifty die of hunger in Tigray and Amhara

with other parties to become
prime minister.
The PVV leader won
after harnessing widespread

M amid aid freeze

frustration about migration,
promising “borders closed” ore than 50 people of Wag Hemra, because of of deaths. But it has been
and putting on hold his have died in food shortages, the officials estimated that about 500,000
promise to ban the Koran. Ethiopia’s northern said. people may have died as a
He was in combative Tigray and Amhara regions Over 4,000 cattle have died result of war, lack of medical
mood in his victory speech: amid drought and an aid because of severe drought. supplies and hunger amid what
freeze, local officials have As northern Ethiopia were described as “famine-like the Tigray People’s Liberation After the conflict ended,
“We want to govern and... Front (TPLF) signed a peace there was a steady flow of aid
we will govern. [The seat told the BBC. battles drought, the country’s conditions”.
The Horn of Africa has southern and eastern regions The conflict ended after deal brokered by the African until June, when the US and
numbers are] an enormous Union (AU). UN paused humanitarian
compliment but an enormous had five failed rainy seasons have been deluged by flash the Ethiopian government and
since 2019, according to the floods. assistance, staying it had
responsibility too.” been systematically stolen by
Before the vote, the three UN. In a statement on X,
The US and UN suspended formerly known as Twitter, corrupt officials.
other big parties ruled out The US says widespread
taking part in a Wilders-led aid earlier this year after the UN said that more than
allegations of theft, worsening 370,000 people had fled their food deliveries will be resumed
government because of his in December after significant
far-right policies. But that the humanitarian crisis. homes because of the floods.
Tigray is recovering from a At least 43 people have reforms had been made
might change because of the to ensure that the supplies
scale of his victory. two-year civil war which ended been killed by the flooding
a year ago, while a conflict has and landslides in the eastern reached those who needed it
The left-wing alliance most.
under ex-EU commissioner erupted in Amhara. Somali region.
About 46 people died During the war in Tigray, Across East Africa, heavy
Frans Timmermans has come rains and flash flooding have
a distant second with 25 seats, in the town of Yechila in the region was cut off from
Tigray, while six died in the humanitarian aid, leading killed 130 people in Ethiopia,
according to a forecast based Kenya and Somalia in recent
on 94% of the vote. neighbouring Amhara region to an unknown number
Thousands of people have fled their homes because of the drought weeks, according to the
He made clear he would Associated Press.
have nothing to do with a

Kenya ready to privatise 35

The UN has described
Wilders-led government, them as a “once-in-a-century
promising to defend Dutch event”.
democracy and rule of law. In a statement, Fati N’Zi-
“We won’t let anyone in Hassane, Oxfam in Africa
the Netherlands go. In the

companies amid cash crunch

Director said, the region was
Netherlands everyone is “going from one disaster to
equal,” he told supporters. the next as climatic shocks
That leaves third- become more frequent and
placed centre-right liberal intense”.
VVD under new leader

K
Somalia has been
Dilan Yesilgöz, and a brand especially hit hard by the
ENYA’S President A year later, the cabinet the national carrier Kenya Kenya had accumulated
new party formed by floods, after suffering from
William Ruto said approved a list of 26 firms Airways, which suffered more than 10.1 trillion
whistleblower MP Pieter catastrophic droughts in
on Thursday the to privatise including the record losses in 2022. shillings ($66bn) in debt by
Omtzigt in fourth - both have recent years. The worst hit
government was poised to Kenya Pipeline Company, On Monday, the World the end of June, according
congratulated him on the town is Beledweyne, where the
privatise 35 state companies Kenya Electricity Generating Bank said it expects to to the country’s National
result. Shabelle River burst its banks.
and was looking at a further Company, and banks, but provide the country of 53 Treasury figures, equivalent
Although Ms Yesilgöz The El Nino phenomenon
100 firms after enacting a no action has yet been taken million people with $12bn in to around two-thirds of gross
doubts Mr Wilders will be has greatly affected East Africa.
revised law last month to since. support over the next three domestic product.
able to find the numbers he It is caused by warming in the
cut down on bureaucracy. East Africa’s economic years. ALJAZEERA
needs, she says it is up to her Pacific Ocean and is linked to
“We have identified the powerhouse is facing a host
party colleagues to decide flooding, cyclones, drought
first 35 companies that we are of challenges, including
how to respond. Before the and wildfires.
going to offer to the private depleted government coffers,
election she insisted she Not all droughts or floods
sector,” Ruto told a gathering skyrocketing inflation, and a
would not serve in a Wilders- are due to climate change, but
of African stock market plunging currency that has
led cabinet, but did not rule excess heat in the atmosphere
officials in Nairobi. sent its debt repayment costs
out working with him if she is drawing more moisture
The law makes it easier soaring.
won. out of the earth and making
to sell state enterprises to The International
Mr Omtzigt said initially droughts worse, while a
private companies and aims Monetary Fund (IMF)
his New Social Contract party warming atmosphere caused
to push up the private sector’s said this month that it had
would not work with Mr by climate change makes
participation in the economy, agreed to a $938m loan for
Wilders, but now says they extreme rainfall more likely.
the presidency said at the Kenya, which also has a $2bn
are “available to turn this trust The world has already
time of the signing. Eurobond repayment due
[of voters] into action”. warmed by about 1.2C since
Kenya last privatised a next year.
A Wilders victory will since the industrial era began
state-owned company in The IMF also urged Ruto’s
send shockwaves around and temperatures will keep
2008 when it issued an IPO government to reform public
Europe, as the Netherlands is rising unless governments
for 25 percent of the shares sector firms, particularly Kenya’s President William Ruto speaks at a news conference
one of the founding members around the world make steep
in telecommunications firm the national electricity at the State House in Nairobi, Kenya, May 5, 2023 [Monicah
of what became the European cuts to emissions.
Safaricom. supplier Kenya Power and Mwangi/Reuters]
Union. BBC
Nationalist and far-
Friday November 24, 2023 www.diggers.news Sports News .11

L Hamilton denies Horner’s Red Bull approach claims

EWIS Hamilton has has spoken to them, but they
denied claims that he have tried to reach out to us,”
approached Red Bull Hamilton said.
about a move there earlier The 38-year-old’s would be any interest.” phone. It was after a Hamilton said: “Not really. perfect thing to do, just
this year. Mercedes contract was set Hamilton said: “Basically, weekend. It was quite late on If you really think about mention my name.”
Red Bull team principal to expire at the end of this I picked up my old phone that I found the message. It was it, there are a lot of people Questioned about the
Christian Horner told the season before he signed a I had just found at home that from earlier on in the year. here who really like to drop discrepancy between the
Daily Mail there had been new two-year deal in August had my old number on it. I It was, like, months later, and my name in conversations two versions of events, a
“an inquiry” from Hamilton. after protracted negotiations. switched it on and obviously I just said ‘Congratulations because they know it is going Red Bull spokesperson said
Hamilton said he “did Horner said in an hundreds of messages came on the amazing season and I to make waves. Hamilton’s father was the
not” contact Red Bull and interview: “We have had through. And I realised there hope we are able to compete “And if you are a little bit one who made contact with
Horner had reached out to several conversations over was one from Christian to with you soon’, and he replied lonely and are not getting Horner.
him suggesting an end-of- the years about Lewis joining. get together and have a chat repeating the same thing.” much attention that is the BBC
season meeting. They have reached out a few at the end of the season.” Asked whether he
“I have checked with times. Most recently, earlier The seven-time thought it was strange for
everyone on my team [of in the year, there was an champion added: “Initially, Horner to be talking about
representatives] and no-one inquiry about whether there I just replied on my new his contractual situation,

Daka makes EA Sports Team of the Week

P
By Godfrey Dube Team of the week. brace in a 4-2 victory over to impress Leicester City
ATSON Daka’s EA Sports is a division of Brazzaville and a consolation coach Enzo Maresca who
performances in the Electronic Arts that develops goal as the Chipolopolo fell has only given a combined
Chipolopolo’s World and publishes sports video to Niger on Tuesday night in 29 minutes on the pitch this
Cup qualifiers against games such as FIFA 24. Morocco. season.
Congo Brazzaville and Daka scored three Although Daka has been Daka will be hoping
Niger have earned him goals over the course of banging in goals when called that his recent exploits
a place in the EA Sports the international break, a up to the Chipolopolo setup, on international duty will
his club form paints a very improve his chances of
different picture. getting more game time as
The striker has failed he returns to England. Lewis Hamilton

GB aim to stop Djokovic and Serbia at Davis Cup

G
REAT Britain “It’s been a blow losing knockout stages with a deciding doubles, rising star
captain Leon Smith important players but we’ve thrilling victory over France Jack Draper is likely to start
says he can “shout also got unbelievable players,” in September. against Laslo Djere before
loud and proud” about his Smith said. There are expected to be Cameron Norrie - the British
team’s strength as they look “One of the upsides is about 5,000 British fans in number one - faces Djokovic.
to beat Serbia - led by Novak there is no ambiguity about a near sell-out crowd at the If the matches are split,
Djokovic - for a place in the the team selection, there is no 11,300-capacity Palacio de doubles specialists Neal
Davis Cup semi-finals. second guessing. Deportes Martin Carpena in Skupski and Joe Salisbury will
Without injured pair Dan “We know the team Malaga. aim to put Britain into the
Evans and Andy Murray, and it takes out the anxiety. If they beat Serbia, semi-finals.
Britain face Serbia in Malaga Everyone is relaxed, focused Britain will face Italy or the Skupski, who won the
from 15:00 GMT on Thursday. and we use that to our Netherlands in the semi- Wimbledon title this year, has
The tie will be shown on advantage.” finals on Saturday. forged a fruitful partnership
BBC iPlayer and the BBC Djokovic, 36, is aiming The champions of the with Evans for Great Britain,
Sport website and app. to cap another extraordinary 123-year-old men’s team including winning a tense
season, in which he won event will be decided in group-stage decider against

Lungowe, Mubanga
three majors and lost in the Sunday’s showpiece. France that secured the
Wimbledon final, with more Great Britain initially nation’s place in Malaga.
success in the Davis Cup. named the same five-man With Evans ruled out by
First, Djokovic and his squad which reached the a calf injury, four-time major
team-mates have to beat knockout stage, but have champion Salisbury was

replace injured
Great Britain - who the 24- since lost Evans - who was called up as a replacement
time Grand Slam singles instrumental in their progress and comes into the event
champion described as “one from the group stage - and having retained the doubles
of the greatest tennis nations former world number one title at the ATP Finals on
out there”. Murray. Sunday.

Copper Queens stars

“It is a very strong team That leaves, barring any “We can shout loud and
in this format. It’s difficult for more unexpected injury proud about what this team is
them to choose who to put on concerns, a straightforward going to be,” Smith said.
the court,” the world number team selection for GB captain “Gone are the days when
one said. Smith. we used to go down the
Great Britain, who last In a best-of-three tie rankings for players, we’ve got

Z
By Godfrey Dube Below is the full squad won the trophy in 2015, consisting of two singles a really good team.”
ISD Women’s striker Namasiku GOALKEEPERS reached the Davis Cup matches and a potentially BBC
Lungowe and Charity Mubanga of Catherine Musonda (Tomiris-Turan-
Zesco Ndola Girls have been called up Kazakhstan), Leticia Lungu (ZESCO Ndola
to the Copper Queens squad, replacing the Girls), Ngambo Musole (Green Buffaloes),
injured duo of Sara Jere and Eneless Phiri. Loveness Tonge (Green Eagles).
On Wednesday, assistant coach Florence DEFENDERS
Mwila revealed that Jere and Phiri would be Martha Tembo (BIIK Kazygurt Shymkent-
unable to make camp due to injuries. Kazakhstan), Lushomo Mweemba, Esther
The women’s national team is preparing to Banda, Esther Siamfuko (all Green Buffaloes),
face Angola in the first leg of their WAFCON Pauline Zulu (Elite Ladies), Judith Soko
qualifier on November 29 in Luanda. (YASA), Thelma Cheela, Esther Muchinga (both
Lungowe and Mubanga have been in fine ZANACO Ladies), Mirriam Moono (Trident
form so far this season, scoring 14 goals between Queens).
them with the former contributing eight for her MIDFIELDERS
club. Misozi Zulu (Hakkarigucu Spur-Turkey),
The Copper Queens technical bench has Ireen Lungu, Hellen Chanda (both BIIK
also called up ZANACO Ladies defender Kazygurt Shymkent-Kazakhstan), Evarine
Thelma Cheela, bringing the number of players Susan Katongo (ZISD Women), Susan Banda
in camp to 21. (Red Arrows), Prisca Chilufya (Club Juarez
Skipper Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji, Femenil-Mexico), Avell Chitundu (ZESCO
Racheal Nachula, Prisca Chilufya, Misozi Zulu Ndola Girls).
and Hellen Chanda will link up with the team STRIKERS
in Luanda. Rachael Kundananji (Madrid CFF-Spain),
Mwila is looking to collect maximum points Barbra Banda (Shanghai Shengli-China),
away from home before hosting the second leg Rachael Nachula (Hapoel Jerusalem-Israel),
at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on December Agness Phiri (Green Buffaloes), Eneless Phiri MALAGA, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 23: Matteo Arnaldi of Italy plays a forehand during the
5. (Nkwazi Queens), Sara Jere (ZANACO Ladies), Quarter-Final match against Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands in the Davis Cup
Winner over two legs will qualify for the Fridah Kabwe, Charity Mubanga (both ZESCO Final at Palacio de Deportes Jose Maria Martin Carpena on November 23, 2023 in Malaga,
15th edition of the WAFCON tournament Ndola Girls), Namasiku Lungowe (ZISD Spain. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images for ITF) CLIVE BRUNSKILL / GETTY IMAGES
which will be held in Morocco in 2024. Women). EUROPE / Getty Images via AFP
 T IS E
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PATSON IN EA
No 1611 K10 www.diggers.news Friday November 24, 2023

P
SPORTS TOTW By Godfrey Dube
ATSON Daka’s performances in the
Chipolopolo’s World Cup qualifiers
against Congo Brazzaville and Niger
that develops and publishes sports video
games such as FIFA 24.
Daka scored three goals over the course
of the international break, a brace in a 4-2
Although Daka has been banging in goals
when called up to the Chipolopolo setup, his
club form paints a very different picture.
The striker has failed to impress Leicester
have earned him a place in the EA Sports victory over Brazzaville and a consolation City coach Enzo Maresca who has only given
Team of the week. goal as the Chipolopolo fell to Niger on a combined 29 minutes on the pitch this
EA Sports is a division of Electronic Arts Tuesday night in Morocco. season. Story on P11
Patson Daka

Maguire accepts
Ghana MP’s apology
after mockery
M
ANCHESTER
United footballer
Harry Maguire has
accepted an apology from a
Ghanaian MP who mocked
him.
“See you at Old Trafford
soon,” the defender wrote on X,
Adongo explained that he had
used “Harry Maguire’s struggle
for form from 2021 to 2022” to
communicate his dissatisfaction
with Ghana’s economy.
“When Harry’s form
improved, I felt that he deserved
an apology. As a lover of
Festive
formerly Twitter. football, it was important that I
MP Isaac Adongo had recognised his turnaround.”
been debating the budget When Mr Adongo was
last year when he compared asked about the footballer
Vice-President Mahamudu accepting his apology, he said:
Bawumia’s economic “That humility has made my
management to Maguire’s day, this brings closure.” BBC
performances on the pitch.
On Tuesday, Mr Adongo
said he wanted to correct the
record and hailed Maguire as
a “transformational footballer”.
He was a “key player”
for Manchester United, Mr
Adongo said during a budget
debate.
But he did not let up in
his criticism of Vice-President
Bawumia.
“As for our Maguire, he is
now at the IMF, with a cap in
hand,” he added.
Speaking to the BBC’s
Newsday programme, Mr Harry Maguire

Lungowe, Mubanga
replace injured Copper
Queens stars Story on P11 In House