Truck overturns in Kitwe spilling..

By ALEX NJOVU

 
A TRUCK carrying acid on Sunday overturned on the Kitwe-Mufulira road, spilling its contents into the Kafue River.
Nkana Water and Sewerage Company spokesperson Damaseke Chibale and Copperbelt police commanding officer Antonneil Mutentwa confirmed the accident that happened around 11:30 hours.
Mr Chibale said the company was forced to shut down its two water treatment plants to enable officials to assess acid levels in the water.
“The plants that we shut down are Bulangililo water treatment plant and the Kafue River water treatment plant,” Mr Chibale said.
He said the firm disconnected water supply to Kitwe and Kalulushi and that people started receiving water after it concluded its investigations.
Mr Chibale said the company wanted to make sure that the water it supplied to the public was safe.
“We would like to assure the public that the water they are drinking is safe,” Mr Chibale said.
And Mr Mutentwa said the accident happened after the driver of the truck attempted to avoid a truck that had developed a mechanical fault on the road.
He said the driver escaped unhurt.
Mr Mutentwa appealed to members of the public to desist from eating fish that may die as a result of the poisoned water.

Truck overturns in Kitwe spilling..

‘Dad kills daughter’

By ALEX NJOVU

POLICE in Chingola have arrested a 29-year-old man who allegedly killed his six-month-old baby girl using a machete after he disputed being the biological father.

Copperbelt police commanding officer Antonneil Mutentwa confirmed the incident yesterday in Kitwe.
Mr Mutentwa named the suspect as Kafwani Lumpa of house number C1 Kapisha township in Chingola.
He said the incident happened around 19: 00 hours on Saturday after the suspect picked up a quarrel with his wife about who was the biological father of their daughter .
Mr Mutentwa said his wife fled the matrimonial home when the quarrel ensued.
He said when the mother of the child was away, the suspect went to the bedroom where the toddler was sleeping and allegedly used a machete to cut part of its neck.
“We have a murder case in which a man has been accused of killing his own daughter using a machete,” Mr Mutentwa said.
He said the suspect would appear in court soon after all the investigations are completed.
Mr Mutentwa said the toddler died on the spot and that her body was lying in Nchanga North Hospital .
And Copperbelt Young Women Christian Association (YWCA) Jurita Mutale expressed shock at the way the toddler died.
“It is shocking. We just hope justice will not be delayed,” Ms Mutale said.
She advised people to resolve their marital problems in a mature manner to avoid any loss of life.
And an MMD member who was allegedly beaten by suspected Patriotic Front (PF) members in Kitwe ’s Chimwemwe Township has died.
Mr Mutentwa confirmed the death of Henry Chisenga yesterday in Kitwe.
“Yes, I have received a report on Henry Chisenga’s death. He died last night. If the relatives want us to conduct a postmortem, we will do it,” he said.
Mr Mutentwa however said police have not made any arrests and that they don’t know the people who beat up the deceased.
“We went to interview him in hospital but unfortunately he was not talking.
So we were waiting for him to get well so that we could get the necessarily information. We don’t know the people who beat him,” he said.
Copperbelt PF chairman Mwenya Musenge said it was not true that Patriotic Front members beat up an MMD supporter in Chimwemwe.
He wondered why the MMD was accusing the PF cadres of violence when the police had exonerated the opposition members.
But MMD Copperbelt chairman Joseph Chilambwe insisted that PF supporters beat up Mr Chisenga.

PF MPs predict more pact woes

By  ALEX NJOVU

SOME Patriotic Front (PF) members of Parliament attending the National Constitutional Conference (NCC) have said the confusion that has rocked the PF-United Party for National Development (UPND) pact is an indicator of worse things to come.

And Chimwemwe ward independent candidate Sebastian Munkonge has resigned from the opposition UPND alleging lack of guidelines in the PF/UPND pact.
Luapula MP Peter Machungwa said in an interview in Lusaka yesterday that PF MPs attending the NCC have always maintained that the pact between PF and UPND has never existed.
Dr Machungwa said the whole idea of forming the ‘so-called’ pact was to field one presidential candidate in next year’s elections.
The PF is headed by Mr Michael Sata while the UPND’s president is Mr Hakainde Hichilema.
“But both (Sata and Hichilema) want to stand. The pact was doomed from the very beginning. What is happening now is a harbinger of things to come. It is an indicator of worse things to come,” he said.
And commenting on Mr Hichilema’s statement in yesterday’s Sunday Post that PF and UPND have a challenge of seeing which party can help to win elections, Dr Machungwa said his understanding of the remarks is that the UPND wants to field its presidential candidate.
“It is an indirect way of saying Sata should step aside,” he said.
Dr Machungwa said what is important for Zambians to know is the fact that the pact cannot work because there is nothing in common between the two opposition political parties.
He said PF and UPND have different manifestoes, constitutions and ideologies for them to harmonise and effectively work together.
“So, it is like mixing water and oil. The two cannot be mixed to form one solution. Us PF MPs attending the NCC have been very clear that we will not support the pact,” Dr Machungwa said.
Bahati MP Besa Chimbaka said in a separate interview that Mr Sata and Mr Hichilema have allegedly been deceiving each other because both leaders want to stand for the presidency next year.
Mr Chimbaka said the PF-UPND pact does not exist but that it is a mere political platform for deceiving each other.
He said Mr Sata and Mr Hichilema cannot be trusted by Zambians because they are not capable of running the affairs of the country.
Matero MP Faustina Sinyangwe also said the pact is only at the national level of the two opposition political parties and that the grassroots members know nothing about it.
“I believe it (pact) should have started from the ground. They must get the feeling of the people on the ground. They must manage the affairs of the grassroots people,” she said.
Mrs Sinyangwe said the pact has many challenges which the leaders need to work at for it to succeed.
“I did not see this from anybody else but from my uncle (Sata) himself,” she said.
And Mr Munkonge said in an interview yesterday in Kitwe that more pact members will start defecating to the ruling MMD because the partnership does not exist on the ground.
Mr Munkonge was suspended from UPND after he filed his nomination paper as an independent candidate against the PF candidate who was picked by the pact.
He claimed that there is no democracy in the pact and stressed that the MMD will emerge victorious in the 2011 general elections.
Mr Munkonge said for the pact to be fair to potential candidates they should conduct primary elections to come up with credible candidates who can win seats for the alliance.
He said the pact only exists at the national level because there are no structures at the lower organs of the two political parties.
“For example, in Chifubu constituency in Ndola, the UPND had a very good candidate but because the area is believed to be a PF stronghold, the PF was allowed to contest the seat. What has happened in Chadiza, Kaoma and Chimwemwe is an iceberg of the problems in the pact.
“Patriotic Front president Mr Michael Sata and UPND leader Mr Hakainde Hichilema must humble themselves and admit that the pact has failed. Let them take the pact to the people on the ground like Chilubi Island and Shango’mbo and sell it to members of the public,” Mr Munkonge said.
He wondered why all seats in urban areas should be reserved for the PF at the expense of UPND aspirants.
Mr Munkonge said some UPND members are popular in urban areas but cannot contest parliamentary or local government elections because of the belief that PF is the only popular opposition political party in town.

He said UPND members in urban areas should forget about becoming parliamentarians or city fathers as long as the guidelines of the pact are not reviewed.
“There are undemocratic tendencies in the pact. The decision to suspend me from UPND was done in bad faith. I decided to contest the ward in Chimwemwe because I have a democratic right to do so and am very popular in Chimwemwe. I can assure you that people will start defecating to other political parties especially the MMD because there is no future in the pact,” Mr Munkonge said.
During the filing of nominations on Thursday in Kitwe, Mr Munkonge was rejected with some PF officials labelling the UPND as a village political party that does not have the following in urban areas.
Mr Munkonge, who filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate, has since been suspended from UPND.
But PF spokesperson Given Lubinda said the pact is strong on the ground and accused some politicians of peddling lies against the alliance to win political mileage.
Mr Lubinda said in an interview yesterday that it is only bitter politicians who are claiming that the future of the pact is bleak.
He said the decision by Mr Munkonge to resign from UPND is a clear indication that he is not a good leader.
Mr Lubinda said Mr Munkonge should not claim that there are no structures on the ground when he was one of the leaders spearheading the pact at ward level.
He said as UPND ward chairman, Mr Munkonge was the one who was supposed to strengthen the pact on the ground.
Mr Lubinda however said Mr Munkonge was a hardworking leader who contributed a lot to the establishment of the pact in Chimwemwe.
“What he has done shows that he was working hard for personal gain. We have structures on the ground and the pact is strong,” Mr Lubinda said.

Patriotic Front demo flops

Patriotic Front demo flops

Patriotic Front demo flops

Patriotic Front demo fails

More condemn Kitwe riots

By ALEX NJOVU  
CIVIL society organisations and the church have strongly condemned the riotous behaviour exhibited by some Kitwe residents on Thursday which left a trail of destruction in the city.
And Police on Thursday evening arrested 12 more people in Kalulushi’s Chibuluma Township who rioted and looted several bags of mealie meal from Chimusoro Milling Company.
The Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ) General Secretary Suzanne Matale said the violence and hooliganism demonstrated by Kitwe residents was uncalled for and that violence was not the best solution in resolving differences.
“The CCZ reiterates that the use of violence has never resolved any differences or problems anywhere in the world. Instead it perpetuates and breeds more violence in which innocent people suffer untold miseries,” she said.
Reverend Matale appealed to church leaders to take an active role in ensuring that there was peace in communities in which they live.
“CCZ is calling upon all Zambians to resolve differences in a mature and amicable manner,” she said.
Scores of Kitwe residents on Thursday demonstrated against the arrest of Radio Icengelo station manager, Father Frank Bwalya, bringing business in the city centre to a standstill.
Police arrested 38 people in the aftermath of the riots.
Evangelical Youth Alliance International president Moses Lungu said his organisation was saddened at accusations that a clergyman was reported to have incited Kitwe residents to cause havoc in the city.
Rev. Lungu said church leaders had a responsibility of preaching and encouraging peace and reconciliation among political leaders and ordinary Zambians.
United Church of Zambia (UCZ) presbytery Bishop Committee Njase strongly condemned the people who rioted and damaged property in Kitwe .
Bishop Njase said it was sad that people rioted and damaged property worth millions of Kwacha.
Zambia Congress of Trade Union (ZCTU) president Leonard Hikaumba also condemned the protestors, saying there was no need for them to riot.
He said in an interview in Lusaka that there was need for people to find better ways of resolving their problems rather than rushing to the streets.
“Like in this case, some workers may even lose their jobs because people damaged company property and the owners of these companies may give all sorts of excuses. It is always important for people to use proper channels when presenting their grievances,” he said.
And Copperbelt police commanding officer Antonneil Mutentwa said calm had returned to Kitwe and that police had started releasing the 38 people who were arrested on Thursday for riotous behaviour.
“We have started releasing them. But we are only releasing them after paying the admission of guilt fine of K 50,000,” he said.
Mr Mutentwa also said 12 people were arrested on Thursday in Chibuluma after they rioted and broke into the Chimusoro milling company.
And NKWETO MFULA reports that the Zambia Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI) has condemned the riots that took place in Kitwe on Thursday.
ZACCI vice chairman Eddie Kapungulya said riots had a negative impact on the business community.
“Both the ruling party and the opposition should ensure that what they say should not result into tension in the province and the country as a whole,” he said.
Mr Kapungulya said the loss of property could scare away investors in the province, which could retard development.
He said Zambia was a peaceful nation whose peace should be maintained to allow more investors into the country.
“This is the reason why we are saying the aftermath of elections has to be properly handled so that there is no negative impact created,” he said.
And Constituency Concerned Citizens Forum publicity chairperson Wilbroad Mutoloka said people should learn to follow procedures when aggrieved.
He said the arrest of Fr Frank Bwalya by police over the post election programme on radio Incengelo should not have resulted into riots.
“Why start throwing stones and damage properties when they could have gone to police to find out why he was arrested?” he wondered.
He called on people on the Copperbelt to be thankful to government for maintaining peace in the nation.

Patriotic Front demo flops

By ALEX NJOVU

Health workers respond to call

By ALEX NJOVU

 

GOVERNMENT says it is pleased that there has been a country-wide positive response by striking nurses to return to work.
And police in Chingola yesterday arrested five health union officials for blocking workers from reporting for work at Nchanga North Hospital.
Chief Government spokesperson Lieutenant-General Ronnie Shikapwasha said in a statement yesterday that nurses and other medical staff who are still on strike and may be afraid of harassment from fellow workers should go back to work as sufficient security measurers have been put in place.
However, he said those still on strike should take seriously the warning and ultimatum by Minister of Health Kapembwa Simbao that they will lose their jobs if they do not report for work on Monday.
“The nurses, who have stayed away from work without authority for more than 10 days as required by the Public Service Code of Conduct, are being reminded that Government will fire them from their jobs on grounds that they have participated in an illegal strike and that they are in breach of the Florence Nightingale pledge to save human life, which they swore upon graduation,” Gen. Shikapwasha said.
He said Government has been more than accommodating in not having taken this action against those on strike on the understanding that on their own, they would appreciate the illegality of their action.
Gen. Shikapwasha said nurses should examine their consciences over a strike that is not supported by their union and which is a clear breach of their Florence Nightingale professional pledge.
“Government would also like to remind the striking nurses that when they complete their professional training, they undergo an internship where they take the pledge to save human life and should, therefore, be prepared to take the consequences of breaching the pledge,” he said.
Gen. Shikapwasha said vacant positions arising from those who will be fired will be offered to retired nurses and other health workers including those from within the southern African region.
Meanwhile, police in Chingola yesterday arrested five health union officials for blocking workers from reporting for work at Nchanga North Hospital.
The five union officials are from Health Workers Union of Zambia (HWUZ) and Zambia National Health and Allied Workers (ZANAW).
The union officials were also questioned for holding a meeting without a police permit.
Copperbelt police commanding officer Antonneil Mutentwa confirmed the development in Kitwe yesterday.
Mr Mutentwa said a number of health workers reported for work but that they were blocked by their colleagues who wanted the strike to continue.
He said the workers held a meeting contrary to the directive by the Ministry of Health not to hold such gatherings in health institutions.
Meanwhile, police in Lusaka and Ndola sealed off hospitals and health centres where they blocked striking nurses who wanted to hold meetings within the premises.
In Ndola, health workers who were dispersed by police later gathered at Kansenshi Cemetery where they held their meeting.
Police, clad in riot gear, led by Ndola police deputy officer commanding Anderson Chengo, sealed off Ndola Central Hospital at about 10:30 hours.
Earlier, Mr Chengo told the health workers who gathered in the dining hall to disperse.
“The meeting should not have been here, I am actually late. Your union leaders will briefly talk to you and you should follow what they will say,” Mr Chengo said.
Civil Servants and Allied Workers Union of Zambia (CSAWUZ) Ndola district chairperson, Joy Beene told the workers that union officials would brief them after consultations.
“After we have done our consultations, we will be on Radio Icengelo,” Mr Beene said.
But the workers later assembled outside the hospital buildings in
defiance of Mr Chengo’s advice to disperse and later held their meeting in the grave yard.
In Lusaka, nurses at the University Teaching Hospital who gathered on the lawn within the hospital premises, were dispersed by police.
At Kamwala and Kabwata clinics, police barred nurses from gaining entry to the premises.
And Zambia Congress of Trade Unions president Leonard Hikaumba said he will meet the nurses after a meeting which he is scheduled to hold with the Secretary to the Cabinet.
Mr Hikaumba said in an interview that he is on standby for a meeting with the Secretary to the Cabinet.
He said after that, union leaders will meet with the nurses to inform them on the outcome of the meeting, and reason with them to return to work on Monday.
Minister of Health Kapembwa Simbao said during a press briefing on Thursday that striking workers will not be allowed to gather within the hospital premises.
Meanwhile, the Heritage Party in Ndola has appealed to the striking health workers to resume work for the benefit of the nation.
Heritage Party Ndola central constituency chairman, Joseph Phiri said this in a statement issued in Ndola yesterday.
“My appeal is for health workers to emulate the teachers who have resumed work and have continued discussing the issue of salaries with their union leaders,” he said.
He said many people are suffering as a result of the strike.

Health workers respond to call

By ALEX NJOVU

756 people treated after drinking acidic water

 
 
 
By ALEX NJOVU 
 
GOVERNEMNT says 756 people in Mufulira drank tap water contaminated with sulphuric acid from Mopani Copper Mines (MCM) on Wednesday and yesterday.
The majority of the victims, 500 were treated and discharged from Ronald Ross Hospital and 256 at Malcolm Watson Mine Hospital in Mufulira, Copperbelt Province Minister, Mwansa Mbulakulima, said in an interview yesterday.
But four were still admitted to hospital.
Mr Mbulakulima said the pollution problem had been brought under control and water supply to homes would be restored before the end of today.
Mufulira District Commissioner, Dyford Muulwa, said the victims were treated for various ailments mainly abdominal pains associated with diarrhoea and vomiting.
Mr Muulwa said the situation had been brought under control and Mulonga Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC) yesterday began to flash out the acidic substances from the water network system.
Town Clerk, Charles Mwandila, said people were walking long distances to fetch water from the southern part of the mining town because the water utility had shut down the treatment plant to prevent further contamination of water.
Mr Mwandila indicated the water firm might resume water supply to homes by today.
And a special committee appointed by Mr Mbulakulima to investigate the contamination yesterday went underground MCM to assess the cause of the acid spill.
“Officials from the Mine Safety Department and Environmental Council of Zambia and the local authority went underground checking on the water pumping system,” Mr Mwandila said.
“We are expected to present the technical report to relevant Government institutions.”
He said the director of the National Water and Sanitation Council, Osward Chanda, has also travelled to Mufulira.
The only source of water the town was now receiving was from the Kafue River, which supplies about 40 per cent of the requirement.
“About 40 per cent of the water is safe and clean.
The clean water from Kafue River is being pumped into three other treatment plants,” he said.
On Wednesday more than 10 people, three of them seriously ill, were admitted to hospital after drinking tap water contaminated with acidic effluents from MCM underground.
Several others were screened at Malcolm Watson Mine and Ronald Rose hospitals after they drunk the acidic water.
Meanwhile, an environmental watchdog has criticised Mulonga Water and Sewerage Company for distributing the contaminated water.
Citizens for a Better Environment (CBE) executive director, Peter Sinkamba, said in an interview in Kitwe yesterday that it was unfortunate that the water firm distributed contaminated water that caused acute illness among several people in the town.
Mr Sinkamba said MCM should not be blamed but the management of the water firm because it was their responsibility to provide clean and safe drinking water to consumers.
“If it is proved that some people have suffered injury because of the commodity they consumed, then management of Mulonga Water and Sewerage Company should be taken to task because it was their responsibility to provide clean,” he said.
He urged residents in the mining town to seek legal redress against the water firm when it is proved that they had suffered injuries as a result of taking the contaminated water.
The environmental group has sent a team to Mufulira to investigate the matter and its impact on communities.
The group will help the residents to put up a legal case to claim compensation.

YMCA calls for arrest of alleged defiler

 

By ALEX NJOVU

 
THE Young Women Christian Association (YWCA) on the Copperbelt has called on the police to arrest a Kitwe businessman who has allegedly been defiling his sister-in-law since she was 11 years old.
The girl, who is now 20 years old and a student at one of the colleges in Lusaka, reported the matter to YWCA after the named businessman impregnated her and forced her to terminate the pregnancy last year.
Copperbelt YWCA provincial coordinator Jurita Mutale said the named man has allegedly threatened to kill the girl if she reported the matter to anyone.
Ms Mutale said the suspect recently went on rampage and caused extensive damage to the house of his in-laws in Ndeke Township after he reported his in-law to the police for allegedly accusing him of impregnating their daughter. 
“There is a businessman in Kitwe who has been defiling his sister-in-law since she was in grade five at 11 years old that was in 2000. Her elder sister, who is married to the same man instructed her younger sister then to be opening the door for her husband in the evening when he knocked off from work and serve him with food while she was sleeping in the bedroom. It was at this moment that he would sleep with her. In fact the first time when he had sexual intercourse with her he slept with her on top of a deep freezer. On Sundays when his wife went to church, he would remain at home and defile the girl,” Ms Mutale said.
She said that the businessman continued having sex with the girl after she had gone to a secondary school in Kalulushi.
She said the suspect told the girl that since he was paying her school fees and supporting her parents financially, it was fair that he continued having sex with her but strongly warned her against telling any member of her family.
“The girl did not know that what the man was doing to her was defilement until the issue was debated in her classroom and when she went home she decided not to be opening the door for her brother-in-law but her sister was annoyed with her and instructed her to continue opening the door for her husband. This compelled her to continue opening the door and one night her brother-in-law threatened her with a gun and warned her against telling anyone about what was happening. He warned that he was going to kill her, kill her sister (his wife) and then turn the gun on himself,” she said.
Ms Mutale said when the girl went to a college in Kitwe the man continued having sex with her and she conceived in December last year but he forced her to terminate the pregnancy.
She said the girl was given some drugs by a man who was hired by her brother-in-law and terminated the pregnancy the same day.
She said the victim’s elder sister who is married to the suspect, has allegedly turned against her relatives and her younger sister.
“In fact when the girl told the other elder sister about who was responsible for her pregnancy, the man took his wife for holiday outside the country. He has now threatened to sue the girl for character assassination.
“He is using power to silence his in-laws. When he damaged his in-laws’ house, he was reported to the police for malicious damage to property but the police failed to arrest him. After sometime he sent his own sister and gave her K 2.5 million to apologise on his behalf to his in-laws saying he did not know what he was doing and asked them to use the money to repair the house,” she said.
She said the girl is now living in fear because her brother-in-law has threatened to deal with them for alleged character assassination.
She called on the police not to compromise their profession and desist from protecting wrong doers.
Ms Mutale said the girl and her parents decided to involve YWCA officials after realising that the police officers who were handling the case had allegedly been compromised.
She said it is worrying that the girl’s elder sister has not been there for her sister even when she knows that the younger sister’s future has been affected negatively.
She said the girl has been traumatised for a long time.
“This man is using his money to intimidate people, he has served the girl with court summons for character assassination and in his summons he is claiming that the girl is a school drop out when she is not. He is claiming that the girl is his wife’s niece when she is the young sister of his wife. I advised the family not to sign the court summons because the information on it is wrong,” She said.
Copperbelt police commanding officer Martin Malama said he has not yet received a report on the matter.

Rabid dogs worry Commissioner

By ALEX NJOVU

LUFWANYAMA District Commissioner, Evans Pwele, is worried that suspected rabid dogs in the district have remained unvaccinated.

Mr Pwele said yesterday in Kitwe that the dogs were posing a danger to the resident in Lufwanyama who were even failing to go to their fields to weed.
Two people have so far died while five others were last week battling for their lives at Fungulwe Clinic after being bitten by suspected rabid dogs.
Mr Pwele said Ministry of Health officials and the veterinary department in the district were still organising themselves before they could treat the rabid dogs.
“The residents are willing to have their dogs vaccinated or even killed. I am appealing to health workers to quickly move in and control the situation,” he said.
Mr Pwele said although the health department in the district had assured him that the dogs would be treated, he was worried about the delay to conduct the exercise.
“People are failing to go to their fields to weed their crops because of the rabid dogs.
The development has caused fear among women and school going children,” he said.

NGO condemns abuse of sex workers

 

By ALEX NJOVU

 
A NON-GOVERNMENTAL organisation on the Copperbelt has condemned a group of unknown men who abducted 10 suspected sex workers in Kitwe on Friday and sexually abused them.
Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) Copperbelt co-ordinator Jurita Mutale called on Zambians to respect and uphold women’s rights.
She condemned the gang for attacking women and called on the police to investigate the matter.
She said it is unfortunate that a group of men abducted 10 sex workers in Kitwe and raped them.
Ms Mutale described the offenders as cowards who don’t know how to propose love to a woman.
“In the first place, sex workers don’t force themselves on men, they just offer a commodity to the market which is readily available worldwide,” she said.
She said it is worrying that some men have continued abusing women and called for concerted efforts in addressing challenges facing both women and children in Zambia.
Ms Mutale said sex workers have got rights which should be respected by people.
One of the victims among the 10 women who were abducted from Independence Avenue around 02:00 hours on Friday said in an interview that they were taken to a place near Garnatone residential area where they were beaten and sexually abused.
The woman, who had difficulty in narrating her ordeal, said she and her colleagues were picked from various spots around the town centre in different vehicles by their abductors, who told them that they would be paid a lot of money if they agreed to go with them to an unknown place.
She said there were about 30 men in the operation and she accused the gang of stealing their money that they had earned earlier.
The victim said she and her colleagues escaped in their nakedness using a back door after the men slept in their drunken stupor.

NGO condemns abuse of sex workers

By ALEX NJOVU

Thieves attack Kitwe lodge attack guests

 27th November 2009

By ALEX NJOVU

A GROUP of armed thieves on Wednesday broke into Kitwe’s Mumu Lodge, beat up guests and undressed some female workers before stealing valuables and about K6 million cash.
Copperbelt police commanding officer Antonneil Mutentwa and Mumu Lodge manager Beatrice Makalafu confirmed the incident which took place around 01:00 hours.
Mr Mutentwa said the thieves were armed with firearms and iron bars.
He said a security guard was severely beaten and tied up before the thieves ransacked the guesthouse.
“I can confirm that a group of armed thieves attacked Mumu Lodge and stole a number of items including alcohol and cigarettes. They also ransacked fridges and stole relish,” Mr Mutentwa said.
He said no arrests have been made but that investigations have been launched.
“These people were moving from room to room stealing from guests. They beat them and got their valuables such as cell phones,” Mr Mutentwa said.
Ms Makalafu said the thieves stole money from guests and that some sustained injuries from the beating.
“Two of our female workers were undressed,” Ms Makalafu said.

Clobbered cop turns out to be hero

Friday, 25/2011

By ALEX NJOVU

NOT EVEN a bleeding gash in the head was enough to stop a determined police officer from ensuring two suspected murderers were brought to justice in Luanshya yesterday. 
An instant justice mob injured the officer after mistaking him for one of the two suspects he and his two colleagues were chasing.
The suspects are believed to have brutally murdered a 66-year-old security guard last week by ripping open his stomach.
Copperbelt police commanding officer Martin Malama said in an interview in Kitwe yesterday that members of the public saw the three police officers pursuing the suspects and joined the chase to help apprehend them around 17:00 hours.
Dr Malama said as the chase intensified, a woman who was part of the baying mob mistook the plainclothes police officer for one of the suspects and delivered a vicious blow to his head with a thick piece of timber to help apprehend him, inflicting a deep cut on him.
But the injured officer was undaunted. Despite bleeding profusely, he continued with the chase and managed to apprehend the suspects.
“The members of the public and the three police officers in Luanshya were chasing two criminals in town. One police officer, who was not in uniform, was hit in the head with a big plank by a woman after she thought he was actually one of the thieves.
“The officer sustained a deep cut and was bleeding profusely, but he continued chasing the suspects until he and his colleagues apprehended them with the help of the members of the public,” Dr Malama said.
He said the woman has not been arrested because she did not intend to harm the police officer, and has since regretted the mistake.
Dr Malama commended Copperbelt residents for their continued co-operation with the police.
He said he is happy that the police command in the province has continued to receive overwhelming support from various stakeholders in its efforts to fight crime.
Dr Malama commended the injured police officer for his commitment to duty.
“You can see that we have very hardworking officers. When this police officer was hit in the head, he did not stop. For sure, such a police officer deserves a medal for being brave. Despite being hit with a plank in the head, he continued chasing the suspects, who killed an innocent security guard by removing his intestines. These dangerous criminals ripped off the stomach of the security guard, who was working hard to feed his family,” he said.
Dr Malama warned that police will deal with individuals engaging in criminal activities.
“We want to warn criminals who are disturbing the peace of Zambians on the Copperbelt that the Police Service is ready for them. They must find something else to do with their lives instead of troubling members of the public,” he said.

SA firm to invest $200,000 in security clothing plant

SA firm to invest $200,000 in security clothing plant

SA firm to invest $200,000 in security clothing plant

SA firm to invest $200,000 in security clothing plant

SA firm to invest $200,000 in security clothing plant

SA firm to invest $200,000 in security clothing plant

Malanji eyes commerce, trade seat

By ALEX NJOVU

 

MMD chairman for land and natural resources Joe Malanji has said he will contest the position of MMD national executive committee (NEC) chairman for commerce, trade and industry at the party’s national convention to be held on April 5.
And MMD national trustee Annie Chungu says she is contesting the position of national chairperson for women.
President Banda recently appointed Mr Malanji as chairperson for land and natural resources, replacing Judith Kapijimpanga who resigned to join the opposition Patriotic Front (PF).
Mr Malanji, who is also MMD Copperbelt task force chairman, said in an interview in Kitwe on February 21 he has decided to contest the position because of his vast experience in the corporate world.
He said the contacts he has established both locally and abroad will help him contribute to job creation for Zambians. “I would like to announce my intentions to contest the position of chairman for commerce, trade and industry. I have consulted my family, friends and members in the MMD, and I feel I have the qualities to contribute positively to the growth of our party in that position,” Mr Malanji said.
He described opposition political parties as jokers who have no capacity to run the affairs of Government.
“We would like to urge Zambians to continue supporting the MMD Government and President Banda because the ruling party has an agenda to develop the country. We are taking development to all parts of the country, and we will continue even after the general elections because we know that the MMD will emerge victorious,” he said.
Meanwhile, MARTIN NKOLOMBA reports that Mrs Chungu will contest the position of national chairperson for women at the forthcoming MMD convention.
Mrs Chungu, a Lusaka-based businesswoman, said in an interview on February 21 she feels she is qualified to contest the position, having worked well as national trustee in the last five years.
She said she has been in the ruling party since its inception, and has risen through the ranks, a background she says has given her experience to qualify for the position she is vying for.
Mrs Chungu said she is already receiving overwhelming support from women in the MMD countrywide.
And an arts teacher in Southern Province has declared his interest in contesting the position of chairman for arts, culture and sports at the forthcoming party convention.
Ngosa Chibeka, who is also an MMD district official, said in a press statement issued in Lusaka on February 21 he has acquired enough experience to serve as chairman for arts.
“I have served in various positions, the latest being district official. I have in the past years acquired enough experience to serve in the above position.
I’m currently an arts teacher in Southern Province,” Mr Chibeka said.
He said he has been a bona fide member of the party since 1991.
And member, Darius Ngoma, has said he will also contest the same position.
Mr Ngoma said he decided to offer himself for this position so that he can contribute to the growth of arts and culture in the country.
“I have decided to stand for this position so that I can contribute to the growth of arts and culture,” he said.

Malanji eyes commerce, trade seat

Malanji eyes commerce, trade seat

Malanji eyes commerce, trade seat

CAF seat: Kalu wins landslide

 
 
FOOTBALL Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Kalusha Bwalya on February has became the first Zambian to be elected into the Confederation of African Football (CAF) executive committee when he defeated three other contestants to scoop the slot reserved for the southern African region.
The 1988 African-footballer-of-the-year won with a runaway victory polling 38 votes while his closest rival Walter Nyamilandu of Malawi managed a paltry six votes.
And FAZ faction president Andrew Kamanga, a bitter critic of Kalusha in the last few months, congratulated the FAZ president on his victory.
Kamanga, who had described Kalusha’s ambitions to contest the CAF position as ‘over-ambitious’, said: “It is good that he has won. I congratulate him for that.”
The southern African region had the highest number of contestants with Namibia’s John Muinjo gathering five votes while Adam Mthethwa of Swaziland could only muster three votes.
The last time Zambia attempted to go for the CAF executive was in 2004 when the then FAZ president Evaristo Kasunga stood but he only managed three votes.
Kalusha said in an interview from Khartoum on February 23 that the victory was not for him alone but for the whole Zambia.
He said he would not have managed to secure a slot on the continent’s soccer decision-making body had it not been for the support from Zambians.
“I am here to represent Zambia, I feel very proud. I just wish my father (late Benjamin Bwalya senior) was here to see me. It’s a wonderful moment.
“I thank the people who have supported me from Kamuchanga in Mufulira, Kitwe, Ndola, Lusaka, just all Zambians,” he said.
Kalusha said he is grateful to God for giving him an opportunity to serve on the highest soccer mother body in Africa.
The FAZ president said he will do his best to ensure the Council for Southern Africa Football Association (COSAFA) region is well represented on the CAF panel.
“Last time I wanted to contest the CAF elections in Lagos but I realised that it was not my time and I decided to wait…. But this year I knew my time had come and everyone at the congress was convinced that Kalusha is ready and here I am now.
“So I want to tell others that it’s good to wait. When your time comes, things will just be straightforward. You don’t need to force anything,” he said.
Kalusha said he is grateful to people that have stood with him during the times that he has been moving around to serve the game.
He also paid tribute to former FAZ president Tom Mtine for supporting his candidature for the CAF executive position.
“I want to thank the big man Mr Mtine, he was here with me, he is an old man but he came all the way to congratulate me. I feel humbled,” said the former Chipolopolo skipper.
Kalusha said his election to the CAF executive committee will not affect his duties as FAZ president but will instead encourage him to serve the association even more effectively.
Other people who won CAF executive positions are Ghana’s Kwesi Nyantakyi who polled 36 votes to claim the West African Zone B slot, Terek Bouchamaoui of Tunisia went through unopposed for the North Africa Zone and so was Almamy Kabele Camara of Guinea for the West Africa Zone A.
Omari Constant of DR Congo also went through unopposed for the Central African zone while Leodegar Tenga of Tanzania polled 34 votes to beat his only rival Celestin Musabyimana of Rwanda who managed 19 votes.
Meanwhile, the National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ) has saluted Kalusha for winning CAF elections.
NSCZ spokesperson Smart Mwitwa said in Lusaka yesterday that Kalusha’s victory is good for the nation.
“We would like to congratulate him (Kalusha) but we shall issue a statement later,” Mwitwa said.
Former FAZ president Evaristo Kasunga said he is happy for Kalusha.
“In the absence of Danny Jordaan the rest of the candidates were lightweights. I congratulate him for the victory,” said Kasunga, who lost the CAF executive member position in 2004.
Chipolopolo Soccer Fans Association chairman Yotam Mwanza said Zambians should be proud of Kalusha’s achievement.
Mwanza said it shows that Kalusha is held in high esteem on the continent.
“I have had an opportunity to travel with Kalusha and I have seen the way he is worshipped outside the country. This shows the admiration and respect the people have for Kalusha,” he said.
Zambia Voluntary Soccer Fans Association patron Peter Makembo commended the CAF delegates for the confidence shown in Kalusha.
“We have tried for several years to have a representative on the CAF board but we have failed. We tried through Evaristo Kasunga but we failed. But this time we have finally managed through Kalusha,” Makembo said.

CAF seat: Kalu wins landslide

CAF seat: Kalu wins landslide

Road projects cheer East cultural body

THE Chama-Senga Cultural Association has commended President Banda for his commitment to improving road infrastructure in Eastern Province.
Spokesperson Yotam Mtayachalo said in an interview in Ndola on February 23 the cultural association is happy with President Banda's commitment to rehabilitating roads in all parts of the country.
"As an association, we would like to commend the Government for its continued focus on improving the road network in Eastern Province. The commissioning of projects such as the Chipata -Lundazi road are some of the developments that are making the people of Zambia continue supporting the MMD government," he said.
Mr Mtayachalo, who is also Copperbelt MMD information and publicity secretary, said the Chama-Senga Cultural Association is happy that about K97 billion will be spent on the rehabilitation of the Chipata-Lundazi road.
He called on Zambians to continue supporting Government in its efforts to develop the country.
Mr Mtayachalo called on donors and the private sector to work with the government to tar the Chama-Matumbo road.
"We would be very happy if the Chama-Matumbo road can be worked on as soon as possible. The road has been on the cards since the 1970s, and it is a short route for the people of Chama to both Copperbelt and Lusaka provinces.
"Currently, the people of Chama are forced to cover thousands of kilometres to go to Lusaka. The people also want a bridge on Luangwa River near Mulumbwe village," Mr Mtayachalo said.
He said the Chama-Matumbo road is important for economic activity in the area, and hopes Government will soon secure funds for the project.
Mr Mtayachalo said the tarring of the road will help Government attract investors to the area.
President Banda is in Eastern Province on a five -day working visit, where he is expected to commission the Chipata-Lundazi road project.By ALEX NJOVU

Resign, Shakafuswa challenged

By ALEX NJOVU

 

MMD youth on the Copperbelt have challenged MMD Katuba Constituency member of Parliament Jonas Shakafuswa to resign from the ruling party and join the opposition Patriotic Front (PF).
In a statement yesterday in Kitwe, Copperbelt MMD information and publicity secretary Chicco Chibale said the youth are disappointed that Mr Shakafuswa has continued issuing derogatory remarks against Government.
“Our action is necessitated by the article attributed to him in the press on 25th December, 2010, headlined ‘Mahtani’s fixing amounts to witchcraft’.
We are very disappointed that a man of Shakafuswa’s calibre could exhibit such kind of ignorance on the roles of the central bank of Zambia,” Mr Chibale said.
He said it is the duty of the Bank of Zambia to safeguard the interests of every client who saves money with any banking institution in Zambia.
Mr Chibale said the Bank of Zambia is mandated to regulate the operations of all financial institutions according to the law.
“It is further mandated to revoke the practising licences of those financial institutions found wanting. Based on these facts, as MMD youths, we commend central bank Governor, Dr Caleb Fundanga, for the timely action in accordance with his jurisdiction.
“We also want to remind Shakafuswa that many Zambians have seen many developmental programmes the President Banda administration has been able to put in place, and are happy with the government of Mr Banda,” he said.

UPND brand Sata ‘dictator’

By ALEX NJOVU
 
UNITED Party for National Development (UPND) national youth chairman Joe Kalusa has described Patriotic Front (PF) president Michael Sata as a dictator who should not be entrusted with leadership and has warned Zambians against voting for him in the 2011 tripartite elections.
Mr Kalusa urged Zambians to forget about the existence of the PF-UPND pact.
“As far as we are concerned in UPND, the PF-UPND pact is dead and it is a closed chapter for now. Our people must forget about the pact. Mr Sata and his men like Wynter Kabimba have destroyed the pact,” he said.
Mr Kalusa said in an interview in Ndola on February 23 that Mr Sata does not like working with morally upright people like PF Kabwata member of Parliament Given Lubinda.
He said Mr Sata has no capacity to manage the affairs of the nation and warned Zambians against voting for him in this year’s elections.
Mr Kalusa said Mr Sata allegedly failed to initiate meaningful development when he served in various Cabinet portfolios.
He wondered why the PF leader has continued attacking Government on the development projects it is undertaking countrywide.
He described Mr Sata as a political joker who should not be trusted with the governance of the country.
“This is what we are saying that if the PF-UPND pact formed Government, we would all be fired in 10 seconds because Mr Sata is a dictator. These people in PF have sidelined Mr Lubinda, who is a hard-working man,” he said.
Mr Kalusa said Zambians will be making a big mistake if they vote for Mr Sata in this year’s general elections.
He said the UPND does not take Mr Sata seriously because he does not have leadership qualities.
“In the few months we have worked with the PF in the so-called pact, we have seen for ourselves the behaviour of these people in PF. Some of these people are dictators who will ruin the country if they are to be given an opportunity to be in office,” Mr Kalusa said.
Meanwhile, former Patriotic Front (PF) spokesperson Given Lubinda says Mr Sata has the right to appoint or drop anyone in the party, ZANGOSE CHAMBWA, reports.
Mr Sata has dropped Mr Lubinda as party spokesperson in preference to Wynter Kabimba in a move believed to be aimed at scuttling the pact between the PF and United Party for National Development.
Mr Lubinda confirmed to Radio Phoenix on February 23 that he has been dropped, but that he could not question the decision because Mr Sata has powers to make such changes.
Mr Sata and Mr Lubinda are said to have fallen out after the latter expressed interest to challenge for the party presidency, which is believed to be a preserve of the incumbent who is considered a patriarchal figure in PF.

UPND brand Sata ‘dictator’

Ex - LCM workers mob ‘investor’

By ALEX NJOVU

 

A JAPANESE journalist was on Sunday mobbed by scores of former Luanshya Copper Mines (LCM) workers who mistook him for an official from China Nonferrous Metal Mining Company Limited out to recruit workers.
LCM has been purchased by China Nonferrous Metal Company.
Tanaka Hiroshi, from Kyodo News in Japan, who was in Luanshya on a private visit, was mobbed by former miners near Roan Market demanding that he employs them.
A sea of frenzied former miners formed three long queues thinking Mr Tanaka was recruiting workers.
As former miners heard the story of the ‘investor’ being in their town, a number of them did compulsory sprints to join the queue.
Mr Tanaka’s explanation that he was a victim of mistaken identity yielded no results.
“I am not an employer,” a bewildered Mr Tanaka screamed as he backed away from the crowd.
The former miners, who claimed to be starving, followed Mr Tanaka whose disbelief turned into frustration.
After the former miners realised that Mr Tanaka was telling the truth, they demanded that he instead gives them some money ‘on humanitarian grounds’ so that they could buy food for their families.
Meanwhile, a former miner, John Mwape, said people in Luanshya are disappointed with some leaders who are allegedly against the Chinese investment into LCM.
“Our interest is to get our jobs back, and we are happy that any time (now), the new owners of LCM will move on the site. It does not matter where an investor comes from. What is important to us is their ability to manage the mine and provide jobs for the local people,” Mr Mwape said.
He said people in Luanshya are happy that Government has fulfilled its promise of finding an investor to take over LCM.
CNMC has promised to reopen Baluba Mine and develop Muliashi Project.
Government called for bids from various companies interested in revamping operations of LCM and received four bids out of which CNMC emerged as the successful bidder.

Police warn anarchists....

By  ALEX NJOVU

COMMISSIONER of Police Graphael Musamba has warned that police will deal with those who want to create anarchy in the country.
He was reacting to Change Life Zambia (CLZ) executive director Father Frank Bwalya who has called for countrywide demonstrations and acts of civil disobedience to demand alleged justice over the London High Court judgement against former President Frederick Chiluba, whose registration was thrown out by Judge Evans Hamaundu.
“Police will not tolerate any social anarchy created by misguided people. Whoever wants to disturb the peace and tranquility this nation is currently enjoying will face the wrath of the law,” he said.
Mr Musamba said police will dispense justice on anyone found wanting.
He appealed to those who are inciting people to demonstrate to stop it.
Mr Musamba appealed to members of the public to desist from acts of anarchy.
He urged peace-loving citizens to ignore those who want to create anarchy in the country.
“Members of the public should stay away from such misguided people, otherwise, the rule of law will be applied,” he said.
Fr Bwalya was quoted as having said that Government’s decision not to appeal against Judge Hamaundu’s decision to throw out the registration of the London High Court judgement against Dr Chiluba and others was allegedly a serious insult to Zambians.
President Banda has stated that Government respects the Lusaka High Court’s refusal to register the London court judgement on Dr Chiluba and his co-accused.
The London High Court found Dr Chiluba and seven others liable for the loss of about US$46 million public funds.
But the Court of Appeals in London threw out Judge Peter Smith’s ruling.
And the United Church of Zambia (UCZ) Copperbelt presbytery bishop Sydney Sichilima has condemned Fr Bwalya for calling for demonstrations and acts of civil disobedience over London High Court judgment against Dr Chiluba.
Bishop Sichilima said in an interview yesterday in Kitwe that it is wrong for some priests to agitate anarchy in communities.
He said it is shocking that some young priests are in the forefront of calling for countrywide demonstrations instead of preaching peace in the country.
“Personally, I’m disappointed that some priests can agitate countrywide demonstrations and acts of civil disobedience. Honestly, there should be some respect for the Judiciary in the country. Let’s start respecting the decisions of our courts instead of insulting them.
“In my view, there is no need for anyone especially for a priest to start calling for the so called peaceful countrywide demonstrations, for what purpose and who is going to benefit,” Bishop Sichilima said.
He urged Fr Bwalya to desist from calling for activities which can cause confusion in various communities in the country.
Bishop Sichilima said Christians must not spearhead activities which can divide the nation.
He urged Christians to engage Government in meaningful dialogue instead of calling for activities that can fuel violence in communities.
Bishop Sichilima said men of God have the responsibility of ensuring that there is peace in communities and that Christians must always ensure that people live in harmony with each other.
“As men of God, we must be role models to communities including to those we think we don’t share the same views with on different things. Where is the spirit of dialogue in us as men of God and above all, Christians? We must not forget that some people can take advantage of the same peaceful demonstrations to fuel confusion and cause anarchy in the country.

“The UCZ will not be part of activities aimed at bringing confusion in the country because the God we serve is the God of order and he demands that where there are Christians or his children there should always be order and peace,” he said.

State cautions LCM

By ALEX NJOVU

GOVERNMENT has cautioned Luanshya Copper Mines (LCM) against making premature statements on the viability and future of mines in Luanshya, considering that they have pulled out.
And Government has commended Chambishi Metals for efforts towards reinstating 600 out of the 900 miners that had lost jobs when the mine in Kalulushi was closed.
Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Maxwell Mwale said in an interview yesterday that LCM management should let would-be investors make independent assessments instead of scaring them away even before they inspect the mines.
He was reacting to a statement by LCM chief executive officer, Derek Webbstock, who on Saturday said the future of Luanshya Mines was in Muliashi and not Baluba.
“I have a lot of respect for LCM chief executive officer, Derek Webbstock, as a professional, but it worries us when he starts making premature statements on the future of mines in Luanshya.
“Such an issue should be left to would-be investors because they will carry out their own independent assessment,” Mr Mwale said.
The minister said Government was uncomfortable with statements that could scare away investors.
Mr Webbstock had said the new investor would need subsidies of about US$5 million a month to keep LCM afloat, given the prevailing metal prices and other economic factors.
He said no investor could run the mine profitably at the prevailing economic conditions unless their operations were subsidised.
And Mr Mwale said Government was happy that Chambishi Metals had shown interest in re-opening the closed mine.
“That is good news from Chambishi Metals and as Government, we are interested in making sure that our people continue having jobs,” Mr Mwale said.
This follows Mr Webbstock’s announcement that about 600 miners out of the 900 who lost their jobs after the closure of Chambishi Metals would be reinstated following successful talks to reopen the mine in two months time.
Chambishi Metals is a sister company of LCM.
And Patriotic Front Roan member of Parliament, Chishimba Kambwili has dispelled assertions by Mr Webbstock that Baluba Mine was not viable.
Mr Kambwili said LCM should be sincere with the state of Baluba Mine, which they operated from the time they bought the mines.
“I totally disagree with Webbstock because his statement is not true and my advice to him is to leave such statements to would-be investors since LCM has now pulled out of the mines.
“I can assure you that the mines in Luanshya still have reasonable life span and can be viable,” Mr Kambwili said.
Meanwhile, the Mineworkers Union of Zambia (MUZ) has welcomed the move by Chambishi Metals to re-engage retrenched workers when the mine resumes operations.
MUZ general secretary, Oswell Munyenyembe, commended the mine management for working towards easing the suffering of miners in Kalulushi.
He said the union was happy that Chambishi Metals management was concerned with the welfare of miners.
Mr Munyenyembe said the mine’s management had been transparent in conducting its activities since the mine was placed under care and maintenance.
He urged the mine management to retain all the 900 workers.
And Mr Munyenyembe urged opposition political parties to work with Government in finding solutions to problems affecting the mining sector.
He said the situation in the mining sector was beyond petty politics and that it was important that all stakeholders worked together to find solutions.
“We don’t need to politicise what is happening in the mining sector. They (opposition parties) should work with Government in addressing problems for the benefit of the people.
“Government has been working hard to find suitable investors to take over operations of mines which were closed. We are happy that Government has continued showing commitment to addressing the crisis in the mining sector,” he said.

2 differ over Local Government Service Commission

By ALEX NJOVU

 
TWO local government organisations have differed over Government’s directive to suspend staff recruitments in councils until a staff commission is established.

The Local Government Association of Zambia (LGAZ) and the Zambia United Local Authorities Workers Union (ZULAWU) on Wednesday differed over staff recruitments in councils and the establishment of a Local Government Service Commission.
While the LGAZ has urged government to rescind its decision to suspend the recruitment of staff in councils until the National Constitutional Conference (NCC) completes deliberations on the recommendation, ZULAWU has welcomed the suspension.
LGAZ president, Charles Mumena, said this in a statement issued in Lusaka yesterday.
Mr Mumena said staff appointments in councils were a matter for discussion by the NCC because they were part of the recommendations in the draft Constitution.
“In this regard, it is our considered view that the instruction is prejudicial to the deliberations of the NCC as this portrays government’s position on the matter,” he said.
Mr Mumena said it was necessary for the NCC to deal with the matter objectively without being influenced in any way.
“Let it be appreciated, however, that downward accountability of the local authorities’ officials is an essential ingredient of local democracy and good governance,” he said.
Government has suspended the recruitment of staff in all councils in the country.
This is according to a circular issued by Ministry of Local Government and Housing permanent secretary, Joe Ngo, which is addressed to all council secretaries and town clerks.
The directive follows the re-introduction of the Local Government Service Commission, which will be responsible for staff recruitment in councils.
But ZULAWU president Gladson Chunga said the decision was long overdue and that it would go a long way in enhancing development in councils.
Mr Chunga said in an interview in Ndola yesterday that it was important for a commission to be established so that it could be responsible for staff recruitment in councils.
He hoped that government would move quickly to introduce the commission so that it could start its operations.
“We welcome the re-introduction of the Local Government Service Commission that will be responsible for recruitment of staff in all councils in the country,” Mr Chunga said.
He called on local authorities countrywide to support the Local Government Service Commission once established.

Local court dissolves 14-year-old marriage, husband still loves the wife

 

By ALEX NJOVU

A MAN pleaded with a local court not to dissolve his 14-year-old marriage promising that he would stop abusing his wife and be a responsible husband.
Doubt Mansello, 40, of Chibuluma township in Kalulushi told the Boma local court in Kitwe that he still loves his wife, Mary Mwape, and that he would change for the better to save his embattled marriage.
Mansello also said that he did not want his three children to suffer as a consequence of the court dissolving the marriage.
He said this in a case in which Mwape, of Kandambwe township in Kitwe, sued him for divorce.
“I still love my wife very much and I don’t have intentions of leaving her. I don’t want my children to suffer if the court dissolves the marriage. I am ready to change for the better,” he said.
Mansello and Mwape, 32, got married in 1997 through customary marriage.
In her statement, Mwape told the court that she has lost interest in her wayward husband and that she has made up her mind to divorce him.
She said Mansello drinks heavily and that he beats her at any slightest mistake.
Mwape said her husband is an irresponsible man who is insensitive to her needs.
“He does not stay at home. He goes out for months. At one time he went away for a year. What kind of a marriage is that? As a married woman, I have certain needs that can only be attended to by my husband but he is not at home. When he comes home, he would often be drunk and he would start beating me. He does not leave food for his children,” Mwape said.
She said she has known no peace in her marriage because of her husband’s irresponsibility.
“He gets the household goods and gives them to his parents, leaving our house like a play ground,” she said.
In his ruling, Kitwe Boma local court senior magistrate Ackson Mukala noted that Mansello is a troublesome man who has allegedly refused to change for the better.
“This is not the first time you are coming to court. We gave you an opportunity to change but you have remained the same. You are troubling your family,” he said.
The court dissolved the marriage and ordered that Mansello pays Mwape K6 million as compensation in monthly instalments of K200,000.
Magistrate Mukala also warned Mansello against neglecting his children, saying Government is concerned about cases of street kids.
“Make sure you take care of your children that you brought on earth. There are some stepmothers that are not good. There are some people who have lived many years in marriages without children but God gave you children. You need to look after them well,” magistrate Mukala said.

Pact crisis deepens

By ALEX NJOVU

 THE crisis in the PF-UPND pact has deepened after a working group representing the two parties yesterday failed to stop local government candidates standing against each other in Kaoma and Chadiza.

A PF-UPND pact working group failed to resolve the impasse and has since referred the matter to the Joint National Council (JNC) to be chaired by the presidents of the two parties.

The latest development is a confirmation of serious cracks in the pact whose grassroots members have insisted that the ‘marriage of convenience’ is a cosmetic feature sanctioned by the two party leaders and without the blessing of the general membership.

Speaking at a joint press briefing at the UPND secretariat in Lusaka yesterday, PF spokesperson Given Lubinda said the working group, comprising members from the two parties, met to try to resolve the crisis and reached a consensus that the parties do not withdraw the candidates participating in the by-elections.

Mr Lubinda, who is Kabwata PF MP, said although the working group reached a consensus of not withdrawing the candidates, the JNC will still meet to decide on the matter.

He said the working group decided to allow the two candidates to participate in the by-elections because withdrawing them could have created problems in the pact.

Mr Lubinda said fielding of two candidates in the Kaoma Central and Chadiza was as a result of an administrative problem which came about as a result of the failure by the pact to create guidelines on which ticket to field a candidate at ward and constituency level.

He denied that there are cracks in the PF-UPND pact, adding that it is still strong and intact.
“We have decided to hold this joint press briefing to inform the nation that the working group of the pact has been meeting since the incidences in Kaoma and Chadiza happened. Our meetings have been cordial and enabled us to investigate what happened.

“We have established that things happened by mistake and the working group regrets that mistake which arose because the working group did not meet to allocate the wards in Kaoma and Chadiza,” Mr Lubinda said.

Mr Lubinda said following the Kaoma and Chadiza impasse, the working group has resolved to meet regularly to decide on which party ticket to field a candidate at ward and constituency level.

He said what happened in the Kaoma and Chadiza elections has taught the pact a lesson and that it is not a political interference from either the PF or UPND but a mere administrative mistake.
Meanwhile, former UPND vice-president Bob Sichinga has observed that the foundation of the PF-UPND pact is weak.

Mr Sichinga said there is need for pact officials to work towards taking their partnership to the people at the grass root.

He said in an interview yesterday in Kitwe that Zambians must not just ask for change of government but that they must demand progress in terms of developing the country.

“The foundation of the pact is weak. What the pact needs is to have more than expectation of unseating the MMD government. Some people at the grassroots don’t know the operations of the pact,” he said.

Mr Sichinga, who is former UPND Kafue member of Parliament, said he is hopeful that the leaders of the pact will resolve the problems surrounding their partnership.

He said other political parties may take advantage of the cracks in the pact to advance their aspirations.
Mr Sichinga, however, said that the pact must work in the interest of the country.

And speaking during his presentation at a Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR) workshop in Kitwe yesterday, Mr Sichinga said it is unfortunate that some people are cheating Zambians that they will give them money without explaining where they will get it from.

He implored the electorate to ask Presidential hopefuls what they will do differently that the MMD government has failed to do.
Mr Sichinga said it is important to tell Zambians the truth and work towards improving their living standards.

And Economics Association of Zambia national secretary Isaac Ngoma called on the media and civil society groups to work together in fighting poverty, especially in rural areas.

Mr Ngoma said the media and the civil society organisations must form a pact with a view to monitoring the budget process and stemming poverty levels.

Meanwhile, UPND Namwala member of Parliament Robbie Chizyuka has described the MMD as a natural ally of the UPND and that it would be wise for his party members to vote for President Banda in next year’s elections.

Major Chizyuka has further described his party president Hakainde Hichilema as a power-hungry, visionless and politically incompetent man who should be hounded out of the UPND.

He said it will be wise for the UPND to abandon the pact, adding that the PF wants to ride on the back of the UPND to gain mileage.

Major Chizyuka accused PF leader Michael Sata of having used the UPND to gain support and create structures where his party is not popular.

Major Chizyuka said his call for his party to support the MMD is not new, as the ruling party started requesting to work with the UPND as far back as 2001.

Pact crisis deepens

 

Pact crisis deepens

State launches drugs scam probe

 

By ALEX NJOVU

 
GOVERNMENT has instituted investigations into the alleged theft of essential drugs involving five Ministry of Health personnel.
Minister of Health Kapembwa Simbao disclosed in an interview on February 3 that five workers are under investigation for allegedly stealing drugs intended for distribution to public health institutions.
Mr Simbao said the investigations have reached an advanced stage.
The minister warned civil servants against stealing drugs meant for public health institutions.
“We are currently investigating five workers under the Ministry of Health for stealing drugs meant for distribution to public health institutions. Some of these workers are distribution officers. As a ministry and Government, we don’t encourage pilferage and those involved will be dealt with severely,” he said.
Mr Simbao warned that the civil servants allegedly creating an artificial shortage of essential drugs will be prosecuted.
He said Government is disappointed with revelations by the Health Workers Union of Zambia (HWUZ) that some civil servants are allegedly creating an artificial shortage of essential drugs in a bid to discredit Government.
"We would like to tell the civil servants who are involved in these illegal activities that they will not succeed in discrediting the MMD government because every Zambian knows that President Banda has performed very well in the period he has been in office."
"They will be embarrassed at the end of the day because President Banda is enjoying massive support from Zambians within and outside the country," he said.
He said the government under President Banda's leadership is developing all parts of the country.
He advised civil servants to desist from engaging in illegal activities that are detrimental to national development.
Mr Simbao said Government will continue working towards developing the country.
He warned that Government will discipline civil servants who are frustrating its development agenda.
Mr Simbao said it is inhuman for some civil servants to create an artificial shortage of drugs in an effort to discredit Government.
"Such people must not even exist… It is wrong and everyone must condemn them for their selfishness. I have very good news for them that we have drugs in our institutions. I have just visited six to seven clinics and they all have drugs but let me warn again that those that will be caught pilfering drugs will be dismissed and will be taken to court to face the law for their acts," Mr Simbao said.
He commended HWUZ officials for supporting Government in its efforts to provide quality health care.

Mine suppliers thank Rupiah

By ALEX NJOVU

 
THE Mine Suppliers and Contractors Association of Zambia (MSCAZ) has commended President Banda for being concerned about the problems facing its members when dealing with some mining companies.
And the Chamber of Mines says it is important for mining companies to pay suppliers and contractors for the services they render to them.
MSCAZ president Fanuel Banda said in an interview in Kitwe yesterday that members of his organisation are happy that President Banda has demonstrated his commitment to efforts aimed at addressing some of the challenges facing suppliers and contractors in the country.
“We are very happy that the President is concerned about our welfare, especially the problems that we are encountering when collecting our money after delivering goods and services to mining houses,” he said.
Mr Banda said President Banda has always been concerned about the problems facing Zambians in general.
“Our members have not been paid for five months now by some mining companies and their businesses have been affected negatively. Mining companies are not supposed to delay paying us, especially when we provide them with the goods and services.
“We are also disappointed that it had to take the head of State to talk about this issue when it could have been easily addressed by the people responsible. President Banda is a busy man and we appreciate very much that he is concerned about our problems,” he said.
Mr Banda called on the mining companies to pay members of his organisation in good time so that their businesses are not negatively affected.
He said the businesses of some suppliers and contractors are being affected negatively because of the delays by mine owners to pay them in good time.
Mr Banda said President Banda’s government has continued implementing polices aimed at fostering development in the mining sector.
He said he hoped that the mine owners will work towards resolving the problems facing suppliers and contractors without being pushed.
Mr Banda said mine owners have an obligation to pay the suppliers and contractors when the services and goods are delivered.
“We are happy that the mining sector has continued to grow and doing well, and we would like to commend the government of President Banda for the policies it is putting in place to develop the sector,” he said.
And Chamber of Mines general manager Fred Bantubonse said President Banda is right in advising mine owners to ensure that suppliers are paid in good time to avoid delays which negatively affect their businesses.
“The President is absolutely right and it is just fair that suppliers are paid for the job they do and on time. However, it is not every mine that delays to pay the suppliers. But all in all, it is important that people are given money for the services they provide to mining houses for their businesses to continue growing,” Mr Bantubonse said.
When commissioning the first phase of the US$1. 6 billion Konkola Deep Mining Project (KDMP) and smelter, President Banda urged mine owners to ensure mine suppliers are paid in good time to avoid delays, which negatively affect their businesses.
President Banda said mine owners and mine suppliers should forge a good working relationship so that the mining sector can continue to grow in harmony.
And Mr Bantubonse said the KDMP is one of the projects which will contribute positively to the growth of the mining industry in the country.
“This is one of the projects that we have been pushing for, and we are happy that finally, it has been launched. This means increased copper production and I hope at a low cost,” Mr Bantubonse said.
He said Chamber of Mines officials are happy that the mining sector has continued recording growth, which he said is important to the development of the country.
Mr Bantubonse said various investments taking place in the mining sector are contributing to the reduction of unemployment.
The investment at KDMP is expected to create over 1,000 jobs.
Mr Bantubonse commended Government for the efforts it is making in enhancing development in the mining industry.
“We are extremely happy that the mining sector has continued recording growth that is impacting positively on the development of our economy. Things are working and we also want to thank the government for the role it is playing in fostering development in the mining sector,” he said.
Mr Bantubonse said the KDMP is the future of Zambian mining and that millions of tonnes of copper ore will be produced to contribute to the country’s economy.
He said the project will also help increase business opportunities for local suppliers.
Mr Bantubonse said several Zambians will benefit in various ways from the project, which will be adding value to production.

RB wins kudos over clinics upgrade

By ALEX NJOVU

 

MEDICAL bodies and other institutions have welcomed President Banda and Government’s decision to upgrade five clinics in Lusaka to first level hospitals.

Health Professionals Council of Zambia registrar Mary Zulu said in an interview yesterday that the upgrading of clinics is a positive development because there has not been a first level hospital in Lusaka until now.

Dr Zulu said all serious medical cases were previously referred to the University Teaching Hospital (UTH), which is a third level hospital.

The five clinics that have been upgraded to level one hospitals at a cost of K65 billion are in Chawama, Kanyama, Chilenje, Matero, and Chipata townships.

“This move will decongest UTH and allow patients to be treated in a conducive environment. It is also in line with the health sector vision of providing health care close to the communities,” she said.

Zambia Medical Association president Maureen Chisembele said in a separate interview that government must be congratulated for upgrading the clinics.

She said the people of Zambia have been given hope of better health care facilities in their localities.
She said government must now ensure that it provides the necessary staff to manage these hospitals.

Health Workers Union of Zambia (HWUZ) general secretary Lewis Mukosha has commended President Banda for his personal effort in the development of the health sector in the country.

Mr Mukosha said in an interview in Ndola yesterday that President Banda should be commended for his personal efforts in the development of the health sector.

He said under President Banda several health facilities have been built countrywide and that people are able to access medical attention at their doorsteps.

Mr Mukosha said his union is happy that government has continued working towards developing the health sector by taking facilities closer to the people.

“We are very happy that the government under the leadership of President Banda has made tremendous strides in development. Clinics and other health facilities have been built in all the rural areas of the country.

Our people are accessing medical facilities without problems. Our main worry is that we are facing a shortage of staff in the health sector. We need government to train more personnel,” he said.

Mr Mukosha said President Banda has demonstrated his commitment to addressing problems facing Zambians in various sectors.

The Human Rights Commission says it is pleased with President Banda’s commitment to improving health care delivery and the right to health of many Zambians.

Commission chairperson Pixie Yangailo said in a statement issued in Lusaka yesterday that the right to health and health care services are cardinal to social services for the people.

Ms Yangailo’s comment comes following President Banda’s announcement that Government is constructing 26 district hospitals including the Lusaka General Hospital.

“His Excellency President Rupiah Banda and his Government should be commended for the positive developments and the commission encourages Government not to relent in improving the much needed social services for the people,” she said.

Ms Yangailo said the developments indicate that Government is fulfilling its obligations under the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights.

Zambia acceded to the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights in 1984.

Ms Yangailo said the fulfillment of the right to
health is one of Government’s most solemn obligations.
She said the commission is gratified to see that such an important right is increasingly becoming a reality for the people of Zambia.

Ms Yangailo said the commission is pleased with the reported construction of 26 hospitals countrywide, including the upgrading of some clinics in Lusaka to fully fledged hospitals.

She said the commission notes that there are still many challenges ahead with the current commitment exhibited by Government.

Civil Servants Union of Zambia general secretary Darrison Chaala said government must ensure that all the five hospitals are equipped with modern equipment relevant to a first level health institution.

He said there are a number of specialised health workers who are not utilising their skills when they report for work because some health institutions do not have equipment.

“Government should be commended for coning up with this idea. Government must also endure that the pharmacies in these clinics are fully stocked at any given time,” he said.

Mr Chaala said health workers should be given good incentives to work with zeal and in turn continue to save lives of Zambians.

On Wednesday, President Banda said government has spent K65 billion on converting the five clinics in Lusaka to first level hospitals because it is fulfilling promises of providing better health care for all.

Mr Banda said this when he commissioned the new theatre at Chawama first level hospital.

He said because of Government’s commitment to providing quality healthcare close to families, it embarked on the ambitious task of converting the clinics into hospitals.

The first level hospitals will now handle almost all operations including caesarean sections, cleaning of injuries, and draining of abscesses, which were previously conducted at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH).

He said eight of the hospitals under construction, including the one in Lusaka, will be completed this year.

MMD reprieves 3 Kitwe councilors

By ALEX NJOVU

 
THE MMD in Kitwe has lifted the suspension of three councillors who were banned from the ruling party for alleged gross misconduct after they went against the ruling party’s directives to contest the position of mayor.
MMD Kitwe district chairman George Lungu said in an interview in Kitwe that the MMD lifted the suspension of the three councillors after they apologised to the party.
The councillors who were suspended included Margaret Daka of Kamakonde ward, Florence Soper of Limaposa ward and Vincent Chibeka of Kawama ward while those that were reprimanded are James Mwale of Itimpi ward, Protasio Mwamba of Kamfinsa ward, Abinala Mumba of Chantente ward and Robert Chalungumana of Zamtan ward.
Mr Lungu said the councillors asked for forgiveness and vowed that they will never go against any instructions from the ruling party.
“We had a fruitful meeting where the councillors that we had suspended and those we reprimanded wrote letters of apology and regretted their action. They told us that they will never disobey any party instructions which are aimed at strengthening our party,” Mr Lungu said.
He said the party decided to pardon the councillors in an effort to enhance unity in the ruling party.
Mr Lungu said the party instructed its councillors to contest the mayoral position in order to take advantage of the division among the opposition PF councillors, but that the MMD councillors decided to ignore the directive.
He said the party was sure that if Mr Mwale had contested the mayoral position, he would have won the election because some Patriotic Front councillors were not in support of the names of councillors who were floated by the opposition party.
“There were a lot of politics within PF over the mayoral elections and so if our councillor had decided to contest the position of mayor, some PF councillors could have easily voted for him and he would have scooped the position. It is now a closed book, we are working in harmony and everyone is happy because we are a peaceful political party. If your friend says sorry, it is just fair enough to forgive them just as God Himself forgives us everyday,” Mr Lungu said.

Anglicans disown priest

 

By ALEX NJOVU

 

THE Zambia Anglican Council (ZAC) says Anglican priest Richard Luonde’s association with the red card campaign does not represent its position.
The church has also dismissed Father Luonde’s insinuations that it has no good working relations with the government.
ZAC general secretary Rogers Banda said his church has distanced itself from the pronouncements attributed to Fr Luonde of Kitwe in the press yesterday.
Reverend Banda said Fr Luonde’s statement should be considered as his personal views, and not of the Anglican Church in Zambia.
Fr Luonde was quoted as calling on Zambians to continue flashing red cards at President Banda and the MMD government for allegedly failing the nation.
“The church has a good working relationship with the government of the day, as recently witnessed by the presence of President Banda as guest of honour at the National Centenary Celebrations church service at the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross on 31st October, 2010.
“The celebrations were also attended by His Honour the Vice-President, George Kunda, first President Dr K D Kaunda, and the second President, Dr F T J Chiluba. This testifies the good and cordial working relationship the church has with the government,” Rev Banda said.
He said being a democratic country, Zambia holds elections for people to choose their leaders, and not through the red card campaigns.
“The Zambia Anglican Council believes that elections are the only constitutional means available.
Ultimately, we stand by the teaching in the Scriptures that all leaders are chosen by God, Romans 13:1. Therefore, our role is to pray for them to lead the country with wisdom, 1 Timothy 2:1-2. It is not our role to select leaders on behalf of the people,” Rev Banda said.