Power News Network

GOVT URGES ARCHITECTS TO ADDRESS CLIMATE CHANGE CHALLENGES

Government has emphasized the importance of architects incorporating climate change considerations into their designs in order to tackle rising temperatures, droughts and floods.

Minister of Green Economy, Collins Nzovu, has since urged them to develop climate-resilient buildings and structures that can withstand the challenges presented by climate change.

Speaking when he graced the inaugural Built Environment Zambia Awards, organised by Zambia Institute of Architects and Micmar Zambia, a hardware company in Lusaka last evening, Mr Nzovu highlighted the government's commitment to supporting architects in this endeavor.

He announced that opportunities for architects would be provided through various projects funded by the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Mr Nzovu added that government aims to empower local construction companies, provided they deliver high-quality work.

He said such initiatives will not only contribute to the growth of the national economy but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of Zambia through the construction of infrastructure.

At the same event, Zambia Institute of Architects President Fidelis Kabwiri called for greater recognition of local architects who have been instrumental in shaping the urban landscape of the country.

Speaking earlier, Micmar Marketing & Communications Manager Mufuka Samukonga said the event was aimed at recognizing and celebrating the best in architectural innovation in order to inspire and motivate architects to continue pushing the boundaries of design and creating spaces that enhance the quality of life for all Zambians.

The event showcased outstanding projects within various categories, recognizing the visionaries who have made significant contributions to Zambia's urban landscape.

The projects ranged from residential buildings and commercial spaces to sustainable designs and community-focused initiatives.

GOVT URGED TO AMEND PUBLIC ORDER ACT

The opposition Leadership Movement, through its Secretary General Jairos Ngoma, has strongly advised the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government to take immediate steps to amend the P***c Order Act.

Mr. Ngoma has emphasized that without amendments, the new dawn government will inevitably face regret when they eventually relinquish power, as the act will work against them.

Drawing attention to the Patriotic Front, Mr. Ngoma highlights their missed opportunity to bring about necessary changes to the public order act, noting that now, the former ruling party is experiencing the consequences of failing to amend it.

He said this serves as a cautionary example for the UPND, reminding them that they too will not remain in power indefinitely.

Addressing a media briefing in Lusaka, Mr Ngoma said it is therefore essential for the UPND to prioritize the desires and aspirations of the people by addressing the shortcomings of the current act.

According to Mr. Ngoma, the existing public order act heavily favors the ruling party while imposing restrictions on opposition gatherings.

He said this imbalance in favor of the ruling party raises concerns about the fairness and democracy of the political system.

Mr Ngoma has since urged the new dawn administration to heed their advice and embark on amending the public order act, saying doing so will ensure that the government avoids future regrets, upholds democratic principles, and promotes a more balanced political environment that respects the rights and freedoms of all parties involved.

CHOPPIES LAUNCHES BIGGEST ANNUAL PROMOTION

Choppies Supermarkets Limited has launched its biggest annual promotion, known as the Big Birthday Bonanza, in which they will be giving away 10 brand new Hyundai Grand i10s as grand prizes to some lucky customers.

The promotion runs until the 14th of January 2024.

In addition to the cars, customers who choose to shop at Choppies - Zambia will also have the chance to win weekly shopping vouchers and hampers worthy K500.

Speaking during the launch of the campaign held in Lusaka today, Choppies Marketing Manager, Mwansa Fundafunda said the promotion is aimed at showing appreciation to their loyal customers.

He further emphasized that the 9th edition of this promotion is bigger and better than ever before.

As part of their marketing strategy to increase media awareness and participation in the birthday promotion, Choppies has enlisted renowned rapper Cleo Ice as their Brand Ambassador.

During the same event, representatives from one of Choppies' suppliers, Yoyo Foods Limited, expressed their gratitude to Choppies for their collaboration with local suppliers.

Victor Fonseca, the Company's Key Accounts and Export Manager, said the partnership has strengthened their existing business relationship.

HH TO MEET WITH CATHOLIC BISHOPS TO SEEK SOLUTIONS FOR ZAMBIA

Republican President Hakainde Hichilema has expressed his willingness to engage in constructive dialogue with the Catholic Bishops, aiming to find common ground and address the pressing issues affecting the nation.

In a recent pastoral letter, the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) highlighted various concerns that the Church believes are impacting the country's well-being.

The concerns outlined in the pastoral letter include the weakening of democratic institutions, alleged human rights abuses, and the economic challenges faced by the Zambian people.

These issues have caught the attention of the government, and Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa emphasized their determination to listen to the Church's concerns and actively work towards finding sustainable solutions for the betterment of the nation.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lusaka today, Mr. Mweetwa underlined the government's belief in the power of communication and engagement to bridge differences and ensure the welfare of citizens.

He said the proposed meeting with the Catholic Bishops is a positive step towards addressing the concerns raised in the pastoral letter

Mr. Mweetwa also assured the nation that once the meeting date is set, the public will be duly informed.

KENNY TONGA WINS TELEVISION INNOVATION AWARD

Powerhouse Media Group Executive President Kenny Tonga emerged as the recipient of the esteemed Leadership Excellence Award for television innovation at a prestigious event held at the Taj Pamodzi hotel in Lusaka last evening.

This recognition serves as a testament to Mr. Tonga's exceptional leadership skills and his significant impact on the industry.

With his visionary approach, he has led the establishment and success of Power TV Zambia.

Organized by KBN TV, the 2023 Leadership Excellence Awards honored several distinguished individuals who have excelled in their respective fields.

Among the notable winners was Zambia's former ambassador to the United States of America, Brussels, and the European Union, Dr. Inonge Mbikusita Lewanika, who received the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award for her exceptional accomplishments throughout her career.

Lady Norena, the Founder of KUPES Young Womens Network , was honored with the Young Women Empowerment award, recognizing her relentless dedication towards empowering young women in the society.

Additionally, the Legal category saw Prominent Lusaka Lawyer Makebi Zulu securing the award, while the Manufacturing business category acknowledged the outstanding achievements of Trade Kings Group and Chief Executive Officer, Iqbal Patel.

In the realm of public service, Professor Tackson Lambert, a distinguished surgeon who has served Zambia for many years, was recognized with the Public Service award.

The event also celebrated excellence in medicine, with Dr. Mujajati Aaron earning the Leadership Excellence award in this field.

Furthermore, Emmanuel Nkole, the Chief Executive Officer of Young Phiroz, was named Entrepreneur of the year, acknowledging his remarkable achievements and entrepreneurial spirit.

Bruce Mwape, the coach of the Copper Queens, received prestigious recognition under the sports category for his exceptional contributions to the field.

The Inaugural Leadership Excellence Awards serve as a platform to celebrate and honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions in their respective domains, uplifting Zambia's society and exemplifying excellence in their leadership roles.

Police Summon Given Lubinda

TRADE KINGS SUPPORTS 2023 INAUGURAL MANUFACTURERS MONTH

Trade Kings Group has injected K200,000 into the 12th Inaugural Manufacturers Month, being organized by the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM)

This month-long event serves as a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration between Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and large corporations.

Speaking during a media briefing held at the Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone on Monday, Bridget Kambobe, the Group's Public Relations Manager, expressed the company's commitment to contributing to the overall economic development of Zambia and the region.

Ms Kambobe emphasized that Trade Kings' support for the Manufacturers Month stems from their vision of inclusive growth, ensuring that no one is left behind.

She said the event aims to empower local businesses, promote sustainable growth, and foster a collaborative environment among manufacturers.

Ms Kambobe added that the Manufacturers Month will also promote the culture of corporate social responsibility within the manufacturing industry while showcasing locally high-quality produced goods and services.

As part of the activities, the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) will be organizing a gala dinner, and awards ceremony to celebrate and recognize the achievements of outstanding manufacturers.

ZAM President, Ashu Sagar, expressed gratitude to Trade Kings Group for their significant support, acknowledging the positive impact it will have on the success of the event.

Mr Sagar further encouraged Zambians to embrace the Proudly Zambian campaign by buying local products in order to create more jobs and grow the country's economy.

The event that will run up to November 24, 2023 will be held under the theme: “Catalyzing Value Chain for Sustainable growth; Leaving no one Behind”.

GVT PLEDGES TO REVIEW TEVETA ACT

Government has announced its commitment to reviewing the TEVETA ACT in order to facilitate the transformation of Evelyn Hone College into a polytechnic university college, in line with the college's strategic plan. This endeavor is already underway.

Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati said in a speech read on his behalf by Permanent Secretary Brilliant Habenzu during the 56th graduation ceremony of Evelyn Hone College on Friday, which coincided with its 60th-anniversary diamond jubilee celebrations.

He highlighted the importance of the institution operating effectively and expressed the government's satisfaction with the various innovations being implemented by the college.

Mr. Mutati acknowledged the numerous achievements of the college throughout its 60-year history. However, he also acknowledged the challenges the institution currently faces, such as a shortage of classrooms, science and computer laboratories, limited boarding facilities, and the need to improve staff compensation.

During the same event, Cephas Chabu, the principal of Evelyn Hone College, reported a higher proportion of female students compared to male students. He mentioned that the college has implemented an aggressive marketing campaign to attract both school leavers and non-school leavers to acquire relevant skills.

The principal implored the graduates to become ambassadors of Evelyn Hone College, emphasizing the importance of applying their knowledge and maintaining integrity. Mr. Chabu expressed gratitude to the sponsors of the graduation ceremony and the government.

Additionally, Dr. Daniel Chunga, the chairperson of the Evelyn Hone College board, ensured their commitment to supporting the college's management and staff.

Dr. Chunga encouraged students to foster innovation and urged them not to solely rely on formal employment opportunities.

During the vote of thanks, graduate Bernard Nkweto acknowledged the collective effort that was required for the students to graduate.

He emphasized that the college has produced many outstanding individuals and urged his fellow graduates to utilize the knowledge and skills they acquired.

Mr Nkweto also encouraged them to take advantage of the constituency development fund (CDF) and embrace entrepreneurship, as not all graduates will secure formal employment.

The 56th Evelyn Hone College graduation was held under the theme " Celebrating 60 years of quality training the skills, entrepreneurship and innovation for accelerated national development".

PF DECLARES WAR ON MILES SAMPA

The opposition Patriotic Front (PF) has declared war on Miles Sampa, the Member of Parliament for Matero constituency.

The party has since expelled Mr Sampa from the PF.

In response to this declaration, the Lusaka High Court has granted an injunction to the PF, preventing Mr Sampa from masquerading as a member of the party or assuming any leadership position within it.

Acting as the President for the PF, Given Lubinda addressed journalists in Lusaka, expressing his concern over the recent election of Mr Sampa as Party President.

He argued that this election was illegal; questioning why state police had provided security for an event that violated party rules and regulations.

According to Mr Lubinda, the extraordinary general conference at which Mr Sampa was elected as president was deemed illegal because the Matero Lawmaker was under suspension and lacked the authority to call for such a conference.

He further urged Mr Sampa to return all party resources that were utilized during his campaigns.

He also issued a stern warning to PF members who had attended the conference, urging them to apologize to the party's secretary general for their participation or face disciplinary consequences.

Mr Lubinda said the PF is determined to uphold party integrity and discipline within its ranks.

BIOMEDICAL SOCIETY OF ZAMBIA PUSHES FOR BETTER INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT

The Biomedical Society of Zambia has called for increased investment in infrastructure to improve the accuracy and reliability of laboratory tests.

Society President Mutale Mubanga emphasized the importance of having state-of-the-art facilities that meet international standards, which will strengthen the country's healthcare system.

With more than 70% of medical decisions relying on laboratory testing, Mr. Mubanga highlighted the crucial role that quality laboratories play in making correct medical decisions and responding to disease outbreaks effectively.

In addition to infrastructure investment, Mr Mubanga urged the government to expedite the procurement process for essential reagents and consumables, ensuring preparedness for potential emergencies.

Mr. Mubanga also emphasized the need to employ more biomedical scientists and laboratory professionals.

He was speaking to journalists Monday on the sidelines of the Laboratory Quality Assurance Workshop in Lusaka, which has brought together experts and participants from France, Germany, South Africa, Australia, and Zambia.

Over 20 public and private laboratories have gathered to discuss strategies for enhancing the accuracy of laboratory testing, ultimately improving medical decisions and disease outbreak responses.

BETWAY COMMITS K10 MILLION ANNUALLY TO ELEVATE MEN'S SUPER LEAGUE

Betway Zambia and the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) have announced a strategic partnership aimed at elevating Zambian football.

The collaboration between these two entities will focus on fostering healthy competition, nurturing talent, and enhancing infrastructure within the country.

During a press conference held in Lusaka on Thursday, the Chief Operations Officer of Betway Zambia, Trevis Mulenga, revealed that the betting company will be injecting a substantial amount of K10 million into supporting the men's Super League.

He said this investment will be made annually, with the aim of promoting the growth and development of Zambian football.

The partnership has received commendation from the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts with the Permanent Secretary, Kangwe Chileshe, expressing satisfaction and gratitude towards the initiative.

Chileshe emphasized that this collaboration has the potential to positively impact the economy, empower local communities, and elevate the overall sports sector in the country.

In addition to this, FAZ Vice President, Justin Mumba, called upon flagship companies across various provinces to contribute back to their communities by supporting local football at all levels, from grassroots to professional.

Mumba highlighted the significance of such investments in nurturing talent from the grassroots level and turning them into professionals who can contribute to the growth and success of Zambian football.

Shocking Incident: Young Girl Dragged Into Neighbor's Bedroom and Defiled in Kaunda Square

A 25-year-old man of Kaunda Square Stage Two is on the run after defiling a 7-year-old girl.

Police initial investigations indicate that the suspect who lives in the same neighbourhood with the victim, is alleged to have dragged her from outside where she was playing with his daughter into his bedroom.

Efforts by his daughter to rescue her friend failed and quickly she called the victim's grandmother who rushed and found him having canal knowledge of the girl.

The grandmother tried to apprehend the suspect but she was overpowered and he managed to escape.

The matter was reported to Police where a medical Report form was issued and the victim was rushed to the hospital.

The incident occurred yesterday around 14:00 hours at the suspect's house in Kaunda Square.

Deputy Police Public Relations Officer Danny Mwale said investigations are ongoing.

AFRINET SUPPORTS HH IN EFFORTS TO ADDRESS FUEL PRICING CONCERNS

The Inter-Africa Governance Network (AFRINET) has welcomed President Hakainde Hichilema's directive to interrogate the monthly review of fuel prices on the local market.

On Monday, President Hichilema instructed the newly appointed Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, Peter Mumba, to engage with stakeholders in order to halt the monthly review of fuel prices.

Maurice Malambo, the Executive Director of AFRINET has told Power News Network, that his organization has previously communicated with the government multiple times regarding the necessity of reverting to a minimum quarterly review of fuel prices.

He said this was conveyed through separate correspondence on September 5th, 2022, and September 3rd, 2023, addressed to the Ministers of Finance and Energy.

He said copies of these letters were also sent to President Hichilema and his relevant advisors.

Mr. Malambo has since urged all stakeholders to propose various options to the government regarding the issue of fuel prices.

He said the goal is to enhance the sense of predictability and stability in the economy.

"Therefore, as AFRINET we envisage that once the monthly review of the Petroleum Pump price is disengaged for a minimum quarterly review or more, in the second quarter of 2024, the prices of goods and services should stabilize and by the close of 2024, the cost of living should notably get on a downwards trajectory should all fundamentals remain relatively constant, " Mr Malambo explained.

Congratulations to Mr. Kenny Tonga, the Executive President of Power House Media Group on his appointment as TV Chairman of the Media Owners Association Of Zambia (MOAZ)! 📺

Your industry expertise promises a brighter future for TV media.

Best wishes for your journey ahead!

RTSA TO IMPOUND UNREGISTERED MOTOR VEHICLES

COPPERBELT CLERGY CALLS FOR NATIONAL INDABA ON COST OF LIVING

In light of the impending protests on the Copperbelt regarding the rising cost of living, Apostle Patrick Chibeshi has appealed to the youth not to participate in these demonstrations.

Instead, he has put forth the idea of convening a national indaba to address the various challenges currently facing the country such as the issue of high mealie meal prices, youth unemployment and rising fuel prices.

Recognizing the concerns and frustrations of the public, he has strongly discouraged the option of protests.

Speaking when he featured on Power FM’s Lunchtime News on Tuesday, Apostle Chibeshi has since emphasized the importance of peaceful dialogue and constructive engagement.

The Copperbelt clergyman believes that a national indaba, attended by stakeholders from across the country, can provide a platform for open discussions and the formulation of solutions that address the root causes of these challenges.

GOVERNMENT URGES UNIVERSITIES TO FOSTER JOB CREATION SKILLS IN STUDENTS

Government has emphasized the need for universities across the country to transform students into job creators rather than job seekers.

Minister of Education, Douglas Syakalima, explained that government wants higher learning institutions to be incubators of ideas that will help to stimulate economic growth and address pressing concerns facing the nation.

He stressed the significance of equipping students with knowledge and skills that directly contribute to tackling the different challenges hindering national progress.

During an Inter-University Debate Tournament organized by Texila American University Zambia in Lusaka, the Minister presented his views through a prepared speech delivered by Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary, Joe Kamoko.

Under the theme of "Health Challenges: Prioritizing and Addressing the Most Pressing Issues," Mr Syakalima highlighted the importance of universities providing education that is both timely and relevant.

He urged institutions to tailor their curricula and academic programs to align with the critical concerns affecting the country.

The Minister noted that by focusing on these pertinent matters, universities can play a vital role in producing graduates well-equipped to facilitate innovative solutions.

Mr Syakalima added that this approach to education will foster an entrepreneurial mindset among students, encouraging them to think creatively and proactively contribute to societal development.

He said beyond simply seeking employment, the government envisions a future where graduates actively establish their own ventures and generate employment opportunities for others.

He stated that by nurturing a culture of entrepreneurship and equipping students with industry-relevant knowledge, universities can become catalysts for positive transformation in the nation.

Lusaka Local Authority Urged to Enforce By-laws to Improve Hygiene and Infrastructure.

The Clean Cities Initiative (CCI) has appealed to property owners and all business owners in Lusaka to take advantage of the opportunity to clean up their surroundings before the start of the rainy season.

Nearly four months have passed since the Lusaka City Council, with support from the Local Government Ministry, removed street vendors from the Central Business District (CBD), and the ministerial directive was issued requiring all business owners to renovate or paint their properties, as well as pave and landscape their surroundings.

However, the organisation has discovered that 90% of business owners have not complied with the directive.

Watts Mwila, the Chief Executive Officer of Clean Cities Initiative, wants the local authority to enforce by-laws, which would withhold annual business permits or impose fines on non-compliant owners.

He observed that although Zambia’s Capital City has received a fair share of global visitors in the first half of this year, infrastructure maintenance and hygiene have not improved.

In a statement made available to Power News Network, Mr Mwila added that Lusaka's status in the social, political, and economic outlook of the country is essential to promote foreign investor confidence, a business-friendly environment, and an enjoyable place for both visitors and local residents.

Mr Mwila explained that the removal of street vendors has presented an opportunity to reclaim the smart and hospitable City that once existed.

He said his organisation’s concern is based on the urgent need to restore order and sanity to improve Lusaka and the CBD.

OPEN LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF ZAMBIA, MR. HAKAINDE HICHILEMA

4th October 2023

His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema
President of the Republic of Zambia
State House
N0. 1 Independence Road
LUSAKA

OPEN LETTER FROM OPPOSITION POLITICAL PARTIES RELATING TO PERTINENT ISSUES AFFECTING OUR COUNTRY

Your Excellency,

As members of the Opposition, we are deeply concerned with the current state of our nation. We have noted that there is a shrinking democratic space, a steep rise in poverty levels, high unemployment levels and the suffering of our people due to severe economic hardships. We have also noted that, in spite of a number of pronouncements to the effect that these issues will be dealt with, there appears to be lack of progress being made with their resolution and Zambians have continued to suffer the effects arising from these issues. We have therefore, decided to write this open letter for your attention.

We are cognizant of your public commitment to build consensus with stakeholders on critical national matters and similar commitment made in your party’s Manifesto where you pledged that you will hold regular meetings with stakeholders once elected as President. We also note that your Party's Manifesto 2021-2026 pledges and states that when elected as President, you shall meet and engage Leaders of the Opposition regularly to promote and build national consensus.

Please note that Page 15 of the UPND Manifesto on the Executive Summary states that;

c. "Ensuring that the President has regular question and answer sessions with the media, Parliament and Opposition leaders." (Emphasis – ours)

d. "Ensure regular engagement between the President and the Leaders of Opposition political parties to solidify consensus behind the Vision 2030 while ensuring a sense of unity of purpose." (Emphasis – ours)

It is for the reason that the initiative to meet with Opposition Leaders, has not been taken by yourself, that we felt that we should write this open letter to you.

We list below some of the issues that we are of the view needs your immediate attention:

1. The high cost of living. This has resulted in the very high price of mealie meal, fuel, cooking oil, electricity and other commodities which are now unaffordable for our people.

2. The rise in arbitrary arrests and constant harassment of members of the opposition.

3. Lack of transparency around large scale public procurement of commodities such as fuel, fertilizer, power purchase agreements under ZESCO, issuance and distribution of exploration, mining and timber licensing.

4. Unilateral handling of national peace and security matters by the executive such as, the presence of the US Africom Security Office, abuse of the Public Order Act, proposed amendments of the Public Gatherings Act, the Republican Constitution, the rise in Human Rights abuse, torture and mistreatment of persons, careless remarks of the coup plot, failure to publish IMF agreement, ZCCM-IH divestiture and the sale of KCM to Vedanta Resources.

5. Decay of public morals and failure to uphold national values and principles, traditions and culture and failure to curb the rise in promotion of LGBTQ issues in Zambia.

6. Failure to undertake nation building in order to promote unity and curb rising nepotism, tribalism and regionalism in the Public Service.

7. Secretive commencement of the Constitution making process. Having no clear roadmap and no consultative process in place to guide the Constitution making process, we are alarmed that there are secretive efforts aimed at amending the Republican Constitution in which people are being asked to submit recommendations on non-contentious issues. Given the lack of criteria on what constitutes non-contentious, we do not think that these non- transparent efforts represent the best way of carrying our constitutional reform forward, unless the objective is to remove popular clauses such as that relating to the running mate and the 50+1.

8. The composition of the Board of Commissioners at ECZ, which is perceived to be partisan, not inclusive and not balanced is a serious cause of concern.

9. Fees, Charges and other costs currently in force for political parties and individuals to participate in elections in Zambia. All the fees, costs and other charges are illegal, unconstitutional, redundant and anti-democratic because these put a barrier on Zambians ability to participate as candidates – a right that is constitutionally theirs – and also a barrier for the citizenry to vote for potential candidates who are barred simply because they can not afford to pay the astronomical fees. As a result of this barrier, a majority of our people, mostly the youth, women, the disabled and other disadvantaged persons can not afford to participate to be elected to positions of leadership of their choice. This only means that only the wealthiest, regardless of how they acquired that wealth, can participate.

10. The lack of democracy at Parliament and the deliberate stifling of free debate by members of parliament.

11. The management of the Judiciary and the recent appointment of new judges raises serious concerns. These recent developments undermine the independence and autonomy of the judiciary and their sacred role to deliver justice.

12. The need for an Economic INDABA – the New Dawn’s neo liberal policies that go to promote multinational, corporate, foreign and ultra-liberal policies have caused tremendous damage to the economy and to the well-being of our people. It is imperative that a national economic INDABA is convened to build broad consensus on how to tackle the many challenges facing the economy, including the high unemployment rate, slow pace of economic growth, high exchange rate and lack of liquidity. This will help bring down political tension and curtail the possibility of wide spread civil and political unrest in the country.

13. The recent ‘Consent Judgements” and the awarding of some very high amounts as compensation, for those associated with the President and or the UPND is setting a very bad precedent.

14. Gender inequality. The gap is widening. The Gender Ministry needs to be re-instated. Women constitute more than 50% of our population and therefore need to have an adequate representation just as the Youth have a ministry.

15. The case of purported abduction by Edith Nawakwi. Recently, Madam Nawakwi was arrested for abduction of the Haatembos. A lady, Racheal Chileshe Katolo, came forward to give a statement to the effect that in actual fact, it was the UPND, that had custody of the Haatembos and not Madam Nawakwi. Some very prominent names within the UPND were mentioned. Why has there been no follow up? What have the Law Enforcement Agencies done with this information? Will it be swept under the carpet?

16. Investigative Wings Reporting to State House. This undermines the integrity and therefore does not inspire confidence as regards the independence of these Investigative wings.

17. Breakdown in health facilities,
We draw your attention to the mortality level in the country and wonder as to whether you are being adequately briefed or you are ignoring the brief that the health sector has suffered under the new Dawn government to the extent that today the Cancer Centre that was once a flagship center is virtually non operational. As a result there is an increase mortality. Please consult foreign dignitaries embassies on this if you want an independent voice on the same.

Conclusion
Consequent to the foregoing, we now demand that:

• A NATIONAL INDABA, involving various Stakeholders with capacity to offer cogent solutions to resolve the plethora of issues currently facing the nation, be called. Such a NATIONAL INDABA, could become a national rallying point helping lead to the unity of purpose that has been lost.

• The NATIONAL INDABA be held as soon as possible.

It is in the best interest of both the Ruling and Opposition Political Parties as well as that of Zambians, that the nation embarks on a trajectory of unity, peace, growth and prosperity as soon as possible.

We remain in service to the Zambian people.

SIGNED:


PARTY PARTY REPRESENTATIVE

All People’s Congress Party (APC) ____________________________

CITIZENS FIRST (CF) ____________________________

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) ____________________________

Economic Front (EF) ____________________________

Golden Party (GP) ____________________________

National Democratic Congress (NDC) ____________________________

New Heritage Party (NHP) ____________________________

Patriots for Economic Progress (PEP) ____________________________

Patriotic Front (PF) ____________________________

Socialist Party (SP) ____________________________

Zambia Must Prosper (ZMP) ____________________________