Zambia’s Constitutional Court has ruled that former president Edgar Lungu is ineligible to stand in future elections after he announced his return to active politics in 2023, reported <a href="https://www.news24.com/news24/africa/news/constitutional-court-rules-lungu-cant-stand-as-a-presidential-candidate-in-zambia-20241210">News24</a>.
The court determined that Lungu’s first term, which lasted 20 months from 2015 to 2016 following the death of then-president Michael Sata, should be considered a full term.
His second term spanned from September 2016 to August 2021, after which he lost the presidency to United Party for National Development candidate Hakainde Hichilema in the 2021 national election.
Lungu had contended that his initial period in office did not count towards the maximum term limit, but the court was persuaded otherwise by arguments presented by youth activist Michelo Chizombe.
This ruling prevents Lungu from challenging incumbent Hakainde Hichilema in the 2026 elections.
Justice Arnold Mweetwa Shilimi, the deputy president of the Constitutional Court said:
<blockquote>
A person who has twice held office and been elected cannot serve another term. Our combined interpretation of the constitution is that the respondent’s term of office from 25 January 2015 to 13 September 2016 constituted a term of office.
</blockquote>
Lungu assumed office after the death of Sata in October 2014. Chizombe argued that since Lungu had been properly installed, it did not matter that his succession was not via a vote.
Ahead of the trial, Lungu accused Hichilema of using the law to avoid a showdown at the polls, describing it as “cowardly and dirty political schemes” to bar him.
The Constitutional Court was initially seen as sympathetic to Lungu, who had appointed six of its eleven judges.
Hichilema removed three of those judges, all of whom had ruled against him when he challenged Lungu’s previous victory.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Zambia's court says past president can't run for elections. Lungu thought he could, but court said no because he already served twice as president. A youth activist argued that the time Lungu was president before didn't count. This means he can't challenge the current president in the next election. Lungu accused current president of using the law to stop him from running. At first, people thought the court would side with Lungu because he appointed some of the judges, but the other president removed them.

Zambia's Constitutional Court Blocks Former President, Edgar Lungu, From Contesting Future Elections

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has accused his successor, Hakainde Hichilema, of being responsible for the power blackout that struck the country on Sunday, leaving critical institutions like hospitals without electricity.
The power outages affected both Zambia and Zimbabwe, which are currently facing an ongoing power crisis, largely due to declining water levels at Lake Kariba.
Zambia’s power utility, ZESCO Limited, confirmed that the system disturbance occurred shortly after 8 PM on Sunday.
In a<a href="https://www.lusakatimes.com/2024/11/26/former-president-edgar-lungu-blames-president-hichilema-for-power-outage-experienced-in-zambia-and-zimbabwe/"> statement</a>, Lungu alleged that the blackout was caused by undue interference by Hichilema’s government in ZESCO’s operations. Said Lungu:
<blockquote>
The national power blackout we experienced last night is an ultimate manifestation and clear confirmation of how ZESCO, our national utility company, has been driven into complete ruins by the New Doom government.
This once vibrant national power utility is now a shell of itself because the top managers and various competent officers were purged, after the 2021 general elections, on politcal and other grounds I will not name because Mr Hakainde Hichilema will consider them as sedition or hate speech.
Now we are paying, as a country, a bitter price for that unwarranted victimisation of competent and professional officers who knew better how to manage that sensitive national asset.
</blockquote>
Lungu suggested that the power blackouts may have contributed to the deaths of patients in hospitals who relied on life-saving equipment powered by electricity. He said:
<blockquote>
During our time in government as PF, the longest load shedding period did not exceed 17 hours. It is this period Mr Hichilema described as unbearable and campaigned to end once voted into office.
Today, under Mr Hichilema’s watch, most households and businesses are going for more than 48 straight hours and even more in some cases without power supply…
Surely, Zambians cannot continue to subject themselves to a leadership that sees no problem in having delicate facilities such as hospitals and others that directly touch on the wellbeing of our citizens being load-shedded.
At what cost in terms of lost lives and businesses will this government take such matters seriously and act to ensure that the lives and businesses are protected?
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu is blaming current President Hakainde Hichilema for the recent power blackout in Zambia. The blackout affected critical places like hospitals. The power crisis is because of low water levels at Lake Kariba. Lungu thinks Hichilema's government interfered with the power company, ZESCO, causing the blackout. Lungu says under his leadership, power outages were not as bad as they are now. He worries about people dying because hospitals are without electricity. Lungu wants Hichilema's government to take action and protect citizens' lives and businesses from power shortages.

Lungu Blames Hichilema For Zambia's Recent Electricity Blackout

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has taken legal action to challenge the withdrawal of his retirement benefits after his return to active politics. Last month, Lungu lost his retirement benefits and privileges, including his office, staff, security, and government vehicles. In court documents, Lungu argues that the government’s decision violates his fundamental rights, claiming that other former public officeholders who retired did not face the same restrictions. However, the Attorney General of Zambia, Mulilo Kabesha, rejected Lungu’s plea, stating that reinstating his benefits while he is actively involved in politics would go against the law, BBC News reported.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/02/zambias-former-president-edgar-lungu-stripped-of-retirement-benefits/">Zambia’s government withdrew Lungu’s retirement benefits and privileges</a> in November after he announced <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/10/30/former-zambian-president-edgar-lungu-announces-his-return-to-active-politics/">his return to politics.</a> Under Zambian law, former presidents who engage in politics again lose their benefits. These benefits include security officers, a diplomatic passport, state cars, a furnished house, medical insurance, funeral expenses, and immunity from prosecution. The government spokesperson explained that Lungu would now be treated like any other senior citizen of the country, with equality under the law.
Lungu’s decision to return to politics is seen as an attempt to capitalize on dissatisfaction with the current economic situation under President Hakainde Hichilema. Lungu aims to contest the 2026 presidential race, and his comeback is expected to be a contentious and closely fought affair. It remains uncertain whether his immunity from prosecution will be removed. In the past, Zambia’s Parliament has revoked immunity for two former presidents, Frederick Chiluba in 2002 and Rupiah Banda in 2013.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu Challenges Withdrawal Of His Retirement Benefits

Zambia’s government has withdrawn retirement benefits and privileges from former President Edgar Lungu after he announced his return to active politics.
Lungu was in office for six years before losing the presidency to Hakainde Hichilema in 2021, after which he announced his retirement.
According to a <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-67294418">BBC </a>report, Lungu left Zambia facing serious economic issues as Africa’s most indebted nation.
Government spokesman Cornelius Mweetwa said Lungu has already been notified about the immediate withdrawal of his retirement benefits and privileges.
Zambian laws stipulate that former presidents who returned to politics would lose their benefits.
As a retired president, Mr Lungu was entitled to three security officers, a diplomatic passport, and three state cars.
He was also entitled to a furnished house, medical insurance, and funeral expenses on his death as well as immunity from prosecution.
Speaking during a press conference on Wednesday, Mweetwa said that Lungu would now be treated with “equality of the law”, just like any other senior citizen of the country.
While announcing his political comeback last week, Lungu said he was returning to fight for and defend democracy in the country, which according to critics, has deteriorated since Hichilema’s election.
Last month, Lungu was barred from jogging in public, with police describing his weekly workouts as “political activism”.
Lungu is reportedly aiming to capitalise on growing dissatisfaction with the continued economic hardships in the country under Hichilema and his return to politics sets the stage for a bruising 2026 presidential race.
BBC reported that it is not clear whether his immunity from prosecution will be removed.
Zambia’s Parliament has revoked the right to immunity for two former presidents – Frederick Chiluba in 2002 and Rupiah Banda in 2013.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zambia's Former President, Edgar Lungu, Stripped Of Retirement Benefits

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has been banned by the police from jogging in public, as they consider it “political activism,” <a href="https://www.lusakatimes.com/2023/09/24/police-warn-against-political-activism-during-former-president-lungus-jogging/">Lusaka Times</a> reported.
Lungu’s weekly runs with members of the public and his party supporters have gained significant attention. The police have ordered him to seek approval for future jogging events, stating that failure to do so breaches the law and jeopardizes public safety. In a recent statement, Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga said:
<blockquote>
The Zambia Police Service has noted with concern the unlawful assembly and political activism that was conducted by Patriotic Front cadres on Saturday, September 23, 2023, when the Former President Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu was conducting his morning jogging routine.
We would like to warn the Patriotic Front cadres that public gatherings or demonstrations, including political events, should be notified to the police as by law established. Failure to do so amounts to a breach of the law. This is to ensure public safety, traffic management, and to prevent disruptions to the daily lives of citizens.
</blockquote>
However, Lungu’s lawyer Makebu Zulu has asserted that he will continue jogging without notifying the police and may take legal action if obstructed. He told <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66909506#:~:text=Zambia's%20former%20President%20Edgar%20Lungu,attracting%20a%20lot%20of%20attention.">BBC News</a>:
<blockquote>
Mr Lungu has been jogging since time immemorial and his motivation has never been to contravene the law.
</blockquote>

<ol>
<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/09/18/former-zambian-president-lungu-seeks-high-court-intervention-after-being-denied-travel-permission/">Former Zambian President Lungu Seeks High Court Intervention After Being Denied Travel Permission</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/09/14/zambian-govt-blocks-former-president-lungu-from-travelling-to-south-africa/">Zambian Govt Blocks Former President Lungu From Travelling To South Africa</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/09/06/zambian-police-summon-former-first-lady-esther-lungu/">Zambian Police Summon Former First Lady Esther Lungu</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/19/mnangagwa-persuaded-zambias-edgar-lungu-to-concede-defeat/">“Mnangagwa Persuaded Zambia’s Edgar Lungu To Concede Defeat”</a></li>
</ol>
This restriction on Lungu’s activities follows previous restrictive directives, including being blocked from travelling to South Korea for a conference. Despite announcing his retirement from politics after losing the 2021 election, Lungu has recently been reemerging in the public eye, leading to speculation that he plans to contest the presidency in 2026. Lungu allegedly aims to capitalise on public discontent over rising fuel and food prices in the upcoming elections.
President Hakainde Hichilema’s government has faced criticism for its perceived heavy-handed tactics, contrasting with his criticism of such actions during his time in opposition. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zambian Police Ban Former President Lungu From Jogging

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has taken legal action in the High Court of Lusaka, challenging the authorities’ decision to deny him permission to travel to South Korea for a world peace conference. Lungu was prevented from boarding a plane on Saturday and informed that he lacked the necessary clearance from the Cabinet. He and his wife, Esther Lungu, were scheduled to travel to South Korea via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, but were unexpectedly informed of the cancellation of their trip by a protocol officer.
A spokesperson for the Zambian opposition Patriotic Front (PF), Emmanuel Mwamba, described the incident, stating that Lungu was removed from the plane despite receiving clearance and a boarding pass. Mwamba was quoted saying:
<blockquote>
They were cleared properly, and bags were checked in. Boarding passes were issued, but afterwards, there was an uncomfortable delay.
Shortly, a protocol officer approached President Lungu and told him the trip had been cancelled.
</blockquote>
Lungu has named Zambia’s Attorney General as the respondent in this matter. Lungu is pursuing an order which invalidates the decision made by the Director General of Zambia’s Department of Immigration, which denied him permission to leave the country for South Korea. Additionally, he seeks an order to suspend the Director General’s decision and a refund for the expenses incurred for the air tickets. The High Court, presided by Judge Charles Zulu, will hear Lungu’s application on Monday 18 September 2023 in Lusaka.
Lungu served as Zambia’s sixth president until August 2021 when he was defeated by incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema in the country’s election.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Former Zambian President Lungu Seeks High Court Intervention After Being Denied Travel Permission

The Zambian government has prevented former President Edgar Lungu from traveling to South Africa for a medical review.
According to a letter dated 07 September 2023, the Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet, Oliver Kalabo informed Lungu that he had not been granted permission to travel to SA. Reads the letter in part:
<blockquote>
Reference is made to a letter dated 16 August 2023 on the above subject.
I wish to advise that authority has not been granted for you, Your Excellency, to travel to South Africa for medical review.
</blockquote>
Zambia’s President, Hakainde Hichilema, who chairs the SADC Troika, snubbed President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s inauguration on 04 September.
The ZANU PF-led government then hastily invited Lungu to attend the ceremony, a move that some commentators said was done to “spite” Hichilema.
On 4 September, Hichilema castigated alleged coup plotters who he claimed were planning to undermine Zambia’s democracy and stability. He said:
<blockquote>
To colleagues that think, we are timid by being kind and that they can break the laws and entertain thoughts of illegal takeover of government including undemocratic coup d’état… we are coming for you.
</blockquote>
Since gaining independence from Britain in 1964, Zambia has never experienced military rule, though there have been several unsuccessful coup attempts.
Commenting on the decision by the Zambian government to block Lungu from travelling to South Africa, Zambian political activist, Joseph Kalimbwe said:
<blockquote>
Edgar Lungu has been denied access to leave the country to go seek medical review in South Africa. I support the action. Lungu was President, he should have improved the local hospitals and therefore must go to the same hospitals Zambians go to !!!
I see some people in Southern Africa are unhappy with the photo (of the letter blocking Lungu from travelling to SA) I shared.
African leaders don’t improve hospitals in their own countries &amp; want to be treated abroad.
Lungu was President of Zambia, he talks a lot of the hospitals he built, he must go &amp; be treated in one of them !!
I doubt if Lungu is genuinely unwell or that he needs a medical review. He just wants to leave the country and go meet his friends – plot.
Also, why does he want to go to South Africa &amp; not Zimbabwe? I thought he said all is well in Zim. He must go get treated at Parirenyatwa !!!
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zambian Govt Blocks Former President Lungu From Travelling To South Africa

The United States Government has donated four advanced high-performance helicopters to Zambia and also offered a comprehensive three-year training program for staff. 
General Michael Langley, the Commander of United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), announced this during a media briefing. He emphasised that these helicopters would enhance Zambia’s ability to participate in United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions throughout Africa, further demonstrating the country’s commitment to fostering stability and peace in the region. General Langley was quoted by <a href="https://www.lusakatimes.com/2023/09/12/u-s-government-donates-high-performance-helicopters-and-training-to-zambia-worth-k1-5-billion/#:~:text=General%20News-,U.S.%20Government%20Donates%20High%2DPerformance%20Helicopters%20and%20Training,Zambia%20Worth%20K1.5%20Billion&amp;text=The%20United%20States%20Government%20has,year%20training%20program%20for%20staff.">local media</a> as saying:
<blockquote>
These high-performance helicopters will not only support Zambia in its vital role in UN peacekeeping missions but also stand ready to respond to future disasters, mitigate the effects of climate change, and provide assistance to neighboring nations.
</blockquote>

<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2022/04/29/hakainde-hichilema-criticised-for-opening-usa-army-base-in-zambia/">Hakainde Hichilema Criticised For Opening USA Army Office In Zambia</a></li>
</ul>
Lieutenant General Sitali Alibuzwi, the Zambia Army Commander, expressed gratitude and acknowledged the military’s numerous agreements with different countries, emphasizing Zambia’s commitment to fostering international cooperation for mutual benefit.
U.S. Ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzalas highlighted the multifaceted nature of the relationship between the United States and Zambia. He emphasized that the partnership extends beyond military support to include health initiatives and other important sectors. Both nations share a commitment to enhancing stability, security, and overall development in Zambia and the region.
<h3>Reactions</h3>
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Rutendo_Benson_Matinyarare/">Rutendo Matinyarare</a>, a supporter of ZANU PF, the ruling party in Zimbabwe, claims that the delivery of Blackhawk helicopters to Zambia is part of a U.S. plan to invade Zimbabwe. In a post seen by Pindula News, Matinyarare argues that Zambia, being a financially struggling country, lacks the resources to operate and maintain such advanced helicopters. Matinyarare suggests that the U.S. is deploying military assets in Zambia to invade Zimbabwe under the guise of protecting Zimbabweans from the alleged “evil ZANU PF government.” These claims are unsubstantiated and lack evidence.
Matinyarare’s remarks come amidst growing diplomatic tensions between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The tensions were worsened by Dr. Nevers Mumba’s condemnation of the August elections in Zimbabwe. Mumba, Zambia’s former Deputy President leading the SEOM, criticised the elections alleging they were not free, fair, and credible. He received death threats from some senior government officials in Zimbabwe. Furthermore, President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Hakainde_Hichilema/">Hakainde Hichilema</a>‘s absence at President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa/">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a>‘s inauguration on September 4, 2023, added to the strained relations. Complicating matters, the attendance of Hichilema’s predecessor, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Edgar_Lungu/">Edgar Lungu</a>, whom some Zambian politicians accuse of colluding with Mnangagwa to oust Hichilema, has intensified tensions between the two neighbouring countries.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

The US Govt Has Donated Helicopters To Zambia And Offered 3-year Training Program

Zambia’s former First Lady Esther Lungu has been summoned by police for an interview on September 6 at 10 AM. The specific reasons for the police’s interest in her have not been disclosed.
This summons comes as her husband, former President Edgar Lungu, attended the inauguration of Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on September 4, 2023, in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Raphael Nakacinda, the PF Information and Publicity Chairperson, alleges that President Hakainde Hichilema instructed the police to summon Esther Lungu after observing the warm reception Lungu received at Mnangagwa’s inauguration ceremony.
Hichilema, who currently chairs the SADC troika, had deployed election observers who determined that Zimbabwe’s harmonised election did not meet regional and international standards. It seems that Mnangagwa extended the invitation to Lungu as a response to Hichilema’s boycott of the inauguration.
According to Joseph Kalimbwe, a Zambian politician, author, and activist, authorities must target former President Lungu next. Kalimbwe, who held leadership positions in the African Union youth simulation in 2014 and the student representative council of the University of Namibia in 2017, made this statement on X (formerly Twitter). He said:
<blockquote>
Lungu’s wife has just been summoned to appear before the Zambia Police Tomorrow morning. Next, we must go for Lungu himself. We must never let any person undermine our institutions. Equally external forces must understand !!!
</blockquote>
In May of this year, the Zambian police surrounded the residence of former President Edgar Lungu, demanding to search it as part of a corruption investigation. Raphael Nakacinda stated that the police forcibly entered the former president’s home in Lusaka. She said at the time:
<blockquote>
It’s not only unconstitutional, but criminal — this government never to respect the supreme law of the land, which is the constitution, which confers the former president with immunity.
</blockquote>
The police action occurred ten months after Zambia’s anti-money laundering agency summoned former First Lady Esther Lungu regarding her ownership of 15 luxury flats in Lusaka. Investigators suspected that the apartments were acquired through illicit means. The Lungus, through the Patriotic Front party spokesman, denied any wrongdoing. No charges were filed, and Lungu’s lawyer confirmed that the matter was closed.
Critics argue that the government’s anti-corruption campaign is being employed to target and intimidate political opponents. Several officials who served under former President Lungu have been arrested, and his family members have been questioned.
President Hakainde Hichilema has refuted allegations that his anti-corruption efforts are aimed at opponents. Hichilema’s United Party for National Development defeated Lungu’s party in 2021. Hichilema and Lungu are set to compete for the presidency in 2026.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zambian Police Summon Former First Lady Esther Lungu

The Government of Zimbabwe has invited former Zambia president, Edgar Chagwa Lungu, to attend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s inauguration on Monday, 04 September.
The decision to invite a former Head of State to attend the inauguration has been described <a href="https://twitter.com/ali_naka/status/1698281952116130028?s=20">by critics</a> as a desperate move by the Government to garner international recognition after the SADC Election Observer Mission (SEOM) questioned the credibility of the 23 August elections in its preliminary report.
Zimbabwe, through its Ambassador to Zambia, Charity Charamba, wrote to Lungu on 02 September 2023, inviting him to attend the ceremony set to be held at the National Sports Stadium in Harare. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
The Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe presents its compliments to Former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, the Sixth President of the Republic of Zambia and has the honour to extend an invitation from H.E. the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, H.E. President E.D. Mnangagwa to attend his inauguration on 4 September 2023 at the National Sports Stadium in Harare, Zimbabwe. 
The late notification is sincerely regretted. 
The Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe avails itself of this opportunity to renew to Former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu the assurances of its highest consideration.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, posting on X, Information Ministry Secretary Ndavaningi Mangwana said at least two presidents from South Africa and Mozambique expected to attend the inauguration.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former Zambia President, Edgar Lungu, Invited To Mnangagwa Inauguration

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Joseph_Kalimbwe">Joseph Kalimbwe</a> has appeared to criticise <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/05/18/zambia-sends-a-10-member-delegation-to-appreciate-zimbabwean-transport-system/">the trip to Zimbabwe</a> by a Zambian delegation where it is mandated to assess how the Zimbabwean government is managing its transport sector by working alongside private players.
Kalimbwe, a Zambian politician and spokesperson of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) led by president <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Hakainde_Hichilema">Hakainde Hichilema</a>, singled out the daughter of former President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Edgar_Lungu">Edgar Lungu</a>, Tasila Lungu, whom he said: “went to meet her father’s friend.”
<figure class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 768px"><img alt="Tasila Lungu encourages young people to go into farming - ZambiaNews365.com" decoding="async" height="513" loading="lazy" src="https://i0.wp.com/zambianews365.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/tasila-lungu.jpg?fit=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1" width="768"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Tasila Lungu and her father former president Edgar Lungu</figcaption></figure>
The team of parliamentarians that was being led by Mubika Mubika paid a courtesy call on Speaker of the National Assembly, Advocate<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Jacob_Mudenda"> Jacob Mundenda</a>, on Monday.
It also paid a courtesy call on President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Speaking about the trip, and meeting President Mnangagwa, Mubika said:
<blockquote>
We came to pay a courtesy call on the President. Our main purpose here was to and check how local contractors here are performing in terms of construction works, general construction works be it roads, buildings, etcetera, etcetera
</blockquote>
<h2>Responding to the development, Kalimbwe said:</h2>
<blockquote>
Edgar Lungu’s daughter went to meet her father’s friend. She and others went there to apparently learn about “transport efficiency” and how it can be used here at home; in Zambia !!!
</blockquote>
Some social media users said Kalimbwe was out of order with some urging president Hichilema to reign in him. 
<h2>tafara shumba @Tafiez reponded:</h2>
<blockquote>
Hon Mubika Mubika is the Head of a Zambian MPs delegation. He is @UPNDZM MP and a deputy Min of Communication &amp; Transport. His delegation was excited by our progress in infrastructural dvpt. @joseph_kalimbwe isn’t happy &amp;he decided to attack Lungu’s daughter, Tasila mere member of the delegation. To me, it’s an indirect attack on President @HHichilema who sanctioned the wisdom seeking trip. This is the culture that <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gift_Ostallos_Siziba">Gift Ostalos Siziba</a> is being initiated into. 
</blockquote>
<h2>Chinembiri @MashyChinembiri weighed in:</h2>
<blockquote>
President @HHichilema should rein in Kalimbwe, he is just a loose cannon.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe is in the <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/04/29/zinara-disburses-6-billion-for-road-rehabilitation/">process of rehabilitating all major roads</a> after President Mnangagwa in 2021 declared a state of national disaster on all the roads by promulgating SI 47 of 2021.
There are also efforts to revive the railway system and rehabilitate airports which both have been in poor condition for years. 
<h2>More: <a class="external text" href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/download/" rel="nofollow">Pindula News </a>is best enjoyed via <a class="external text" href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/download/" rel="nofollow">the App. Download it here</a></h2>

Kalimbwe's Comments On Edgar Lungu's Daughter Attract Backlash

Zambia’s ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) has accused ZANU PF of unleashing its social media “army” or “varakashi” to attack its leadership, which it says could sour relations between the two neighbours.
UPND’s Hakainde Hichilema defeated incumbent Edgar Lungu, considered a ZANU PF favourite, in Zambia’s presidential election last month, the margin of his victory surprising pundits.
UPND is seen as close to Zimbabwe’s opposition, the MDC Alliance after inviting its leaders, Nelson Chamisa and Tendai Biti and other opposition figures in the region to Hichilema’s inauguration.
UPND spokesperson Joseph Kalimbwe said Hichilema and his party were being targeted by ZANU PF cyber-attacks which he said were “scandalous”. Kalimbwe tweeted:
<blockquote>
We are in Zambia talking about the need to tackle corruption in our country but across the border, ZANU PF supporters think the message is directed at them and so they start to attack and demonise us.
Not even our own political opponents attack us as they do. It’s scandalous!.
</blockquote>
Kalimbwe told NewsDay yesterday that they were being attacked on social media platforms by some ZANU PF members who were criticising Hichilema’s personality and policies.
He said Zimbabwe’s ruling party has “always been uneasy” over UNDP’s close relations with Chamisa. He said:
<blockquote>
We have always been victims of several online attacks on the party and the President. Not so long after the presidential spokesperson (Charamba) labelled President Hichilema a sellout, several other members of the ruling ZANU PF party attacked us online with regards to our policies which have nothing to do with Zimbabwean governance.
Such actions do not guarantee amicable diplomatic ties. UPND as a ruling party does not concern itself with the affairs of its neighbour, Zimbabwe, but on the contrary, ZANU PF members have been very much concerned with how President Hichilema runs Zambia.
</blockquote>
However, ZANU PF acting political commissar Patrick Chinamasa said he was not aware of any case where members of the ruling party had attacked the Zambian government. Said Chinamasa:
<blockquote>
I can’t comment on the alleged attacks against the Zambian party because I am not aware of such an incident.
I am yet to check on the alleged attacks. As ZANU PF, we remain friendly with the Zambian government. ZANU PF has never been a hostile party.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/09/were-under-zanu-pf-attack-hichilema/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Hachilema's Party Claims To Be Under "Scandalous" ZANU PF Attack

Zambia’s newly elected leader Hakainde Hichilema has been sworn in following his landslide victory over former president Edgar Lungu in the 12 August election.
Hichilema (59), took the oath of office on Tuesday before thousands of jubilant supporters gathered at the Heroes Stadium in the capital, Lusaka.
His victory was hailed as a rare triumph over authoritarianism and a milestone in African democracy.
Addressing thousands of ecstatic compatriots sporting the red-and-yellow regalia of his United Party for National Development and with a Bible in hand, Hichilema declared:
<blockquote>
I, Hakainde Hichilema, do swear that I will faithfully and diligently perform my duties … in this high office.
</blockquote>
On his sixth bid for the presidency, Hichilema defeated the incumbent Lungu (64), by nearly one million votes.
The victory is the 17th opposition win in sub-Saharan Africa since 2015. It occurred despite restricted campaigning and suspected rigging in favour of Lungu’s party.
Voter turnout on 12 August was nearly 71 per cent, and many Zambians queued late into the night to cast their ballots.
Among the guests were opposition politicians from the region as well as former and current African leaders, including the presidents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa.
Zambia becomes only the second country in southern Africa in recent years to transfer its presidency to an opposition candidate after Malawi in 2020.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who attended the ceremony along with his main rival Nelson Chamisa, has already warned opponents not to harbour similar ambitions.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/8/24/zambian-opposition-leader-takes-oath-of-office-for-presidency">Al Jazeera</a></h4>

Zambia's Hakainde Hichilema Takes Oath Of Office As President

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has challenged Southern African Development Community (SADC) leaders to accept defeat and hand over power peacefully when they lose elections as happened in Zambia.
This comes after Zambia’s outgoing president Edgar Lungu conceded defeat to opposition candidate Hakainde Hichilema in the election that was held on 12 August.
Speaking from Zambia on Monday ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of Hichilemaand his deputy this Tuesday, Mnangagwa said:
<blockquote>
This outcome and the peaceful transition, that will be completed today, is a lesson to SADC and Africa at large for losing contestants to accept electoral outcomes.
I grew up here and I am very proud that this is the seventh time that Zambia has changed Presidents and they have done it so smoothly.
I believe that the SADC region and also other African countries should take pride that we have countries on the continent whose transition of power after elections is happening smoothly. We are very proud.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa said he had a telephone conversation with Hichilema, while he was at his farm in Kwekwe on Sunday. He said:
<blockquote>
The president-elect phoned me while I was at my farm in Kwekwe inviting me and we discussed so many issues in Tonga.
I realised we are related. In fact, his wife, Mutinta Hichilema and I grew up in the same town of Mumbwa, west of Lusaka
</blockquote>
President-elect Hichilema will be inaugurated together with vice president-elect Mutale Nalumango.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/lets-take-a-leaf-from-zambia-says-president/">The Herald</a></h4>

Mnangagwa Challenges SADC Leaders To Accept Electoral Defeat

President Emmerson Mnangagwa reportedly made a phone call to Zambia’s outgoing president Edgar Lungu urging him to step aside for the sake of peace in the country and SADC region after he had lost to opposition United Party for National Development (UPND) candidate Hakainde Hichilema.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia on Monday announced Hichilema the winner in the hotly contested 12 August poll after he secured more than 2.8 million votes, while Lungu of the Patriotic Front (PF) was in second place with over 1.8 million votes from 155 of 156 constituencies that were up for grabs.
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For a couple of days, Lungu appeared reluctant to make way for president-elect Hichilema after his embarrassing defeat.
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The incumbent claimed the elections were not free and fair, citing alleged political violence in three provinces.
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Posting on Twitter this Thursday, Deputy Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet (Presidential Communications), George Charamba, said it was Mnangagwa who persuaded Lungu not to dig in but surrender power to his rival.
According to Charamba, Mnangagwa revealed this while addressing ZANU PF supporters on arrival in Mutare on Thursday morning where he is set to officially open an oxygen production plant established by Verify Engineering (VE) located at Feruka Oil Refinery in the eastern border town. <a href="https://twitter.com/Jamwanda2/status/1428263474510143488">Said Charamba:</a>
<blockquote>
Upon arrival, His Excellency briefed his supporters on the just-ended SADC. He, for the first time, disclosed that he phoned the outgoing Zambian President, President Edgar Lungu, to persuade him to make way for the winner, President-Elect, Hichilema, to secure peace in the country and region.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa also poked fun at the Nelson Chamisa-led MDC Alliance for celebrating the opposition victory in Zambia, saying an opposition victory in Zimbabwe will never happen. <a href="https://twitter.com/Jamwanda2/status/1428265977918238720?s=20">Added Charamba:</a>
<blockquote>
Turning to opposition members who dream of the same happening in Zimbabwe, the ZANU-PF leader urged such dreamers to come back to their senses!! Vamuke vabike doro!!!! (they should wake up from their nightmare and pray to their ancestors).
</blockquote>
Charamba recently said <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/17/its-blasphemy-to-think-war-veterans-will-let-chamisa-rule-zimbabwe-charamba/">even if Chamisa was to win the presidential election, fighters for liberation struggle for Zimbabwe’s independence would not allow</a> the opposition leader to take over as Zimbabwe’s president.
Meanwhile, Hichilema, a wealthy businessman, will take the oath of office on Tuesday.
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

"Mnangagwa Persuaded Zambia's Edgar Lungu To Concede Defeat"

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<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Election_Support_Network_(ZESN)">The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN)</a> has issued a statement on the Zambian parliamentary and presidential elections conducted on the 12th of August. ZESN deployed a 3-member observer mission. Pindula News presents the watchdog’s statement. 
<blockquote>
Following the invitation of the Zambian Government, the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) deployed a learning observation mission comprising three persons to observe the just ended Zambian general elections which took place on the 12th of August 2021. ZESN was accredited by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to observe polling day processes and those at National Tally Centre during the results tabulation exercise. In the period leading to the elections, the ZESN Mission interacted with various stakeholders including the domestic election observer groups in Zambia.
ZESN wishes to congratulate the people of Zambia, including the youth, who came out in their numbers to vote, and exhibited considerable patience as they waited for hours in very long queues before getting a chance to cast their vote. This was evident at the majority of the polling stations which the Mission visited in four Lusaka Constituencies namely Chawama, Kanyama, Kabwata and Lusaka Central Constituencies. Overall Election- Day was generally peaceful and orderly save for isolated incidents of violence. ZESN commends the ECZ for extending the right to vote to prisoners, ZESN was able to observe polling at both the male and female sections of the Lusaka Central Correctional Facility.
The ECZ staff were professional in their conduct and consistently followed the opening, polling and closing procedures at all the polling stations that ZESN visited. The ECZ ensured that party agents at the respective polling stations had copies of the voter’s r0ll thus enhancing the transparency of the polling process. However the ECZ appeared not fully prepared for the huge turnout, with voting at some polling stations continuing well into the night and in some instances counting only commencing the following day. This was observed at Woodlands B primary school in Lusaka. Nevertheless the ECZ polling official remained professional and facilitated voting by the multitudes that turned up to cast their vote even in stances where some polling official had to work for over 15 hours. While the ECZ developed detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) Against Covid-19, its provisions were not systematically adhered to as many voters were not observing social distancing, sanitising or washing of hands with soap and running water which was provided for at every polling station. Voters’ ability to identify their correct polling stations could have improved with adequate signage or posting of voters names outside their polling stations, as was witnessed at some polling stations in Chawama Constituency.
Despite the devastating COVID-19 Pandemic ravaging the world, Zambia, like Malawi in the year 2020, successfully conducted general elections which ushered in a new dispensation in Zambia. We wish to commend the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), which working with the Health Ministry, developed a health protocol tailor-made for the general elections, ensuring that ECZ fulfilled its constitutional obligations of organizing regular, timely general elections.
The elections in Zambia, as witnessed in other parts of the world, are yet again proof that it is possible to conduct elections in the middle of a serious pandemic. Democracy, not the COVID-19 must have a final say. <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Electoral_Commission">The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC)</a> can draw lessons from Zambia on how to conduct elections during a pandemic, and prepare to conduct overdue by-elections, the delimitation exercise and the 2023 general elections.
ZESN applauds the outgoing President of Zambia Edgar Chagwa Lungu for pledging a smooth transfer of power to the incoming government just hours after the announcement of the winning candidate, a rare feet on the African continent. Democracy in Africa will be richer if all outgoing leaders emulate the Zambian example. ZESN also wishes to congratulate the United Party for National Development [UPND] and its President and President-elect of Zambia <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/16/zambias-opposition-candidate-hichilema-wins-presidential-election/">Mr. Hakainde Hichilema for winning the elections.</a>
Some of the lessons for consideration by Zimbabwean stakeholders include the fact that elections can be successfully conducted in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, if appropriate health protocols are put in place for the safe conduct of elections. Mobilizing voters to register and to vote in their number can assist in clearly determining winners in an election and also consequently support acceptance to election results by those who would have lost the election. The time between the closing of polling stations and the announcement of results remains a very sensitive period within an electoral cycle, results need to be announced as soon as they are verified by the Commission to ease tensions that inevitably build up when announcement of results is delayed. Diplomatic efforts to prepare those that may lose an elections is critical. Political parties need to deploy their agents comprehensively so that their respective parties can comment authoritatively on electoral processes. Parallel Voter Tabulation can contribute toward enhancing electoral integrity by providing quick updates on ongoing electoral processes and also by verifying the elections result. Security services play a critical role of securing electoral processes and need to remain apolitical as well as professional.
Stakeholders the ZESN met during the period leading to the general elections complained of an uneven playing field for political parties, unequal access to the public media by contesting political parties, misinformation and disinformation and heightened political tension which in some instances led to violence. On Election Day the ZESN team noted that access to social media platforms was restricted.
Meetings with various stakeholders revealed that public confidence in the ECZ was eroded by the level of engagement between ECZ and its stakeholders which was viewed as inadequate. Domestic observers shared concerns on the new accreditation requirements which they criticized as both cumbersome and expensive. The process included restriction of 5 observers per organisation per constituency, submitting applications in triplets with certified copies National Registration Cards, as well the requirement for observers to present themselves at accreditation centres in person.
Following the observations made, ZESN makes the following recommendations for consideration by the Zambian Stakeholders so as to further strengthen the integrity of electoral processes in Zambia:
<h2>To the ECZ:</h2>
<ul>
<li>Improve signage for polling stations to facilitate voters’ identification of the correct polling stations.</li>
<li>Identify and review all the administrative procedures that had the unintended effect of slowing down the polling process.</li>
<li>Review the procedures f0r monitors and observers accreditation to make the process less costly and less cumbersome.</li>
</ul>
<h2>The Government:</h2>
<ul>
<li>Make reasonable efforts to ensure equitable access to the public media by all political parties during campaign periods.</li>
<li>Facilitate sustained dialogue and alternative dispute resolution mechanism to address entrenched political issues that contributed to heightened tension in the period leading to and during the elections.</li>
</ul>
<h2>To Civil Society Organisations</h2>
</blockquote>
<ul>
<li>
<blockquote>Continue with the oversight role on electoral processes throughout the electoral cycle, impartially and ensure sustained engagement with the ECZ.</blockquote>
</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a> 

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Zambia Election: ZESN Observer Team Statement

MDC Alliance vice president Tendai Biti had no kind words for outgoing Zambia president Edgar Lungu who was defeated by President-elect Hakainde Hichilema in the 12 August elections.
Biti was deported from Zambia after the controversial 2018 disputed election in Zimbabwe after he sought refuge in the neighbouring country.
Lungu’s government deported Biti back home despite a Zambia High Court order granting him stay.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) had issued an arrest warrant for Biti on charges of public violence and after he had declared opposition leader Nelson Chamisa had won the 2018 presidential election in contravention of electoral laws.
Responding to Lungu’s crushing defeat by almost a million votes to Hichilema of the United Party National Development (UPND) party, Biti could not hide his joy. He tweeted on Monday:
<blockquote>
l can’t wait to drive back to Zambia and at Chirundu Border Post where they almost killed me, l will dance like Micheal Jackson. My Congress Dance. I can’t wait.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/ill-dance-like-michael-jackson-biti-celebrates-zambia-elections/">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Biti To "Dance Like Michael Jackson" On Next Visit To Zambia

Statement by Zambia’s outgoing President Edgar Chagwa Lungu after losing the presidential election to opposition rival Hakainde Hichilema.
Countrymen, women and youth,
Six years ago, you entrusted me to lead you on a journey to build our country after the death of His excellency, President Sata.
This show of trust that I lead you in January 2015 was unexpected and I accepted it with humility and gratefulness.
In 2016, you, the Zambian people, decided yet again to give me a fresh mandate for Five years.
I received that show of support with great honour.
I want to thank you, the Zambian people, for giving me such a great opportunity to be your president.
I will forever cherish and appreciate that authority you vested in me.
All I ever wanted was to serve my country to the best of my abilities, together with you, we indeed scored in many areas.
Of course, there were challenges, but what I appreciated was your support throughout.
We held our general elections on Thursday, 12th August 2021, and the electoral commission of Zambia have released the final election results.
Based on the revelation of the ECZ final results, I will comply with the constitutional provisions for a peaceful transition of power.
I would like to congratulate my brother, the president-elect, HE, Mr Hakainde Hichilema for becoming the 7th president.
Let me also congratulate all those who participated in this general election and won at various levels. To those who did not, there is always another time.
Lastly, I would like to thank all those who voted for my party, the Patriot Front and me. To you I say, your vote was not in vain, please continue supporting us.
I wish you well and may the good Lord bless our Republic, Zambia.
I thank you.
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

Zambia: President Edgar Lungu Speaks On Electoral Outcome | FULL TEXT

Zambia’s outgoing president Edgar Lungu conceded defeat on Monday after a landslide election win by opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema, who is set to become the southern African country’s 7th President.
With all but one of 156 constituencies counted, Hichilema had won 2 810 777 votes against Lungu’s 1 814 201, and the electoral commission declared him the next president.
Lungu (64) congratulated Hichilema in a televised address, marking Zambia’s third peaceful handover of power to an opposition party.
He has also indicated that he will comply with constitutional provisions to ensure the peaceful transition of power. Said Lungu:
<blockquote>
I will comply with the constitutional provisions for a peaceful transition of power.
I would therefore like to congratulate my brother, the president-elect, His Excellency Mr Hakainde Hichilema.
</blockquote>
Power has switched from a ruling party to the opposition twice before, since independence from Britain in 1964.
The latest shift strengthens Zambia’s democratic credentials and sets an example on a continent with a patchy history of peaceful change.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.news24.com/news24/africa/news/zambian-president-edgar-lungu-concedes-defeat-after-rival-hakainde-hichilemas-landslide-win-20210816">News24</a></h4>

Zambia: President Lungu Concedes Defeat, Pledges Peaceful Handover Of Power

Zambia votes in a general election today, the 12th of August, 2021 in what is a keenly observed election in the southern African nation.
The country’s President, Edgar Lungu (64), who is seeking re-election will try to fend off a perennial opposition challenger Hakainde Hichilema (54) though, in total, 16 candidates are vying for the presidency.
Lungu cast his vote on Thursday morning and speaking to reporters afterwards, the president said:
<blockquote>
Please let them come and vote and go back home and stay and wait patiently and peacefully for the outcome.
I hear some politicians that are asking people to hang around the polling centres that will just cause chaos.
I’ve set the example, I’ve voted I’m going home to stay, listen to the radio, newspapers, television and wait for the results to be declared, that’s what a good citizen does.
So please, don’t hang around polling stations this will just cause confusion, contention. The best thing to do is to cast your vote quickly, go home…
</blockquote>
Lungu first came to power in 2015 after winning a disputed snap election to finish the term of President Michael Sata who died in office.
He was then elected to a full five-year term in 2016, although his main rival Hachainde Hichilema alleged fraud.
Hichilema is running for the presidency for the sixth time in this election.
Zambia will go for a second-round vote if none of the candidates gets more than 50% of the votes cast in this election.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.africanews.com/2021/08/12/polls-open-in-zambia-elections-president-edgar-lungu-casts-vote/">Africa News</a></h4>

Polls Open In Zambia Elections, President Lungu Appeals For Peace

The Africa Union (AU) has approved the deployment of a Short-Term Election Observation (STO) Mission to Zambia to observe the country’s general elections scheduled to take place on 12 August 2021.
In a statement on 4 August, the AU said the STO Mission is led by former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma and composed of former and current African ambassadors accredited to Ethiopia, members of election management bodies in Africa, members of civil society organisations, and independent electoral experts. The statement read in part:
<blockquote>
The Mission’s objective is to provide an independent and impartial assessment of all aspects of the 2021 electoral process, including the legal framework, the political context and the transparency and effectiveness of the electoral preparations, and will operate in accordance with relevant AU and international standards and obligations for democratic elections such as the 2007 African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance; the 2002 AU/OAU Declaration on Principles Governing Democratic Elections in Africa; 2002 the AU Guidelines for Elections Observation and Monitoring Missions.
</blockquote>
Zambia holds elections amid soaring food prices and economic hardships, high inflation and ballooning external debt.
The copper-rich southern African nation last year became the first country on the continent to default on its debt in the coronavirus era.
The upcoming election is expected to be the tightest contest yet between incumbent Edgar Lungu (64) and his longstanding rival, main opposition candidate and sixth-time-runner Hakainde Hichilema (59).
In the 2016 election, Lungu emerged victorious with 50.35 per cent of the presidential ballots, just enough to avoid a second-round run-off, and Hichilema came a close second on 47.63 per cent.
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

Zambia Elections: Lungu, Hichilema Headed For Tight Presidential Contest

Zambia President Edgar Lungu collapsed Sunday afternoon during the commemoration of Defence Forces Day in Lusaka, the country’s capital.
In a statement, Secretary to Cabinet and Principal Private Secretary Simon Miti said President Lungu experienced sudden dizziness but recovered immediately.
Miti said that the Head of State then walked to his car and returned to State House. The statement read:
<blockquote>His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zambia, Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, this afternoon experienced sudden dizziness whilst officiating at the 45th Defence Force Day Commemoration and Investiture Ceremony.
His Excellency recovered immediately and walked to the official car and returned to his residence at State House.
The President wishes to assure the general public and all concerned citizens and the international community that he is well and has continued to discharge his duties as Head of State Government and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Force.
His scheduled programmes will continue as planned.</blockquote>
Lungu had a similar experience in 2015, caused by what the presidency said was an “oesophagus condition”.
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The four-hour defence day ceremony took place at Lusaka’s Freedom Statute on Independence Avenue where the Defence Forces showcased their military prowess.
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The Zambian president used the event to conduct an investiture ceremony to honour gallant men and women in uniform.
President Lungu ascended to power in a by-election necessitated by Michael Sata’s death in 2014.
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<h4>More: <a href="https://www.lusakatimes.com/2021/06/13/president-lungu-assures-the-public-he-is-okay-after-briefly-collapsing/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Lusaka Times</a></h4>

Zambia President Edgar Lungu Collapses After 'Sudden Dizziness'

Zambian President Edgar Lungu on Monday filed in his nomination papers as a candidate in this year’s general elections and appointed a female candidate as his running mate.
Lungu’s papers as well as those of his running mate, Professor Nkandu Luo, were verified and duly certified as correct by Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) Chairperson Justice Esau Chulu for the August 12 polls.
The Zambian leader later told journalists that he was happy over his choice of his running mate, saying he has chosen her because she was politically strong and professionally accomplished.
He said he was not worried about people who may have reservations about his choice of a running mate and called for peaceful campaigns. He said:
<blockquote>_After great reflections and prayerful thought, I have picked Professor Nkandu Luo as my running mate in the August 12 elections. I have no doubt that we are going to make a great team that will not only give our party the electoral victory but, ultimately, the progress we desire for our great nation._</blockquote>
Luo, 69, is a scientist and a holder of a doctorate in microbiology who has served in various ministerial positions in government.
<ul>
<li>First elected as a legislator in 1996 under the former ruling Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD).</li>
<li>Elected as a lawmaker in 2011 under the Patriotic Front (PF) – served in various ministerial positions.</li>
<li>Her last position was Minister of Fisheries and Livestock.</li>
</ul>
Lungu’s current Vice-President Inonge Wina announced that he intends to retire from politics after the August 12 polls.
Some observers were arguing that Lungu was not eligible to contest in the August poll because he has served two terms in line with the constitution.
The Constitutional Court, however, ruled that the first term does not count as a full term because he was only finishing the term left by his predecessor, late President Michael Sata.
The development comes as President Emmerson Mnangagwa of neighbouring Zimbabwe has signed into law Constitutional Amendment No. 2 which scrapped the running mate clause.

<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/15/charamba-reveals-why-zanu-pf-rejected-running-mate-concept/">Charamba Reveals Why ZANU PF Rejected ‘Running Mate’ Concept</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/04/28/what-mwonzora-said-on-the-running-mate-clause/">What Mwonzora Said On The Running Mate Clause</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/04/25/mutambara-discusses-the-running-mate-clause-and-mugabes-removal/">Mutambara Discusses The Running Mate Clause And Mugabe’s Removal</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/08/12/joe-biden-nominates-kamala-harris-as-his-running-mate/">Joe Biden Nominates Kamala Harris As His Running Mate</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/01/15/here-is-why-the-presidential-running-mate-clause-has-to-go/">Here Is Why The Presidential Running Mate Clause Has To Go</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/01/04/govt-gazettes-bill-to-scrap-running-mates-clause/">Govt Gazettes Bill To Scrap Running Mates Clause</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/19/mwonzora-explains-importance-of-the-running-mate-clause/">Mwonzora Explains Importance Of The ‘Running Mate’ Clause</a></li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>; <a href="https://africa.cgtn.com/2021/05/17/zambian-president-appoints-nkandu-luo-as-running-mate-for-august-12-polls/">CGTN Africa</a>

Zambian President Edgar Lungu Announces Running Mate

Zambian President Edgar Lungu has fired his Health Minister Dr Chitalu Chilufya and replaced him with Minister of Water Affairs, Jonas Kamima Chanda.
In a media statement released on Sunday evening by the Presidency, the termination of Dr Chilufya’s contract is with immediate effect.
This follows a public uproar following reports that a supplier, Honeybee supplied leaking condoms, gloves, and fake medicine.
The company appeared before the parliamentary committee where a financial scandal involving the supply of $17million worth of medicine was unearthed by the Auditor General’s Office and the Parliamentary Accounts Committee.
In the media statement, the Special Assistant to the President (Press and Public Relations), State House, Isaac Chipambe said:
<blockquote>His Excellency, Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, President of the Republic of Zambia has terminated the appointment of Hon. Dr Chitalu Chilufya as Minister of Health with immediate effect.
And President Lungu has transferred Hon. Dr Jonas Chanda to the Ministry of Health. Dr Chanda was until today Minister of Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental Protection.
Meanwhile, President Lungu has appointed nominated Member of Parliament, Hon. Raphael Nakachinda as Minister of Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental Protection.
The President has thanked Dr Chilufya for the services rendered to Government and wished him well in his future endeavours.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.lusakatimes.com/2021/01/10/president-lungu-fires-health-minister-dr-chitalu-chilufya-dr-jonas-chanda-is-the-new-health-minister/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lusaka Times</a></h4>

Zambia's President Edgar Lungu Fires His Health Minister

Zambia’s Minister of Health, Dr Chitalu Chilufya has tested positive for COVID-19. The development was confirmed through Zambia ministry’s official Facebook page a few minutes ago.
Giving updates on COVID-19 on May 27, 2020, Secretary to Cabinet Dr Simon Miti, said the Minister is now in self-isolation.
Recently, President Edgar Lungu relaxed lockdown restrictions to save the ailing economy.
Watch the video below for more.
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JUST  IN: Zambia's Health Minister Tests Positive For Coronavirus

Zambian President Edgar Lungu has seemingly given up in the fight against the coronavirus after he “prematurely” relaxed key measures that were put in place to fight the killer virus.
In his national address on Friday, President Lungu announced the reopening of gyms, cinemas, restaurants and casinos saying it is time Zambians learnt to live with the new normal.
President Lungu also ordered pupils in examination classes to return to school.
The announcement was made after Zambia had recorded 14 new Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours, bringing the cumulative total to 167. He said:
<blockquote>The “new normal” means living with COVID-19 just like we have lived with other diseases such as malaria, HIV and Aids, and tuberculosis, provided we adhere to the prescribed health guidelines, regulations and certification for COVID-19.
… In embracing “the new normal-living with COVID-19”, let us continue to vigorously fight this disease and not become complacent.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.lusakatimes.com/2020/05/08/covid-19-is-the-new-normal-we-have-to-learn-to-live-with-it-president-lungu/?amp&amp;__twitter_impression=true" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lusaka Times</a></h4>

Zambian President Says People Should Live With Coronavirus As They Have Done With Malaria & AIDS

WATCH: Zambian First Lady Breaks Down While Condemning The Gassing Of Innocent People

The University of Zambia (UNZA) has moved the planned conferment of Honorary Doctorates on President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his Zambian counterpart, Edgar Lungu to next week Friday.
The venue for the ceremony has also been moved to Mulungushi International Conference Centre from the University of Zambia Great East Road campus, the Lusaka Times has reported
Initially, the conferment was pencilled for this Friday, June 21st 2019 at UNZA graduation Square.
The duo will be conferred with honorary doctorates in good governance.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.lusakatimes.com/2019/06/21/unza-shifts-presidents-lungu-mnangagwas-conferment-ceremony-to-next-friday/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lusaka Times</a></h4>

University Of Zambia Postpones ED, Lungu's Conferment Ceremony

A report claims that the University of Zambia Senate has approved the conferment of an honorary doctorate on President Emerson Mnangagwa and his Zambian counterpart Edgar Lungu in good governance.
The conferment will reportedly be done on June 21st 2019 at UNZA Graduation Square during the graduation ceremony.
However, a Zambian opposition legislator expressed disapproval towards the decision to honour Lungu. Gary Nkombo (UPND), who represents Mazabuka Central said:
<blockquote>I think if he deserves any honour, that is fine. But that which they want to confer upon him is clearly not the one because of it clear knowledge that Zambia’s governance record is at its lowest stage in the reign of President Lungu and there is no contest to that.
The abuse of human rights has been rampant in his style of governance under his nose. The issue of arbitrary arrests of political enemies is in the front stage.
The issue after the revelation by the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) tells us that our corruption index has risen exponentially and all other issues about the institutions of governance, including the police, have suffered a lot of abuse during this particular period of governance.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.lusakatimes.com/2019/06/19/unza-senate-approves-honorary-doctorates-for-president-lungu-and-president-mnangagwa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lusaka Times</a></h4>

Presidents Mnangagwa & Lungu To Receive Honorary Doctorates - Report

Controversial businessman, Wicknell Chivayo was in Lusaka, Zambia recently where he met the country’s President Edgar Lungu.
Chivayo is known for flaunting his wealth and involvement in controversial deals back home.
It is not clear what deals he was conducting with President Lungu if any. He was quick to post messages on social media expressing his joy in meeting Lungu. He wrote on Facebook:
<blockquote>ROYAL BLOOD FLOWS THROUGH MY VEINS…One of the most amazing and kind-hearted President’s we have in Africa HIS EXCELLENCY the President of the Republic of Zambia CDE Edgar Chagwa Lungu with yours truly the Managing Director of INTRATREK ZAMBIA LTD…Zambia &amp; Zimbabwe – ONE NATION, I’m equally at home both in LUSAKA and HARARE…As the REGIONAL COORDINATOR for a multi-billion dollar conglomerate, I will tirelessly pursue my passion to generate more renewable energy for AFRICA. In this beautiful country next door we have implemented and successfully completed 26 FULLY FUNDED turnkey EPC projects…I’m a businessman of international repute and always remember I’m not really an unusually intelligent person with extraordinary gifts. I’m just a regular person who made a daily list of critical tasks that needed to get done AND DID THEM even when I didn’t feel like it…BE POSITIVE, BE SMART, BE PRO-ACTIVE and learn to try out new things.
The world is not ruled only by us PRAYER warriors but also by the MENTAL warriors. Thinking is the highest paying job in every field. Make out time to think CREATIVELY &amp; STRATEGICALLY…Many great ideas have been lost because people who had them could not stand being laughed at. The greatest prison people can live in is the fear of what others think…When you make it BIG they will all HATE you, spread lies and then also recruit others to HATE YOU so JUST IGNORE THEM, KEEP GOING and DONT LOOK BACK.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.lusakatimes.com/2019/06/18/zimbabwean-businessman-wicknell-visits-president-lungu-at-state-house/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lusaka Times</a></h4>

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