SADC Truck Drivers Association Roars Against Attacks, Demands Justice

Kaiko Wamunyima, the Media Director of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Truck Drivers Association, minced no words as he addressed the media today, condemning the escalating violence against truck drivers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Wamunyima pulled back the curtain on the harrowing situation unfolding, particularly in Tenke Fungurume, where truck drivers have become targets of violent attacks. "Our drivers are not soldiers; they are the backbone of regional economic development," he emphasized, highlighting the association's staunch stance against such assaults.

The media director pointed fingers at illegal mining operations, exacerbating the already dire situation for drivers. He underscored the association's active engagement with counterparts in the DRC, expressing deep concern over the injuries sustained by drivers and the theft and damage inflicted on their trucks.

"We will not stand idly by," declared Wamunyima, urging all parties involved to seek peaceful and lawful means to address grievances. He firmly denounced any protests or strikes that jeopardize the safety and livelihoods of innocent individuals, cautioning against turning Zambia into a stage for unrest.

In response to recent developments involving advocacy efforts by WhatsApp group administrators, Wamunyima reiterated the association's support for drivers' rights but emphasized the need for strikes to be a last resort.

The media director shed light on the daunting challenges faced in repatriating the bodies of drivers who tragically lost their lives in the DRC, highlighting exorbitant costs and bureaucratic hurdles. He called upon the government and funeral parlors to address these issues promptly.

In closing, Wamunyima reaffirmed the association's unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of its members, urging all actions to be conducted within the bounds of the law and with dignity for all involved.

 

  ZCTU President Blake Mulala Declares War on Cholera: Calls for Tough Penalties and Civic Mindset Shift

Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU), President, Blake Mulala, says there is need to propose strict penalties for indiscriminate littering, to help in the fight against cholera in the country.

 

 Mr Mulala said taking this proactive stance, would help in a collective shift in mindset among citizens. 

He said that this change must start at the grassroots level within communities. 

"Ward councillors are key players in spearheading this crucial initiative of a collective shift in mindset among citizens," Mr Mulala said.

He called for concerted efforts to combat the cholera crisis and instigate a behavioral shift towards maintaining a cleaner, healthier environment.

Mr Mulala said the organization's active involvement in the fight against cholera through its affiliated unions in the health sector. 

He stressed the gravity of the situation, asserting that cholera is a national concern that impacts everyone, including ZCTU members residing in affected areas.

Mr Mulala called for immediate action and urged increased funding to local governments and the reinforcement of existing laws aimed at maintaining a clean environment.

He called on the need for a robust waste management system and a sustainable supply of clean water as long-term measures to address the root causes of the crisis.

Mr Mulala said there is need for bold moves by coming up with initiatives to combat the cholera epidemic.

He said at a comprehensive approach, indicating that the organization is gearing up to make a significant impact.

Mr Mulala expressed concern over the prevailing state of the city, with drains filled with litter, and appealed for a chan

ge in behavior. 

 

Court Drama Unfolds: Trio Faces Charges from False Pretenses to Trespass in Livingstone Land Scandal

 

The watchman at Maramba Cultural Village informed the Livingstone Magistrate Court that he became concerned upon hearing people speaking at the plot next to his workplace. Consequently, he decided to investigate the activities taking place at that plot.

This pertains to a case where Israel Mushoke, Shah Jayendra Kumar Chianglal, and Lata Jehendra Shah face three charges, ranging from procuring the execution of documents by false pretenses to criminal trespass.

It is alleged that the trio, along with unidentified accomplices, engaged in a scheme between January 1, 2022, and June 30, 2022. Operating in Livingstone, the suspects are accused of employing false pretenses and fraudulent representations to induce George Susiku Sindila, the Acting Lands Officer, to sign and execute Lease No Lt-37146 for Stand No. 3099 in Livingstone.

In the second charge, they are accused of criminal trespass on Vasanti Yogesh Chikhalya's property. Israel Mushoke and Shah Jayendra Kumar Chianglal face a separate charge of criminal trespass during the same period. The duo allegedly entered upon the property of Vasanti Yogesh Chikhalya at Stand No. 2056 in Livingstone unlawfully.

In the third count, they are charged with criminal trespass with the intent to commit an offense. Continuing their alleged criminal activities, Israel Mushoke and Shah Jayendra Kumar Chianglal are accused of another instance of criminal trespass during the aforementioned period. This time, the alleged offense occurred on the property of Patel Mohabhai Umashabhai at Stand No. 4416 in Livingstone, with the intent to commit an offense.

Testifying before Magistrate Kahoyi Mushabati, the watchman, Konino Chirwa, stated that he saw two people on the plot, and when he approached them, they claimed that their boss, Mr. Shall, had instructed them to put up pillars. He decided to check the plot upon hearing people talking there and found a white van driving out. The two individuals he encountered are not present in court.

Livingstone businesswoman Mrs. Vasanti Yogesh Chikhalya of 27 Airport Road in Livingstone told the court that she had applied for the plot and met all the legal requirements. Her husband assisted in completing all formalities, including attending council interviews after the plot was advertised. She further obtained the title deed from the Ministry of Land through the council, accusing some council members of trespassing on her tourism plot located off Sichango Road.

Livingstone businessman Yogeshi Chikhalya of 27 Airport Road in Livingstone informed the court that, upon learning that some people had prevented his workers from clearing the plot, he reported the matter to the police. The police summoned everyone involved, and during the visit to the plot, the beacons of pillars were observed. The police instructed that no development should take place until the matter is resolved.

He could not recall when the advertisement was done, as it had been a long time. The trial continues.

Real Estate Scandal Unveiled: Fraudulent Practices and Trespassing Grip Livingstone as High-Profile Figures Face Charges

An estate agent testified before the Livingstone Magistrate Court, stating that he was appointed to manage the property of Umesh Patel, a Zambian based in the USA, and conducted due diligence with the Ministry of Lands.

Testifying before Magistrate Kahoyi Mushabati was Probby Malyango, a real estate broker from Hilltop Properties Zambia. He mentioned that Mr. Patel, based in the USA but with properties in Zambia, approached him to manage his properties, including one along Sichango Road. Mr. Malyango asserted his credentials as a bonafide real estate agent and a member of the Zambia Institute of Estate Agents.

According to Mr. Malyango, in 2020 and 2021, his company was approached by Mr. Patel, who provided copies of the property titles. After conducting an assessment to verify ownership and signing a management contract, they discovered no issues with Mr. Patel's properties.

However, when attempting to sell a property at the asking price of K2.5 million, they faced challenges. Despite advertising, they received no clients. Mr. Patel later inquired about the property, expressing concerns about rumors of a sale. Mr. Malyango instructed him to investigate, leading to the revelation that Mr. Shal had purchased the property.

Subsequently, Mr. Malyango mentioned Yogesh Chikhalya, an adjacent property owner, who confirmed his plot was not sold. Mr. Patel instructed another search, revealing no issues with the property. Concerned, Mr. Chikhalya reported the matter to the police.

In a separate case, Israel Mushoke, Shah Jayendra Kumar Chianglal, and Lata Jehendra Shah face charges related to fraudulent practices and trespassing in Livingstone. The charges include the alleged procurement of documents through false pretences and criminal trespass. The specific dates of the incidents fall between January 1, 2022, and June 30, 2022. The case has been adjourned to February 28, 2024.

 

Safe Havens Betrayed: Ministry Calls for Repentance as Child Abuse Persists Even in Church Sanctuaries

The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services emphasizes the need for safer sanctuaries for children, urging repentance and confession even within church walls.

Acting Director of Child Development, Beatrice Muyambango, expressed concern over the unfortunate reality of child abuse occurring even in places deemed safe by the ministry. She highlighted instances of abuse in shopping malls and schools, emphasizing the necessity for collective repentance and confession.

Ms. Muyambango announced a community mobilization initiative in Livingstone District, aimed at strengthening child protection through multi-sectoral coordination. She reiterated the government's high priority on children's development and well-being, citing the Children's Code Act as a crucial legislative measure.

"The enactment of the Children's Law is a milestone in realizing our national vision for child development and welfare," Ms. Muyambango stated. She urged collaborative efforts involving state and non-state actors, traditional, civic, and religious leaders, emphasizing the importance of a coordinated multi-sectoral approach.

Ms. Muyambango outlined key provisions of the Children's Code Act, including the establishment of the National Coordination Committee for Children (NCCC) at various levels. She stressed the significance of understanding and disseminating the law, creating awareness, and establishing coordination structures for effective implementation.

"Children are the foundation of our society," Ms. Muyambango reminded stakeholders, calling for collective responsibility and commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Zambia's future generations.

 

Emergency Social Cash Transfer: Livingstone District Receives Over K3 Million for Vulnerable Beneficiaries

LIVINGSTONE District Commissioner, Eunice Nawa, announced that the social cash transfer programme in the district has received over K3 million for the 5000 active beneficiaries as part of the emergency price shock social cash transfer payments program.

Ms. Nawa explained that this is a bimonthly emergency shock cash transfer to the beneficiaries of the social protection programme, aiming to cushion the lives of the vulnerable and less privileged in society. She made these remarks during the flagging off of the emergency price shock social cash transfer payments program for the beneficiaries.

“Livingstone has received an amount of K3,240,800 from the government to be distributed to all beneficiaries under the social cash transfer programme in the district. Thus, marks the commencement of these payments,” she said.

Ms. Nawa highlighted that after considering the prices, the government decided to implement this programme. She emphasized that the initiative aims to meet the needs of the vulnerable people in the community.

“I am aware that Livingstone Social Welfare Office has a caseload of 5,401 active beneficiaries on the social cash transfer programme, including 3,800 female-headed households and 1,601 male-headed households. These beneficiaries are categorized into four groups: the old-aged, chronically ill on palliative care, disabled with severe, moderate, and mild disabilities, as well as child-headed households,” Ms. Nawa said.

She cautioned the beneficiaries not to use the money for alcohol, emphasizing the importance of putting it to good use for the benefit of their families. “I wish to caution the beneficiaries of this bonus not to misuse this money but to put it to good use for the benefit of your families,” Ms. Nawa said.

District Assistant Community Development Officer, Olipa Manenga, stated that this is part of the emergency social cash transfer that they are going to receive. She explained that this money would cushion the impact of the high cost of living for the people.

A beneficiary, Japhet Phiri, commended the government for the efforts made towards the less privileged, expressing that the government's actions will go a long way in transforming their lives.

Agness Chigoma expressed happiness that the money she received from the government would have a great positive impact on her life. Similarly, George Malasa stated that his life would be transformed, and the shocks he was facing due to the high prices would be reduced. He mentioned that the money could not have come at a better time.

Judicial Revolution Unveiled: Magistrate Courts Empowered to Hear Million-Kwacha Cases, Promising Swift Justice in Livingstone

Constitutional Court Deputy President Arnold Shilimi, standing in for Chief Justice Mumba Malila, delivered a significant announcement during the ceremonial opening of the Livingstone high court session yesterday. In a speech addressing the ongoing reforms in the judiciary, Justice Shilimi revealed that the magistrate court has undergone a substantial upgrade as part of the broader classification of subordinate courts across the nation.

He highlighted that the magistrate court is now empowered to hear cases with a value of K1 million, a substantial increase from the previous threshold of K100,000. This strategic enhancement is aimed at expediting the legal process and ensuring more efficient resolution of cases. Justice Shilimi emphasized that, as a result of these reforms, matters or cases are anticipated to be concluded within a minimum of 150 days from their commencement.

Underlining the commitment to reform initiated two years ago, Justice Shilimi stressed the importance of building the capacity of judiciary officers. He explained that the ongoing efforts include streamlining high court rules, holding individual judges accountable, and addressing any signs of complacency promptly. The judiciary, he noted, is dedicated to upholding the law even when unpopular decisions need to be made.

Justice Shilimi also acknowledged the unfortunate tendency for individuals to attack judicial officers, emphasizing that these professionals are unable to respond to such attacks. He urged the public to refrain from engaging in such behaviors and to respect the integrity of the judicial process.

Catherine Phiri, the judge in charge of the Livingstone High Court, expressed concern about the excessive workload on the station, which currently operates with only two judges. Despite facing challenges, including additional responsibilities for the children's court, she assured that the court is committed to overcoming obstacles and delivering timely justice.

Zambia Correction Services Southern Deputy Command, Clement Shimumbi, provided information on the current inmate population, revealing that there are 2429 inmates in facilities across the province.

In conclusion, Justice Shilimi, on behalf of Chief Justice Mumba Malila, reiterated the judiciary's dedication to ongoing reforms and called for public cooperation in maintaining the integrity of the judicial system.