Zambia's CSOs Rally for Constitutional Overhaul: Time for Action!

CSOs Demand Action: Zambia's Constitution in Crisis!

Livingstone's Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) sounded the alarm today, urging the government to stop dragging its feet on constitution review.

In a communique read out by Esther Mwikisa, a Member of the Human Rights Defenders, at the close of a three-day workshop organized by the Non-Governmental Gender Organization Coordinating Council (NGOCC) in Livingstone, CSOs demanded a clear roadmap for constitutional reform.

Ms. Mwikisa said, "No More Waiting," as women, youth, environmentalists, and advocates unite, demanding a revamped constitution to tackle pressing issues. But where's the plan, New Dawn Government?

"It's Time for Change," Ms. Mwikisa emphasized. "CSOs demand inclusion of the expanded Bill of Rights before the 2026 elections. No more excuses – it's about the people's voice!"

"Unveiling the Truth: CSOs expose lacunas impacting governance negatively. From youth unemployment to GBV, it's time for action, not just promises!

Road to Renewal: CSOs call for consensus-building to ensure Zambia's future is built on the people's wishes. It's a national imperative!" Ms. Mwikisa stressed.

This urgent plea comes after a three-day workshop in Livingstone, where CSOs vow to lead the charge for a constitution that truly serves the people.

"It's a Fight for Rights," Ms. Mwikisa declared. "CSOs won't back down until every Zambian is aware of the constitution's vital role. Join the movement for a better Zambia!

End the Stalemate: CSOs take a stand for a constitution that works for all. The time for change is NOW!"

Livingstone Magistrate Orders Police to Ensure Witness Attendance in Land Fraud Case; Adjournment Set for Continued Trial

Livingstone magistrate Kahoyi Mushabati has ordered the Zambia Police to ensure that all witnesses in the land fraud case are brought before the court, as failure to do so would risk them being brought under a bench warrant. He said the police should ensure the summons are delivered on time to the witnesses. The magistrate stated that his court will not tolerate any witnesses who are reluctant to appear before it. He also emphasized that officers from the Ministry of Lands in Choma should have traveled to testify since Choma is nearer to Livingstone. He remarked that there was no need for them to state issues with logistics, as the National Prosecution Authority has provisions for such matters. He expressed dissatisfaction with the situation where the court reserves dates for a matter to be heard, but witnesses do not show up. He ordered the investigation officer to inform him if there is any person resisting going to court. Sergeant Collins Manda informed the court that he was ready to bring people from the Ministry of Land in Choma but they wanted to come with the people from their headquarters in Lusaka. He assured the court that he would ensure that more witnesses are heard. Magistrate Mushabati suggested that police stations should have pigeon holes in their offices so that officers do not forget. He noted that lawyers at the high court have them, which would facilitate better work efficiency.

This is a case where Israel Mushoke, Shah Jayendra Kumar Chihanganlal, and Lata Jehendra Shah are facing a series of charges related to alleged fraudulent activities and trespass incidents. Israel Mushoke, aged 54, and Shah Jayendra Kumar Chihanganlal, aged 65, both businessmen, have been accused of procuring the execution of documents by false pretenses. The alleged offense took place between January 1, 2022, and June 30, 2022. The accused, along with unknown accomplices, are alleged to have used false pretenses and fraudulent representations to induce George Susiku Sindila, the Acting Lands Officer, to sign a document known as lease number Lt-37146 concerning Stand No. 3099 in Livingstone. In addition to the fraud charge, Mushoke and Chihanganlal are also facing charges of criminal trespass. They are accused of unlawfully entering the property of Vasanti Yogesh Chikhalya at Stand No. 2056 and the property of Patel Mohabhai Umashabhai at Stand No. 4416 in Livingstone between January 1, 2022, and June 30, 2022, with the intent to commit an offense. Lata Jehendra Shah, a 60-year-old businesswoman of Indian origin, is another person involved in these alleged activities. The trio is represented by Swizt Mweemba and associates. The matter has been adjourned to May 8 and 9 this year for continued trial.

 

Tragedy Strikes Mwapona Compound: Toddler Dies in Unfortunate Fire Incident

 The tranquil streets of Mwapona Compound were shattered by tragedy as one-year-four-month-old Anita Chaba lost her life in a sudden and heartbreaking incident. According to Southern Province Police Commissioner, Auxensio Daka, who spoke to reporters, the incident was reported under OB NO.2670/24 and D.T.R 08/02/24.

Anita's father, Albert Chichaba, recounted the harrowing events, stating that his daughter was playing with her siblings in the house when tragedy struck. The mother had briefly left the children at home to fetch water from the neighbourhood. Upon her return, she discovered the kitchen engulfed in flames and immediately sought help from neighbours to rescue the children.

It is believed that the fire originated from firewood in the kitchen, possibly ignited by something dropped by the children, leading to the spread of flames to nearby plastic containers. Despite frantic efforts to save her, Anita sustained severe burns on her right leg, right side of the body, and right hand. Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries while undergoing treatment at Choma General Hospital, where her body has been deposited in the mortuary.

The incident has plunged the community into shock and mourning. Mr. Daka emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of children, particularly when left unattended at home, and urged families to prioritize safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

As the community grieves the loss of young Anita, authorities are urging families to implement measures to safeguard against such accidents.

Choma driver rapes woman

 Southern Province Police Commissioner, Auxensio Daka, has provided details regarding a rape case that occurred in Choma. The incident, recorded under Rape OB No. 1857/24 DTR, took place on January 27, 2024, at approximately 21:00hrs in a motor vehicle along Masuku road after the Jimel School road junction. The victim, identified as F/J Prisca Sakwenda, a 16-year-old resident of Kachacha compound, reported the incident through her neighbor, F/Catherine Hamukonka, aged 45.According to Mr. Daka, the victim was selling beer at a Shebeen located at her residence on the night of the incident. During the course of her work, she was assaulted by a customer. Subsequently, the suspect, M/Nkandu Banda, aged 41 and also a resident of Kachacha compound, offered to assist the victim in reporting the assault to the police station. The victim agreed, and instead of heading to the police station, the suspect drove his vehicle towards Masuku.Upon reaching their destination, the suspect parked the vehicle at the mentioned location and forcibly engaged in sexual intercourse with the victim from 21:00hrs until 01:00hrs. After the assault, the suspect dropped the victim off at her place of residence. The victim later complained of experiencing pain in her vagina.Mr. Daka has confirmed that the suspect, M/Nkandu Banda, who is employed as a driver at the water works Choma provincial office, has been apprehended and is currently in custody. He is yet to be formally charged with the crime.

Livingstone Business Association Steps Up to Address Cholera Concerns

Livingstone District Business Association, chairman of the, Patson Chifumba, has announced the association's decision to take action in response to the cholera situation plaguing the country. Recognizing the severity of the issue, the association aims to make a meaningful contribution, albeit small, to alleviate the crisis.

Dr Chifumba emphasized that while the impact of cholera has not been significant within the city of Livingstone, they felt compelled to mobilize following the call to action. "We want to do our part," he stated, stressing the importance of community solidarity in times of need.

Expressing gratitude for the cessation of heavy rains, Dr Chifumba remarked, "We thank God that the rains have subsided; otherwise, the impact of cholera would have been far worse." The association acknowledges the potential devastation that could have occurred if not for the timely intervention of the weather.

Livingstone District Commissioner Eunice Nawa commended the gesture made by the business association, stating that it would greatly assist in addressing the ongoing health crisis. "This contribution will go a long way," she affirmed, highlighting the significance of collective efforts in combating cholera.

Nawa urged others to follow the example set by the business association, emphasizing the importance of supplementing government initiatives with community-driven support. "We hope that others will emulate the dedication shown by the association," she said, emphasizing the need for solidarity and collaboration.

Furthermore, Nawa assured that she would oversee the donation's delivery to the District Health Office, ensuring that it reaches those in need and contributes to the ongoing efforts to contain the cholera outbreak.

Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities Urges Responsible Use of CDF Grants

Dr. Frank Musukwa, the executive director of the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities, emphasized the importance of forming cooperatives among people living with disabilities to access the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). 

Dr. Musukwa highlighted the CDF as a significant opportunity for empowerment within the disabled community, urging strict adherence to its guidelines to avoid legal conflicts.

"People living with disabilities should ensure they form cooperatives to access the CDF," stated Dr. Musukwa. "It is a game-changer for them, and they must utilize it effectively."

He cautioned against misapplication of CDF grants or loans, emphasizing that disability should not be exploited as an excuse for financial mismanagement.

 Dr. Musukwa expressed the agency's commitment to promoting compliance with the law among its members.

Commending President Hichilema's government for its initiative in empowering people through the CDF,

 Dr. Musukwa urged parents of children with disabilities to prioritize education, stating that excuses for non-attendance are no longer acceptable.

During his tour, Dr. Musukwa noted various projects in the province, including the Blind Center and the Cheleko Centre. He stressed the need for engagement with stakeholders to enhance these facilities' development.

Acknowledging the positive impact of the emergency social cash transfer on people with disabilities in Livingstone, Dr. Musukwa encouraged responsible use of the funds and urged recipients to strive for self-sufficiency beyond social assistance programs.

Highlighting his tour of the farm for the blind and resettlement center, Dr. Musukwa called for continued support from stakeholders to complement government efforts in improving the lives of people with disabilities.

Overall, Dr. Musukwa's message underscores the importance of accountability and effective utilization of resources among people with disabilities, aiming for sustainable development and empowerment within the community.

 

NUTELAW Cheers as CDF Turbocharges Tevet Institutions

Former President Mwaba Praises Govt Initiative; Urges Youth to Seize Opportunity

In a dynamic move set to revolutionize technical education, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) has emerged as a game-changer for Tevet institutions. Former NUTELAW President, Mathews Mwaba, hailed this timely intervention, highlighting its role in empowering these institutions to meet essential statutory obligations.

"This couldn't have come at a better time," Mwaba declared, acknowledging the pivotal boost in liquidity that CDF has injected into Tevet centers. With the shackles of financial constraints loosened, these institutions are now better equipped to fulfill their obligations to bodies like the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and the National Pension Scheme Authority (NPSA).

Mwaba didn't mince words in commending the government for its foresight in bolstering technical education through CDF allocations. He issued a rallying cry to the youth, urging them to seize the moment and enroll in skills training programs offered by Tevet institutions.

"The government deserves applause for prioritizing technical education," Mwaba emphasized, underlining the potential for significant socio-economic advancement through the development of skilled individuals.

But the call to action doesn't end there. Mwaba urged local leaders, including councillors and community figures, to champion skills training within their communities. Encouraging citizens to embrace these opportunities isn't just about personal growth - it's about turbocharging the region's economic engine.

With CDF as the catalyst, Tevet institutions stand poised to unleash a wave of skilled professionals onto the national stage. The message is clear: the time for action is now.