Double Standards Worry Social Worker as Government Faces Scrutiny Over Energy and Healthcare Crises

Social worker Joseph Moyo has expressed deep concern over what he describes as government double standards in handling critical national issues, particularly the ongoing energy crisis and the state of public healthcare.

Mr Moyo criticised the government for misleading the public about electricity tariffs and energy supply. Despite three tariff hikes since the United Party for National Development (UPND) took office—each justified as necessary for improving power supply—Zambians continue to endure prolonged load shedding.

“The government and ZESCO assured the public that emergency tariff increases were necessary to import electricity and stabilise supply,” he said. “However, despite citizens paying higher electricity costs, the situation has not improved. This amounts to obtaining money from the public under false pretences—it is both deceptive and unjust.”

He accused the government of shifting its justification for tariff increases over time—first claiming they were needed to attract investment, then to boost ZESCO’s capacity, and now for importing electricity. Yet, none of these measures have brought the promised relief.

Healthcare System Under Pressure

Beyond the energy crisis, Mr Moyo, who suffers from a chronic medical condition, raised concerns about the deteriorating healthcare system. He accused the government of misrepresenting the availability of medicines, saying that many hospitals remain critically understocked despite official claims to the contrary.

“Patients are being turned away from hospitals because there are no medicines, yet the authorities insist there are no shortages,” he said. “We cannot continue to tolerate a government that fails to provide for its people while pretending everything is under control.”

Demand for Accountability

Mr Moyo also pointed to what he called the government's hypocrisy in enforcing laws on misinformation. While ordinary citizens can be arrested for spreading false information, government officials and state-owned enterprises appear to face no consequences for misleading the public.

“If the public spreads falsehoods, they are arrested. But when government officials and state-owned enterprises spread misinformation, there is no accountability,” he said.

He urged the government to engage in transparent communication with citizens and take responsibility for the failures in public services.

“The government must stop misleading the public about electricity, healthcare, and other vital services,” he said. “Zambians deserve truth and accountability, not endless excuses.”

Mr Moyo warned that continued misinformation would further erode public trust and worsen the struggles of ordinary citizens.

“Zambians are tired of empty promises,” he said. “It is time for the government to be truthful, take responsibility, and start delivering real solutions.”

The University of Zambia and Allied Workers' Union Plans Expansion and Membership Growth

 University of Zambia and Allied Workers' Union (UNZAAWU), President Giancarlo Gasi says

the union aims to recruit more members from private universities and unrepresented government institutions.

Mr Gasi said however, the union faces stiff competition in it's membership drive.

He noted the union’s strategies and in overcoming the challenges. 

As Zambia approaches the 2026 elections, Mr Gasi reiterated the importance of maintaining political neutrality. 

“We support the government of the day, but I urge members to support their political parties silently without public displays,” he stated, reinforcing the union's position as a non-partisan body serving government workers.  

One of UNZAAWU’s major goals is to expand its reach. Over the past year, the union successfully integrated middle management employees at the National Museum Board and the Tropical Diseases Research Centre (TDRC).

 This includes professionals such as doctors and managers who were previously not unionised.  

“At Mulungushi University, we were late as the Copperbelt University union had already recruited members,” Mr Gasi acknowledged.  

In terms of bargaining for improved benefits, Mr Gasi emphasised the union’s reliance on supplementary grants to secure salary increments.

 “These are grant-aided institutions. If government grants are insufficient, we push for supplementary grants to ensure our members are taken care of,” he said.  

When asked about his confidence in the union’s team, Mr Gasi expressed optimism. 

“Elections are challenging, and not everyone can be part of the leadership team, but I am excited about the members’ choices and confident we will deliver.”  

As UNZAAWU continues its journey, its focus on growth, member welfare, and strategic planning highlights its commitment to representing and supporting its diverse membership.

The newly elected office bearers for the University of Zambia and Allied Workers Union are President Giancapio Gasi, Vice President Tom Simukoko, 

General Secretary Moonga Mupuna, Deputy General Secretary (finance)

 Richard Hanguwa,  Deputy secretary general (administration) Moonde Mungandu  and National Trustees Siishi Kamenda, Lucy Phiri, Kaumba Chinyama, and Makala Chikumba.

Call Us by Our Names, Not Our Disabilities: Advocates Demand Respect and Inclusion

 “We are tired of being called by our disabilities instead of our names.” 

This was the rallying cry at a community meeting organized by the Trust Foundation for Persons with Disabilities, where advocates and individuals shared their experiences of discrimination and called for respect and inclusion. 

 Rita Simulumba, a passionate advocate, highlighted the dehumanizing language often directed at persons with disabilities. 

“Even when people know your name, they choose to call you by your disability. 

This is disrespectful and unacceptable,” she said.

 Simulumba urged attendees to report such behavior to the authorities.

 “We have had enough. It’s time to stand up for ourselves and demand to be treated with dignity.” 

 The call for respect resonated throughout the meeting, with Rita Makoye emphasizing the importance of inclusion. 

“Disability does not mean inability. We want society to see us for our abilities and contributions, not our limitations. Respect begins with recognizing us as individuals,” she said. 

The event also shed light on the broader challenges faced by persons with disabilities.

Dorothy Velemu, Executive Director of the Trust Foundation, highlighted the organization’s efforts to empower individuals through cooperatives.

 “We are here to break the stigma and show that persons with disabilities can thrive. 

Mujala Cooperative is one of our success stories, securing K32,000 in funding.

 We are expanding our cooperatives to help more youths benefit from the Constituency Development Fund,” Velemu said.  

However, systemic issues persist. Friday Nachihyango recounted his struggles with law enforcement, alleging corruption and lack of support. 

“I reported being duped, but instead of helping, the police demanded a bribe. Even with resources like a CDF vehicle, they are failing us,” he said. 

 Businesswoman and philanthropist Mwangala Sililo brought a message of hope, distributing stationery to Grade 8 and 9 students.

 “Education is the key to breaking barriers. We want to support your journey and remind you that your potential is limitless,” she said. 

 Shungu Ward Councillor Samson Kandala reinforced the importance of unity and equality.

 “We are one Zambia, one nation. Everyone has value, and no one should feel left out. The president’s vision for unity includes all of us, regardless of ability,” he said. 

 The meeting concluded with a renewed determination to challenge stigma and discrimination, starting with something as simple yet powerful as calling people by their names. 

As the participants emphasized, respect and inclusion are not optional – they are fundamental rights. 

 

New Heritage Party Dismisses UPND Opinion Polls as Misleading

Lusaka—The New Heritage Party (NHP) has called out recent opinion polls circulating on social media, allegedly funded by the United Party for National Development (UPND). NHP Chief Spokesperson Mr. Brill described the polls as “fabricated and biased,” claiming they are designed to mislead the public and inflate the ruling party’s perceived popularity.

A Fabricated Narrative

“These opinion polls are a deliberate attempt to misrepresent the UPND's popularity,” Mr. Brill said. “They are a distraction from the real issues that Zambians are facing every day.”

He urged citizens to remain vigilant and not be deceived by what he termed as “UPND-sponsored propaganda.”

The Real Opinion Poll: Zambians’ Daily Struggles

Mr. Brill argued that the true state of the nation is reflected in the hardships endured by the population. He highlighted these key points:

• “Over 60% of Zambians are living below the poverty line, struggling to afford even basic necessities.”
• “Youth unemployment is alarmingly high, with over 50% of young people aged 16-24 unable to find work.”
• “Inflation continues to rise, making essential goods unaffordable for the majority.”
• “The healthcare system is on the brink of collapse, unable to meet the needs of the people.”
• “Our education system is failing to provide quality learning opportunities for the next generation.”
• “Load-shedding and escalating fuel prices are crippling households and businesses.”
• “Corruption scandals in government ministries have become the order of the day, eroding public trust.”

A Call for Accountability

Mr. Brill called on Zambians to reject these polls and focus on holding leaders accountable for addressing the nation’s pressing issues.

“The real opinion poll is the hunger, unemployment, and desperation that Zambians face every single day,” he said. “This is the reality we must confront.”

He urged citizens to demand solutions such as affordable mealie meal, reliable electricity, access to farming inputs, and meaningful job opportunities for the youth.

Charting a Way Forward

As frustration grows over the country’s socio-economic challenges, Mr. Brill stressed the need for unity and collective action to push for change.

“We cannot allow fake narratives to overshadow the real struggles of ordinary Zambians,” he concluded. “It’s time for leaders to focus on tangible solutions that will uplift the lives of our people.”

END

Kazungula UPND Meeting Resolutions Declared Invalid

 

Kazungula

The Southern Province United Party for National Development (UPND) leadership has nullified resolutions made during a January 1 meeting in Kabuyu, Kazungula District. The meeting, which saw selected district, constituency, and ward officials pass a vote of no confidence against District Chairman Shebby Mushabati and appoint new office bearers, has been deemed unconstitutional.

In a statement issued on January 3, Provincial UPND Chairman Mr. Billiard Makwembo described the meeting as unauthorized, saying, “The Provincial Committee was neither consulted nor informed of the meeting.”

Mr. Makwembo cited Article 42(c) of the UPND constitution, which grants the Provincial Management Committee exclusive authority to supervise and coordinate district activities. “The only body allowed to sanction such a meeting is the Provincial Committee,” he said.

He further highlighted procedural lapses, noting that Article 70, which outlines steps for addressing grievances and disciplinary actions, had been disregarded. “None of the required processes were followed in arriving at the decisions made during the January 1 meeting,” Mr. Makwembo stated.

As a result, he declared, “I, therefore, using powers vested in me by the party constitution as amended in 2021, declare the said meeting and its resolutions null and void.”

Mr. Makwembo confirmed that all leadership positions remain unchanged, asserting, “The leadership structure returns to its original status as it was prior to the meeting.”

He urged dissatisfied members to follow proper channels, stating, “Any grievances should be addressed to my office within 14 days of receiving this communication.”

The statement was copied to the National Chairman, Secretary General, Provincial Minister, Member of Parliament, and Chairman of Elections, underscoring the importance of adhering to party protocols.

The decision reflects Mr. Makwembo’s commitment to upholding the UPND constitution and ensuring discipline within the party's ranks.

Human Trafficking a Growing Concern in Livingstone: Sr. Grace Katongo Urges Vigilance

Livingstone – Human trafficking is on the rise in Livingstone and surrounding areas, warned Sr. Grace Bwalya Katongo of the Little Sister of Saint Francis during Sunday Mass at Christ the King Catholic Parish in Libuyu Township.

Addressing the congregation, Sr. Katongo highlighted the alarming prevalence of human trafficking, emphasizing the role of both close relatives and strangers in perpetuating the crime. "People's love for money blinds them to the harm they cause. This makes it easy for them to exploit others, even their own kin," she said.

The nun stressed the particular vulnerability of children, who are often lured by traffickers with false promises. "Children can be easy targets. It’s our responsibility as parents and guardians to safeguard them and ensure they do not fall victim to this heinous crime," she added.

Sr. Katongo called for massive sensitization campaigns to educate the public on the dangers of human trafficking and to foster a collective effort to combat it. "We need to create a strong network against this vice. This is why we are reaching out to every church in the Livingstone Diocese, regardless of denomination. This issue affects all of us, and together we must act to protect our communities."

She encouraged families to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their loved ones, urging the congregation to take part in the anti-trafficking network. "Let us stay alert and united. Together, we can put an end to human trafficking," she said.

The congregation responded with a renewed commitment to join hands in combating the issue. Sr. Katongo's message served as a call to action for Livingstone residents to prioritize the safety of their children and contribute to a community-wide effort to address the menace of human trafficking.

For those interested in joining the anti-trafficking initiative, Christ the King Parish in Libuyu Township is serving as a focal point for coordination and outreach efforts.

Livingstone Bishop Calls for Reflection and Renewal at Christmas Vigil

Bishop Valentine Kalumba of the Diocese of Livingstone delivered a heartfelt homily during the Christmas vigil mass at St. Theresa Cathedral Parish on Tuesday night, calling for renewed faith and reflection on the significance of Christ's birth.  

Addressing a congregation gathered in the spirit of celebration, Bishop Kalumba reminded the faithful of the transformative power of God’s love, which he described as a profound and personal gift to humanity.  

“This sacred day reminds us how deeply God loves each one of us. So deep, in fact, that He sent His only Son into the world to bring light, hope, and salvation,” Bishop Kalumba said.  

The bishop drew parallels between the struggles faced by the people of ancient Israel and those experienced by individuals today. Quoting the prophet Isaiah, he said, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. On those dwelling in deep darkness, a light has shone.” He emphasized that the birth of Jesus fulfills this promise, bringing renewed hope to a world often filled with uncertainty and conflict.  

**A Personal Savior for All**  

The homily underscored the inclusivity of God’s love. Reflecting on the Gospel of Luke, Bishop Kalumba highlighted the shepherds, ordinary workers who were among the first to witness the birth of Christ. “This reminds us that God’s love reaches every heart, regardless of status or circumstance,” he noted.  

“The angels announced, ‘Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you.’ That word, ‘you,’ is significant,” the bishop said. “It means each of us is included in this divine gift. Christ is a personal Savior, born for you and for me.”  

**Christ as the Bread of Life**  

Bishop Kalumba also reflected on the symbolic significance of Christ’s humble birth in a manger, a feeding trough for animals. He suggested that this was no coincidence, but a divine hint at Christ’s role as spiritual nourishment for humanity.  

“This child laid in a manger is our food for the journey. Jesus himself later tells us, ‘I am the bread of life.’ He satisfies our deepest hungers — for unconditional love, mercy, and light in the darkness,” he said.  

The bishop urged congregants to open their hearts, as the shepherds did, and embrace this gift with humility and gratitude. He also encouraged them to emulate Christ’s love by reaching out to those in need and being instruments of hope and grace in their communities.  

**Renewed Commitment to Faith**  

As the vigil mass concluded, Bishop Kalumba called on the faithful to use this Christmas season as an opportunity to renew their commitment to living out God’s grace in their daily lives.  

“This is a time to reflect on the extraordinary gift we have received and to carry it in our hearts. Let us rejoice and remember that Christ’s gift of salvation is not just for one night, but for all time,” he concluded.  

The mass was marked by hymns and prayers, as worshippers embraced the spirit of Christmas with renewed devotion and gratitude for the message of hope and salvation brought by Christ’s birth.