Connect with us

Zambia News

Covid protests in China increase following the Urumqi fire

Published

on

Following a fire that claimed the lives of 10 people in an apartment building in Urumqi, protests against COVID regulations in China appear to have gotten worse.

Thousands of people demonstrated against restrictions and remembered the victims on Shanghai’s streets. There were numerous cries for President Xi Jinping to step down.

At least three persons were observed being loaded into police cars by the BBC.

The death toll from the fire has been attributed to the lockdown of apartment buildings.

Chinese authorities dispute that it was the cause, but late on Friday, Urumqi officials did issue an unusual apology and promised to “restore order” by gradually removing restrictions.

“Xi Jinping, resign,”

Some protesters were seen burning candles and placing flowers for the victims at the demonstration in Shanghai, China’s largest metropolis and a major financial center.

Slogans like “Xi Jinping, step down” and “Communist party, step down” could be heard being shouted by others. Others had white flags that were empty.

Such demands are uncommon in China, where criticizing the president or the administration directly can result in severe repercussions.

One protester told the BBC that seeing people on the streets left him feeling “shocked and a bit delighted,” adding that it was the first time he had ever witnessed such widespread discontent in China.

He claimed that lockdowns had prevented him from visiting his ill mother, who was receiving cancer treatment, and had left him feeling “sad, furious, and helpless.”

When police officers were asked how they felt about the protests, the response was “the same as you,” a female protester told the BBC. But they “wear their uniforms so they’re doing their job,” she added.

A demonstrator told the news agency Associated Press that two of his friends had been pepper sprayed, and that one of his friends had been physically assaulted by police there.

Zambia News

President Hichilema to Visit Seseli Mine

Published

on

By

Seseli Mine in Chingola

President Hakainde Hichilema is scheduled to visit Seseli Mine in Chingola on the Copperbelt, where a number of illegal miners find themselves trapped in a flooded open-pit mine. The announcement was made by Copper Minister Elisha Matambo during a press briefing in Chingola, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing the critical situation.

Minister Matambo expressed confidence in the measures and interventions implemented by the government, ensuring that the ongoing rescue mission will reach the trapped miners. The President’s visit underscores the gravity of the situation and the government’s hands-on approach in coordinating the rescue efforts.

Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe provided further assurance, stating that safety precautions are rigorously being followed to maximize the chances of a successful rescue operation. He emphasized that the government has engaged with families affected by the incident, with twenty-seven families having come forward to claim missing relatives.

Source: aljazeera

In other news – It all ended in tears for Faith Nketsi

News that well-known Mzansi reality TV star and influencer, Faith Nketsi whose full name is Mapholoso Faith Nketsi was finally divorcing her short-term husband Nzuzo Njilo was met with relief from fans of the reality star and businesswoman.

Faith Nketsi

The reason behind the celebration of the divorce was because Faith’s brand took some knocks when her husband’s corrupt business ways were aired on the covers of Mzansi’s biggest. Read more

Continue Reading

Zambia News

PF MPs Urged to Embrace New Leadership Dynamics in National Assembly

Published

on

By

Robert Chabinga

The leader of the opposition in Parliament, Robert Chabinga, has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for demonstrating a spirit of unity and magnanimity towards his predecessor, former President Edgar Lungu. In the midst of heightened provocations, Mr. Chabinga emphasized that President Hichilema and the United Party for National Development (UPND) are not responsible for the challenges within the former ruling Patriotic Front (PF).

Speaking from his position as the Member of Parliament for Mafinga, Mr. Chabinga advised PF Members of Parliament to acknowledge the changed leadership in the National Assembly. He urged them to embrace discipline and decorum in the legislative body, emphasizing the importance of non-political conduct and effective representation aligned with the wishes of the electorate.

“President Hichilema has demonstrated love towards his predecessor, former President Lungu, even in the face of heightened provocation. The challenges within the PF should not be laid at the doorstep of President Hichilema and the UPND. It is essential for PF MPs to accept the new reality and move forward,” stated Mr. Chabinga in a statement issued to ZNBC News in Lusaka.

He underscored the importance of maintaining discipline in the National Assembly, urging MPs to prioritize the interests of the people who elected them. Mr. Chabinga emphasized the need for constructive checks and balances from opposition MPs, fostering an environment of cooperation and effective governance.

“Opposition MPs have a crucial role in providing constructive checks and balances in the House. It is imperative for all MPs to refrain from antagonizing one another and focus on contributing positively to the legislative process,” added Mr. Chabinga.

Source: Lusakatimes

Continue Reading

Trending