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Minister of Information Addresses Press Briefing on Key National Issues

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Cornelius Mweetwa

The Minister of Information and Media and Chief Government Spokesperson, Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, MP, conducted a press briefing to address various significant national issues. The briefing covered a range of topics, providing insights into the government’s actions and responses to current developments.

Here are the key highlights from the press briefing:

Access to Information Bill: Minister Mweetwa announced that the government has taken the Access to Information Bill to Parliament for further consideration. This move follows Cabinet approval in principle of the Access to Information draft Bill on August 30, 2023. The Minister called for support from stakeholders who may be invited to the National Assembly to contribute to the final outlook and content of the Access to Information Act.

Suspension of Members of Parliament: Minister Mweetwa clarified that the suspension of 19 Members of Parliament by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, is in line with the resolution of the Committee. He cited past instances, such as the suspension of 30 UPND Members of Parliament, as precedents. Contrary to some assertions, he explained that there was no heavy state police presence at Parliament.

Impeachment of the Speaker: Minister Mweetwa clarified the process for the impeachment of the Speaker of the National Assembly, stating that it requires a two-thirds majority or 110 Members of Parliament. He noted that the Patriotic Front Members of Parliament are currently below 60, which is less than 50% of the required number. He emphasized that no ruling party members support the impeachment.

Leadership Change in the Opposition: The Chief Government Spokesperson highlighted that after communication from Mr. Ngona, the registered Secretary General of the Patriotic Front, the Speaker was informed of the election of Mr. Robert Chabinga, MP, as Leader of the Opposition, replacing Mr. Brian Mundubile MP.

Allegations of Staged Confusion: Minister Mweetwa dismissed claims that the UPND government orchestrated the confusion within the Patriotic Front, deeming such allegations unreasonable.

Defense of Human Rights: Minister Mweetwa outlined President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to upholding human rights and civil liberties. He listed key principles, including the restoration of the rule of law, equality before the law, prevention of arbitrary actions by those in office, and respect for human rights.

Respect for John Sangwa SC: The Minister assured that the government respects and will continue to respect Mr. John Sangwa SC as he advocates for the voiceless. However, he called on him to be truthful and speak to the reality of the current government’s actions.

The press briefing provided comprehensive insights into the government’s stance on various critical issues, offering transparency and clarity on key developments in Zambia.

Source: Lusakatimes

Zambia News

President Hichilema to Visit Seseli Mine

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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

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Zambia News

PF MPs Urged to Embrace New Leadership Dynamics in National Assembly

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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

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