Percy Mwale - Zambia

An Open Letter To My President

2011-09-25T23:54:00.000-07:00

An Open Letter To My President

Dear Sir,

Am greatly honoured that I could write this letter to you. Firstly, let me congratulate you on your resilience and tenacity, and wish you longevity. You have really shown that you can’t put a good man down.

Before I get carried away, let me highlight the main purpose I’ve written to you. I know Zambia is endowed with a lot of natural resources. And am also fully away that Zambia is faced with a myriad of challenges. Starting with our governance system, the quality and standard of living of her people, the benefits from our God given mineral deposits, etc. Am compelled to write knowing that you have proved to be driven by a very strong passion to see to it that every man attains a satisfactory standard of living. And that you strongly believe that it’s attainable.

On education, it is my hope that every child at school going age is availed the opportunity to enlist in school regardless of their geographical position and socio-economic status. And also that our education system shall deliberately be structured in such a way that every one attains a skill at the time of leaving secondary school. And that they can venture into self employment as and when they so wish. At the same time, those that want to progress academically shall never be hampered because of lack of adequate tertiary education facilities or out of reach fees. I also want you to consider coming up with a system of ensuring that being either in the formal or informal sectors shall be out of one’s choice and not compulsion. And on teachers, positive motivation in form of better pay, better housing and proper training is all they need to deliver.

Looking at health, you have done it before and I believe you will do it even better this time around. I don’t want to belabour in great detail because you have shown before how our medical institutions can be run effectively and efficiently. Our medical personnel need uniforms, housing, transport, etc. Our health institutions need proper and modern equipment and medical supplies. Need I say more?

On poverty levels, like you said the other day, that it would pain you to see your own children have three meals every day when the majority of Zambians are struggling to even have one simple imbalanced meal in a day. I know your early catholic teachings will be your guiding principles in ensuring that every Zambian shall have access to all basic needs.

Mr. President, our economy does not have a lot to write home about. I know some people have claimed that we are a middle income nation. I believe that that status is simply on paper and not in reality because our people have not experienced any meaningful change in how they live. Following up on this, our nation’s main source of income right now is mining, which is a diminishing resource. I shudder to think and accept one simple reality that these minerals we boast about will one day come to an end. This is why I strongly urge you Mr. President not to listen to some selfish individuals serving their own selfish egos. We need to get the very best out of our copper, gold, cobalt, uranium, manganese, emerald, etc.

Since the demise of Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines (ZCCM), our mining towns are a shadow of their past. The mining companies must ‘give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar’. It’s now or never. The government must get enough tax from the mines, miners must be given better salaries and general working conditions, the companies’ Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) expectations must clearly be defined and not left to mine owners to decide. We are their masters and so we must give them our terms.

The other thing that troubles me a lot is the state of our media. I am just one person among the many that felt injured by the amount of propaganda and hate speech that was disseminated. We are all tax payers and we deserve better. We deserve to be given full information on all issues of public interest. No one individual has the right to choose for us what we must watch, listen to or read, especially in our public media. Mr. President, kindly do us a favour in quickly reforming the media sector by establishing the stalled Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA).

Lastly Mr. President, I look forward to the restoration of dignity in every Zambian regardless of their political or religious affiliation, ethnicity, tribe, language or culture. I look forward to every Zambian uniting for important national activities. I know that very soon, we shall be commemorating Independence Day. I long for that day when PF, MMD, UPND, NAREP, ADD, ZED, FDD, UNIP, HP, NMP, etc shall sit and celebrate together. I hate to think that such important national activities shall be politicized by letting cadres control and run affairs. Make this once again, a land so free and proud.

Let me not go on an on because there is a lot to write about. And I know you are very busy trying to constitute your cabinet which I trust shall be a winning team capable of upsetting tables.

Looking forward to your practical response to my letter. God bless you, your family, our government and our Zambia!

Yours Faithfull Patriot,

Percy Mwale

The New Look Cabinet for H.E. Michael C. Sata 2011

2011-09-23T13:27:00.000-07:00

Just My Thoughts!
As I sit to think and ponder, my thoughts linger on who H.E. Michael C. Sata is thinking of being in his first cabinet. These are only MY thoughts.
1. Vice President - Inonge Wina
2. Defence - Winter Kabimba
3. Finance - Bob Sichinga (Nominated)
4. Foreign Affairs - Given Lubinda
5. Home Affairs - Kennedy Sakeni
6. Justice - Mumba Kapumpa (Nominated)
7. Mines - Chishimba Kambwili
8. Health - Joseph Katema
9. Agriculture - Guy Scott
10. Local Government - Emmanuel Chenda
11. Labour - Fackson Shamenda
12. Works & Supply - Yamfwa Mukanga
13. Energy & Water - Wilbur Simusa
14. Tourism & Environment - Richard Musukwa
15. Commerce - Nathaniel Mubukwanu
16. Education - Nkandu Luo
17. Sports - Miles Sampa
18. Community Development - Jean Kapata
19. Science & Technology - Rayford Mbulu
20. Transport & Communication - Willie Nsanda (Nominated)
21. Information - Lambwe Kachali

HOPELESS 2011: WHAT SHALL BECOME OF THIS NATION?

2010-12-28T10:38:00.000-08:00

People that occupy the two highest offices in the land have just injured my political and economic expectations for 2011.

President Banda recently confessed that nowadays when his cabinet and MMD NEC meet, they discuss nothing else except elections. Listening to all his speeches during the MMD provincial conferences has convinced that RB's only agenda for next year is personal - to get back into State House.

Recently Vice President Kunda was on the Copperbelt. His only preoccupation was destroying Messrs Sata and Hichilema. ZNBC is there to confirm this. To make it worse, they even used GRZ vehicles to go round publicing MMD party activities. What a shame!

My worry is: Are we going to get any development activities from this government? Or it's only elections?

By the way, what has happened to RB's promise in 2008 that he'll only complete the term of his late brother Levy? Power is indeed sweet, twafikwako!

The FAZ Critsis: A Test For The Petitioners

2010-11-22T20:47:00.000-08:00

Being an ardent soccer fan, I've keenly followed the FAZ crises starting with the time a few coucillors wanted to impeach the FAZ President Kalusha Bwalya over some alleged misdeeds in his administration. That chapter was closed - albeit in a candy coated sucipicious reconciliantion.

I don't want to believe that a people can harbour so much hatred for it's leadership that they can want it removed regardless of the cost involved. I've refused to accept that Kalusha, the man we all cheered on the soccer field, has become so out of touch with the realities of Zambian soccer.

Surely, there's no smoke without fire. I guess the November 26 group has a basis for their arguments. I guess they need to be heard.

Am very skeptical with the November 27 date. Why did it take all that long for Kalusha and his camp to hearken the voice of the councillors? Is it just an issue of Tom and Jerry? And what is FIFA role and interest? Is it to simply prop an indivividual they love or the game in general? Has FIFA taken time to study the two camps' points or they had their minds made up irrespective of what anybody says against Kalu?

My advice: FIFA must stop being hypocritical in their dealings. They should not blindly support Kalu when it's clear that the FAZ constitution has been raped.

Just last week, FIFA cleared two officials of corruption but suspended and fined them. What nonsense is that?

Kalu must realise that he does not possess the monopoly of knowledge and wisdom. He must listen to opposing views. Zambian soccer was there before Kalu and shall certainly outlive him.

The onus is on the councillors that have petitioned. The cause you began is not for the faint hearted. You risked your reputations with your fellow affilliates and fans. Your reputations will forever be dented if your fight is prematurely aborted. Zambians will never trust your motives ever again.

By the way, who's the boss between FAZ councillors and FAZ employees (Mr. G. Kasengele & Mr. E. Mwanza)? They've been threatening their employers, the councillors with disciplinary action.

Next weekend is a defining moment in Zambian football. But will it be on November 26 or 27?

My Africa

2010-09-09T01:11:00.000-07:00

Africa is a great continent. Like it or not, its potential can never ignored. All we need, is a new breed of leadership regardless of age, who shall drive us to greater heights.

CHANGE

2010-06-06T08:01:00.001-07:00

If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude. Don't complain!

2010-06-06T08:00:00.001-07:00

LOVE

2010-06-06T07:56:00.000-07:00

Love is the child of illusion and the parent of disillusion. Love is consolation in desolation; it is the sole medicine against death, for it is death's brother.

Defeat, Disappointment & Failure

2010-01-13T23:10:00.000-08:00

Defeat, disappointment or failure are necessary evils in our life. They help us to look back and evaluate all our activities and entire well-being. Without them, we would live as though life was a roller-coaster.

They guard us complacency in our pursuit for success. Even a diamond has to be polished to attain its value.

They help us be down-to-earth by teaching us not to take advantage of people, situations and time.

Above all, they motivate against future failures, defeats and disappointments. They should act as springboards and launch us into our destiny.

Thankyou CAZ and MTN (Z)

2009-12-21T20:28:00.000-08:00

I wish to duly acknowdge the probity with which CAZ and MTN (Z) have handled my concern (The Post 30/11/09). Mr. Lotty Kakubo, Director Public Relations & Consumer Affairs personally wrote to me through The Post to explain what they had, or intended to do in that respect, and this was on 05/12/09.

As if this was not enough, Mr. Ernst Fonternel, MTN (Z) Chief Marketing Officer also responded through The Post (19/12/09). MTN (Z) has since revised the tariff and even promised to reimburse the tariff charge.

I would to unfeignedly congrate CAZ and MTN (Z) for being prudent in handling this matter.

Percy Mwale,
Kitwe

Open Letter to CAZ & MTN Zambia

2009-11-25T02:01:00.000-08:00

It is a well known and established fact that every business entity is set up with the sole purpose of making a profit. Now, in the realization of this profit, a number of very cardinal players are involved.

My immediate concern is how some businesses disregard certain degrees of morality, taking off a human face, all for the sake of money. A lot of foreign firms come into Zambia, make their money and off they go. The biggest casualty in this pursuit for money is the customer - the financially hard hit and struggling Zambian.

The Communications Authority of Zambia (CAZ) has to a large extent failed the consumer. A lot of products and promotions are launched and it is clear for anyone to see that the consumer is the sacrificial lamb. The current promo of Boostele by MTN Zambia is a case in point. Why should tarrif changes be forced on us? I say so because I have personally been frequently informed that am now in the 'bronze, silver or gold per minute tarrif'. I for one, prefers a 'per second tarrif'. This means that I have to be changing my tarrif week in, week out. At a charge of course! Why can't they make it free of charge if at all they want to do 'boostele'? It is these imposed tarrifs and charges that I find unfair. Can CAZ move in to protect the consumer before things get worse.

Furthermore, it hurts me to note that this MTN Zambia, plus a horde of other foreign firms especially from South Africa have exhibited very selfish traits. Their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is non-existent. What has MTN Zambia done to support the community they operate in? Save for a meagre kit sponsorship to Diggers Rugby Club. It's not because they are unable to, they have simply elected not to. My basis? Because this same MTN is doing very credible work in South Africa. They are currently sponsoring two big teams in the PSL and the Wafa Wafa Top 8 Cup which is the richest in RSA now. They are in fact official sponsors of the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

Even the products and services offered in RSA are far much better than those offered in Zambia. Why the imbalance?

MTN alone gave Mamelodi Sundowns a 3 year deal of about K3.0 billion back and also gave Free State Stars about K750.0 million in 2005.

In conclusion, it's not MTN Zambia alone. Other multinational firms/brands doing better outside of Zambia include SABMiller (Castle/Coca Cola), ABSA (Barclays), Multichoice (DStv), BP, Total (Oil), Shoprite, etc.

Doesn't Zambia deserve better? Let CAZ, Zambia Competition Commission (ZCC), Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), Ministry of Commerce Trade & Industry and any other relevant body up their stakes and set things right.

Disgruntled Zambian Subscriber,
Percy Mwale

Of Alliances and Pacts: A Lesson from Kasama and Solwezi

2009-11-19T22:31:00.000-08:00

It must be common sense that a rope with many strands is not easily broken. There's power and strength in unity of purpose. Do we want to remain weak and isolated because of selfish interests or become strong and united because of selflessness?

Can we get any pre-indications of our political landscape in Zambia by the close of 2011?

What can we deduce from the happenings in Kasama last month and Solwezi yesterday?

What Serves? Politics or NGOs?

2009-11-18T23:45:00.000-08:00

In all fairness, service to your people is a very noble and diligent calling which we all, must aspire for.

How best can one save his people in Africa and Zambia in particular? It's either you join politics or an NGO. Not the GNGO, the type of NGO that is sponsored by a government.

But is it true that is more effective to serve in those two entities?

Let's be realistic! The ratio of the good:bad people in politics and NGOs is quite at variance. It may actually 1:6. Astounded?

Most people are there for their personal good. They end-up raising their personal G.D.P to astronomical levels. Far much more than the people they claim to serve. I know, you've got practical examples of such individuals.

Time and chance, happens to us all!

Mayoral Elections in Zambia 2009

2009-09-09T05:44:00.000-07:00

What do I think concerning the on-going debate concerning mayoral elections, allow me to add my opinion.

Elections are due in the next month or also because the civic year is almost done and the law as contained in the Local Governent Act. The argument is that mayors have only been office for about 3 months so it would be meaningless to hold fresh elections. Question is why?

This is one of the easiest debates to have around. The whole confusion was a creation of the 'all-knowing and infallible' late Minister of Local Govt & Housing Hon. Benny Tetamashimba, MP. This problem would not have arisen if he had listened to dissenting views. He instead insisted on suspending these elections with considering due repecursions. This is what it means to disregard the law and even the opinions and advice of others. The law must not be twisted and tailored to suit particular individuals or situations.

My opinion however is that the law must be followed at this time regardless of any factor because two wrongs don't make a right. This is the only logical and convinient thing. If the majority of coucillors feel the current mayors should continue, let elections be held but agree to let them pass unopposed.

I rest my case.

Percy Mwale,
Kitwe.

The Lotus Plant

2009-09-09T05:40:00.000-07:00

In our pursuit for success, human beings tend to do a whole lot of things. We infact equate input with output. Well, we're told 'every action begets equal reaction'. That's very true. You can never expect to reap wheat if you had planted rice. Never! In short, whatever outcome you get today or tomorrow, is as a result of the input you made yesterday or may make today. In very exceptional circumstances, our input is totally different from the output, totally disguised. And this is where we can learn something from the LOTUS. This is a very beautiful plant. Those that have seen it, will agree with me. The strange thing is that it thrives in MUD! Wow!

So don't complain and blame your boss, spouse, parent, friend or neighbour for your misfortune. Simply learn to get adorned even in 'mud'. No matter what others do. No matter what environment they create for you. Make it your aim never to let your environment, circumstance or situation bury you prematurely. Like the lotus, see what benefits you can get by being in the mud.

Barak Hussein Obama

2009-01-20T22:49:00.000-08:00

Obama what? Its great a man of colour is in the White House. To be honest, he doesn't a different policy on Africa, Israel, Gaza, Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan. Reason? He's purely American!

The African Union (AU) on Guinea

2009-01-03T20:17:00.000-08:00

It always dismays me at the way we Africans operate based on our flawed perceptions. I also wonder at the double standards displayed by our African leaders. I seem not to be so certain of what surprises are held in store for Africa especially that the African Union (AU).

In Zimbabwe, the AU (and SADC) has been very relaxed and insisting that Mugabe and his people will sort themselves, their own way. My heart bled!

What about our own Zambia? They came during the presidential by-elections and certified them 'free & fair' even before the results were out. My heart bled even more!

What of the civil war in Congo DR? What about the fighting in Kenya?Time can't even allow me to go into details. Details of the challenges Africa has faced and the AU reactions, the openly practised double standards.

My case in point is the Guinea coup. The Guinean people have shown how sick and tired they have been of despotic rule under the late President Lansana Conte. They joyfully celebrated the assumption of power by Capt. Moussa Dadis Camara.

When the late Conte held elections, the opposition always disputed. Did the AU rise to the challenge? No!

Has the AU objectively been involved in trying to help Zimbabwe get out of its current mess? Even Mugabe knows it. No wonder he calls African leaders 'cowards', who can not topple him. I may not even delve into discussing other countries.

But what about here in Zambia? Has the AU tried to find out why Dean Mung'oba (1996), Mazoka, Miyanda, etc (2001) and Sata (2008)petitioned the election results? This should make the so called international community shudder. It should make the AU think twice over its electoral observer standards. We need a continental leadership that is forward looking. Looking forward at what will become of Africa 20 years from now.

Let the AU not just condem Capt. Camara but support him in every way possible. We'll only have the right to condem him if he does not honour his word on holding elections and returning to civilian rule.

Let Africa unite and become objective in handling its affairs.

Percy Mwale,
Kitwe.

Press Freedom & African Politics

2008-11-18T19:30:00.000-08:00

VIVA LA POST

It is complete madness that politicians, especially in the opposition would be busy calling for the muzzling of The Post (though they generalize it as the media).

It's shocking and disgusting that they have chosen to live political lives determined and driven by sheer opportunism. How come they have easily forgoten what state media has behaved all along. How come they have easily ignored the fact that state media has been there solely for the ruling party; the party and its government (PIG as it were). This state medid usually, and mainly covers the opposition when they denounce other opposition leaders.

Let all those well meaning politicians accept simple logic that they may tomorrow be on the other side of the fence. I mean, those that are in government today will be in opposition tomorrow and vice versa. Can Sakwiba tell the nation how much coverage he received from the public media before his campaign antics with Rupiah?

Let the politicians not under estimate our reasoning and intelligence as Zambians. Do they mean we can not choose between right and wrong? The Times of Zambia, The Daily Mail and ZNBC have faced difficulties in winning public confidence because of their lack of drive to be true mediums of the people. Where it not for the government grants they receive, they would not have come this far as they would have been declared not to be financially viable.

Sorting out The Post! Well, the right people to do this are not the politicians. The Zambian public will on their own sort out The Post. How? By simply stopping to buy copies when its reporting is considered insulting, injurous and irrelevant to our nation. Zambians will rise to the ocassion and do what is right, at the right time. At an opportune time. In the same way Zambians rejected UNIP in 1991, the third time in 2001 and the same way the Copperbelt and Lusaka provinces have clearly rejected the MMD in the 2006 and 2008 elections.

Zambians are smart enough to steer their own media direction. And that is why WE have stuck with The Post, because we know it is a people's paper.

Viva La Post!

Percy Mwale,
Kitwe.

Our Zambia, Our Posterity

2008-11-04T06:28:00.000-08:00

In all fairness, people that desire to lead others, to direct the affairs of the nation, must be of a higher standing. Beyond reproach.

A lot of pressing issues were raised concerning the conduct of a number of politicians especially those in goverment and their wings. Cases in point include the Police IG, Army Commander, Elections Director, Cabinet Ministers abusing public facilities to the benefit of political parties, etc.

Jane Adams once said, 'The good we secure for ourselves is precarious and uncertain until it is secured for all of us and incorporated into our common life'. Another wise man Clarence Darrow also said that 'You can only protect your liberties in this world by protecting the other man's freedom. You can only be free if I am free'. What this literary means is that those of us in authority must never look into their interests alone, but also consider the interests of even least man in the furtherst corners of our land. A note to our leaders is that whatever actions they take today will have a bearing on every Zambian tomorrow, young or old including their spouses and children. They need to ask, 'Will my actions today promote and advance a better Zambia?'

It is an open secret though with an exception of very few individuals, that the majority of the people in authority have showed us that their number 1 motivation in all they do is their pocket, their family, their job, their interest. While this may be disputed, my question is why then have our leaders ignored other stakeholders and pretended all is well. Do we want us to believe a ruling party can be removed due to their selfish ambitions of only wanting power and nothing else?

I seek answers to these questions:

1. Why did the ECZ stay mute in the reported rampant and open abuse of public resources?

2. Why was the ECZ so defensive, emotional and uptight whenever the public raised alarm on dishonesty over the handling of ballots?

3. Why was the ECZ so incosistent in releasing the results citing distance as the main factor?

4. Why did the ECZ allow voting to take place in some areas a day or two after election day?

5. Why has the ECZ and the Police been so quick to hide and protect individuals found wanting like in the case of the Presiding Officer in Munali?

6. How come the Anti Corruption and Police kept quiet when Mulongoti admitted to the 'donating' of money to another political party during election campaigns?

7. Why did Ephraim Mateyo and Isaac Chisuzi see it fit and justifiable to instil fear and intimidate Zambians prior to elections?

8. How come Mbita Chitala & Co. had the audacity to even suggest the margin by which they would win?

9. How come we had names missing from the electoral registers when we didn't have any voter registrations? This reeks of register doctoring.

Logically, the explanations being given in most of cases fall short of reason. Zambia will never boast of a genuine election again until respect for other players and stakeholders is upheld.

Let the powers that be work effectively to ensure transparency in our electoral system. Like the ECZ's motto which says, 'Endorsing Your Choice', let the voice of the masses speak as in 1991, without a trace of doubt.

Percy Mwale,
Kitwe.

Zambian Elections 2008

2008-10-27T02:16:00.000-07:00

What type of President do we need in Zambia and what type of parliament will ensure prosperity?

Firstly, all MPs must be mature enough to support any progressive move or bill in parliament, to the benefit of all Zambians not just a party, individual or family tree. One way parliament can avoid being simply a rubber-stamp is by having a truly mixed parliament. The issue of a minority President must not therefore arise. A few educated, and some priviledged Zambians, are being pessimistic, instilling fear by saying a party needs a majority in parliament to govern! Supposing Rupiah Bwezani Banda became Republican President. What guarantee do we have that Rupiah will manage tn appease his party bosses and tow their party line? Mind you, Rupiah has no hold on the MMD, he's just a Trustee. So the same instability people are claiming will dominate parliament if Michael Chilufya Sata or Hakainde Hichilema is elected can still be there if Rupiah wins. I have in mind the Thabo Mbeki and the A.N.C. led Jacob Zuma situation. I personally think Rupiah is a bigger risk to stagnate goverment because he can easily be fired by the MMD if his UNIPist attributes begin to show up.

The second issue is the 'legacy'. Can someone out there please explain to me what Mwanawasa's legacy is! For me, a legacy is when someone does an extraordinary and unprecedented work, going out of the way to do the unusual is what creates a legacy. Is it because of the Chembe bridge or Lumwana and Kansanshi mines? Let us all not forget that being Republican President requires one to hold fort and keep the country running. In this case Zambia. Let's face it, and accept! Mwanawasa had no tangible campaign platform in 2001. The only thing he talked about was 'continuity with change'. The corruption crusade was just something he stumbled upon after he got to Plot 1. Have we Zambians chosen to practice selective amnesia by choosing to forget certain things simply for convinience? Or by pretending that Mwanawasa was an angel? A saint? He did both good and bad! Didn't Mwanawasa practice corruption (nepotism) by appointing his relatives and party cadres to important public offices which they neither deserved nor were qualified for. If anything, Zambia has never been Mwanawasa's private property like Teka Farms to be inherited by his family, sympathisers or even MMD cadres. I urge all well meaning Zambians to turn out on 30 October 2008 and vote for a leader that shall never stagnate Zambia. This should not simply be about Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), Patriotic Front (PF) or United Party for National Development (UPND).

Dr. Frederick Chiluba did the beautiful Katima Mulilo bridge work, opened up the transport sector and now our roads are even jammed, HIPC started under FTJ's tenure, economy liberalisation, home ownership, etc.

Dr. Kenneth Kaunda did the longest bridge in Africa at Mukuku, schools, hospitals, universities, colleges, township road network, etc.

These honourable statesmen did all this work because it was their time. Let the next President do the work that suits our current time. Needs and expectations are ever evolving. Global and national economies are ever dynamic and so our needs as Zambians today are different from 2001, 1991 or 1964. Let the wise perceive!

Thirdly, the next President should not be anywhere near, or similar to Mwanawasa. No two people will perform equally in the same way that no two people's DNA are the same. It must just be someone who has the nation at heart and shall do it right - constitutionally. This means therefore that personality and character is an issue that must never be divorced from the elections. Jesus Christ once said, 'You shall know them by their fruit'. This literary means that a person's work rate and output is determined by their character, their personality. It's the underlying passion that propels an individual to perform. Look at Barak Obama-Joe Biden and John McCain-Sarah Palin partnerships. An individuals track record speaks volumes on who a person actually is. Whatever one has achieved or failed to achieve. 'A man is judged for what they accomplish and not for what they start'. One should only aspire for public office because they have performed well in any past public office assignment.

I rest my case!

Percy Mwale,
Kitwe.

NEWS COVERAGE ON ZNBC TV

2008-10-27T01:49:00.000-07:00

It is regretable that in this time and age, our national TV does not value the importance of fair coverage especially in an election period. This they (ZNBC) must realise that Zambia needs a President sold and accepted by the majority of Zambians. This can, and should be done by ZNBC taking on an objective role of informing the electorate of what the candidates are basing their campaigns on. When Zambians pay TV Licences, it is beyond affiliations and so must be given a variety of news.

An example of how ZNBC TV carries its news items is as follows in order of presentation. This is before the 1st Commercial Break.

1. Rupiah Banda - 2 items
2. Vernon Mwaanga on RB - 1 item
3. Edith Nawakwi on RB - 1 item
4. Ronnie Shikapwasha on RB - 1 item
5. Michael Mabenga on RB - 1 item
6. PF & UPND on campaigns - 1 item
7. Kalomo & Petauke election materials' distribution
8. ECZ's Chris Akufuna on polling station guidelines.

The above scenario is a tip of what has characterised our TV news time on ZNBC Main News of 25th October 2008. This gave Rupiah (MMD) 66%, Sata (PF) 06%, HH (UPND) and Electoral Commission 22%. This meant that Miyanda (HP) had no coverage whatsoever.

Let posterity judge our, 'it will show when you pay' station.

Percy Mwale,
Kitwe

Abuse Of Public Resources By The MMD and Rupiah Banda

2008-10-03T07:21:00.000-07:00

Power is indeed very sweet and blinding. How come the MMD have
continued violating electoral rules with such impunity, carelessness.
Stubborn as they seem to be, can't the powers that be take appropriate
measures and curb this evil of looting public resources. Why should we
even waste our time by going to the polls when it is clearly visible
that one candidate has an advantage over others?

We have seen from The Post newspaper edition of Friday 03 October 2008
how government arms have been compromised. Zambia Air Force (ZAF) and
Zambia Police Service (ZP) have been pictured providing a service to
RB and his MMD bootlickers while providing a diservice to the entire
nation. Can Mulongoti and Tetamashimba justify this abuse of ZAF
choppers and ZP truck.

How long shall the Electoral Commission of Zambia remain quiet? Am now
tempted to it's actually the Electoral Commission of the MMD. Do we
honestly expect Ephraim Mateyo and his team to effectively enforce the
law when they are actively aiding law breakers? Is the ZAF leadership
so blind as not to differentiate between government and party
activities? Lesa fye umwine atwafwe!

My worry is, what would become of Zambia if RB were to win?How much
abuse would we see if he can grossly abuse government resources in his
current acting capacity?

Chelsea FC, The Team Everyones Loves To Hate

2008-10-01T02:17:00.000-07:00

There is only one that interests me in the English Premier League, and that is Chelsea. I enjoy the teams mentality and philosophy of never giving up. Even when it seems impossible, and unimaginable, the team has risen to the occassion made me proud.

A lot of people all over the world love to hate Chelsea. Is it because of Roman Abramovich? Or is it its gem collection of star players?

Tribute to the past and present Chelsea FC staff and players. The pre-Roman era will of course include Rudd Gullit, Gianluca Viali & Claudio Ranieri as some that made a mark. The Roman era began with Ranieri, the came the charismatic 'Special One' Jose Mourinho. Oh, then came the colourless Avram Grant. Right now, the mantle is with 'Big Phil', Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Am betting on Chelsea being serious contenders, if not winners of the Carling Cup, the FA Cup, the Barclays Premiership and the elusive UEFA Champions League.

Mark my words and give me feedback in May 2009.

By the way, the other European club I support is the La Liga champion Real Madrid FC, the 'Galacticos'.

Finally, my local childhood club is Mighty Mufulira Wanderers Football Club. This literary translates to me being a proud supporter of my Zambia National Soccer Team, the Chipolopolo Boys. Till death do us part.

VOTE MICHAEL SATA

2008-09-29T06:43:00.001-07:00

Michael Sata is mover and a shaker. No one shall fight for the cause of the poor Zambian.

His message has been labelled empty rhetoric. But this can only be proved if he is voted into power but fails to perform.

The Patriotic Front's socialist stance is what we need right. We equally need to share all the wealth and poverty there is in Zambia. The MMD capitalist approach has increasingly widened the gap between the rich and the poor.

We have been disappointed by the rest, it's now time for the best! Amaka, mu bwato!

Percy Mwale,
Kitwe - Zambia

SENSELESS POLITICS!

2008-09-29T06:13:00.000-07:00

WHY RUPIAH BANDA MUST NEVER BE PRESIDENT OF ZAMBIA

2008-09-29T06:09:00.000-07:00

In my deepest of thoughts, I have one conviction, Rupiah Banda and his clan of vultures, th MMD should not, at any cost be given power in Zambia. I know a few people out there don't want to agree with simply because they have a right. The same right Rupiah and Mike Mulongoti wants to take away by fighting The Post newspaper and QFM radio.

They are also greedy and self-centred by trying to award themselves hefty salaries/allowances inconsiderate of all Zambians.

They are corrupt as shown at Vulamukolo village in the famous 'Sugar Daddy' episode. They want to capitalise on poverty by initiating the 'food for votes' programme. This is the 'Vulamukologate scandal'.

They also want to buy leadership by bribing spineless politicians like Dr. Cozmo Mumba with K15.0m. I wonder how much they have spent on having traditional chiefs by their side. I also wonder what they would say if chiefs openly backed Michael Sata.

Rupiah is tribal by soliciting for votes based on his ethinicity - the Eastern Province.

He lied on the time he joined the MMD. Its an open secret that the old man is still UNIP at heart.

He has regrouped with people were fired from government a while ago, i.e. Mbita Chitala, George Chulumanda and Vernon Mwaanga.

He is also surrounded by well senior party cadres, Messrs George Kunda, George Mpombo, Mike Mulongoti and Ben Tetamashimba who can no longer be trusted by Zambians.

Rupiah has no hold on the MMD, his sponsors. This could lead to another by-election.

His aspiration for State House has been a matter of coincidence. He has never, in his own right, talked about his presidential ambitions. Were it not for Levy Mwanawasa, he would still be in Chipata sweating on the farm.

As a matter of fact, he can not stand for Presidency because he was born in Southern Rhodesia (Zimbabwe). This is according to our Zambian Constitution.

Am out!

Percy Mwale,
Kitwe - Zambia.

Political Misjudgement

2008-09-04T00:04:00.000-07:00

I sincerely wish to add my voice to the succession talks that have filled our media since the passing away of our Republican President Dr. Levy Mwanawasa.

Firstly, I want to dispute is that has been propagated by especially traditional leaders and some other organisations. It seems as though this is just an MMD election alone. What is being said is that, 'the MMD must replace Levy with a person of like mind and character.' My question is, why can't our chiefs and everyone else broaden the catchment by also considering the opposition? And why has the MMD kept quiet over such utterances? Would Mulongoti and company kept quiet if the chiefs had rallied behind an opposition candidate?

Secondly, why should the nation be made to think that the late Mwanawasa's preference of any individual be considered perfect, flawless and infallible? Why should the system of handpicking a successor be immortalised now when it was grossly comdemned under FTJ? Is this a suggestion that any decision made by a deceased person must be deemed right? Why then has this hypocritical clan of Levy loyalists disobeyed Levy on his wish to be buried at Palabana? All those calling on the nation to 'obey and respect' Levy's perceived choice of a successor are doing things with motives and agendas only known to themselves! How come the same people that extended the period of national mourning could not now wait for Levy's burial before they start campaigning. It's only African and morally right to discuss succession after burial. It even amazes much more that the former first lady could not wait for a better time, atleast after so that she could say what she thought to be said. Is she an interested party in the direction the MMD NEC will take? Time will surely tell!

Thirdly, confusion in the MMD must not be shifted on the nation. Zambians are naturally peaceful despite being too emotional at times. Zambians across the world are united without question. What we see happening in the MMD is as result of the party lacking internal democracy. How can a party of the MMD's magnitude stay for years without a Vice President? Was the entire too scared to raise this issue?

Lastly, I would like to request The Post newspaper and other media institutions to tone down on the issue of the MMD succession to avoid swaying the impending decisions because you are opinion leaders. This will definitely not allow for an impartial NEC decision, and consequently, the coming elections.

Long live Zambia, the land of the proud and free!

Percy Mwale,
Kitwe - Zambia.

Christianity & Politics

2008-07-13T09:55:00.000-07:00

Lets get talking! Tell the world what you think on this hot subject.

My Profile

2008-07-13T09:49:00.001-07:00

I was born on the 23 October 1977. Am married to Kulali (Kurai) Zulu and blessed with a son named Mpoyaluna Mwale who was born on the 21 September 2007. Kurai was born on 27 September 1982. She is currently working as a Registered Nurse.

Am a trained school teacher with diverse experience in development work in health (HIV/AIDS).

My interests include teaching, music, theatre and sport.